How do find a job as a newly licencsed lpn when everyone want 1 yr exp?!!!

okikatt · Aug 27, 2013

I've been wondering the same thing. I just got my license 2 weeks ago and have been looking for a job but it is really hard to find one that doesn't want a years experience. I was told to apply to the jobs that say " experience preferred" because even if they want someone with experience if they don't have any good applicants that have experience they will look at those who they feel they can train the way they want. Also you might look at LTC facilities and assisted livings because they hire a lot of LPNs and usually don't require experience.

cyde · Aug 28, 2013

Also you might look at LTC facilities and assisted livings because they hire a lot of LPNs and usually don't require experience.

thanks for replying. the LTC and assisted living facilities are the ones that want at least a years experience and mostly in med surg area. that's why i'm worried. all the places i've called all say the same thing. the hospitals are supposed to start hiring LPN soon but i bet they'll want 2-3yrs experience. how does one get experience if no ones willing to give newbies a chance?

notmanydaysoff · Aug 28, 2013

Looking for a job is a job in itself. It takes more than just sending resumes to every employer who places an ad. Start by being organized, have a shining functional skills resume (shows that you are clever, thoughtful) that you customize, along with a cover letter to each potential employer. Make sure you are continuing your education (shows initiative), make calls, show up in person, talk yourself up. When you go to an interview look sharp, look mature, exude confidence.

I got my first job doing flu immunizations. My first "real" job was 3 months later working in urgent care - with no experience. Yes they wanted experience. I was one of 226 applicants. How did I get it? Read above.

This question has been asked many times. Lots of suggestions can be found. Best of luck to you!

affroman · Aug 29, 2013

I started with an agency, u wont make what ur worth but it will get u your year of experience. open ur black book and call everyone u know and ask if the place they are at is hiring or do they have a friend that has a place that is hiring. Try applying in person, and follow up. The best secret is to never give up. Good luck!!

cyde · Sep 2, 2013

I started with an agency, u wont make what ur worth but it will get u your year of experience. open ur black book and call everyone u know and ask if the place they are at is hiring or do they have a friend that has a place that is hiring. Try applying in person, and follow up. The best secret is to never give up. Good luck!!

thanks! i did do everything you suggested except the agency thing. the few i've tried said i would need at least 1 yrs experience. what really sucks is that there aren't a whole lot of ltc or al facilities where i'm @.

jrsygrl76 · Sep 3, 2013

I was lucky, I had been working at LTC facility as a CNA. I worked there a year. I told them from the day I interviewed I wanted to work at their facility as an LPN after graduation. My DON always asked every couple of weeks when my graduation was. Once I graduated I started working there as a graduate nurse and when I got my license a month and a half later I transitioned to an LPN on payroll. I planned where I was going to work, got my foot in the door and worked my tail off in school and at that job. I make less than 25 cents less than my mother who has been a nurse for 25 years. Decide where you want to work and don't let anything deter you, be persistent and make yourself an asset to that facility. Even if you have to start from the bottom the satisfaction you will feel once you achieve your goal is priceless!

Good luck with all your endeavors!!!!

futurenurseOB · Sep 3, 2013

It took me 3 months to find a job after licensure. I finally start tomorrow. My advice is to send resumes, do applications, FOLLOW UP, know the name of the hiring person, attend job fairs. Don't let them forget your name...ever!!!

I actually landed my job at a job fair. I did send my resume previously though. I called to follow up and they told me about the job fair. Funny thing is they only called people who actually applied or sent on theIr resume. It wasn't listed in the newspaper or anything. Good luck and I wish u well

Finally a nurse...All for my three♡♡♡

cyde · Sep 3, 2013

It took me 3 months to find a job after licensure. I finally start tomorrow. My advice is to send resumes, do applications, FOLLOW UP, know the name of the hiring person, attend job fairs. Don't let them forget your name...ever!!!
I actually landed my job at a job fair. I did send my resume previously though. I called to follow up and they told me about the job fair. Funny thing is they only called people who actually applied or sent on theIr resume. It wasn't listed in the newspaper or anything. Good luck and I wish u well
Finally a nurse...All for my three♡♡♡

thanks! that's very helpful. how frequently would you suggest calling/resending resumes that you've already sent? i want to call, but didn't want to make a pest of myself. :) o was told @ one place the hiring nurse would be giving me a call after reviewing my resume and that was last week. also, how did you dress for the job fair? every thing helps!

cyde · Sep 4, 2013

i've got another question. do you think it would work against me to plainly state on my cover letter that i'm a newly licensed pn looking to start my nursing career? is that what most newbies state on a cover letter? need some help w/this. how does one write a cover letter in this situation??? :unsure: thanks in advance!