Applying for Nursing Jobs
Applying for nursing jobs means filling out job applications. Applications will vary between employers and can sometimes take up-to 8 hours to complete.
See below for some essential tips for that you may find helpful for your job application:
Your resume must catch the employers attention so that they will want to read through it entirely. The Resume is your chance to emphasize to a prospective employer your experience and qualifications. Taking time to create a good resume is essential.
For recent graduates be sure to include your GPA.
The cover letter should be one page and needs to be adapted for each job application, don't use the same 'standard' letter for all you applications !
Some items you may wish to consider when writing your cover letter
- Why are you applying for the position ?
- Why do you want to work for this employer ?
- What skills/benefits can you provide this employer
Be sure to include your contact information in the cover letter and resume. Keep the letter professional and ensure it is free of errors (grammar etc). It is always a good idea to have someone else proofread it for you. Always use high quality paper.
Preparing for the interview
Good preparation is an essential. If you are well prepared then you will be much more confident in the interview. See below for some handy tips.
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Familiarize yourself with the employer
Before the interview you want to discover all you can about the facility and the job you have applied for. You should try and find out as much as you can about the employer , their objectives, future plans Organizational structure etc.
At the interview you will need additional copies of your Resume, your list of references (at least 2), your nursing license and of course any letters of recommendation you may have.
During the interview you can expect the interviewer(s) to ask questions on topics such as:
- Training and Qualifications
- Any previous work experience
- Your motivation for this nursing job
- General nursing questions
You should also bring a prepared list of questions that you would like to ask the employer. Don't ask questions that you would easily be able to answer by doing a little background research on the company.
You also may be asked by the employer to perform a criminal background check. The permission form may require you to list your previous addresses for the past 7 years , so have this information with you.
Prepare an answer for one of the most common questions "Tell me a little about yourself ". This is your opportunity to show the employer the attitude, skills and talents that you will bring to the job. You should back these up with some specific 'real world' examples.
And lastly be sure to get a good nights sleep the night before the interview.
Good Luck !!!