New Grad in CA

[jsanchez512]

Hello all!

I recently just received my RN license in the mail last week, and I am eager to find a new job.Although the job hunt for new grads in California seems discouraging, I'm trying to stay positive in my job search. I have applied to a handful of new grad programs in my area, but it is difficulty to stick out among a large pool of RNs. I have made a portfolio, and plan to go to the hospitals at the top my list and personally hand them to the director of nursing& introduce myself.

Does this approach seem like to much, or will it make a good impression to DONs? I would greatly appreciate feedback from new grad rns, experienced rns or nurse recruiters. Thanks for your time!

Happy Thursday!!

[Meriwhen, ASN, BSN, MSN, RN]

One hurdle is that a lot of hospitals in CA have new graduate programs which are the only way a new graduate can get to work for that facility--they only hire new grads who have completed their program. Those positions are only posted 2 or 3 times a year and are swamped with applicants in the week or so that it's posted. Seeing the DON in those facilities won't secure you a spot in the program nor even move you up in the list.

As far as storming the Bastille with your portfolio (the portfolio is a good idea, BTW: I have one myself)...the problem is that doing that can be a mixed bag: some managers are impressed by the initiative it shows. Some aren't and won't be happy to see you. Others will direct you to HR. And still others will be completely put off by the stalking and you've shot your chances in the foot.

You won't necessarily know how they'll react until you show up. Therefore, I won't say "do it" or "don't do it." You decide that for yourself.

But if you are going to go in person, plan wisely. Avoid shift change and the couple of hours before and after it. I'd also not aim for the DON, at least not in the bigger hospitals, as you probably won't ever get anywhere near them...plus the DON doesn't necessarily hire for the facility. Instead, pick a couple of units you are interested in and target their managers.

And the honest fact is that your plan is to burst in upon a manager or DON's busy day unannounced...doing that doesn't always go over well. Hope for the best but prepare for the worst: don't expect that they'll be happy to see you and offer an on-the-spot interview...in fact, don't expect anything more than a "Thank you, we'll be in touch."

Best of luck.