Movin on

[DizzyLizzyNurse]

Ok I've decided to seriously look into doing something I've been talking about but haven't done. I've always wanted to move out of my small town. I was thinking NYC or California. I know the job market is tough in both places. I have 11 years of healthcare experience, but only the last 2 years as an RN. I've worked for my current employer for a year now, but because of hospital closing, union rules, and reshuffling of staff, I've only spent a few months in each position (I've had 3 different ones). So I have a year with my current employer, but only 4 months of med surge experience. I was wondering how hard you guys think it would be to get a job in those tough markets with my experience. The rest of it is mainly rehab nursing and LTC.

I'm blue because I've been talking about leaving this small town, and since I'm single, my lease on my apartment is up, and I have nothing holding me back (except I'll miss my family!) I feel I should go. But obviously I don't want to end up stuck across the country with no job.

And how does interviewing usually go if you are trying to move across the country? How do you interview? Just try to lump interviews together and visit over a few days?

Thanks!

[perioddrama]

I would not move unless I had a job lined up and ready to go.

NYC and CA are oversaturated with experienced and new grads, which means that finding work is very difficult. It's not impossible to find work, but it's a lot harder than it once was.

As to how the interviews are conducted, usually it's done by phone or Skype.

Good luck!

[missladyrn]

Some places do phone interviews if you are out of state. I would apply early to a bunch of places. I would not move until you have a job unless you have a lot of savings. Can you stay with family or friends and at your current job when you lease is up? Or go month to month while you look? And when you move, is it possible to choose a place where you know someone? Good for you though, your only young once might as well try it now and give it a go!

[DizzyLizzyNurse]

My brother lives in NYC and I have a friend who lives in LA so I do have (non health care) connections in each area. I think I will apply for the other state's license and just apply for jobs and maybe I'll get lucky and I can just go with what I get. Thank you!!

[wanderlust99]

What about taking a travel job on a med surg or rehab unit in CA first, to see what area of CA you like and if you like it all. CA has ratios so it's only 4-5 patients. If you like the hospital you can ask to sign on as staff. I've been traveling in CA over 4 years and haven't been without work for over 2 weeks. NYC is definitely on my list next.

[DizzyLizzyNurse]

I'd love to travel, but I only have 4 months of hospital experience. Maybe I could do rehab. Thank you!