Is job searching all about referrals..?

[hjamie0415]

I'm a nurse (BSN) with 2 years of experience at a nursing home trying to transition to a hospital. I've applied to more than 20+ positions so far without getting any interviews... At this point I'm thinking if it's all about networks and referrals to get a foot into the door. Is it really? How are you nurses out there find your way in when you first started? I'm feeling desperate.. Please help. I'm in Chicago area.

[AnnieOaklyRN, BSN, RN, EMT-P]

Hi

It could be your resume or cover letter turning them off. I would suggest you call the school you graduated from and see if they offer any resume and cover letter writing help for alumni, often this is in the "writing center".

Best of luck!

Annie

[Rn-diva]

It all depends , sometimes hiring managers never see your resume. Most times recruiters look at the resume and decide whether to pass your resume to the DON or Hiring Manager. I am a recruiter and this is what I do , I review the resume first and if I feel it is someone with the right credentials then I pass on the information and set up the interview. My company is a subacute and long term facility so we do hire new grads . But most hospitals look for MED surg experience. Try and get your feet wet with some med surg experience and try reaching out to your professors too they always know how to get your feet wet in the hospital.