New Grad LPN, cant get a job

[tamalalynn47]

I live in rural northeast ohio and graduated from an excellent LPN school in July, passed boards in September, and am having no luck getting a job or even an interview. I have sent out about 30-40 resumes, went to many places all dressed up and personally handed them my resumes, continuously call for follow up and am getting NOWHERE!!

I have applied for several positions at Summa hospitals and Cleveland Clinic, have tried to reach HR for follow up to no avail. Is there something else I can do, does anyone have advice? I feel that the longer it takes me to get a job, the harder its going to be because Im obviously going to lose any skills I have gained by not using them.

[wes_111]

You mentioned hospitals, but did you try nursing homes? Go to medicare.gov

http://www.medicare.gov/NHCompare there you can get a list of nursing homes around your zip code. Then start calling. I still have to meet anyone who get lpn job trough things like careerbuilder or monster; those are waste of time, in my humble opinion. There is a chance that Nursing Home will offer you PRN position first, it will end as a full-time if they like you. I have heard that this is what they do in this economy. My wife (fresh LPN just like me) accepted PRN, but when she went to fill out the application they told her that one of the nurses resigned, so finally she filled out for full time. Well, she was lucky .

Prison system is another venue; great benefits usually.

It is probably the last resort, but think about moving to a place where they still hiring.

Good luck.

[TheCommuter, BSN, RN]

I agree with the previous poster. While you are probably not too enthusiastic about the idea of working in a nursing home, be aware that your job prospects are probably looking more bright in a nursing home than in an acute care hospital or clinic.

This could be the difference between being employed and remaining jobless in a slumping economy. It's your choice.

[readytoroll]

I just graduated in July too and really wasn't looking forward to working in a Nursing home, but I gave it a try and I LOVE it! I agree with the above posters, go for it, you'll be getting experience and earning a paycheck in no time!

[tamalalynn47]

No, I definitely tried nursing homes, those are the places I took the time to get all gussied up and go into, because I thought I had a chance...many of them, I cant even get a prn position..its ridiculous. But thanks for the suggestions, that would be my guess too if I hadnt already tried:)

[wishinguponastarLPN]

Maybe you should have someone take a look at your resume and see if that could be the source of the problem. Maybe it needs a few "tweeks."

Just throwing out suggestions...

[Cyan8181]

I would also do some volunteer work while you are looking: clinic, not for profit group, etc. It will keep your skills fresh, look good on your resume and may network you into a full time paying gig.