Hey there, yet another new grad with no job post. Graduated in August, passed boards in September. Started applying for new grad hospital jobs back in May, slowed down during my preceptorship in June, started back up in July. I'd really like to work on a cardiac unit but I'm applying to pretty much any new grad position that isn't OB or psych at this point.
I've had positive feedback on my resume and cover letter from the handful of people I've shared it with. Only had one interview so far and while it wasn't bad it could have gone better, I'm more prepared for next time now. Problem is I'm not even getting past the HR recruiters for the hiring managers on the units see my resume. I'm not big on networking so until recently I hadn't really reached out to the few people I know to ask them to try and put in a good word for me. So far that has gone no where either.
Plan at the moment is to continue to apply to all the new grad postings at the 4 hospitals that are a reasonable distance from me and probably put in an application to another hospital that's a bit further out of my preferred range that has a new grad residency program. It's not what I want but I've also been looking at non-hospital options and those not requiring 1+ years of experience are very slim. Most that mention new grads are also part time and therefore no benefits and I'd really like some health insurance if I'm working so that's another compromise.
I am planning to sign up to volunteer at the hospital right near my house where I really want to work. Will give me something to do other than mope at home about having no job yet, chance to possibly interact and get my name and interest out there on some units, and something else to put on my resume.
Home health is also an option but I'm conflicted about it. My community health instructor runs a home health business and had expressed a willingness to hire me back in July. Not really want I want to do, don't think it's the best learning environment for a new nurse either. I did work home health as part of my community health clinical hours so I have a feel for it. It really does require a good foundation to be good at it which I'm aware I lack as a new grad.
Moving is is not an option for me. I own a home with my brother, we've put a lot of money into improvements on the house, and neither of us is looking to sell and move.
Any advise? Anyone have luck with volunteering at a hospital getting a foot in the door? Frustration is just hitting a bit harder these last few weeks as classmates with job offers already have been starting their jobs and I'm still struggling to get an interview.
