New grad needs help findsing job in Texas

[Nurse Beth, MSN]

Dear New Nurse,

Congratulations on completing your nursing studies! Starting your nursing career can be an exciting and sometimes overwhelming process.

Searching for your first job is actually your full-time job now and takes persistence and strategy.

As a hiring manager, I witnessed numerous exceptional candidates miss out on job opportunities due to their lack of skills in job searching, resume building, interview techniques, and follow-up. It was heartbreaking to see so much potential go to waste. That's when I decided to write a book for new graduates, providing them with insider wisdom and strategies to help them secure their dream job.

Your last nursing class...How to land your first nursing job

• Use job search websites like Indeed, Monster, Glassdoor, and LinkedIn to look for nursing job listings. These platforms allow you to filter job postings based on location, experience level, and preferences.
• Visit the websites of hospitals and healthcare facilities in your area. Many have dedicated "Careers" or "Job Opportunities" sections where they post their current job openings.
• Attend your area's nursing job fairs, career events, and healthcare conferences. These events are excellent opportunities to network with potential employers and learn about job openings.
• Leverage your personal and professional network. Let friends, family, former classmates, professors, and clinical instructors know you're actively seeking nursing positions. They might have connections or know about job openings.
• If you had positive experiences during your clinical rotations, consider reaching out to those healthcare facilities to inquire about job opportunities. Sometimes they prefer hiring nurses already familiar with their organization.
• Join local and national nursing associations relevant to your field. These organizations often have job boards, networking events, and resources for new graduates.
•  Consider working with nursing recruitment agencies. They can match your skills and preferences with available job opportunities and help you find a position.

Increase your chances of standing out by personalizing your cover letter and resume for each position you apply for. Avoid the common mistake of sending out a generic cover letter to multiple organizations.

Check out the articles below on crafting an effective cover letter. 

• Make sure that your LinkedIn profile is up-to-date and professional. Some recruiters and employers may search for candidates online or check to see if you have a Linkedin profile.
•  If you're struggling to find a full-time nursing position right away, consider volunteering or interning at a healthcare facility. This can help you gain experience, make connections, and enhance your resume.
•  When you find a job opening that interests you, apply immediately. Many positions are filled quickly. After applying, consider sending a follow-up email expressing your interest and reiterating your qualifications.
• Persistence. Job searching takes time. Don't get discouraged by rejections or lack of responses. Stay positive and keep refining your approach.

Remember that the first nursing job you land might not be your dream job, but it's an essential step in your nursing career journey. As you gain experience and build your skills, you'll have more opportunities to pursue your ideal nursing roles. Good luck with your job search!

Nurse Beth

Here are some helpful articles for you:

Do's and Don'ts of a Cover Letter

How to Write a Cover Letter

How to Get Past ATS Software

Please...Resume Help Needed! 

New Grad Losing Hope