By now everyone has heard or seen how bad the economy and job market has become. There are fewer jobs and more nurses graduating than ever. This is causing competition for jobs to be fierce. Here are some important things to keep in mind:

• * Jobs open and close VERY quickly. Because facilities receive so many resumes and profiles it is vital to act quickly when a job opens.
• * Be flexible. Just a short time ago nurses could almost expect to get a job where ever and whenever they wanted. For now, those times have changed. Even though your dream job may not be out there right now, a good second or third choice may be.
• * Work with your recruiter and have your profile ready BEFORE your job match opens up. Why? Because profiles take time to complete and we wouldn't want you to miss your opportunity just because your profile wasn't ready.

So what can I do? The first step is to work with your recruiter and have your profile completed as soon as possible. That is the most important first step in the current market. Again, don't wait until the position is posted to start your profile because you may be too late. Next, be sure to consider all positions available. You may not always have access to your first choice but your second or third choice might be out there.