New grad seeking L&D/mother baby unit

[stephj1224]

I have graduated in December. I already passed my boards. I really want a job on the L&D unit or will even settle for the mother baby unit. I have only Associates Degree in Nursing. Anyone have any advice on how I can increase my odds of getting hired as a new grad. I have applied in Orlando, Tampa, and Sarasota. I have been rejected several times. Should I get certified in something while I wait to hear back from hospitals? I don't have any hospital experience besides clinicals. I have about 8 years of serving experience. Any advice or tips would be greatly appreciated!!

Thanks in advance

[knittygrittyRN, MSN, RN]

First off congrats on getting your license!

I can't speak directly about Florida since I'm based in CT but here's what I've seen up here: most of my local hospitals have stopped hiring ADN nurses and will only hire BSN nurses. If you're interested in furthering your degree putting that on your resume could be a huge booster. Also in my experience new grads positions in labor and delivery are hard to come by. Most of the nurses on L&D started elsewhere in the hospital and applied when a position opened up. It doesn't hurt to know what you want, but keep your mind open and try a different area of nursing to get your foot in the door at a facility. It doesn't hurt to get what ever certifications you can since it shows you have initiative. Don't beat yourself up too much since landing that first job is difficult no matter what, but best of luck to you!