What's wrong with me?

[winter_green]

I'm in the process of finding a nursing position and I have about 1 year and 3 months experience.

So far I have had 3 interviews for 3 different locations for the same kind of nursing care I do. Been rejected, and I'm just not feeling good about it.

Am I'm giving the wrong impression to interviewers? Reasons I haven't gotten any positions so far are "We're looking for someone with more experiences" Ok, understandable but you clearly saw my resume before contacting me. Reason #2, "Not a good match and we are currently now on a hiring freeze" Geez, can't you just be honest to me? #3... took awhile to get 2nd interview going but not feeling like it's promising either.

What can I do differently?

[BlueDevil,DNP, DNP, RN]

Are you dressing appropriately for the interviews? How are your verbal skills, grammar, etc? Assuming that there isn't an abvious problem there, I'd ask the people whom have interviewed you what you might do to improve your appeal.

I always recommend toastmasters. Fantastic way to polish both casual and formal speaking.

[sauconyrunner]

other tips, that you may or may not have done:

Are you sending a thank you note (not an Email, an actual on paper note.) after the interview?

Are you saying nothing negative about any of your past jobs, including your current one...thats a huge error that people make.

Oddly, there may be a hiring freeze. I interviewed for a job that was posted as "Days/nights/midshifts available" The manager told me only nights were available. I was so sure she was lying, that I did not take the job. I found out later it was true, but that for some unknown reason HR posts D/N/M to encourage resume submission. GRRRRR.

Good Luck!

[MsCharles]

I wouldn't be discouraged, unfortunately these are the times we are living in. A couple of years ago organizations were begging for nurses. Now they can picky. Those may be excuses but they made be valid reasons. This is nothing new to the nursing world and it will change again. I went through the same frustrations as you mention, but you have to remember there is a lot of competition out there and the slightest things can tip the scales for the other candidate. I always remember that an interview is a two way process and you also want to make sure the organization is a good fit for yourself. From what you have written they sound like they were n't. Continue to stay positive and remain confident in your interviews .Make it clear that you are an experienced nurse and you definitely have something to offer your future employer. If they do not see that then it is there loss.....

[meluvsquki]

Don't get discouraged! Times are tough..

Maybe you can hone your interview skills a little bit more?

I always do mock interviews with a good friend before the big day and remember to wear a nice, conservative (Black pantsuit, white shirt) outfit.

Don't forget to send a thank you note after the interview.