Fired and Embarrassed

[Nurse Beth, MSN]

Dear Nurse Beth,

I recently lost my job.

I was given a written warning that I refused to sign, then failed my EKG test that over a hundred other nurses failed and I was told there was no longer a position for me, so I have a long resume because I left jobs I didn't like or where patient care was not up to standards. I was always told I was a good conscientious nurse.

I am afraid because of this I will never get another nursing job, I don't know if I should be honest about why I left my last job. I loved what I was doing, I enjoyed my work and patients. I don't know where I go from here and I can't even bring myself to look at job listings. I'm so embarrassed by this my self esteem has taken a huge hit.

Dear Embarrassed by Being Fired,

Look at your resume from a hiring manager's point of view so you will understand where you have to employ damage control. You have a history of leaving jobs, so a hiring manager may be concerned that you won't stay long. As far as this last situation, it's sufficient to say "It wasn't a good fit" and segue to the positive without revealing details. Never criticize a previous employer in an interview.

You are currently unemployed, and it's best to minimize your unemployment gap as much as possible. Meaning get another job as soon as possible.

Do some self-reflection on your own choices and behavior so you don't repeat history. You are blaming others for losing your job, and it's important to acknowledge your responsibility. Refusing to sign a written

warning is never a good idea. Signing does not imply agreement, just acknowledgement. Read When You Receive a Warning at Work

It's normal to feel embarrassed but the only way is through it. You can choose to grow and learn from this, my friend.

Best wishes,

Nurse Beth

Author, "Your Last Nursing Class: How to Land Your First Nursing Job"...and your next!

[riverotter]

You can get a job with an agency if you don't get hired somewhere right away so there's no gap in employment. Maybe even through the agency you will find something that you like- you can try a variety of different types of nursing and institutions with an agency.

[VKALA]

Hi there,Please don't loose your hope.As there is a saying when God close's one door,he open up some more doors!I too had been recently fired due to attendance issues as I'm a single Mom and when my kids were sick I was not able to go to work.Now I have three jobs at present.From my perspective there are lots of job,it's just the matter of looking for a right fit.About getting fired,you just have to stay positive and mention the truth while highlighting positive things about yourself.Best Wishes and soon you will be working.Hugs!