Going to fill out an app tomorrow...

[Shantae]

Do I need to dress up as if going to an interview or can I dress casually? I'm going to look around and apply to more jobs afterwards too.

[TheCommuter, BSN, RN]

You can decide to look dressy if you wish, or you can dress casually. Personally, I have never taken the time to dress up to go to an interview or to job seek for a nursing position, since many of these places are simply looking for a warm body with a license. I've shown up to apply for jobs dressed in scrubs, jeans, or casual wear. Usually I get the job.

[Fiona59]

Have to disagree. You should present a clean, polished, professional image. How you appear at an interview reflects on YOU as a person. I've always worn a skirt with a teeshirt or blouse with a jacket.

You are interviewing for a professional nurse's job, look professional. I'm not saying go out and buy a suit. Just be tidy. Carry your resumes and reference lists in a nice portfolio (it can be those paper ones, plastic envelope, or a zippered thin binder). Just think about the package. You are selling yourself as a competent, organized professional.

No one that appeared in jeans has ever been hired on my unit. Our department manager expects a neat appearance.

[dolphn545]

I agree that you should dress professionally as well, and be prepared for any on the spot interviews. (Not business suit, but business casual, no jeans, no sneakers).

JMO

[Fiona59]

And here's a fact that very few people remember. The person you hand your application is often screening you. I once handed an application in and was called back for an interview. The receptionist handed me my folder and asked me to take it in with me to the interview. I peeked as I was walking along the hall. The original receptionist had marked in the "for office use only area", pleasant, polite, tidly dressed.

So you just never know when the selection process starts.