Interviewing for a job I don't want?

[Ran2323]

Hi there! So I have a pretty weird situation. I graduated from nursing school in May of 2023, and passed my NCLEX in June of 2023. Got my first nursing job in a labor and delivery unit in August of 2023 and quit 4 months later due to a series of family emergencies that impacted my mental health, as well as dealing with a really toxic workplace. 

I have been unemployed since (about 6 months) and am currently trying to find a job. I really want to do clinic nursing. I knew as soon as I was done with nursing school that I wanted to go into a clinic setting. I recently got a mentor that works at a facility who she's been trying to get me into. She pointed out that there was a Pre-Op and PACU Department position open and out of desperation, I applied, used her as a referral, and now have an interview scheduled. The problem is, I don't want to work in this area. Granted, this is considered outpatient, but I just can't see myself working in this setting. She told me that it would be a good place to start, but I just really want to try and get a job that I'm going to love, and I don't think I would enjoy doing this. 

I am still going to do the interview to find out more information about the position. Who knows, it may surprise me. BUT, what do I do if I get a job offer and I still don't want this position? I don't want to hurt my mentor's feelings or feel like I'm not taking her opinion seriously. Also, I know my parents would be so upset if I didn't accept a job offer that came my way. I do need a job, but I don't want something that I know I wouldn't be happy doing. 

I know a lot of people would say I need to suck it up and just deal with a job that I might not like doing. But my last job made me so unhappy and I don't want that same thing to happen. I am still considered a new grad and don't even have a year under my belt, but I've seen so many young, new nurses (even a couple of nurses that graduated with me) getting jobs in clinics...and in the end...that is what I want 100%. 

Any advice? 

[Skips, MSN, RN]

What ended up happening? I hope you are well and have found something you want. 

[Mergirlc, MSN, APRN, NP]

" .....But my last job made me so unhappy and I don't want that same thing to happen. I am still considered a new grad and don't even have a year under my belt, but I've seen so many young, new nurses (even a couple of nurses that graduated with me) getting jobs in clinics...and in the end...that is what I want 100%...."

I don't know if you keep in touch with anybody from your cohort, but it might be worthwhile to reach out to those who got jobs in clinics and see if there's any opportunity there.

If you do the interview, ask them about the career trajectory for that particular department. You never know, maybe there might be an opportunity at the same place to work in clinic?

[TGBrn2022]

You shouldn't use your real name when posting. If you get the offer, take it because you might like it. It's good working with somebody you know. Your mentor can help you navigate the environment for a positive experience.

[OnceIWas]

Not sure how your situation is "pretty weird" as there are many similar posts on here..As a new grad & one that hasn't been employed in a while you are probably going to be competing against more seasoned nurses who have been working & can, frankly, offer the employer more. If you are in a position to not work then why waste your time and the employers by interviewing? Keep looking/applying for your dream job though it would be highly unlikely with little work experience to get in the door. But again, as someone else pointed out, maybe reach out to former classmates, professors & the like to see if they can offer any guidance.

If you do need to work then you may need to, at least temporarily, adjust your dream job focus & accept a position that will give you income & experience so you will be more competative for the dream job when it arrives.