How should I go about following up on applications?

[CNA1991, CNA]

Usually, when I apply to jobs I call back later and ask for HR, but since most LTC/ALF in my area are too small to have an HR department, I usually have to talk the DON directly. Then, usually they are too busy to talk so I get an answering machine. I know that DONs are ALWAYS busy so I am wondering if instead, I should apply to a place and not follow up with a call? Or, should I go in person and introduce myself to the DON when I am applying or sometime after I apply? I have read posts on this site that recommend calling all the facilities in your area to ask if they are hiring then to go to the ones that are and apply. I am some what afraid to do this because I don't want to come across rude, but I have heard of people getting jobs this way so I might try it. I have a job in a home care staffing place now but, I met my boss before I got my job/interview so I didn't have these problems. Also, if I apply to a hospital do I call their HR to try to schedule an interview? I have read that if you apply to a hospital, you should find out the hiring managers name for that department and call them to try to schedule an interview.

How did you get your job in a LTC/ALF/Hospital?

Did you follow up your application with a call/visit or just wait to get called back for a interview?

Thanks:nurse:

[Kitsey]

I dressed nicely and took my application down to the LTC facility and waited to give it personally to the DON. Got called a week later to schedule an interview, and was offered a job 30 min after leaving the interview. This was my first CNA position too, and the only place I applied. :)

[Julie19, CNA]

I was doing errands one day and stopped by a newly built ALF. Went in wearing a pair of jeans and a t-shirt and asked if they were hiring and they interviewed me there on the spot. I started two days later. It was also the first place I applied. And here I am a year later, still working there.

Sometimes, when trying to get a job you really have to be persistent. As in, calling daily to check the status of your application. It doesn't annoy them, it just shows that you have a genuine interest at working in their facility.

And also, it's not rude to call and ask if they're hiring before making the drive. What's the worst they can say?

Good luck! :)