New to Chicago area: RN with 6 mos. exp. HR HELP!

Published

Hello all,

I was hoping for a little advice as I continue my job search. I recently moved to the Chicago suburbs with 6 months of experience as a nurse in a cardiac step-down unit. I applied to some area hospitals and then proceeded to follow up by hand delivering my cover letter, resume, license etc. I only made it to one hospital as there reaction was poor to this gesture. They do not take resumes (I was unaware) and basically laughed at me for trying. What is your recommendation? Is this a poor gesture? I applied online prior to delivering my resume, but when you upload your resume it alters the format. Since I put SOOO much time into my resume, I thought it would be nice for them to have a 'clearer' copy. Should I try visiting other hospitals I applied to, to drop of my resume or is this bad practice? Thank you for your help and advice.

THANKS

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Adolescent & Adult Psychiatry.

Hi there!

As to your question, I honestly don't think you should waste your time hospital-hopping and dropping off resumes. This may work in smaller areas, but for Chicago hospitals, if they ask you to apply online, you better apply online! I've seen several people automatically turned down for a position just because they were trying to be a little proactive in getting out their resumes. Don't worry about the format being a little skewed, the most that they're looking for is if you have a license, CPR, a degree, and any experience to the position being offered. All the rest is just fluff to them.

I'm sorry if I busted your "proactive" bubble, but that's how it is in the big city! Don't worry, if you are really interested in the job, apply as many times as you can and if you have time, take a visit to the unit and see if you can shadow someone for a day. That's always possible and you'll more than likely bypass HR which nowadays is the graveyard for applicants!

Good luck and I hope you find your dream job!

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Leadership, Psych, HomeCare, Amb. Care.

I get resumes that get wonky when electronically submitted, but everyone is in the same boat.

Rather than just dropping off a resume, try to find out who the nurse recruiter is and attempt to make contact by phone & email (but don't be pushy).

Submit cover letters whenever possible, and of course when you come in for an interview be sure to bring copies of your beautifully prepared resume!

Up Vote Up Vote ×
+ Join the Discussion