Why you aren’t getting hired as a nurse

4. Not the Right Fit

There is no perfect recipe to getting hired. You could do everything right in the interview — dress your best, arrive on time, and come fully prepared — and still not get the position. Sometimes, it’s just a matter of personality or a clash with the unstated hospital culture. At this point, qualifications don’t matter. It’s the sad truth — and completely legal. One consolation: It’s not you, it’s them.

5. Lady Luck

You’d think if you did everything right, you’d be guaranteed a job. But job hunting isn’t always like an equation where the right steps will guarantee you the right answer. Lady Luck can play her hand and leave you in the dust. The position might go to another equally qualified nurse, or the timing could simply be off. Family restrictions may prevent you from taking the job or the hospital you want simply can’t afford to hire you right now. The best thing you can do in a situation like this is thank your contact for their time and keep that relationship alive. You just may be the person they call for their next opening!

6. High Expectations

It’s one thing to stay positive about your job outlook, and another to have false hopes about your prospects. Are you aiming at nurse positions out of your league? Expecting a certain salary range or health benefits? We’d all love to work at our dream nursing specialty, but we take the job that’s good enough — because it is. Ask yourself what you’re willing to give up to get a job. Be honest with yourself. Changing your mindset can broaden your job search results drastically. You may find yourself on a regular payroll faster than you think.

Related Reads:

How volunteering can boost your career

10 questions to ask when negotiating salary

How to handle medical issues in an interview

For more Career Advice for Nurses pick up the latest issue of Scrubs magazine, available at a retail store near you!