New Graduate Handbook

8/11/2019 New Graduate Handbook

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Nursing and Midwifery

Graduate Handbook

Getting that graduate position


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Welcome

Thank you for considering kick starting your nursing or midwifery career at one of our

participating site using GradConnect. The health industry in WA is in good shape with lots ofinvestments making our facilities state-of-the-art. With the refreshing of our health services and

expansion come heaps of exciting opportunities to gain experience and skill while you

consolidate your education. The important thing to remember is that your first year post study

is about gaining confidence and developing good time management skills. You can do this at

any health site, so be flexible in your preferences and what positions you decide to either

accept or decline.

Why you need to read this handbook

If you are going to be eligible to register in the next calendar year you need to read this

handbook and get ready to apply to GradConnect.

Each year more than 1,000 students graduate from nursing and midwifery courses in

Western Australia (and about 11,000 across Australia) and most are looking for a job at the

same time.

Employers can only take on so many graduates, so you need to stand out from the crowd.

The challenge you are facing is finishing your studies and getting a job in the nursing and

midwifery workforce. It is a very busy year, so to help you be organised and stay on track,

this handbook is divided into three sections:

1. Getting readyfor March and June application and recruitment

2. Getting on with the job hunt

3. Planning for your first professional position


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1. Getting ready

It is never too soon to start getting organised for your employment search. During this

time you need to: Start a job hunt file

Decide if you want to participate in a graduate program

A good place to start is to compile a job hunt file that includes the certificates and information

you'll you will need throughout the next six to twelve months.

Before you can begin to work as a nurse or midwife, including in a graduate program, you

must be registered with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA). To find out

when and how to get registered - turn to Getting registeredon page 13.

Once you are registered with the NMBA you are authorised to practice as a nurse or midwife

anywhere in Australia.

Your job hunt file should include:

Birth certificate or passport (for proof or identity)

Criminal record screening clearance

Working with children clearance

Immunisation record

Transcript of academic standing

Referee names and contact details (make sure you have your refereespermission)

Your portfolio of evidence

A resume


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Graduate programs

Many, but not all, nurses or midwives start their professional careers by undertaking a

graduate program.

Graduate programs for enrolled nurses, registered nurses and midwives are formalised

transition programs offered by employers for those in their first year of practice. Graduate

programs are workplace-based programs designed to consolidate knowledge, skills and

competence and transition graduates to practice as safe, confident and accountable

professionals while being employed.

Graduate programs go beyond normal orientation and induction and offer graduates formal

education time (including study days), supernumerary time and clinical support including

preceptorship/mentorship/coaching and supervised clinical education.

Graduate programs may include opportunities for rotations - for example you may work in one, two

or three areas of the organisation. This will depend on how the organisation has structured the

graduate program. No one single way is better than the other.

For more information, seewww.gnc.health.wa.gov.auto find out what individual hospitals are

offering in their graduate program.

The Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA) is the bodyauthorised to register all nurses (including enrolled nurses) and

midwives in Australia. To find out more, go to:

www.nursingmidwiferyboard.gov.au
http://www.gnc.health.wa.gov.au/http://www.gnc.health.wa.gov.au/http://www.gnc.health.wa.gov.au/http://www.nursingmidwiferyboard.gov.au/http://www.nursingmidwiferyboard.gov.au/http://www.gnc.health.wa.gov.au/


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Graduate programs are not mandatory

Graduate programs are not mandatory however, they do offer new graduates structure and

support in their first year of practice. They may not suit everybody and some people may not

get an opportunity to enter a graduate program.

An example of people not wanting to undertake a graduate program could be:

Yourean enrol led nurse making the transit ion to b ecome a registered nu rse.

You may already be wel l acquainted with p rofessional pract ice, although in a

dif ferent role and at a dif ferent level. Your current or potent ia l employ er m ay be

happy to appoint you to a registered n urse role withou t doing a ful l graduate

progr am. This may be up to you, but somet imes it may be up to your emplo yer.

Some emplo yers prefer people to undertake graduate progr ams in order to

thorou ghly c hange their role and pract ice, as wel l as how they see themselves

(and h ow others see them) with in their team.

Finding the right graduate program for you

As soon as you are registered as a nurse or midwife, you are licensed to work in those

respective professions and will be accountable for your care and actions. However, in your

first year of employment, you need a supportive environment to help you make that

transition from student to professional in a planned, coordinated way.

Graduate programs offer a range of experiences and opportunities. Some give graduates a

single ward where they can consolidate their skills and professional integration with a stable

team over the full twelve months. Others offer rotations to different areas that allow you to

experience different things. No one program is perfect for everyone.

The size of the organisation and number of rotations is not a guarantee that a program is

suited to you. Some people prefer smaller organisations and need more time to settle in

and become confident.

Many nurses and midwives believe that the most important aspect of your graduate year

is to work in a clinical area that offers good support. This support may include access to


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debriefing sessions, supernumerary time, buddying withmore experienced staff or access

to ongoing education.

Your first year is about consolidation and learning to be a professional; it's not another

student clinical placement. It is important that you are in a team where you feel like you are

practising safely and know where to go when unsure, and ask questions.

Before choosing your graduate program, do some research to find out what is on offer and

think about what you personally need in a workplace. Remember, highly challenging and

busy clinical environments dont suit everybody.

You can research graduate program by attending the nursing and health expos organised by

the Australian College of Nursing. These are held on different dates for each state, for further

information go towww.acn.edu.au

How to access graduate programs in Western Australia

There are two ways to find a graduate program in Western Australia:

1. GradConnect is an online application service that all public health services (WA

Health) and participating private hospitals use for their graduate recruitment. It means

only applying once to be considered for all of these hospitals and health services,

2. Contact hospitals and health services not participating in GradConnect. Just because

they do not participate in GradConnect doesnt mean they dont offer a graduate

program.

A graduate year is about: consolidation and learning to be aprofessional; being accountable for your actions and practice; andbeing part of health team. Its not another clinical placementas a

student - so look for a graduate program that will offer you a supportivework environment.
http://www.acn.edu.au/http://www.acn.edu.au/http://www.acn.edu.au/http://www.acn.edu.au/


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Using GradConnect

The first step in being employed in a graduate program within WA Health or a participating

private hospitals is to apply via GradConnect atwww.gnc.health.wa.gov.au

This site includes a full l ist o f partic ipat ing hospita ls and heal th services (wi th l inks to

their brochures and contact details), program rules, application user guides and

Frequently Asked Questions. Make sure you read these carefully.

Please be aware that:

You are not guaranteed employment just by applying via GradConnect. It's a job

application, so is competitive, with more candidates than places, particularly for the

more popular programs or employers.

To give yourself the best chance of success, take a proactive and professional

approach. This means taking the time and effort to make your application high quality so

that it stands out from the crowd, Think of it as the assignment you need to get an A for

and not just pass.

GradConnect provides you with the opportunity to list your top five preferences. To give

yourself the best opportunity to have your application assessed - you need to select five

different sites. Don't put all your eggs in one basket! The hospital or health service you

choose may have many great applicants, but not enough jobs to offer everyone a place.

GradConnect applications open:

30 June 2014for positions commencing throughout 2014

2 March 2015for positions commencing in July or August 2015

Please check www.gnc.health.wa.gov.aufor participating health sites and for any changes
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Postponing your graduate year

In the past, some nursing or midwifery graduates who were unsuccessful in gaining

employment into a graduate program have considered waiting until the next year for a

better offer. You should think seriously before postponing your graduate year.

If you defer your graduate program, potential employers may be concerned about the long gap

between completing your course and commencing your program. You will also be competing

against a new group of graduates for a limited number of positions.

If you decide not to go into a graduate program, or decline an offer made to you by

GradConnect, you need to focus on getting a nursing or midwifery job somewhere within the

first six months of graduating.

Remember, your first year of employment is a time to consolidate your skills and education

and to understand how to practice consistently at the level expected of a health

professional. The setting you work in is not the most important aspect of this year.

Nursing and midwifery are practice-based professions, so its reallyimportant that you consolidate your undergraduate learning through

regular employment in the first year of being registered.


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2. Getting on with the job hunt

You need to be preparing your resume and getting ready to attend interviews. It can be a busy

time as you will also be studying; but it is important to stay focused, organised and flexible.During this time, you need to:

prepare a winning resume sites may request you to bring a resume to interview

although this is not requested as part of your online application with GradConnect

practice and prepare for your interviews, set up mock interviews with your parent/s,

tutors or career services

Spend time making your selection criteria perfect. Reviewing how youve responded inyour application to selection criteria is how most recruiters decide who to interview or not.

Provide examples of situationswhere you have been able to demonstrate what the

selection criteria is asking in relation to clinical tasks. Provide information on what you

did (actions) and the responseor outcome of what you did.

Interview questions are also based around the selection criteria, so think of clinical

situations where you will be able to demonstrate your understanding of the selection

criteria

pre-register with NMBA.http://www.ahpra.gov.au/Registration/Graduate-Applications

Putting together your resumeIn putting together your resume, carefully consider what employers might want from a

graduate and the traits and abilities they would value.

Your resume is a way of marketing or sellingyourself and to tell your potential employer what

you have achieved and what you can offer their organisation.

A resume is a short written summary of your education, previous

employment history and any additional (relevant) skills

you may have.
http://www.ahpra.gov.au/Registration/Graduate-Applicationshttp://www.ahpra.gov.au/Registration/Graduate-Applicationshttp://www.ahpra.gov.au/Registration/Graduate-Applicationshttp://www.ahpra.gov.au/Registration/Graduate-Applications


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Here are some tips:

Include your transferable skills - those skills that you have gained through study, part-

time work or volunteering. Transferable skills demonstrate your capacity to do the job

and are important in the current job market.

Avoid words like innovative, dynamic, motivated, team player, fast-paced, problem

solver- hundreds of other graduates are describing themselves in exactly the same way.

Replace overused terms with descriptions of specific projects and outcomes, for

example you could say:

o As a volunteer, I did ......

o As a student I experienced.....

o I worked outside of nursing as a ......

o In a school project I was responsible for ......

There are many resume styles but always use a specific resume i f suggested by the

employer.

Have a parent, career service counsellor or lecturer check your resume and application.

Be truthful and accurate and provide all information requested.

Emphasise how you intend to contribute to the organisation.

Ask permission of your referee before including their name and contact details in your

resume.

Professionalism and credibility can be measured by your attention to detail and following

through on commitments. For example, if your letter of application or resume states that

you have good written communication and organisation skills then make sure that this is

demonstrated in your application. Also make sure you include all of the information and

documentation that has been requested.

The basic information required for your resume:

Your personal details, make sure your contact details are current

Education and employment

Skills

Referees


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Everyone hates interviews

Most of us find interviews stressful, but performing well at interview is a learned process and

so practice will help.

Find out if the interview is one-on-one, panel or a group interview it reduces the surprise

effect when you arrive.

The questions are based on the selection criteria (which you have answered in your

application) for graduate nurses and midwives.

Practice interviews by creating your own questions and answers. Set up a mock interview

with a parent, careers counsellor or tutor.

Interviews are also about building a relationship with your potential employer. You need to

demonstrate an understanding and interest in the profession you are about to enter.

Interviews are not trying to make it hard for you to get a job, all they want is to understand

what you are like as a person, student and colleague. They want to get to know you better.

Make a good impressionarrive on time and dress professionally.

We asked graduate recruiters what they are looking for and theysaid:good interpersonal skills -a graduate who can discuss t opics and

demonstrate great communication technique and team work

graduates who show enthusiasm

graduates who have the ability to problem solve and discuss strategies

to seek help when needed

graduates who have given consideration to their future nursing or

midwifery careergraduates who display an enquiring approach to their professional

practice and show initiative in choosing ongoing learning strategies

academic progress as undergraduate

Graduates who dont assume that they are suitable for employment based

on the sole fact that they have been a great student with high grades

ou need to demonstrate it!


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Surviving group interviews

Group interviews usually take a couple of hours and are different to one-on-one interviews,

which can be more personal. Group interviews usually involve having a small group of

candidates carry out a series of activities ie: setting up an intravenous line, or taking a set of

observations and interpreting them. The interviewers observe behaviours and skills

demonstrated to help them select the best candidates who will proceed to the next level of

assessment.

Like all interviews, you are assessed from the moment you enter the room. The interviewers

pay attention to everything. Here are some tips for group interviews:

When you have the opportunity to tell the group about yourself and your experiences,

be confident, maintain eye contact and speak in a clear voice.

The group interview may include role-playing scenarios. Standing out during a group

interview is important so you need to consider how you can impress the interviewers.

Try to discuss your experience and education whenever possible.

No matter how qualified or experienced you are, it's easy to get spooked at a group

interview. Remain calm, take your time, and express yourself clearly.

You only get one chance to make a good first impression

Be on time for your interview and dress for success!


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Getting registered as a nurse or midwife

Before you can begin to work as a nurse or midwife, you must be registered with the NMBA.

Many graduate programs in Western Australia commence in February, so it is important that

you do not delay your application for registration. The registration process can take one to two

months even if the NMBA has all of your documentation. The NMBA will review your application

and the recommendation of your training provider so make sure you complete all your

assignments on time.

You are able to pre-register online (4 6 weeks prior to completing your program) b u t your

application will not be successfully completed until you have passed your course and the

NMBA has received and assessed all the documentation.

Find out about the registration process at

www.ahpra.gov.au/Registration/Graduate-Applications.aspx

You cannot start you graduate program if you are not registerednoexceptions!

To ensure you are ready to start your graduate programyou must:

Complete all academic requirements by the time the academic progress

committee at your institution meets

Commence your on-line pre registration to NMBA at least four to six

weeks before the end of the academic year

Pay the NMBA application fee on time

Ensure you have all the correct and complete documentation for NMBA,

including evidence that you meet the English Language registration

standards


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3. Finding a job

If you have not been successful in gaining employment through GradConnect we suggest you

rethink your career plan. You may not be able to start in the clinical area or even health site youhad as your first choice. In the recent past, graduates have been reluctant to consider

positions in mental health where vacancies still remain. Mental health however, offers

great opportunities with all the skills you develop being transferable into general health

settings. We strongly recommend you take a position if one is offered. It may not be your

dream job but it will give you an entrance to the profession and will open up many future

opportunities. You need skills in nursing mental health patients wherever you work.

Remember, graduate programs are not mandatory. There are many ways to enter the nursing

and midwifery workforce. You need to approach the task with commitment so that not too

much time elapses between completing your study and being employed as a nurse or a

midwife.

You may need to consider clinical fields and geographic areas that are not your first or second

choice, so that you 'get your foot in the door'. You may also need to consider working fewer

hours i.e. part time, with the intention of proving yourself and being available to leap at any

opportunities that arise.

Consider all employment options, such as public and private health services, doctor's

surgeries, health clinics, aged care facilities, mine sites and the defence forces - these are all

options that could provide employment opportunities for graduates.

Please remember that some graduates don't start their graduate program. Some drop out or

postpone their start, so it is good to check with health services (especially those where you

What to look for in an employer if they dont have a formal graduateprogram:

a good orientation process

support for study leave

partnerships with education providers

supernumerary time for you to work with a preceptor


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have been interviewed) in late January or February to see if any places have become available

at short notice.

Additionally, Health Workforce Australia provides a Graduate Information Portal to assist

graduates who don't get a graduate position through normal state-based recruitment. See

www.nmgj.org.auto find work in other states.

Relationships and networking

You have a great opportunity to create a good impression while on your clinical placements.

Consider the clinical placement as the beginning of your relationship with a potential employer,

especially if you are interested in working at that health service. Clinical placements also

provide an opportunity to network within the organisation and foster relationships.

Continuing Professional Development (CPD)

While looking for a job, show prospective employers that you are engaged with your

profession. Attend workshops and lectures (especially those that build on your practice, such

as general nursing skills or those relevant to the area you are seeking work in). Continue to

read professional journals, attend conferences and complete online learning packages.

Some graduates continue their studies, undertaking an honours year or post-graduate studies

while they look for employment.

Finishing studies mid-year

If you finish your degree mid-year, you can apply through GradConnect the year before for amid-year intake. You will need to check our web site carefully as some sites that offer mid-year

start dates only recruit once a year. It is also important not to waste your preference selection

on sites that do not offer mid-year intakes.
http://www.nmgj.org.au/http://www.nmgj.org.au/http://www.nmgj.org.au/


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International nursing and midwifery graduates

If you are an international student seeking career opportunities in Australia there is a

"Graduate Career" website which has specific information for international students that have

undertaken their study in Australia. See

www.graduateopportunities.com/application_dates_career_infor/international_student_opportunities

A word about Facebook and other social media

Social media has created a very sociable environment but it has also blurred the boundary

between our personal and professional lives. A recent survey of more than 400 managers

found that 36 per cent of Australian employers admit to checking potential candidate's

Facebook profiles before offering them the job!

So, as a general rule, it is best not to put information on Facebook or other sites that you do

not want your employer to see. Remember to list and adjust your privacy settings so you can

effectively separate your professional life from your personal life.

As a nurse or midwife you have professional responsibilities to uphold your profession at all

times. See the NMBAs Guidelines for use of social media at

www.nursingmidwiferyboard.gov.au/Codes-Guidelines-Statements/FAQ.aspx

You might also want to consider having a separate professional and personal email address.

We hope this information has helped you understand the current employment

environment and given you some strategies for your transition into the profession.

Nursing and midwifery are careers that offer terrific opportunities and experiences.

Yours is just beginning.

To find out more about nursing and midwifery graduate programs in WAgo towww.gnc.health.wa.gov.au or find us on Facebook
http://www.graduateopportunities.com/application_dates_career_infor/international_student_opportunitieshttp://www.graduateopportunities.com/application_dates_career_infor/international_student_opportunitieshttp://www.gnc.health.wa.gov.au/http://www.gnc.health.wa.gov.au/http://www.graduateopportunities.com/application_dates_career_infor/international_student_opportunities


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Nursing and Midwifery Office

Department of Health 2013

New Graduate Handbook

Documents

Transcript of New Graduate Handbook