How to Get Hired
One of my first jobs ever was working in an enema factory to help pay for college. Somehow I qualified for the position (you'll be happy to know that the factory floor is sterile), and worked in earnest every day. How do you even get referred to a job that pays (ok . . . wait for it . . . ) BOTTOM dollar in an enema factory? You get noticed somewhere else doing a great job, and that's exactly what happened. I was volunteering at the college to help out with a group and faithfully showed up every day and worked my butt off (oops no pun intended).
Today you may be lucky enough to graduate in an area where there are more jobs than people looking for them. However, for the vast majority of graduates, finding a position is certainly not automatic.
So here are my tips from years of interviewing and hiring (including new graduates):
- You are no longer going to "Clinicals" but you are each and every day going to a "Job Interview." Really, I want you to tell yourself that every day you walk in to each hospital. People are watching you - not for perfection as we expect you to have to learn along the way - but for your ability to learn and your ability to work with others. Most hospitals want smart people (grades do matter) but they also want people who are going to get along well with patients, families, nurses, physicians, co-workers! One woman came to clinicals with a constant question, "can we go home early today?" There was always a reason and I am sure some of them were good reasons, but it left the wrong lasting impression on the interview team. She did not get hired.
- The Attitude of Grattitude: Yes, you may end up with some
