How to explain reason for being terminated

[sunsmilles55]

Hello everybody!

I looked around the site & last thread regarding getting terminated was a few years old; hence this post.

Situation: I had suddenly quit my previous RN job at an SNF (worked there for 6mo), as I accepted this float pool med/surg RN preceptorship at a hospital that required me to start immediately. After 6 weeks, I was terminated/encouraged to resign at the end due to time management & mostly for not being "a good fit."

What I learned: Float pool was definitely not for me. I think, especially as a new grad, I would have done much better if I was in a consistent environment with a consistent preceptor, versus being placed on different med/surg floors.

Problem: I have already gone through the grieving process & reflected on my errors. Now, that I am ready to look for another job, how can I explain my resignation? Almost all places have asked for references. I don't think I can ask my manager from the hospital or the manager from my previous RN position for a reference. I'm feeling lost & hopeless, but am still determined. This may sound cheesy, but I'm following Oprahs', "Turn your wounds into wisdom." Thanks for the advice!

[caliotter3]

You said you found out float pool is not for you. Simply make that statement, an elaboration on "not a good fit".

[Green Tea, RN]

I feel float pool is simply not for a new graduate. It's for an experienced nurse who is comfortable working wherever she goes.

[chacha82, ADN, BSN]

Float positions are NOT for a new grad. How can people "float" when they are learning to become a nurse in general? At my work, the float team is hard to get on and they won't hire new grads. Just say the float position didn't work out and you are looking forward to joining 1 unit for a "home base." I understand cross-training new grads on similar floors in proximity (medical floor next to surgical floor perhaps) but not expecting them to float all over the hospital.

[sunsmilles55]

Thank you guys for your feedback and suggestions! Really, really appreciate them!

[Nightmaren, BSN, RN]

Yes, float pools are very very difficult places for new grads to learn. Our hospital does not hire new grads to the float pool at all.

How was your relationship with your manager? I know you mentioned that you don't think that they would be good references, but were you on amicable terms? If you are on good terms, it might be helpful just to stop by and talk to them about your future career plans. Most managers on good terms won't hinder someone from pursuing something different. Having their support would really reassure workplaces about hiring you.

If you cannot gain the support of your manager, it still isn't the end of the world. Workplaces very much value employees who know themselves. If you are able to sell yourself as a solid candidate while being earnest in your discovery that the float pool was not a good fit for you, someone will hire you. Please do not give up hope, as you've learned something valuable about yourself =)

Do understand however that hospitals invest a lot of money into training new grads. At this point, based on your employment history, the main question on their mind will be about retention. It would be wise to focus on reassuring them that you will not leave their institution after working for a few months.