Why Newly RN Grads still unemployed!!!!

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I submitted so many applications for RN jobs but most doesn't hire me because I am a newly RN grad (even with a license). They used to hire newly RN grads on the spot with sign-in bonuses. Nowadays, you'll be lucky if they even return your phone call. I kept on hearing hiring freezes and recession. I thought we are on nursing shortage???? Anybody on the same boat as I am? Please share your feelings.

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Specializes in Trauma.

Unfortunately, things has changed the state of nursing right now. The economy is poor and many nurses are going back to work to support their spouses who lost jobs. There are also budget cuts all over the place. But, I also heard that within six years I think an economist said, the nursing shortage will pick right up to where it was and be even worse, b/c the baby boomers will be retiring.

I've read a few articles on the shortage and they basically all say this. I wouldn't give up hope, but keep applying everywhere, including clinics or personal caregiving.

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i feel you.. i've been searching countless hours for an entry level RN job.. and i can barely find one!! arrrrrggghhhh!! most of the opening i see require "at least one year acute nursing experience required." i don't even bother applying for those.. and thats the PROBLEM!! coz i can barely find job openings for RN's that dont require expirience!!

what will happen to us "new" nurses now!?:angryfire

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Specializes in SICU.

Here is an excellent article by the California Institute for Nursing and Health Care. I wish you all luck finding a job!

http://www.cinhc.org/documents/WorkforceFacts0509.pdf

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Specializes in M/S, MICU, CVICU, SICU, ER, Trauma, NICU.

I was told by administration today that they want only experienced RNs. They even have bonuses for them. It seems our hospital wants to cut the costs of training new RNs unless they are contracted for a long time.

I hope things look up for you. I know many of my experienced colleagues are going back to work and are not having a hard time finding a job.

The new RNs, on the other hand, are definitely feeling the pinch.

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I'm definetly in the same boat. I have applied for at least 50 jobs since I graduated, and have heard nothing yet. I also have my license, and PCA experience. I guess we just have to be patient and a job will soon come. Good luck to you and all of the other new grads that's in our shoes!!!

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Specializes in SICU.
I'm definetly in the same boat. I have applied for at least 50 jobs since I graduated, and have heard nothing yet. I also have my license, and PCA experience. I guess we just have to be patient and a job will soon come. Good luck to you and all of the other new grads that's in our shoes!!!

50 jobs? Wow, I'm speechless. Would you mind giving more more details? Why do you think you are not landing a job? There aren't fifty different jobs available in my area. Only a handful of hospitals are hiring new grads.

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I believe it's because of the required "Experience" that the hospitals ask for. I'm in the south florida region so there are numerous hospitals hiring in the area, but if they don't list that the position requires experience, it requires ACLS, which I plan to obtain after I'm employed. I graduated from a BSN program in Savannah, Ga and the majority of my classmates had a job before they graduated. If it wasn't for my husband's job being in south florida I would have definetely stayed there or at least in the GA.

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I know it is terrible,I applied to at least three hospitals (close to home) and I got a polite "no" answer.Now I'm forced to look for a job in the city (I live in the suburbs and planned to work there).I know couple of hospitals in the city that hire new grads but it is not quaranteed I will get the position!!!

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Specializes in SICU.
I believe it's because of the required "Experience" that the hospitals ask for. I'm in the south florida region so there are numerous hospitals hiring in the area, but if they don't list that the position requires experience, it requires ACLS, which I plan to obtain after I'm employed. I graduated from a BSN program in Savannah, Ga and the majority of my classmates had a job before they graduated. If it wasn't for my husband's job being in south florida I would have definetely stayed there or at least in the GA.

I'm sorry. It must be so frustrating for you. Why don't you go get your ACLS if it will help you get a job? It is not difficult. Just buy the AHA book before the class and study the algorithms and ECG strips. Disregard my ignorant stupidity if it's only because you don't want to spend the money. I know my wallet is empty!:)

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nursing, at least during the economic downturn, is joining most other professions in america where you aren't guaranteed a job when you graduate. what do you do when the (RN) comes to your front door? pay for the pizza! most other degree recipients have filled the parentheses in that joke, now nursing gets a turn. now new grad nurses are forced to participate in externships and network and attend lectures at hospitals. personalize their resume and cover letter to the position. the same proactive steps every other profession in america goes through to get a job. i'll admit i was drawn to nursing initially due to a promising job future, but im also planning the extrabthings now that will make me stand out once i graduate!

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Specializes in burning out.

My experience in job hunting these past 2 months:

1) Time feels anywhere from 2-100 times slower

2) Location or specialty - you'll probably be forced to choose between them

2b) Don't be surprised if you end up in TX or AZ or ND. :'(

Responses I've received from HR:

1) Volunteer at hospitals to network with the nurse manager until a job on the unit opens up

2) Volunteering at hospitals doesn't work since most require a BSN

3) We require a BSN

4) We're only hiring experienced nurses now.

5) A combination of 4 & 5

6) Good luck... and try Connecticut.

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