Somewhat awkward reference question

[Coffee Nurse, BSN, RN]

Hello all, and congrats to my classmates of 2008! :cheers:

So I'm about to start the whole application process, and have already asked a couple of people for references. One of them, a theatre professor who I stage managed for a year ago, asked me what my "dream job" was (a maternity-related position in NYC -- but really, I'll take whatever I can get, right?!), and then told me that she has two good friends who are nurses in L&D/NICU in the city. She asked me if I wanted their phone numbers, and I said of course!

So my question is this: she sent me their numbers, with an email saying in part, "Let them know you are a close student friend of mine. They are great women and I'm sure would help you in any way they can. They know that the world needs good nurses!!" Now -- what exactly is the protocol here? I'd be happy to just ask them about their jobs and the hospitals they work at, but is my reference telling me that I can enlist these nurses in my job-seeking efforts? I feel like I'm toeing the line between networking and sleaziness, and the last thing I want is to be sleazy.

Any advice is much appreciated!

[llg, PhD, RN]

I'd recommend contacting just to introduce yourself and ask a few questions about work settings, etc. You really can't ask much of them because you are a stranger to them. However, if you took them to lunch or had a meeting with them, etc. and asked them a few basic questions, they might give you some valuable information and tips about job-hunting.

Then write thank-you notes and keep the door open for future contact. Perhaps they would help you evaluate job opportunities, etc. That leaves possibilities for establishing a friendship as you get to know each other better without just barging into their lives expecting them to do stuff for you.

Good luck.

[Coffee Nurse, BSN, RN]

just barging into their lives expecting them to do stuff for you.

You hit the nail on the head, that's exactly what I feel like I'd be doing to them! Thank you, that's great advice.