Trying to find a job

[Bella08]

Hi, I left nursing a year ago after working for 45 years. It was a toxic environment and I needed to get away. I miss working and have tried to find another job in nursing, but turned down repeatedly. Even in positions I had previously worked for ( and got excellent evals.) I didn't get the position. My question is what else am I qualified to do? I would be happy as a customer service person but how do I show that I have the skills? Money has become a huge issue and I need to work!

[VivaLasViejas, ASN, RN]

I know the feeling! I've been out of nursing for the past year and couldn't find a job in ANY field. It's strange---you'd think nursing would have a lot of transferable skills, but it doesn't. I looked at customer service jobs too and didn't even get called for interviews. Of course, my poor luck in my job search could've been at least partly due to the fact that I'm obviously no spring chicken and employers often prefer younger workers who will settle for lower pay. No, they can't legally discriminate against older workers, but they'll find a zillion other reasons not to hire us.

I don't want to be a Debbie Downer, but I think you would do well to be realistic about your goals for future employment. I gave up looking a few months ago anyway because I've become disabled and have filed for Social Security disability benefits. That doesn't sound like an issue for you. I wish you the best of luck in your search for new employment.

[caliotter3]

Are you old enough that you can apply for early social security benefits? Sure it hurts your benefit amount permanently, but the majority of people drawing at age 62 do so because they are unemployed and have little hope of gainful employment.