Okay to email a potential boss?

[Bumashes, MSN, APRN, NP]

I work at a hospital with 2 major branches that are about 20 miles apart. Currently, there is an ER spot open at the other one, and the manager never answers his phone. I've put in an app already for it about 3 weeks ago, and it's still posted. Obviously, I don't see him b/c he's at the other branch, so I can't just "accidentally" bump into him in the hall either. I've called HR, and they say there are always about 50 apps at least for each spot posted. That's a bit much to get lost in. So, our employee email system gives us access to everyone's work email. I was wondering if it would be too forward of me to email a letter stating my desire to work for him? Or should I use every possible avenue I have at my disposal in order to separate myself from the masses? I've been trying to get off my floor and into another specialty for well over a year now, so I'm getting desperate, although I realize I'm lucky to be employed. Anyway, any advice? Too aggressive or go for it?

[CNL2B]

I don't think I would do that. I would be hesitant about being perceived as too aggressive seeing that you are already in the system. You never know when you might run across this manager again, and you don't want to make a bad impression.

Does your current boss know you want the job? Are they ok with it? Maybe they could help intervene on your behalf.

[donsterRN, ASN, BSN]

Actually, I'm not sure I agree. I don't really see a problem with sending an email to the NM of the ED that states you had submitted an application several weeks ago and just wanted to make sure it was received. Having an aggressive nature isn't necessarily a bad thing, especially in the ED, and following up is an admirable trait, as well.

Much luck. Let us know how it pans out.

[CNL2B]

Actually, I'm not sure I agree. I don't really see a problem with sending an email to the NM of the ED that states you had submitted an application several weeks ago and just wanted to make sure it was received. Having an aggressive nature isn't necessarily a bad thing, especially in the ED, and following up is an admirable trait, as well.

Much luck. Let us know how it pans out.

Well, the other thing is, you could be perceived as being a pest, especially considering he already left messages.

Tough call either way, I think.

[donsterRN, ASN, BSN]

Well, the other thing is, you could be perceived as being a pest, especially considering he already left messages.

Tough call either way, I think.

Oh, I agree. You never know what kind of mood the the guy will be in. It is a tough call!

[Bumashes, MSN, APRN, NP]

My current manager does know and approves. Said she will give a stellar reference if asked about me. And I have only left one message for this ER NM. That was about 2 weeks ago. I just call every other day or so. I figured leaving more than one message would definitely be annoying. However, I know this guy is rarely in his office cuz there's a lot of remodeling and all going on right now. So it is feasible that he's just not ever there to answer. Also, I know some people will just erase messages without listening if they are more than a couple of days old. I've been trying to come up with the best thing to say in my letter that would show a definite interest while also not sounding too pushy, ya know? Haven't come up with much yet, though. Everything seems to come across as being either slightly pushy or a touch aggressive. *Sigh*

[evolvingrn, BSN, RN]

I would do it.

[mamamerlee, LPN]

Do it.

[April, RN, BSN, RN]

I did it. That's how I got my current job. Just email and say you are very interested in working in the ED and that you have attached your resume if he is interested in taking a look at it. I don't think that's being too pushy, and you are trying to stand out from 50 other applicants. The email can also draw to his attention that you are an internal applicant. If he still doesn't respond, at least you know you tried!

[Bumashes, MSN, APRN, NP]

I asked our HR dept about how the managers know whether or not we're internal applicants or not. They said that when a person applies, an email is sent to the manager. After they click on it and open it, it will tell them that you're internal. I don't think that's right. Priority is supposed to be given to internal apps, but that doesn't sound like it really makes you stand out to me. Any ideas on how to not sound too aggressive or pushy?

[April, RN, BSN, RN]

I really don't think it's too pushy as long as you are just re-stating that you're ready for a new challenge as an ER nurse and if there are still open positions, you hope to be considered. It's proactive, not aggressive.

[JulieCVICURN, BSN, RN]

Oh, I would absolutely do it. I'd just say something like "I submitted an application X weeks/days ago. I'm following up to see if the position is still available, because I would welcome the opportunity to speak with you about it. Please contact me at your convenience via (email, phone, etc.). I look forward to hearing from you."

If I were a manager I would not find that to be too aggressive, and if the position were still available I would likely first call those who made their interest the most obvious. It would probably move you to the top of the list, if I were the manager.