New grad RN, can't land a job after nursing school

[viviagbobu]

A shortage of nurses huh? Really? Am I the only one having trouble finding a job post-nursing school or what? Yes, I am aware that these things take time but yeash! I've applied to countless jobs all over the inland empire (the area between los Angeles and Palm Springs, California) and nothing! I've been on six interviews since graduation and have yet to receive an offer. I lost count of the amount of rejection letters I've received, but it's a lot. It feels like every day I receive at least three. Oh wait...In fact, I just got another one right now. Yes, we get into nursing to save lives and touch the souls of others, and not for the money, but good grief! I didn't think I would be applying for food stamps and moving back in with my parents! I have my BSN from an amazing nursing school, RN License, BLS, ACLS, PALS cert, and a killer resume, so I am confused on what I'm doing wrong here. So please, if any of you are experiencing a similar struggle please comment. Or if you have experienced the blessing of landing a job immediately after graduation, please post your success story to lift my spirits. Thank you!

-Starving Nurse.

[meanmaryjean, DNP, RN]

Can you relocate? There are areas of shortage- but California isn't one of them.

[midwifemae]

I'm having a similar issue. I'm in Colorado and there are several jobs but no luck so far. Sending you good vibes! I have another interview next week. We shall see.

[Sour Lemon]

You can't really have a killer resume with zero experience in the field you're seeking employment.

Moving to gain experience is a good suggestion. I'd also advise trying small, community hospitals. Some hire a few new grads here and there although they may not advertise it or have formal programs.

Good luck to you.

[viviagbobu]

I'm having a similar issue. I'm in Colorado and there are several jobs but no luck so far. Sending you good vibes! I have another interview next week. We shall see.

Thank you for the good vibes and I'll be sending some your way! Good luck on your interview next week. :)

[viviagbobu]

You can't really have a killer resume with zero experience in the field you're seeking employment.

Moving to gain experience is a good suggestion. I'd also advise trying small, community hospitals. Some hire a few new grads here and there although they may not advertise it or have formal programs.

Good luck to you.

My mistake, I think I meant to say I have a decent looking "new grad" resume. I've tried hospitals both large and small in my area but I may consider applying other regions of caliornia to increase my chances. Thanks! :)

[viviagbobu]

If my license allows, I may consider relocating and working in another state.

Thanks!

[whyohwhy]

Try nursing homes, corrections, psychiatric hospitals, etc.

[traumaRUs, MSN, APRN]

Moved to First Job Hunt Assistance

[KelRN215, BSN, RN]

If my license allows, I may consider relocating and working in another state.

Thanks!

You would need to get a license in whatever state you relocate to.

[NICU Guy, BSN, RN]

I've applied to countless jobs all over the inland empire (the area between los Angeles and Palm Springs, California) and nothing!

There is your problem. Trying to find a job in an over saturated area. The standard advice here is to move where there IS a demand for nurses, get experience, and move back if you really want to. Seems like very few take the advice because they can't or are unwilling to move temporarily to start their nursing career.

[DowntheRiver]

Plenty of new grad jobs and residencies here in Central Florida. Good programs, too. Pretty easy to get endorsed to FL as well, and we're also now a compact state. I know CA is not, but just keep in mind for the future. No state income tax, cost of living is low for the most part. Only down side is you have to live in Florida, lol.

ETA: I've seen some programs with FL Hospital/Orlando offer to pay relocation costs as well.