It’s surprising how many small companies on the Big Island do not advertise on the internet. Some do, but even those rarely advertise job openings on the common sites. On this island, it is often about who you know.

One issue I’ve found with job searching now, and five and a half years ago when we were planning on moving here, is how many medical companies avoid hiring LPNs all together. It seems more cost effective to hire RNs and MAs or CNAs depending on the service provided. I feel incredibly blessed to have landed the job with Hospice, but it’s just too far from the kiddos’ school, I would loose my mind with the commute – not to mention the job itself consists of driving from house to house. Nope.

I applied online to two major companies then printed out many resumes, reference and cover sheets. I drove around all day yesterday presenting myself at doctor’s offices, rehab centers, etc with a smile and a hand shake to anyone who would see me. Wearing business casual (no jeans or slippers!) and carrying around all the info I needed to fill out an application should the opportunity present itself (and it did once), I feel confident I covered some decent ground. I have kept a list of where and when I applied, as well as the people I spoke to, if any, so I can follow up.

A small tip to anyone moving to the Big Island and looking for a job; employers have been burned over and over by people who move to the island and decide a year later they are over it. Living here is a challenge – it’s expensive, the bugs are absurd and although the people in general are kind and welcoming, there are some who do not appreciate outsiders. So if you’re new to the island and applying for a job, any anchor – a family member, friends or if you have purchased property – will help let the employer know you mean business. When we first moved here and I was job hunting, I was told more than once, I’m sorry but we’re looking for someone more local, with ties to the island.

Anyhow, wish me luck!