The U.S. Department of Labor states, “Nursing is one of the country’s fastest growing professions.” So why are new graduate nurses having trouble getting a job?

What the Polls Tell Us

The polls surveying and reporting new grad hiring vary tremendously. Several polls report that this constituency has been dramatically affected by the recession and cannot find employment within a reasonable time after graduation.

The American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN), on the other hand, reports that new grad job offers are far more lucrative than some polls report. They state that:

“Among those receiving a nursing bachelor’s degree, 88% have received job offers within four to six months; for those earning a master’s, 92%.”

In another poll, the Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing (JHUSON) concurs with the AACN. Their 2010 poll showed that 89% of graduates, BSN, Master’s (MSN), PhD or Doctor of Nursing practice (DON), found jobs within 3 months of graduation. Ten percent of the remaining graduates reported that they were enrolled in an advanced degree program. The JHUSON survey accounts for 99% of new grads.

Believe the poll you want to believe but in the meantime, there is plenty that a new grad can do to forge forward into the healthcare workplace.

Basic Ideas to Effect Change

In order to streamline the job search, here are some ideas set forth by the U.S. Department of Labor to broaden your job search and ensure better results, if you are a new grad. Certainly, these points will work for the seasoned nurse seeking employment as well.

• Apply to healthcare facilities in smaller, rural areas instead of a major metropolitan area.
• Rather than an acute care hospital, think about an alternate site like a rehabilitation facility, assisted living facility or community health clinic or program.
• Veterans Health Administration hospitals are a viable option to gain diverse clinical experience.
• Work an off-shift or cover weekends if only to get your foot in the door of the facility. Watch for more enticing job openings while you accrue some staff seniority.
• Have you thought about joining the armed forces to kick-start your nursing career? While it is a true long-term commitment, the benefits and job security are unparalleled.
• How about a public service position with the U.S. Public Health Department or the Red Cross?

In summary, new grads need to be flexible, creative and willing to dig into the healthcare trenches. In the midst of a recession, when layoffs and belt-tightening are everywhere, the need for competent nurses remains a priority. There is a place and space for new grads to join the workforce. You just need to find it.