In honor of National Healthcare Recruiter Month, Nursing Spectrum asked healthcare recruiters for their advice on finding employment in today’s tight economic job market. Read what some of them had to say. For additional advice, visit www.Nurse.com/NewJersey.


Lucille Bock, Director, Human Resources, New York Methodist Hospital, Brooklyn, N.Y.
“Even though the job market is difficult there are still excellent positions available. List the pros and cons of your current job and then do the same for the new position. Then you can make an educated comparison before you make a commitment. Remember, ‘the grass isn’t always greener.’ ”

Mark Allen Damsell, Manager, Employment Services, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York City
“Flexibility is key. Hospitals are willing to train if candidates are flexible and willing to meet them halfway. For example, the new grad whose first choice is pediatrics may have a better chance in landing that first job if he or she is flexible and can also express a true interest in working on an adult med/surg unit.”

Veronica Lopez, Nurse Recruiter, Human Resources, Continuum Services, New York City
“Get a trade magazine like Nursing Spectrum, use it to get the names of nursing management, and send your resume directly to them. Use information from the magazine to have something intelligent to write on your cover letter and to talk about during the interview.”

Karen DeLorenzo, RN, BSN, Nurse Recruiter, Lutheran Medical Center, Brooklyn, N.Y.
“Today’s job market is very competitive, especially for new graduate nurses. A well-prepared resume, sharp interview skills, and flexibility in job opportunities are important. It is a good idea to find volunteer opportunities and/or internships within the healthcare field to keep their skills current. New grads may also consider continuing their nursing education by attending seminars, conferences, and earning their advanced degree. Nurses who are seeking a job change should ensure that their skills are current in the area of interest they are looking to work and can provide evidence of professional and educational growth throughout their career, along with solid references from recent employers.”

Karin Weisenberger, RN, MS, Senior Director, Human Resources, Winthrop-University Hospital, Mineola, N.Y.
“Know yourself! Sell your strengths by being positive and dress professionally — you only get one shot at a first impression. Take the time to research the hospital and the job for which you are applying. Employers want to know whether you are a good fit, but you also need to use the interview to know whether or not the job is a good fit for you.”

Karen Krug, RN, MS, Nursing Recruitment and Retention Manager, Sound Shore Medical Center of Westchester, New Rochelle, N.Y.
“I would say to think positive and be patient yet persistent in your job search. There will be openings at some point, maybe a little later than sooner, but people still need skilled care.”