CNA Training
These days, no one is surprised when someone says they are unemployed. Finding employment in the U.S. is tough, especially with the way the economy is currently. The competition is higher than ever, and even though there are plenty of CNA position available, they may be scooped up before you fill out your name on the application.
After CNA training, you need to face reality. Acquiring a CNA position is going to take more tenacity, dedication, and hustle than ever before. Having a CNA training license isn’t always going to be enough to land a job. While this may be hard to swallow, you need to adjust your expectations when looking for employment after CNA training and realize there are going to be some compromises you have to make.
What to Give Up When Looking For Employment After CNA Training
- The Dream Job Fantasy- There’s a reason why it’s called a ‘dream’ job. It does exist, but right now you are going to have a hard time finding it. You shouldn’t necessarily give up on that dream job though and strive for bigger and better employment, but you need to realize that you probably aren’t going to get it right now, especially if you have just graduated from CNA training and have no experience to speak of. Right now, settle for a CNA position that will provide you with the additional experience and CNA training you need so you can someday reach your goals.
- The Sense of Entitlement- You might have been the top of your class. You may have gotten perfect scores on every test you took. You may have gotten through the clinical part of your CNA training state exam without once forgetting to wash your hands. These are all great things you can brag about to your friends and family, but they don’t necessarily mean you are going to obtain the job you want. CNA training positions are available, but they are quickly being filled up by individuals who worked just as hard as you for their certification.
- The Salary- Salaries for those who have completed CNA training vary greatly, depending on the amount of education, location, and experience you have. You can’t expect to graduate from CNA training and walk into a facility making as much as a CNA who has been working there for five years. Be realistic in your expectations; you may not make a fortune as a CNA, but you will still earn a decent salary, even as a recent graduate.
- Vacation Time- Most medical facilities will grant CNAs one week of vacation- after they have worked in the facility for a year. After two years, you may receive two weeks. As shocking as this may be to some when they first graduate from CNA training, you need to realize that you aren’t going to have a lot of time off as a CNA. You are going to be expected to work weekends, holidays, and even when it’s snowing so much that every other business in town is closed. Caring for patients is a 24 hour business, and it doesn’t allow for breaks.
- Leadership- A CNA position is an entry level position; always remember that. No matter how much you think you know, you still have to answer to the head CNA, nurses, doctors, patients, and even family members. Pay attention, and maybe you can learn the skills you will need to become the one in charge, after you complete nursing school of course.
Reality Checks After CNA Training
It’s tough out in the world right now. Finding a job isn’t easy as it once was. When you graduate from CNA training, make sure you are prepared for that reality, so you can find employment as quickly as possible after CNA training.
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