Needs a Job but Terrified

[Nurse Beth, MSN]

Dear Nurse Beth,

I graduated from nursing school in August and passed my NCLEX in September. Soon after passing, my son was having some trouble and he needed my time and attention. He's somewhat in a better place now and I've begun again to look for a job.

It's been almost 6 months since I graduated and I'm really having anxiety about finding my first job. I worry I waited too long to start the search. Plus this will be my first job in the medical field.

So I'm just terrified in general of possibly hurting a patient or just not being good enough. Can you provide me with any support or advice on this matter? Also, I've been trying to revise my resume and have been getting so much input from family about how it should look. Can you provide me with any references on successful resumes for new-grad nurses? Thanks!

Dear Needs a Job but Terrified,

I'm glad your son is better and you could be there for him. You still have time to land a job before one year has passed. But you need to start right away.

You must apply to many places and look for a residency program. A residency program will give you the onboarding orientation you need as a new grad, and has many supportive components as well.

My book below provides resume examples and exactly what to do in your situation. My experience as a hiring manager means I shared every insider tip I know to help new grads just like yourself get hired.

Your family is well-meaning, but they may not know nursing specific resume requirements and how to make your resume stand out in a competitive market. Even so-called professional resume consultants are not in tune with the nursing industry, and what hiring nurse managers look for.

Tell you what, email me back your address and I will gladly gift you a book.

Best wishes,

Nurse Beth

Author, "Your Last Nursing Class: How to Land Your First Nursing Job"...and your next!

---