Does a preceptor qualify as a supervisor/manager type of reference for a job? urgent!

[Jaellys]

0I am in the reference checking process, so I am being considered for the job at this point. I am having trouble contacting my former boss and a charge nurse, but my former preceptor was more than happy to be a reference. I cant let my current employer know that I am looking for another job. They want 4 manager type references and I need one more. Im having a hard time coming up with good recent ones.

My question is...Is it stretching it too far if I put my RN preceptor at my last job as a "supervisor/manager" type of reference, and maybe just specify that she was a preceptor in her job title? The criteria of manager/supervisor according to them is "someone in authority who is responsible for making decisions, setting goals, and directing the work of others".

Thanks everyone :)

[Rose_Queen, BSN, MSN, RN]

I think it may be stretching it too far. Management is a formal designation. Unless your preceptor was also designated as management, I don't think they'll qualify as the reference the facility is looking for.

[psu_213, BSN, RN]

I would contact this potential employer and see if they will accept a preceptor. Don't be surprised if the answer is "no." Besides, especially from the potential employers point of view, what is the danger in having you current job know that you are looking for a new job?

[Everline]

I've used a preceptor for a management reference and it was fine. I didn't ask first. According to the reference forms in my case, my preceptor fit the definition. YMMV.

[turtlesRcool]

I would contact this potential employer and see if they will accept a preceptor. Don't be surprised if the answer is "no." Besides, especially from the potential employers point of view, what is the danger in having you current job know that you are looking for a new job?

There are many, many people who don't want their current employer to know they are looking for a new job before they actually get one. It's not just a nursing issue.

Sometimes a potential job falls through. Maybe the position is cut for financial reasons. Maybe HR didn't follow proper procedure and the union files a grievance and they have to fill the job with a current employee. Maybe the last reference they contact says something that makes the employer decide the employee wouldn't be a good fit. Etc.

So if you're someone who ends up NOT getting the job, you're stuck in with your current employer who now knows you're looking to leave. And then you start getting crappy schedules or difficult patient loads because they no longer have a vested interest in providing a great work environment for you. Maybe your hours get cut because they hire someone else and are easing her in because they think you will soon be heading out. Or maybe it's just plain uncomfortable to return to your job when people know you tried - and failed- to leave.

From my perspective, I don't want a current employer to know about my potential new job until the contract is signed and it's a done deal.

[greenandsilver]

If they won't take the preceptor recommendation, I would dig deeper to find the former employer and charge nurse. Think outside the box. Are you able to go see them at their place of employment, do former co-workers know how to reach them, LinkedIn, will support staff let you know when is the best time to reach them? Most people want to see you succeed and will give you the time if you are professional, grateful, and courteous.

[quiltynurse56, LPN, LVN]

I used my preceptor as a reference. She knew how I performed as a nurse and how willing I am to learn.