Being a nurse is an extremely rewarding and demanding career. However, it’s not always easy to find a job in the city or even the state that you currently live in. If you’re looking for a nursing position, you may end up having to look for positions in other locations.
Why Look Out of State?
Image via Flickr by Kevin Hutchinson
The first thing you may ask is why exactly you’d want to look out-of-state for a job. You’re comfortable where you are, and eventually a job will come up, right? Well, not necessarily. On top of the possible lack of jobs where you now live, consider the following benefits of searching elsewhere:
- The opportunity to move around the country
- New experiences
- Higher Salary
- Better benefits
- Better location
As you look at open positions across the country, it’s important to keep in mind what you want most. Are you looking for a position that offers you the highest salary, or something that is in the safest community?
Classifieds and More
Image via Flickr by Ian Lamont
There are many job sites out there. You need to check these, and apply for all the jobs you’re interested in. Don’t forget things like the news sites and classifieds of areas that interest you. These are a valuable resource that many people forget.
Look Into Different Opportunities
Though you may want to get into a conventional nursing position, in the meantime consider something a little less conventional. Becoming a Travel nurse is a great opportunity for anyone who wants to travel and needs a steady job, as well. With this, you may even find a position that leads to something more long-term. It also makes it easier to facilitate interviews, as you can schedule interviews while you’re working a position in a specific area.
Update Your Social Networking Profiles and Resume
It’s crucial that you update not only your resume, but also your social networking profiles. Today, employers don’t only look at your resume. They will also check you out online. Take a look at your Facebook account with a critical eye.
Make sure that there aren’t embarrassing photos or status updates that you’re not proud of on there. If there are, get rid of them. Do you have a LinkedIn account? If not, create one and make sure that it reflects your most recent information.
Network Out of State
Is most of your network in the state you live? If so, you need to make sure that you start networking out-of-state. Do you have friends or family out of the state that can help get you in touch with people who can help you? Networking is important, and can help you get the perfect job. The more connections you have, the more likely you are to get your foot in the door.
There are many reasons you may consider moving out-of-state for your nursing job. From a lack of jobs in your area to an urge for something new, finding a job out-of-state is the perfect option for many nurses.

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