How long does it take to get your first job?

[NTPinky]

In school they kept telling us how we'd have no problem getting a job. I've been job hunting for months and have only gotten one interview, and I didn't get that job because I'm a new grad (don't understand why they called me in for the interview if they didn't want new grads).

I've put my resume on all the hospital web sites. I've given my resume to my friends to give to their managers. I've emailed and called several RN recruiters, none of whom seems to ever answer their phone so I just leave voicemail messages, and they either don't call back, or they send an email link to the employment website of their hospital. There are no job fairs going on in my area right now, and the only new grad program near me doesn't start until October. My bills can't wait that long.

How long is it supposed to take to get your first job? I'm not being too picky since I'm willing to work any shift and on any unit. I've had my cover letter and resume checked by others and everyone said they look good. It's hard not to feel rejected.

[TheCommuter, BSN, RN]

You might be displaying pickiness in a roundabout manner by applying at only hospitals. There are other facilities that are absolutely hurting for new grad RNs such as nursing homes, hospice, rehab centers, psychiatric facilities, outpatient clinics, surgery centers, blood banks, and so forth. For example, I work at a nursing home and rehab center that readily hires new RNs and starts them at a pay rate that is typically $3 more hourly than the local hospitals.

I know that the idea of working at a place other than a hospital might not seem too attractive or feasible, but it will definitely pay your bills until you get your foot in the door. Good luck with the job hunt!

[NTPinky]

Hi Commuter,

I'm in San Francisco, and while I started my job hunt applying to hospital and non-hospital jobs, from what I've seen the types of places you mentioned all require at least a year of experience. So then I started focusing more on hospital jobs.

Thanks for your good wishes.