What can I do to secure a job as a new grad?

[frequentFLyER]

It seems like everywhere wants at least 1-2 years RN experience so how did you land your new grad position? Is it just all "who you know?"

Although I'm not close to graduation, I want to start doing things that make me a desirable candidate. Currently work as phlebotomist with 2.5 years exp. in another hospital previously, member in the nursing student association and I will take project chairperson responsibilities this semester. Aside from doing well in clinicals and academically, is there anything else you'd recommend that I should be doing in a competitive job market? I live in Florida. Thanks!

[classicdame, MSN, EdD]

while employers of every industry prefers experienced workers, the truth is that some people have to trained on the job. Consider facilities outside your neighborhood or town. Apply online to several places. HR will choose people based on licensure and experience but once you land an interview you need to bring out your professional association and other nuggets. It just depends on the market. Right now in my area we have 4 local nursing schools and 2 hospitals. We hire some new grads but have to plan not to put too many in one depatment or on one shift. I wish you luck but I really have no other advice than to apply in multiple places and be flexible about your work schedule.

[frequentFLyER]

Thank you. I really appreciate the inside knowledge.

[zzbxdo]

Please be mindful about your work ethics and personality if you are applying to work as a RN from the same institution you worked while in school trying to "get your foot in the door." Words can hurt your application just as much as it helps. Had a home girl while in school working at a local hospital as a cna and even precepted (paid) on one of the units. She didn't get hired cause she was known and seen as a b. Just saying that it doesn't get across as much as it should despite it being commonsense.

[frequentFLyER]

I agree! You'd think people would be on their best behavior so they'd get hired on but how you act during ANY job is always watched. I recently got hired in the ED as a nurse tech and during the interview the manager said "consider yourself ALWAYS on a job interview."

[akulahawkRN, ADN, RN, EMT-P]

I agree! You'd think people would be on their best behavior so they'd get hired on but how you act during ANY job is always watched. I recently got hired in the ED as a nurse tech and during the interview the manager said "consider yourself ALWAYS on a job interview."

Not only that, but once you're hired, consider yourself as being always on a job interview for the next job too. Your reputation will always go with you, especially in smaller locales, and can make or break your career.