verbal job offer, orientation set, no paper work

Nurses General Nursing

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I am currently working and had an interview from an application I submitted months ago. I wasn't actively looking for a new job as I've only been here 3 months. They gave me a verbal job offer and set up an orientation date, but I have no paper work. I need to give notice to my current position,but am scared to do this as I've been burned one too many times. I've learned that it was never said or done if it isn't written down. What should I do? I don't want to burn bridges. I'd like to take the new job but if I don't get the paperwork tomorrow, I won't have 2 weeks between my giving notice and the orientation.

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Specializes in CVICU, CCRN.

May I inquire about how long you have been in your current nursing position? The reason I ask is because it is my understanding that especially for your first professional position, you want to maintain that position for at least a year. Otherwise, you may not look very appealing to other employers unless you can easily explain why you had to leave your initial position so quickly.

Otherwise, I think you are wise to ensure some kind of written correspondence. However, doesn't this failure to provide a more substantial "paper trail" make you question the organization you are considering working for? Should a problem arise, how would they handle it if they can't provide you with some simple paperwork prior to hire? Have they provided you any information on pay? Hours? Benefits? Attendance policy? Job requirements?

This a huge red flag, to me at least.

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Have you...

You know...

Asked?

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I have not been at my current place long at all. The reason I would leave is the new job is in a big hospital with significantly better pay. I have not asked as I don't know how, what to say?

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Specializes in CVICU, CCRN.

And is your current position your first nursing position?

If I were you, it sounds like you have very little information. I would contact the person that gave you the verbal job offer and ask to have a fact to face meeting in order to clarify some questions about the position and orientation. Also, if you are unable to give a two week notice (which is extremely minimal within nursing and usually doesnt provide management appropriate time to obtain a replacement), you may need to ask if you can start your orientation a little later. Be upfront with them so they can understand your position. If you don't tell them and you don't ask questions, communication will never occur.

But besides all of this, the new position is for a "big hospital" and there has been zero paperwork and pretty much zero discussion?

I'm sorry, but this is your responsibility to get information for yourself. And it sounds like someone is missing something somewhere.

Also, this doesn't raise any red flags to you?

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When I was offered the job I was told the shift I would work, how many weekends were required, the base pay and shift differential, and my orientation date. I didn't think to ask any other questions and now I'm not sure how to ask for all this to be given to me in written form, not just verbal. What would be an appropriate way to ask for a written offer?

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Specializes in Med/Surg, Ortho, ASC.
When I was offered the job I was told the shift I would work, how many weekends were required, the base pay and shift differential, and my orientation date. I didn't think to ask any other questions and now I'm not sure how to ask for all this to be given to me in written form, not just verbal. What would be an appropriate way to ask for a written offer?

Dear HR: I am in receipt of your verbal offer for x position at x $ per hour base pay, and x$ shift differential. Please confirm that x date is my official orientation and that I will work x # of weekends per pay period. Sincerely, X

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Thank you so much, I'm assuming you mean for me to send this via email.

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Specializes in Management, Med/Surg, Clinical Trainer.

Yes send them a quick email and ask. Generally, when a company makes a verbal offer and it is accepted an email or a letter is sent right away.

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I have not been at my current place long at all. The reason I would leave is the new job is in a big hospital with significantly better pay. I have not asked as I don't know how, what to say?

Contact HR at the facility that offered you the position. Ask that they send you an offer letter, so that you may plan accordingly. (You do not have to get into specifics).

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Specializes in Psych ICU, addictions.

Do NOT quit this first job until you get an official offer in writing from this new job. Lots of verbal offers that seemed set in stone have fallen through for one reason or another, and without an official offer you don't have a leg to stand on. And you don't want to be unemployed because you resigned from job 1 but job 2 never put it in writing.

Best of luck.

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Definitely check with HR. I worked for a place that was so disorganized and under a manager that was so incompetent, she forgot to tell HR she hired me. I called back a week later to HR to check in, and they had to contact the manager to get the hiring process started.

Don't be afraid to ask questions, especially when you really need to know the answers!

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