Went for an interview and I need some help!!!

[tonksfl]

I went for my first interview the other day and I think it went really well!!! I'm waiting to do my peer-interview and if all goes well, the manager says she will forward my info to HR. However there are a couple of issues I need some help with. I am definantly not in nursing for the money, but I do want to get paid what I think I'm worth and what the "going rate" is around town. We have 3 major hospitals in our city and I know from employee's at the other 2 that they are getting around $20/hr for new nurses with a $4 shift dif. at night. I have been offered $18.04/hr ($17.55 during my GN period) with a $5 shift dif. at night. Does anyone feel this is a bad deal? Also there was no signing bonus offered, is that common for starting as a GN. I know I probably should have addressed this in the interview, I just didn't want them to think I was only concerned about pay because I love the floor (I've been precepting there) and I really want to work there. I would appreciate any advice you have!!!

[SusanKathleen, RN]

Ask for 20.00/hour. If they say no, then you have 2 options: accept what they offer, or go interview at the other 2 hospitals. Also, don't forget the monetary value in the benefits package. How is the insurance? Does it include vision, dental, IRA package, prescription coverage? That alone is worth thousands per year. If you are really young, that may not be important to you, but benefits add up to a lot.

[Mijourney]

I agree. Look at the benefits and the perks. I wouldn't be concerned about a bonus because that usually means that help is hard to come by and frequently nurses don't "work off" their bonuses. If the hospital that you interviewed with has a history of low turnover, that's a good thing. That means that you have a better chance of being happy and successful. If this hospital you offered has a supportive environment, I would probably consider going for it even if they don't meet your offer of $20/hr.