Finding the right job for you as a CNA may seem overwhelming. Where do you begin? You know that CNAs are in high demand right now but what’s the best position for you? And how do you begin to find that perfect job? Here we offer some job search tips for Certified Nursing Assistants so you can hone in on the best opportunity and use your knowledge and skills.
Job Search Tips to Help You Find the Best Certified Nursing Assistant Job for You
Whether you’re a newly minted CNA looking for your first job or an experienced certified nursing assistant who wants a change, finding work isn’t a problem in today’s healthcare environment. That may be the most overwhelming part of the process. But you don’t want just any job. You want to work for a healthcare organization that fits your goals for your future and a place where your invaluable patient care is appreciated. Here are our top job search tips to help you strategize and find the perfect CNA job.
Decide the Type of Healthcare Organization You Want to Work For
As a CNA, you can find employment in hospitals, clinics, doctors’ offices, skilled nursing facilities, and various other healthcare organizations. Some CNAs find jobs in home healthcare as well as traveling. CNAs play an integral part in all areas of healthcare. Research the different opportunities if you’re not quite sure. Determine the right healthcare environment for you based on your skills and your goals for the future.
Create a Resumé They Can’t Put Down
Resumés that impress are like a foot in the door. Create a resumé that highlights your specific skills. Focus on things like vital sign monitoring, assisting with daily care, and any specific specialized care such as working with dementia patients or patients with mobility issues. Any additional certifications that an employer would find useful, like CPR, should also be featured.
Your goal is to write a clear and honest resumé but one that will pique the interest of the hiring manager. Any clinical experience, internship, or volunteer, should be highlighted as well. Also, customize your resumé to the job description and you’ll increase the odds of being called for an interview.
Tailor Your Cover Letter
Your cover letter should be equally engaging but certainly not generic. Compose a brief cover letter to the hiring manager/recruiter that is tailored to the specific job for which you are applying. Include some specifics about the healthcare organization or facility so the person doing the hiring knows you’ve done some homework.
Prepare for Interviews
It’s always best to arrive at your interview prepared for certain questions. Anticipate questions that pose scenarios such as dealing with difficult patients and family members, handling conflict with coworkers, and putting the patient’s dignity front and center of care. The interviewer is gauging your level of empathy, communication skills, and whether or not you’re a team player. Other questions may include asking how you respond to an emergency or how you adapt to change in the workplace.
Be Flexible
You may not land your dream job right away but you can find a job that may help you get on the right path. Plenty of employers in healthcare offer opportunities for professional growth and development while promoting from within. Don’t turn down an entry-level position if you see a promising future.
Utilize Various Resources
Your school may offer job placement services, and many communities, hospitals, and medical facilities have job fairs. A medical staffing agency is a wonderful opportunity to check out the different types of CNA jobs while gaining experience. BOS Medical Staffing works with a whole host of healthcare organizations. Reach out today and find the right CNA job for you with BOS Medical Staffing.
