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Finding work as a new grad nurse?

Hello. I am currently a pre-nursing student but I am curious about life right after nursing school. How long has it taken you to get your first nursing job after school? I often hear about the rising demand of nurses but I also hear new nurses often have a hard time getting work. #nursing #nurse #registered-nurses

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James’s Answer

Hi,
As a nursing student you will encounter several clinical experiences. My best advice would be to find which experience gives you the best feel of what you could see doing. The best way to get a job after nursing school is to network with your peers and professors.
Thank you comment icon Thank you! Gwen
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Megan’s Answer

Hi Gwen,

I agree above with what everyone else had said. I definitely will tell you with anything in nursing these days it all appears to be about the experience but everybody starts somewhere. I agree, I would say if you already know what interest you during your nursing school, I would definitely network, network, and definitely try to establish connect. For instance, if you know that ICU or ED is something you want, then I would even make contact with the director or manager of the unit and let them know you are interested when you are done. Another thing I recently learned, that I had no idea is look into attendign your states, legislative day. I recently attended one in KS, and wow..... all I can say it their are plenty of recruiters there so either bring a resume or bring some type of plan to interview and give them your contact information. I attended our Kansas State Nurses Association legistlative day just recently and it was great for networking so look into options and if you know which department or unit you want to work for I'd say start networking and establishing your interest with their leadership!
Hope this helps!

Best!
Megan
Thank you comment icon Great advice thank you! Gwen
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Dr. Darnelle’s Answer

Hello,
Finding the type of nursing career you want versus who is willing to hire you will be hard. Most hospitals now participate in new nurse residency programs.
My advice, first know what type of nursing interest you or where you would like to work when your done with school. Once you have an idea, begin to network, volunteer, and inquire about those healthcare facility new nurse hiring process.
Thank you comment icon Thank you for your answer. Gwen
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otito’s Answer

As a new graduate nurse, I can certainly tell you that finding a job after nursing school is a challenge. It is difficult to find a job because most nursing jobs require applicants to possess at least one year of experience. Unfortunately, new graduate nurses do not have enough experience. I would advise you to apply for externships while you are in school and several internships prior to graduation. Applying for internships would give you the opportunity of getting a job right after graduation. Although most hospitals would require a minimum of a year contract in the same department, it gives you the opportunity to get the required experience. Also, applying for a CNA job would increase your chances of getting a job after nursing school because your experience in the healthcare environment would be considered.

otito recommends the following next steps:

Apply for externship
Apply for internship before graduation
Apply for CNA jobs
Thank you comment icon Thank you for your answer. It's great getting the perspective of a newly graduated nurse. Gwen
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Danielle’s Answer

Try to get your foot in the door with volunteering as a nursing student in a facility/hospital or working as a nurse's aid when your schedule allows. It will help you when the time comes to interview and have credentials in the field. Best of luck to you!
Thank you comment icon Thank you! Gwen
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Ashley’s Answer

Hey! When I graduated I had several options of where I wanted to go upon graduation. I made a list of hospitals/locations I have interest in and then a list of departments as well. Then I looked at all the options within those categories and applied to several positions. I then interviewed for at least 3 of those positions and chose the best fit.
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Linda’s Answer

Hi Gwen, Consider getting a job as a nurses aide (PCA/PCT, patient care tech, various names for the same thing) to get your foot in the door at a hospital you would like to work as a nurse. This helps while you are in nursing school to gain familiarity and comfort with the hospital setting, meet people, network, get valuable skills, prepare mentally for nursing, and hopefully develop a relationship where you secure an RN position for when you graduate and achieve your license. That's what I did and it really helped to have a job waiting for me when I finished school.
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James Constantine’s Answer

Good Day Gwen!

Finding Work as a New Grad Nurse

The transition from nursing school to securing your first job as a registered nurse (RN) can vary significantly based on several factors, including geographic location, the state of the job market, and individual qualifications. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what you can expect:

1. Job Market Overview

As of 2025, the demand for nurses continues to be robust due to an aging population, increased healthcare needs, and ongoing public health challenges. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment for registered nurses is projected to grow by 6% from 2021 to 2031, which is faster than the average for all occupations. This growth indicates that there are opportunities available; however, competition can still be fierce in certain areas.

2. Timeframe for Job Acquisition

On average, new graduate nurses may take anywhere from a few weeks to several months to secure their first position after graduation. A survey conducted by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) indicated that many new graduates find employment within six months post-graduation. However, this timeframe can be influenced by various factors:

Geographic Location: Urban areas with higher populations often have more job openings but also more competition.
Specialty Preferences: Some specialties may have more openings than others; for example, critical care or emergency nursing may be more competitive.
Networking and Clinical Experience: Those who have built connections during clinical rotations or internships may find it easier to land positions.

3. Strategies for Securing Employment

To enhance your chances of finding work quickly after graduation:

Utilize Career Services: Many nursing schools offer career services that can help with resume writing, interview preparation, and job placement.
Network Actively: Attend job fairs and connect with professionals in the field through platforms like LinkedIn.
Consider All Opportunities: Be open to various settings such as hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, or even telehealth roles.
Pursue Additional Certifications: Obtaining certifications in Basic Life Support (BLS) or Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) can make you a more attractive candidate.

4. Challenges Faced by New Graduates

Despite the high demand for nurses, new graduates often face challenges such as:

Lack of Experience: Employers may prefer candidates with experience in specific areas.
High Competition: In some regions or specialties, there are many applicants vying for limited positions.
Burnout and Turnover Rates: The nursing profession has been experiencing high turnover rates due to burnout exacerbated by recent global health crises.

5. Conclusion

In summary, while there is a strong demand for nurses and many opportunities available post-graduation, new grads should prepare themselves for potential challenges in securing their first position. By leveraging resources available through their educational institutions and actively networking within the healthcare community, they can improve their chances of finding employment sooner rather than later.

Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used in Answering this Question:

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) - Provides comprehensive data on employment projections and trends within various occupations including nursing.

National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) - Offers insights into licensure requirements and surveys related to nursing education and employment outcomes.

American Nurses Association (ANA) - Serves as a professional organization that provides resources on career development and advocacy for nurses across the United States.

Probability that the answer is correct: 95%

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