Possible new job, question for you all

[RNincognito]

Hey, regular poster here going incognito! I need some advice but I can be connected to my name.

I have worked at my facility for 2 years now, I really like my coworkers and overall have had a good experience. The only bad thing, it is not the specialty I want, have wanted since entering nursing school. One hospital near me has always been my "dream job" but it has been unattainable, until now. I have a job interview tomorrow (er, today) and I am very nervous. I have heard some bad things about this hospital, particularly from one poster here. I only know one other person who works there, she seems to like it but we are not that close so I don't know for sure.

My question, would you take the "recommendation" of someone you don't know? I can't imagine turning down the job (if I am even offered it) and staying where I am. I feel like I would regret it everyday. I have no problem with my job but like I said, it is not where I want to be specialty wise.

I guess the pay is less and there seems to some management issues, but isn't that a problem everywhere? The pay cut would suck but I could (hopefully) stay per diem at my current job and make up for it. I don't know, what bothers someone may not be a problem for me so my gut says to find out for myself..

[jadelpn, LPN, EMT-B]

You should always make a decision that is right for you. One person's "problem" may be not a big thing to another person. I would take a good look around and see what the unit itself is like. See how you respond to the manager who interviews you. Some often have peer interviews or shadowing as part of the interview process--you will not know until you get there, but get an overall sense.

Another thought process is to negotiate where you can be pay wise. If you are offered the job at a less of a pay level than you are comfortable with, or they do not offer you the full time position, make sure you ask if there is per diem available there. Be mindful to not burn bridges until you are sure you can make due on less pay, regardless if you can "handle" it or not.

[RNincognito]

Thanks jadelpn, that's what I have been thinking as well.

I had the interview today, I really liked the nurse manager. I didn't get a chance to speak with any of the nurses unfortunately, I wasn't really dressed for shadowing though. The pay is actually $2 more than I make now and benefits are comparable.

If I am offered the job I will take it. I need to find out for myself if this hospital is somewhere I want to work.