Is it appropriate to call nursing director asking for a job opportunity?

Meriwhen, ASN, BSN, MSN, RN · Aug 2, 2014

Well, on one hand, being assertive may help you get noticed in a sea of faceless resumes. The DON may be impressed by your initiative. Even if it doesn't result in a position now, she may keep you in mind for future openings.

On the other hand, she may be irritated because you're the fifth new grad that called/e-mailed today and she's sick and tired of dealing with them, and you're the poor sap who gets it taken out on. Or she doesn't want an employee who can't read "apply online only" but instead tries to circumvent the online application process.

How will it play out with you? Who knows. It could go over very well or it could backfire.

I won't say do or don't do it, just be aware that there's a risk. And if you decide to do it, remember that your overtures are intruding uninvited, so keep in mind how assertive you should be. Push things too far, and you may indeed become persona non grata.

Best of luck whatever you decide.

LadyFree28, BSN, LPN, RN · Aug 2, 2014

Well, on one hand, being assertive may help you get noticed in a sea of faceless resumes. The DON may be impressed by your initiative. Even if it doesn't result in a position now, she may keep you in mind for future openings.
On the other hand, she may be irritated because you're the fifth new grad that called/e-mailed today and she's sick and tired of dealing with them, and you're the poor sap who gets it taken out on. Or she doesn't want an employee who can't read "apply online only" but instead tries to circumvent the online application process.
How will it play out with you? Who knows. It could go over very well or it could backfire.
I won't say do or don't do it, just be aware that there's a risk. And if you decide to do it, remember that your overtures are intruding uninvited, so keep in mind how assertive you should be. Push things too far, and you may indeed become persona non grata.
Best of luck whatever you decide.

THIS.

Another strategy is to create a LinkedIN account and find out those managers as well as recruiters' information and approach them that way.

Best wishes.

LiamBear · Aug 3, 2014

Thank you for all of your responses. I think I will start trying to get in touch with a nursing recruiter first. I have called and left messages, but no one has returned my call yet. My next door neighbor is a nurse and told me to email this particular director. She put in a good word for me. Well, a week later and I haven't heard back. Keeping my chin up.

estrellaCR, BSN, RN · Aug 4, 2014

Try emailing them or Linkedin. With Linkedin or email you are not as intrusive into their workday as by phone or in person and they can get back to you when they can instead of dealing with you right then and there and being annoyed. Also you only started applying two weeks ago!! It takes several weeks to months for recruiters to call applicants for jobs as they are dealing with filling many positions at a time. And being a new grad....they are def not jumping at the chance to call you asap after you apply if they are interested in you. The ones that get quick call after application are those with experience. New grads are at the bottom of priority list. It is what it is in this day and age. Just be polite and not pushy and it should go well. And be patient with your applications...it takes some time to get called in.