Networking Strategies for New RN grads with license

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Hello fellow RNs,

I got my RN license a month ago and have been searching for jobs (mostly RN residencies and Med/Surg, Oncology, Acute care). Realized staffing agencies require some experience to work with you. My hospital and LTC experience in NS showed me I really belong to the hospital environment. Worked during NS as a tech in a hospital but did not get hired by them. Honestly the floor was not my first choice, that may have been a factor.

Besides applying online, following up with HR/Recruiters, sending individual cards, someone has recommended going to various nursing society events. I looked in my area (Washington state) and did not find any such events that are open to everyone. Does anyone have experience with this sort of thing and how does one get to attend such an event in order to meet nurse managers?

Of course, I am looking at hospitals with volunteering opportunities that involve patient interaction, we'll see.

Thanks in advance!

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Specializes in public health.

join ANA and check their website to see if them have any events.

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I know there's also nursing career fairs, I'm from WA and a new grad as well. I never went but heard they're good. Just stay positive and persistant. I know it's hard in the area but not impossible by any means. Good luck!

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Thank you both for your comments. As far as nursing career fairs, I know they are good. I have found some by hearing from friends but they don't always show up with a simple Google search. I know hospitals have them, will start a thread here.

Cheers!

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Hi there, I am also a new grad from WA. I have heard Swedish does a meet and greet session for prospective employees, they just did one so I'm not sure when the next one will be. If you hear of anymore would you let me know? Good luck!

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Hi NRSKF,

If I hear of another meet and greet, I will let you know. Oh, I have missed the one you mentioned, unless it's the one they had in May which got full very quickly and by the time I went to their website was too late to register. Good luck to you too!

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