Should I apply at a former job?

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I want to work at a hospital where I once worked at almost 8 years ago when I was an LPN. I was very young at that time and in a new city. I didn't stay there long because my roomate situation didn't work out and I had no choice but to move back home since I couldn't afford to support myself. I moved back home, went back to school and became a RN. I have been a RN for almost 5 years and in 9 months, I will have a BSN :-). I want to move back to that city that I used to live in. When I went on that hospital's website, they have one opening on my old unit. And my old manager is still there, too. I would like to reapply, but it said you must have a BSN for this job. I don't have it yet, but I almost do. Should I let that stop me? Also, would it be inappropriate if I called my old manager to tell her that I applied and how interested I am in working with her again? This hospital is well-known and a wonderful place to work. It is not unusual for HR to get bombarded with applicants, and it is not unusual to not hear back from HR for an interview. I am hoping that a phone call to her will expedite the process. But, I don't know if she will remember me since it's been so long, and I don't want to cross the line. What do you think??

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Specializes in ER.

I would call your old supervisor and put a bug in their ear that you will be graduating in a few months. If you left on good terms I'd bet they would love to have you back!

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Go for it! It couldn't hurt, what's the worst that could happen? You waste a few minutes of your life with the application and the phone call (which I personally don't think would be inappropriate) if they happen to not be interested, that's all!

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Specializes in Cardiology, Oncology, Medsurge.

I would definitely go to see your old supervisor (make your presence known) in person rather than making a phone call, if possible. We tend to be more reluctant in this day and age to go in to see people drop off a resume and connect with future employers, with the advent of computers and online applications which thwart honest to goodness go gett'em job hunting.

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Specializes in Nursing Professional Development.

I agree. If you were a good employee and left on good terms ... your old manager would probably be happy to take you back. Be sure to let her know that your BSN is coming soon and that might seal the deal.

She gets a "known commodity" in hiring you -- someone she knows will be a good employee. Most managers prefer that to an "unknown" who might be a good employee, but then again, might not.

Good luck.

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Specializes in OB, ER.

YES i agree too!! i see nurses come and go but i do know that my super will usually higher the one with experience first. Good luck

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