Trying to Get Started in Central FL

I am new to this forum, and thought I would seek some advice. I recently moved to Ocala, Florida from Austin, Texas and am looking for a position to get me started in long-term care. I am a newly certified nursing home administrator and also have a Masters in Social Work. I have 2-3 years experience from interning full-time, but no real employment experience. In Austin I had lots of contacts, and could have found a job easily before I moved. Now that I am starting over, I was wondering if anyone had any suggestions on how to meet people and make contacts?

Join the FHCA.org or attend some of their meetings and network.

My brother in law is a NHA. He works within the Tampa Bay and Cental Florida area with Senior Health Management. They will hire you without experience. All you need is a NHA license and be open to moving from facility to facility. They appear to be a bit unorganized but if you want a job they will hire you. I don't know if you want to get experience with them. My brother in law is always stressed with the management. Good Luck

Thanks so much for the feedback, Keri and Chase. I really appreciate it.

I'm in the same boat as you Erin. I'm also a recently licensed nursing home administrator and I'm having a hard time finding employment. I've applied for a number of administrator jobs and have been turned down due to lack of experience. My passed and current experience is with health insurance and admissions so I'm even willing to accept an admissions position just to get my foot in the door. I'm also planning to take the assisted living classes to broaden my knowledge base and open up more opportunities. So I'm right there with you on the job hunt.

Joe,

I just wanted to wish you the best of luck. I am sure you will find something soon.

I am also in the same position as many others. I became licensed 09/2007, have a BS in Health Care Administration and was a CNA for 8 years. Everyone wants 2+ years experience in FL. I would be willing to take an Assistant Administrator position; however they are far and few in between. I am also willing to relocate to another part of the state. If anyone has a need for a new administrator or an assistant administrator or knows anyone with the need please email me at bgsmith1013@yahoo.com.

Thank you,
Brenda

Even when it comes to Assistant administrator positions employers want experience. I've set my standards lower and started aiming for admissions and business office positions to get my foot in the door. I've been applying to a lot of places around Florida and willing to relocate at the drop of a hat if it gave me to opportunity to break into the industry.