Did you know that, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are 2,737,400 openings for U.S. nursing jobs, and the average salary for a registered nurse (RN) is $64,690 per year? Even so, starting a new career, and securing a nursing job as a new graduate, is becoming increasingly difficult. The National Student Nurse’s Association reveals that a staggering 36% of recent graduates, all RNs, did not have nursing jobs four months post-graduation. How can new grads stand out in challenging job market?

Start Networking

One of the most powerful tools for securing new nursing jobs is face-to-face networking, according to the University of Wisconsin. The institution suggests that the best way to find nursing jobs is to create business cards, and bring them to a number of related association meetings. For example, new grads may want to consider joining the Emergency Nurses Association, the Association of Nurses Executives (AONE), and their state branch of the American Nurses Association.

Conventions, conferences, and career fairs can be equally helpful. Newly licensed RNs should also consider volunteering. Volunteering will help you continue networking, gain practical experience to add to your resume, and it may, in some cases, lead to a paid position. NursingLink reminds new graduates to stay impeccably organized while networking. Keeping a binder, contacting all centers, and keeping contact information straight can make a strong first impression.

Be Flexible

A staggering number of new graduates focus on how to get a nursing job in a hospital only. Starting a new career requires patience, dedication, and a considerable amount of flexibility. Do not limit your search to hospitals alone. Consider nursing jobs at cancer care facilities, psychiatric centers, birthing facilities, and at-home or hospice care. Some may even want to consider kick-starting their careers by working as a nurse for the United States military.

There are a lot of nursing jobs out there, but securing one as a new graduate can be especially difficult. Make the most of face-to-face networking and remain flexible at all times to maximize your chances of working as a registered nurse. More on this.