How soon should i start applying for jobs

Roxeyb · Jun 10, 2008

Hello,

My experience is that I graduated as an LPN on May 5, 2008 and started applying then but every employer contacted told me to contact them back after I passed the NCLEX. I was nervous throghout the whole wait period but I took the test yesterday and found out I passed today so I called the employers back and they all set up interviews with me after I faxed them my unofficial proof of passing. I hope this helps and GOOD LUCK.

caliotter3 · Jun 10, 2008

Many people start getting their job lined up prior to graduating. However, I believe I would wait until I actually have my license. You want to spare yourself the embarassment and possible loss of an opportunity should you not be able to take the NCLEX by a certain date, or do not pass it on the first try. Not all employers will allow someone to work at a different job description pending the NCLEX. So it is just easier to make sure you have your license first. JMO

SarasotaRN2b · Jun 10, 2008

Well, I'm working currently in a NICU as a unit secretary. While I do have a year and a half before I graduate, I'm hoping to gain employment with this NICU when I finish...so I'm going to do whatever I can to secure this employment along the way.

Jules A, MSN · Jun 11, 2008

Most of us interviewed and had a job lined over the break between our 3rd and last semester. I didn't worry about not passing NCLEX, probably because I already did the PN one.

Good luck.

lulu997RN · Jun 11, 2008

Another thing that i am confused about is that i heard that hospitals now will not hire you until you prove that you passed the nclex unlike b4 when ppl worked license pending, should i still apply before i graduate???

caliotter3 · Jun 11, 2008

You can apply early to those employers that will allow this, and wait until you have your license to apply to the others. This info should be readily available on the job postings or by inquiring with the HR dept. If you have preferences for where you want to work, then adjust your plans accordingly. Any way you look at it, you have to comply with the way the employer wants to do it.

adamsmom · Jun 11, 2008

I live in the Philly burbs and most of us had a job by March. The ones that did not have at least interviews by then are having a hard time finding one now. You can work as a Graduate nurse first then when you pass (first time) they change you to a RN. Also, if you don't pass most hospitals will have you work as an aide while you study and retake it then when you pass you change to RN.

Some places will hire you but you can't start till you pass. It holds a spot open for you.

Good Luck

Jules A, MSN · Jun 11, 2008

This is where having your CNA or LPN comes in handy because most places will hire you with your current certification so you can start working right away without depending on them accepting a GN status.

SarasotaRN2b · Jun 11, 2008

Most of us interviewed and had a job lined over the break between our 3rd and last semester. I didn't worry about not passing NCLEX, probably because I already did the PN one.
Good luck.

Jules, did you go to LPN school or did you take the test while in school for your RN?

Jules A, MSN · Jun 11, 2008

Jules, did you go to LPN school or did you take the test while in school for your RN?

I was already a LPN and joined the 2nd year RN students but they were advised to get their CNAs after the first semester so we all had something.

TangoLima · Jun 12, 2008

There is a lot that goes into it. Does your state allow you to practice as a GN? Also, some hospitals will not hire you as a GN even if your state allows it. It is really up to the hospital. My #1 choice hospital would not hire you until you had your license.

If there is a specialty you wish to get into, I would recommend you start applying as soon as you start your semester. There are those in my class who applied back in Jan/Feb when we didn't graduate until May. Me on the other hand waited until like a month before graduation to start applying thinking that I would be able to concentrate more on school. But, by the time I started applying, all the specialty positions were full.

By the time I graduated I really NEEDED a job, and it was nerve-wracking not being sure I would be able to find something. If you are in a position where you need to start working, you should start applying early. It was much more time-consuming and difficult than I thought it would be.

Just my :twocents: .