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Anyone have any tips on how to get hired at the VA? I have put in about 12 apps to 2 different VAs. I always get referrred but never get a phone call or interview. I have 5 years RN , preop/pacu experience. Have my BSN, and always have office experience. Any tips on getting an interview?

thanks In advance!

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Specializes in Med Surg.

I always feel like my application was done incorrectly or I somehow failed to provide the correct information. I've had the same referred and nothing after that. The worst was a brand new CBOC opening up where they needed all new staff. I applied, Was an RN and a veteran, Nothing...

 

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Specializes in Cardiology.

You have to be very detailed in your resume. The VA has a filtering system and if you are missing key words your resume will not make it through. Once the resume makes it past that system then the manager is able to actually look at the resumes. I have assisted my manager with going through resumes and you'd be surprised how many people who don't even qualify make it through. 

Look at your resume and see if there is anything you can add or re-word. With your prep/pacu experience be very detailed in what you did, types of pts, etc. 

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Specializes in BLS, ACLS, CARDIAC, ER.

The VA has a resume lady who shows how to create a resume for federal employment. I think she does it monthly. It can be found on the usajobs.gov site under resumes I believe. Good luck!

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Use the resume builder in usajobs. 

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Specializes in Case Mgt, Addiction, Behavioral/Mental Health.

Just sharing my experience. I first reviewed the VA job openings where I felt I had the qualifications based on the job descriptions. I narrowed it down to 2 jobs. I applied for both job openings. I tailored EACH of the resumes to match what was in the job description. I got referred for both positions and received an email from each of the hiring managers to submit 4 references (1 reference had to be a nurse reference that can attest to my nursing skills). I simply typed up the references in word doc (included name, email address and phone # of each reference). I ended up interviewing for one of the jobs (the other, I recvd a thank you email stating they decided not to move forward w/ me). From job interview to receiving final offer took 4 months! It was a long process, but very happy I landed the VA bc it seems so hard to get in! Hope this helps!

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