Nurse Resume: October 2016

Thursday, October 27, 2016

Is There Really A Nursing Shortage?

You’ve probably heard a lot about the nursing shortage. But if you’re a recent graduate, you may be wondering, if there’s a shortage, why does it take so long for entry-level nurses to get hired?

Hiring managers have said that the gap reflects the difference between the skills entry-level nurses possess and the specialized training many employers need. The study also found applicants often lack proper training, strong communication skills and realistic salary requirements.

If you’re finding yourself frustrated in your job search, consider these 2 things recruiters are looking for in nursing job candidates.

--In-Demand Skills
One way to stand out from the crowd of new grads is to highlight on your resume any in-demand skills that you may have like bilingualism, the ability to use specialized equipment, such as dialysis machines, computer skills, including EMR skills, quality assurance knowledge, leadership, and critical thinking.

If you held any internships while getting your nursing degree, mention those as well. Internships of significance -- more than just a ‘clinical rotation’ -- during your education experience can help demonstrate that you have had practical experience. Working as a nursing/personal care assistant during summer or semester breaks is also helpful.

--Flexibility
Entry-level nurses may need to be willing to try new things as they look for a job. Flexibility is key when getting your start. The larger the geographic area and the more disciplines you are open to, the greater your chance of finding an employer willing to train.

If you do find an opportunity that looks promising but you don’t like the location, keep in mind that many large network providers allow internal transfers within six months to a year.

Wednesday, October 19, 2016

Entry-Level Nurses

If you’re finding yourself frustrated in your job search, consider these 2 things recruiters are looking for in nursing job candidates.

If you do find an opportunity that looks promising but you don’t like the location, keep in mind that many large network providers allow internal transfers within six months to a year.

Tuesday, October 11, 2016

Being Prepared For The Interview Can Make The Difference

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Interview Questions & Responses Part 2

It may be impossible to predict which questions will be asked during an interview. However, there are certain questions that are commonly asked. Knowing these questions and practicing your answers can make the difference during an interview and can lead to being hired. This list is by no means all inclusive; there are hundreds of questions that could be asked during an interview. Expect the unexpected. The most important thing to remember is to be honest! Always give complete and truthful answers.

How do you handle stress?
This is a question interviewers love to ask. Stress is an inevitable part of any job, especially in nursing. Nurses have some of the highest levels of job related stress of any career. Some specific stressors vary depending on position and facility; some are universal. Either way you can count on having to manage stress on the job. The key to this is learning what works for you. Once you figure this out, you can easily relay this to a potential employer. Good ways to manage stress on the job can include simple things such as deep breathing or counting to ten. As cliché as they sound they can often work. Other more creative ways to manage stress include preventing it in the first place. Good organizational skills and time management skills can make the difference between a crazy or stressful shift and one that is more under your control. Collaborating with other team members and not being afraid to ask for help when it is needed are also great ways to decrease stress. One important thing to remember is that as nurses, we are there for the patients. We are there to ensure high quality care. It is important to stay calm and focused during stressful situations.

How would you handle a family member who is unsatisfied with a patients care?
This question has a fairly straight forward answer. Make sure to apologize to the family member, even if you have done nothing wrong. Then listen to their concerns and gather any necessary information. Assure the family member that their loved one is receiving high quality care and that they will be taken care of. If there are any concerns the family member has that require investigation or follow-up, always do it! Interviewers want to know you have the ability to problem solve as well as the ability to communicate effectively and be sincere with patient families. Never tell a family member that you do not have time for them or their loved one. Be empathetic and act as if it were your loved one being cared fo