New Grad. No paid nursing experiences

[vietpinoy_nurse]

Hi all,

I am a new grad graduated September 2013 and passed the nclex last December. My degree is a BSN. I have been to different hospitals/settings for the past 2 years doing my rotations. I am currently doing job hunting. I wonder if you all can give me some advises or suggestions to impress my potential employers. I didn't have any paid job for the last 3 years The last job before I entered my nursing program was not health related at all (assistant manager at a small cookies store). All help and suggestion will be much appreciated.

Thank You and Cheers

[PCnurse88]

I am literally in the same position as you (graduated May 2013, passed boards in July 2013) and my only job experience is assistant manager of an ice cream store. I don't have a job yet but from what I've been told, hype up your customer service experience, explain why you were promoted/how you came to become assistant manager, and tailor you cover letter specifically for each job application. Apply everywhere, cities, small towns, offices, etc. Look out of state and research new grad residency programs near you. My friend's mother is an experienced nurse and a nursing instructor and she said even if a job says they want experience, apply anyway - it can't hurt, right?

Best of luck!

[Nonetheless]

Someone I know took a part time job too boost her resume whilst job hunting. I am planning to do the same. Like you, I have not had work for a few years because I am lucky enough to have family support through school and wanted to focus on my studies. I know this puts me at a disadvantage and regret not doing something part time, even working at a grocery store. However, if nothing is lined up before I graduate, I will look for things like tutoring jobs to build my resume while searching for something sustainable as a nurse.

Even though your assistant manager experience is 3 years old it is still pretty valuable. "Manager" implies you were a leader and the fact that you were in a cookie shop indicates you have at least *some* hands-on customer service experience. Still put it in and play it up!

[ceebeejay]

I push my years in a supervisory position (ability to self manage and direct others), my organizational skills, my time-mamagement skills, my longevity and dedication to my employer (13 years at the last company I worked for), etc. There are many parallels in the business and retail world that you need to use as an RN. If they ask about the gap, well you were in school!

[vietpinoy_nurse]

Thank you all for the replies and encouragements. I just recently got offered a part-time home health nurse position near home. I am extremely excited and nervous as the same time since I know home health is not an easy field for new grad like me. I guess for the time being, I will do my best for that position while at the same time continuous to find and land an acute position too. Good Luck to our my fellow new grads out there :)