Trouble getting hired

[nurse_girl2014]

Hi, I have been a nurse for about 2 years. I worked in a level II NICU for a year and a half then I traveled to California and the hospital cancelled my contract because of lack of experience in a level III NICU.

Now I am back home in Tennessee and trying to find work, I have had 3 interviews and none of them hired me. I'm trying to get back PRN at my old job, my application is under review. But I feel like I'm having such a hard time finding a job right now. Is this common? I feel like no one is going to hire me. I know its temporary, and its a lot of anxiety. But if anyone could give me some reassurance about all this that would be amazing.

Thanks!

[NCtoILrecoveringRN]

nursegirl2014,

I had the same problem because I'd been terminated at one job and had been out of work for 3 months. I contacted the resources that I knew at the hospital where I'd worked before and found out (from my prior co-workers) that the director of critical care (where I'd worked for 3 years prior) who knew my skill level had moved on to a different hospital. I contacted him via facebook, asked if I could use him as a reference (without even telling him that I was about to apply where he now worked) and he responded yes certainly. I then went online and applied at that hospital and put him as a reference. He was the chief nursing officer in charge of hiring and firing there and they called me 2 hours later. My point, don't forget your word-of-mouth resources. Don't be afraid to ask and beat those bushes until the fruit falls off. Good luck! Paula

[meanmaryjean, DNP, RN]

I would give some thought to having that travel contract cancelled - how are you explaining that?

[TheCommuter, BSN, RN]

Thank you that helps. I'll definitely look into it. On a positive note I feel every interview is a learning opportunity. Now to just find the right fit :)

Based on your responses, you appear to have a great attitude and the ability for introspection. Some people blame others when things are not going well, whereas you are looking to see how you may have contributed.

This introspective attitude will take you far. I commend you. Good luck in your career!