Cover letter help. Where/How to put my mom as a reference in my cover letter

[willow298]

Hey everyone. I am graduating in 8 weeks from an ASN program and I am really starting to worry about trying to get a job.

My mom is an LPN at a local hospital and has been affiliated (and still works) there for the past 40 years. She knows a lot of the "higher ups" and has talked to them about my employment there. They told her I should fill out an application now.

I want to make a cover letter for my very short resume, and I want to incorporate the fact that my mother has referenced me to apply there without sounding corny or like I expect to be hired just based on that fact.

How should I word this?

Dear ________,

my name is Jane Smith and I will be graduating from _______ in May 2013 from the nursing program. My mother, ____ has suggested that I contact you regarding the positions you have available.

Any better ideas?

[Double-Helix, BSN, RN]

First, do not list your mother as a 'reference' in the references section of your application. Family members should never be listed as professional or character references. Most applications include a section that asks if you have any family members employed for the organization anyway.

Second, how about something like:

"I know firsthand that your hospital provides quality care and has high employee satisfaction. My mother, _______ has enjoyed working as an LPN for X hospital for Y number of years and her positive experience as an employee of your facility has confirmed my desire to join the staff."

[willow298]

First, do not list your mother as a 'reference' in the references section of your application. Family members should never be listed as professional or character references. Most applications include a section that asks if you have any family members employed for the organization anyway.

Second, how about something like:

"I know firsthand that your hospital provides quality care and has high employee satisfaction. My mother, _______ has enjoyed working as an LPN for X hospital for Y number of years and her positive experience as an employee of your facility has confirmed my desire to join the staff."

Thank you so much. That sounds absolutely amazing. I am usually really good at writing stuff like this, but when it comes to resume time for myself, my mind goes blank and does not function properly.

Also, I already knew not to put her as a reference on the application, but thank you anyways for the heads up! :)