From Clinicals to Career: How to Land Your First Nursing Job

Graduating from nursing school is a huge accomplishment, but what comes next can feel overwhelming. After all the tests, clinical rotations, and late-night study sessions, your next challenge is finding the right first job to launch your career. The good news? You’re not alone. Every nurse has faced the “what’s next?” moment, and with a little preparation (and the right mindset), your first nursing job is within reach.

Start Preparing Before You Graduate

Your job hunt shouldn’t wait until after graduation. Start researching hospitals and healthcare systems during your final semesters. Look for organizations with strong nurse residency programs, mentorship opportunities, and a supportive work culture where new grads can thrive.

At Baton Rouge General, we welcome all nurses, experienced and new, through structured onboarding, clinical support, and mentorship to help build your confidence from your very first shift.
Build a Strong Resume (Even if You Have Limited Experience)

Your resume is your first impression, even if your work history is still growing. Focus on your clinical rotations, certifications (like BLS or ACLS), leadership roles in student nursing organizations, volunteer work and any healthcare-related part-time jobs. Keep it clear, professional and one page long. Highlight your clinical areas of interest so hiring managers know where your passion lies.

Get Comfortable with Interviews

Interviews can feel intimidating, but preparation helps. It’s your chance to show not only your clinical knowledge but also your communication skills, critical thinking, and passion for patient care.

Be ready to talk about:

• What inspired you to become a nurse.
• Your clinical experiences and what you learned from them.
• How you handle stressful situations or difficult patients.
• Why you’re interested in working for an organization or on a specific unit. 

Be Confident

One of the biggest challenges for new nurses can be battling self-doubt. It’s easy to feel like you’re not ready or that you need more experience before you can contribute meaningfully. But keep in mind that every nurse starts somewhere, and what matters most is your willingness to learn, your work ethic and your ability to care for your patients. Confidence isn’t about having all the answers; it’s about trusting yourself to find the answers and leaning on your team when you need to.

If you're looking for a place where new nurses are supported from the start, find out more about nursing opportunities at Baton Rouge General. We’re committed to helping you grow your career in a collaborative, patient-focused environment.