Whether you’re a new graduate or an experienced nurse looking for your next opportunity, the job search process can feel overwhelming. You want to make a strong first impression, but small missteps in your application process can make it harder to land the role you want. Here are five common mistakes to avoid when applying for a new nursing job.
A Generic Resume
It might be tempting to send the same resume to every employer, but that one-size-fits-all approach rarely works. Instead, highlight experience and skills that match the job description, whether it’s clinical rotations in med-surg, preceptorships in critical care or leadership roles in student nursing organizations. Hiring managers and recruiters review dozens of applications and you want yours to stand out and look like you are genuinely interested in the specific position you are applying for.
Being Vague About Clinical Experience
For nurses, especially new grads, your clinical rotations are your work history and they’re a chance to show that you’ve already had hands-on experience in patient care. For example, listing “ICU rotation” isn’t enough. Employers want to see specific things like patient population, number of beds, procedures performed and the scope of your responsibilities.
Not Showcasing Your Soft Skills
Your clinical abilities are important, but so are communication, teamwork and critical thinking. These skills can be the deciding factor in whether you’re a good fit for a unit’s culture. Include examples in your resume that demonstrate how you’ve collaborated with a team, solved a challenging problem or gone the extra mile for a patient.
Leaving Out Certifications or Licenses
Forgetting to list your RN license number, state, or expiration date can slow down the review process. The same goes for essential certifications like BLS, ACLS, PALS, or specialty credentials. If they’re current, they should be easy for the recruiter to see at the top of your resume.
Skipping the Follow-Up
Once you’ve applied or completed an interview, it can be tempting to simply wait, but skipping the follow-up is a missed opportunity to stand out and help keep you top of mind. After an interview if you haven’t heard back, wait about a week, then check in with a short, friendly email asking if there are any updates on the hiring timeline. Following up shows initiative, professionalism, and genuine interest in the role – qualities that matter in nursing.
Your application is your first impression and in nursing, it’s often the deciding factor in whether you’re invited to interview. If you’re ready to take the next step in your nursing career, apply for a nursing position at Baton Rouge General and join a team that values skill, compassion, and growth. Find out more about current nursing positions here.