Best way to ask MD for reference?

[WWRN]

Hi all...

I recently interviewed for a position and they are asking for an MD reference. I work in an ICU where I deal with many different docs. However, I work an off shift and therefore only see the docs if there is an issue with my patients. I'm unsure how many of them would recognize my name if I called/e-mailed them, but I don't know when I may see them to make a timely request. What do you think would be the best way for me to ask for a reference?

Thanks in advance for your help!

[CoffeeRTC, BSN, RN]

I would say ask in person. Try and work a couple extra shifts when you know they will be on or rounding.

[ImThatGuy, BSN, RN]

Take out "MD" and insert "person," and that's how you ask for a reference - just as you would anyone else.

[canesdukegirl, BSN, RN]

OP, I was just recently in this position. When I saw the doc I wanted the reference from, I asked him for a couple minutes of his time between cases. When he came to me after we finished our case, I told him what I was doing and that I would love to have a reference letter from him. I offered to email him my CV so that he would be aware of my educational background along with my past job hx. He asked me how I wanted the letter formatted and addressed, and I gave him that info. He had my letter in hand the next week.

Docs don't mind being asked for reference letters, and are used to doing this for their residents. They are, for the most part, glad to do anything to further your career if they know and respect your work.

Hope this helps. Don't be intimidated. Wouldn't you be glad to write a reference letter for a co-worker whom you respect? Same mindset.

[WWRN]

Thanks much for the replies. I was fortunate to run into one of my favorite docs and just asked... He was so gracious it made me wonder what I was worried about in the first place!