new career help

[martymoose, BSN, RN]

Hello- I want  to find a different job. current one 16 years, prior one 17 years prior to that 3 years. Consecutive. So I don't really have a lot of Job Search experience. I would like to stay with in my current company, but have applied only one time , and that job was not suitable at the time

So the question is, does a RN just apply to jobs even to just find out what they are all about? if its not suitable, is this a bad/negative experience? Id love to get out of what I am doing now, but am also somewhat limited with OA issues that are permanent. 

If I could retire, I would, but I need insurance and am major breadwinner, so thats not an option. If I could, that would be awesome- then I would probably have more job opportunities part time, or even different fields ( drive for amazon etc, doordash.

Any help would be appreciated. Thank you.

[ThatBLURN, BSN, RN]

Since you haven't built your resume in such a long time, you may not be aware of the resume bots that are used by a large majority of HRs.  I don't know how you submitted your resume but, if it went to HR, then it likely was sent through the pile of scanned resumes.  These "bots", or rather just a computer program, scans resumes for target words matching the description of the job you are applying for and rates the resume.  It's a quick way for them to go through candidates but (IMO) a flawed system that leaves good, and experienced nurses in the dust.  Make sure that you view the job posting on their site or wherever else they posted it then tweak your resume, application, and cover letter to include keywords from their post.

Also, I think that it is entirely up to you to figure out if a different field is right for you.  I encourage you to network through the facility, have lunches with various RNs/managers of departments that you may be interested in, put the word out to people you trust that you are thinking of trying something different.  Basically, ask a ton of burning questions to yourself and coworkers while also establishing new professional relationships.

Do you want to be a nurse right now?  In your last paragraph, I got the vibe that you might be over it.  I think it's worth it for you to commit to a change of scenery.  If it were me, with all those years under your belt, I would aim high and be open to exploring many new possibilities that feel good to you.  You have done your time in the trenches!  Take care of your body and spirit.  All those years speak volumes and can lead you to the place that is most fitting to you.

[martymoose, BSN, RN]

Thank you Falcon RN BSN RN. That was some very nice advice.

You are right to observe, yes I am over it (nursing) but 11 dollars an hour isn't going to cut it so im stuck . I don't see many non clinical jobs offered in my area , so that makes it difficult. 
 

There may be less strenuous jobs out there, hence my question of can a person shadow    To find out what a job entails and if it could be a good fit.I see many offerings for new grads, but not for experienced nurses. Maybe I should realize I am washed up . I don't know. But thanks for the advice on resumes

[ThatBLURN, BSN, RN]

I was hoping to convey to you how much value you have.  Experience is gold in the nursing world and you have so much of this. 

You are not washed up!  I have been job hunting extensively and have seen a broad mix, though that mostly depends on where you live.  Also, you might have to dig a little deeper to find the postings for the role you want (more on that below).

As for shadowing, it doesn't hurt to call and find out if that's something they will allow you to do!  I don't see why anyone would refuse a volunteer RN offering an extra set of hands in exchange for insight into the position.

If you want to find something new, you have to charge at it and apply, apply, apply.  Interview THEM during your interviews and, if something doesn't feel right about a new position/organization, it's OK to leave before you end up wasting their money and your time.  Believe that you will find what is meant to be.  Don't let one dud interview chip away at your hope for finding something perfect for you.

Pretty much all change is uncomfortable and hard work but it can be so rewarding.  I hope you can recognize your value to the field and click into something that resonates with you.  What type of nursing have you done?  Have you looked into professional certifications?  Where do you live and are you in a position to relocate?  Some more advice I can offer is reading up on the many certifications and/or specialties that are available and searching for related jobs.  Branch out with the Job Search sites.  There are a ton of websites that specifically cater to nurses/ healthcare professionals as well as the many other well-known search sites, Linkedin, and professional organizations (including the facilities themselves).  If you are limited because of your location and are in a position to move, maybe you can entertain the idea of relocating?  Also, with this much experience, you have so much potential to be a nurse leader.  Leadership has so many forms.  Is that something you might be interested in?  If so, there are leadership certifications that could open doors for you.  It could be worth your time to check in with Nurse Beth or another 'professional development' nurse.  There are many highly educated and qualified nurses out there that can help you explore your passion and guide you to grow into your ideal role.

It sounds like a big obstacle right now is the notion of feeling "stuck".  I can totally relate.  I feel completely immobile right now too but for different reasons.  I have had to do a lot of journaling, self-care, learning, and processing of my emotions to wiggle out of that stuck feeling.  I came to the conclusion that feeling this way can work for or against me, depending on how I chose to approach it.  I encourage you to nurture your emotional health right now.  This whole planet is so psychologically fragile at this time in history but those in healthcare are especially vulnerable.  You sound discouraged and my wish for you is that you recognize how much you have to offer, that you feel strong, that you can see the many opportunities out there for you, and that you embrace these feelings as drivers for needed positive change.  There is so much you can do with what you have that working a non-related minimum wage job will likely never be a reality for you.  I do hope you can embrace a well-earned sense of confidence about your future.

[martymoose, BSN, RN]

Thank you so much FalconnRnBsn RN.this is some kindly written advise . I guess one has yo “ pull up the bootstraps “ and get to work . I need to stop complaining and do something as bout it. It's just when you have no other experience, you feel like a failure before you start.pretty sure im just a number and a warm bidy too , so that doesnt help.

I've got some sorting out to do . Thank you for your encouragement. Best wishes to you .