Resumes and applications

[werlp]

Ok so I graduate from my RN program in June and it was recommended that we begin applying for jobs. To me it is a little odd because I just started my critical care rotation which I will complete clinical in the ICU and ED, so I haven't been exposed to everything yet. My thoughts are that I just want to start in med surg. I really liked the step-down unit I was on.

So I have two questions:

1. When asked on the application areas I would like to work, should I put intermediate medical surgical for the step-down unit or how should I phrase it??

2. How many areas should I list?? I would like med surg, like I stated, but I would also love to work in pediatrics. Would it be acceptable to list: intermediate med surg, med surg, and pediatrics??

Thanks for any help!

Lisa

[caliotter3]

I think those three are ok because they indicate your preferences. If it were me I would put something like "open" to indicate that I am willing to discuss any area that they have available slots. When you are new, you sometimes have to go with the flow, especially in an area where job openings are few and far between for new grads.

[Saifudin]

I think the suggestion to use "open" is correct. I read an interesting question on nurse.com today from a new grad unable to find work in a particular city. The answer from the career consultant was that in the current economy older nurses are staying on the job longer, others are re-entering the nursing work-force and older nurses are looking for more overtime. It sounds plausible to me and frankly, I don't mind if its true because I am looking to repat to the states after several years working overseas.

In your case, I would list areas that interest you most but note that you would consider any 'reasonable position' in order to increase your chances of being considered particularly if the job market in your area is tight.

[Michifura]

Definitely list the areas that interest you, but always keep an open mind, keep your options open.

Best of Luck!

[whipping girl in 07, RN]

"Open" is a good idea, especially if you really don't know. I remember when I interviewed with the NM for my first nursing job. She was over the cardiac specialty floor and ICU. I'd met her when I was doing my 2nd semester of med-surg, and she made an impression on me when I stopped her in the hall and asked for her help, and she HELPED me (easily impressed back then, lol). I'd applied for cardiac specialty, and after interviewing me, she thought I was better suited for ICU. So she offered, I accepted, and guess what, she was right!! I thought I knew, turns out, not so much. You can't really say what you'd be interested in with so little experience, so be open to whatever's out there!

[trepinCT]

I think the suggestion to use "open" is correct. I read an interesting question on nurse.com today from a new grad unable to find work in a particular city. The answer from the career consultant was that in the current economy older nurses are staying on the job longer, others are re-entering the nursing work-force and older nurses are looking for more overtime. It sounds plausible to me and frankly, I don't mind if its true because I am looking to repat to the states after several years working overseas.

In your case, I would list areas that interest you most but note that you would consider any 'reasonable position' in order to increase your chances of being considered particularly if the job market in your area is tight.

dont use the words "reasonable position"...unprofessional

[trepinCT]

I graduate in May and they told us to get resume together and put in applications..and that its OK to specify an area..mention your clinical rotation in that area, or any experience in that area..this may set you apart from the rest..if they dont have a position in that area or you are better suited, in thier opinion , for another area, they will let you know...to put on a cover letter that you want to do "XYZ"..then use words, BUT I will work anywhere or any reasonable position" doesnt sound right..leave that part to the interview..One of our last days of last semester we spent time learning about resumes and how to put one together, etc..it was very informative.they stressed to us that we need to have someone proof read our resumes....there are websites that list dos and donts..there are ways to be open and willing for any job without sounding pretentious or desperate..good luck!!!

[gentlegiver, ASN, LPN, RN]

My question is how many years back do you go with your resume'? Here we are in 2009, my resume reads back to 2000, should I end it at say 5 years and offer more if they want it??