Newish grad unable to get a job

CityofAngelsRN · Jun 29, 2018

I was a new grad in 2014 in CA and I know it's different than it is today, but it was extremely hard to get a job as a new grad back then. I joined a Facebook group for new grads in my state which essentially helped land me my first job. Find a list or make one yourself of all the new grad application deadlines in your area. In my experience, it is very hard to get hired with no RN experience unless it's an actual dedicated new grad program. Look for career fairs as well. It's much easier to get hired when you're face to face with a recruiter or manager. You can also call recruiters and ask them if they have new grad programs. Follow local hospitals on Facebook if you can. They often post career opportunities.

llg, PhD, RN · Jun 30, 2018

You say you are applying "for everything." But does that include all types of work shifts? In other words, are you applying for jobs that require full time employment with rotating shifts? Or are you only applying for jobs that have work schedules similar to what you have been working?

As far as a hospital goes, you are a "new grad RN" -- and will need the orientation of a "new grad RN." Such entry-level positions usually require a full time commitment and a willingness to work rotating shifts. If you are not able to make that commitment, you will lose out on a lot of jobs to the new grads who are willing and able to be that flexible with their work hours. The jobs with the more desirable schedules for people with several children may be popular with the experienced nurses -- and their experience will make them more likely to be chosen than you (with no relevant experience).

athesnia · Jul 1, 2018

Thank you for the advice, I will definitely look into your suggestions!

athesnia · Jul 1, 2018

You say you are applying "for everything." But does that include all types of work shifts? In other words, are you applying for jobs that require full time employment with rotating shifts? Or are you only applying for jobs that have work schedules similar to what you have been working?
As far as a hospital goes, you are a "new grad RN" -- and will need the orientation of a "new grad RN." Such entry-level positions usually require a full time commitment and a willingness to work rotating shifts. If you are not able to make that commitment, you will lose out on a lot of jobs to the new grads who are willing and able to be that flexible with their work hours. The jobs with the more desirable schedules for people with several children may be popular with the experienced nurses -- and their experience will make them more likely to be chosen than you (with no relevant experience).

I have applied for every shift, said I am 100% flexible and will do full time days, evening, nights, weekends, holidays shift work be on call. I select all the boxes.. lol I can do anything for a year or 2 to get myself in a better place to be promoted to a better unit or schedule.

Thanks for the response!

Career Columnist / Author · Jul 3, 2018

When you say "applying to everything" I wonder if you are targeting your applications to each different facility? Are you informed about their mission and values? What service lines are they building?

The best outcome for you is a new grad residency, but the 1-year clock is ticking. Activate your network. Ask your classmates who landed jobs to put in a good word for you.

Avoid cliches and clutter in your cover letter and resume. Learn to use keywords from the job postings. Consider the "cold-call" and put together a portfolio.

Honestly, my book below was written precisely for you- check it out and good luck to you. It is packed with hiring tips from a hiring nurse manager- the insider view.

Best wishes,

Nurse Beth

Author, "Your Last Nursing Class: How to Land Your First Nursing Job...and Your Next!

Sour Lemon · Jul 4, 2018

Okay, so I wasn't sure if I should put this in the career section or the jobs section but I feel like it fits in both. I am a newish grad due to graduating on Dec 15th 2017. I passed the NCLEX on Jan 11th 2018. Before I became an RN I was an LPN for 2 years. I currently work at a plasma center and even though the pay is great and the job isn't that hard there is a lack of professionalism and it is basically a dead end job. I signed a year long contract with the company as an LPN and it is ending August 15th which is the reason I am stating on applications that I am leaving.
Here's the problem
As an LPN I worked mostly in plasma centers and a few PRN jobs here and there due to being in school and having 4 young children. My resume, although pretty, isn't wonderful and doesn't scream "OMG you have to hire this nurse". I am a great nurse and a good employee. I desperately want to get a job in a hospital with a preference in ICU, Maternity or ER but have applied for everything. I am about to start my BSN and plan on going straight into my MSN after that.
How do I manage to find make a career in a hospital if I can't get past the application? What can I do to make myself more appealing to hiring managers without them even meeting me?

You're most likely to find a med/surg, or perhaps tele, position. I'd focus on getting a foot in the door that way. I also suggest that you apply at some of the smaller, community hospitals. I've noticed that they sometimes hire new grads, although they may not have new graduate programs.

A SNF would be better than a plasma center if you're looking to build experience but can't quite make it through a hospital door, yet. Good luck!