Having trouble getting a CNA job

paacollins · May 4, 2005

Hi Keely,

I just got my CNA certification in December and starting looking for jobs in Jan. I applied online to 3 different hospitals. Received generic "your application has been received" postcards in the mail from 2 and nothing from the other. I also applied in person to another hospital and was called in for an interview. I was only looking for part-time work because of my school schedule and I think the lady would have hired me if I could have worked full-time.

I became a tad discouraged but I was at the library with my dds one day and met a gentlemen who's grandmother was in a local LTC. He was bragging on the facility and I decided to check it out. I didn't even realize it existed. Anyway, I stopped by on the way home from taking my mother to the dr. I was in jeans (had dressed up for the hospital interview) but decided I didn't have anything to lose. Well they were taking applications and I sat in the lobby and filled out the app. A girl came out and asked what shift I wanted. I thought she was a CNA. She was very casual. Turns out she is the LPN in charge of staffing and she was best friends with my SIL in college AND her BIL works with my dh. I didn't know all this until later when she called me for an interview. I went in expecting to have the interview and be told "we'll call you" but she hired me right then and there. After I accepted the job we realized we knew each other.

Well the job pays a bit less than the hospital but the CNA:resident ratio is really good. I have anywhere from 6 to 9 residents and other LTC facilities in town have 14 or 15 residents per CNA. She has been absolutely fantastic about working my hours around my school schedule. I basically work whenever I want and if I need to come in late because of school, that's fine too. She is the nicest boss I have ever had. Most of the people I work for are great but some are awful. I guess you find that anywhere.

I've ended up writing a book but I guess my advice is to keep looking and consider LTC if that is something you'd like to do. They are sometimes desperate for help, especially experienced help. I absolutely love working with the elderly but it isn't for everyone. Keep your options open and you never know where you will find a job.

Keely-FutureRN · May 5, 2005

Thank you! I really appreciate your advice and support. I'll keep trying! :)

Keely