Is the job market really this tough?

[CaffeinePOQ4HPRN, BSN, MSN, LPN, RN]

Casual RPN, needs a full-time job!

Feeling like I'm trapped in a dead end and barely making an income. Nowhere seems to be hiring, or at least they're not hiring me. I'm not picky, I would work at Walmart at this point because I am so broke! Please PM me if you have advice or know of institutions in Ontario that are hiring... because things in Toronto/GTA are pretty bleak!

I'm willing to relocate, have a professionally written resume, my nursing association career advisor hasn't been able to assist, I've been working with an employment agency, I'm signed up for job alerts, I apply for nursing and non-nursing jobs everyday, and have great interview etiquette... but employers are not biting. I'm not even getting interviews! I almost feel like I have the plague. Are things really this tough, or am I just unlucky?

I am exhausting every option I can think of, but I am very frustrated because I'm not seeing any progress and I don't know what else to do! I'm thinking of going back to school for Human Resources or something because I've been struggling to earn a living as an RPN for a few years now.

[CaffeinePOQ4HPRN, BSN, MSN, LPN, RN]

Some additional info: I have extensive volunteer experience, which has helped to keep me busy and make a meaningful impact in the community... but has not helped to give me a competitive edge in terms of getting a part-time or full-time job. And I grow more and more impoverished as the days go by

[Silverdragon102, BSN]

Moved to the Canadian forum

I am sorry you are going through this and all I can think of is keep doing what you are doing and even try and get casual in many places and just keep on top of the work you accept.

[loriangel14, RN]

Yep it is that tough. part of the reason I think is how many fast track RPN programs there are that zip them trhough in !* months. The market is flooded. Good luck with your job hunt.

[joanna73, BSN, RN]

The job market is tough across the country and getting worse due to Provincial budget cuts and the falling price of oil. Hiring freezes and layoffs have been on/off/on/off/on since 2008.

Start applying in small towns. Many small towns are desperate for nursing staff. You may start out casual or part time but the hours worked often exceed full time. Once you have 2+ years of experience there are more options. However, experienced nurses are also feeling the crunch.

Good luck!