How aggressive is too aggressive?

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I recently got my CNA certification and have been applying at a local hospital. It's the only hospital in my area. I've applied to several positions without so much as a call back. All of my previous work experience is in an office setting so I know that's hurting me. On Thursday of last week I went down to the HR department and handed in my resume and cover letter in person. To show I really want the job and show initiative. Today's Monday and still no call back. My question is do I wait the full week, until this Thursday, to call and follow-up, or do I call sooner? Like tomorrow? Once I do call I plan on asking the hiring manager a few questions. If it seems like I'm not being considered seriously for any of the positions I've applied to I plan on asking what I can do to make myself a more desireable employment prospect. Ie. volunteering for the hospital (and how long I'd need to do so before applying again), experience elsewhere, etc. If anyone has advice for me it would be much appreciated. I'm trying to land a job prior to the start of next semester which is the end of August.

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bumped

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Specializes in Acute Rehab, IMCU, ED, med-surg.

In some areas, it may be necessary to have some long-term care experience before being considered for a hospital CNA position. (I had 5 months before becoming a hospital CNA, but most of the folks I work with had 2+ years before being hired by a hospital.) Try going door-to-door with some LTC facilities in your area, dress like you're ready to interview, and have a resume and reference page in hand so you can hand it over if requested. Follow up. . .many LTC hiring managers wear other hats (scheduling, safety officer, etc. etc.) and get busy. Sometimes, it's a matter of timing. . .did they just have 2-3 staff quit and now there are openings?

That being said, being a hospital volunteer is a good way to get your foot in the door. . .but don't overlook LTC as a great place to really learn how to survive (and thrive) as a new CNA. But be sure to give it 3 months. . .you'll feel like you're drowning (and you are) but after that things will sort of fall into place and you'll find your way.

You can check with the school where you got your CNA, or Craigslist, to find employers that are hiring. Also check with your employment department office. . .

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Specializes in CNA, HHA, RNA,.

Call and ask questions like "When are you guys hiring?" Because they might not know its you.

If they tell you all positions are filled ask when they can best guess when they will be hiring.

They say they have no clue, ask to speak or find the name of the hiring manager. Be positive at -all- times, just not fake and throw in some natural tones every now and then.

Also ask if you could get an interview if they are hiring, etc, things like that are what got me my first job. You can call often but I'd limit it to once a week or bi-weekly. Might help if you find the name of the hiring manager altogether as she has her own line.

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I would consider calling after a week, but it is tough to get into hospitals especially if it is the only local hospital. I have it lucky because we have over 5 hospitals in my area. We have a weird competition going on so hospitals seem to spring up over night.

I would also consider figuring out if you know anyone that works at the hospital. Some hospitals seem to like to hire friends of friends. You don't want to overdo it and rely on that person to get you a job, but sometimes it works better. Include them in your resume after you clear it.

Up play any customer service skills too. A lot of hospitals are focusing on patient satisfactory levels and if you're happy, you do well.

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So just an update. I called yesterday to follow-up. I spoke with the receptionist in HR who advised me that the hiring manager was out for the week but to leave a message for another hiring person, which I did. Later when I got home from work (I'm currently an insurance agent) I had a voice message! They want me to come interview next week! I'm super happy to have landed an interview. Now I'll be going over my answers in preperation for the big day. Fingers crossed! :)

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Specializes in CNA, HHA, RNA,.

Yay!!! : )

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Specializes in hospice.

I don't know where you live, but in some areas, health care can actually be a seasonal business. I know that sounds crazy, but I live in Phoenix Metro, and once Spring hits and the snowbirds go home, no one hires for ANYTHING until Fall. Summer is when people get cancelled for low census, hospitals shut down units for deep cleaning, etc.

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Yay I got the job! I'm so excited :)

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Congrats I hope all goes well for you

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Thats great!!!

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