How to Land a Job as a Nursing Professional

As a recent or soon-to-be graduate, you’re ready to take the next steps toward getting a job as a nurse. This guide will lead you through the job search process and give you simple tips on boosting your resume, networking, and more. Also included is a list of resources to help you along the way to landing your dream job.

Boosting your Resume

While career prospects are excellent, competition is also high in the nursing field. Giving your resume a boost will increase your chances at getting an interview and receiving a job offer.

The first way to make yourself stand out is by adding additional education to your resume. Obtaining a bachelor’s degree will give you an edge over other applicants (BLS). Additionally, becoming certified is an excellent way of proving to employers that you are current on technology, possess advanced skills, and are serious about your career (Medscape Today).

If you’re just starting out and finding you're falling short when it comes to experience. There are a couple of ways around that. Volunteer work is one way to gain experience, with the added benefit of helping patients who might not otherwise receive medical care. Beginning nurses can find volunteer opportunities with the American Red Cross, local clinics, hospices, etc.  (Nurse Together). If you’re still in school, an internship is an excellent way to gain skills and add experience to your resume. For instance, the paid Mayo Clinic Summer Internship offers students the chance to participate in patient care with an RN Clinical Coach for ten weeks.

Finally, becoming a member of nursing and other health organizations can add a sense of professionalism to your resume. As an added bonus, members of organizations such as the American Nurses Association have access to newsletters, continuing education opportunities, career centers, and even discount programs.

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Reaching Out

You've heard this before, but it's true: one of the most critical facets of your job search is networking. The importance of reaching out cannot be stressed enough. Networking can give you access to jobs that are unadvertised and can even give you a competitive edge over other applicants (UMass).

Here are some ways to reach out and expand your job search:

  • Become a member of nursing organizations and take advantage of their career benefits.
  • Attend career fairs and networking events.
  • Create networking relationships with instructors and fellow students.
  • Talk to family and friends about your job search.
  • Use social media networks to search for jobs, network with other nurses, and keep abreast of trends. Be careful to maintain a professional image with all your posts.

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Increasing Your Chances of Finding a Job

The BLS expects some of the highest demand to occur in inner cities and rural areas. These areas are currently underserved and in need of nurses, specifically advanced practice nurses. Expanding your job search to these areas can increase your chances of landing a higher paying job with better benefits, as well as affording the opportunity to help those in need.

You may also consider looking at alternative careers to which you can apply your nursing degree. Nursing Link identifies five options:

  • Risk Management
  • Electronic Health Records
  • Online Education
  • Government Jobs in Nursing
  • Consultants

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Choosing the Right Employer

Once you’ve received a job offer, take the time to think about it before accepting. You need to be sure the job meets your salary needs and offers the benefits you’re seeking. Here are some things to consider:

  • Salary – Is the salary in line with what other nurses at your level and in your area are receiving?
  • Benefits – Does the company offer health coverage, vacation time, retirement benefits, and tuition assistance?
  • Environment – Does the company foster an environment of teamwork and respect?  Is there a high turnover rate, or do employees stay with the company for the long-term?
  • Reputation – Is the facility known for top of the line care?  Are patients pleased with the services they receive?  Do current and former employees think highly of the company?

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Additional Resources

By now, you should be well on your way to finding the perfect nursing job.   Here are some additional resources to aid in your search:

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