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Searching for a new job is challenging in today's economy, especially when you have little to no experience to add to your resume. Although age discrimination is illegal, many new graduates fear that they are a victim. Here are some helpful tips while you are searching for a job in nursing.
Career Counseling. Schedule an appointment at the career center of the college where you graduated. Most colleges offer career counseling services to new graduates 6 months post graduation. Career advisors can help you refine your resume and prepare for job interviews. Remember, your resume is your first impression for future employers. First impressions count! You may feel as if you have no experience, but career counselors can help you highlight your strengths.
Volunteer. Research local community activities of interest to you. This is a great way to stay involved in your community. Volunteerism is an excellent addition to your resume. Many healthcare agencies frequently need volunteers for blood drives, hospice services, and blood pressure screenings at health fairs. This is a great way to gain healthcare experience.
Social Networking. Be very mindful of the impact your Facebook or Twitter account has on your potential employment. Review your account and remove all inappropriate jokes written on your wall, inappropriate comments written under pictures of you, and inappropriate pictures of you drinking alcohol, partying or making vulgar gestures. If you have to think about whether or not you should remove a picture from your Facebook page, that probably means you should remove it from your page!
Highlight your Assets. New graduates lack specific nursing expertise, but they bring a tremendous value to the profession. Be prepared to let future employers know that you're eager to learn, technologically savvy, not burned out, and prepared for a long future in nursing.
Dress for Success. Plan your interview attire carefully. Ask one or more experienced professionals to critique the outfit you plan to wear to your interview. Appearance is very critical at a job interview. You want to make an excellent impression. Stay conservative. A neutrally colored suit is great, as is a coordinated blazer and pants/skirt.
Avoid Interview Demands. New graduates typically get trapped in job interviews by making inappropriate requests. For example, do not start demanding certain shifts or schedules at the job interview. The purpose of the interview is to sell yourself and prove why you would make an excellent employee. New graduates often have to work nights, weekends and holidays for at least the first year of employment. One year goes by very quickly. Don't get discouraged. At the end of a year, many employers will allow new graduates the opportunity to work days, or other desired shifts. However, you have to earn it - so go earn it!
Networking. Never underestimate the power of networking. Attend every healthcare event in your area (for information on ADVANCE's upcoming regional job fairs, click here). Introduce yourself to fellow nurses with confidence. Ask questions about their career, their journey, their failures and successes. You will be glad you did when a job opens in an area of interest and you made the effort to introduce yourself to the manager of that department.
Finally, always maintain your confidence. You have a lot to offer. Try not to get discouraged if you are rejected from a job that you really wanted. Your time will come. Everything usually works out for the best.
Kelley Strout is a wellness educator at Martin's Point Healthcare, Portland, ME.
Need career advice? E-mail Adrianne O'Brien. We may post your question online (anonymously, of course)!
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