Cover letter--what to do when you are applying for mulitple positions at one facility?

[jessimee]

Hi All--I'm new to this forum. I'm trying to get back into nursing after being home with 4 kids for 7 years. I am enrolled in an RN refresher course and applying for CNA jobs as well as other non-clinical positions at a hospital near me. My goal is to get into a job as a CNA that will lead to an RN position after I finish my course. The problem is that I have a long list of interests and would be happy in a number of positions, including ICU, Tele, surgery, orthopedics, rehab, hospice, and HIM/medical records/auditing. The hospital only allows you to attach one cover letter to your submitted resume (I think--it makes you create a profile). How can I make one cover letter highlight all the skills that I could bring to a variety of positions? TIA

[llg, PhD, RN]

I recommend focusing your letter on your desire to work for that particular employer -- in general, not just on a particular unit. Talk about why you think they would be a great employer and provide a great place to work. Then talk about your ability to be flexible with the particular unit to which you would be assigned. Emphasize your general skills and interests that are applicable to all specialty areas (e.g. caring for patients of all types, reliable, dependable, etc.) and excitement at getting back into the healthcare workforce in general. Present your flexibility as a strength -- not as a lack of focus.

However ... be mindful of the fact that few managers want to hire someone who is only planning to stay in that position for a couple of months (while you take the refresher). People don't want to make the investment in orienting a new hire if that person is going to become and RN very soon. So you might be better off focusing on nursing assistant positions with the expectation of staying on the same unit when you graduate from the refresher program.

Good luck.