Hoping to transfer to the RNICU...how do I make my app/cover letter stand out?

[elle_RN]

I'm a new nurse, currently working on a med/surg/tele unit that specializes in OB/GYN patients. I completed a 12 week residency program and then went to this unit, where I've been for 6 months. Which means I can now start applying to other units in the hospital. I thought I would have to wait months for a full-time position to open up in the RNICU, but lo and behold, they just posted one. I know I'm up against a lot of competition (it's a large hospital, and at least 4 nurses I hired in with also want it) but working in a NICU is my dream and I want to give it my best shot.

So my question is, what should I say (or not say) in my cover letter? I don't want to sound desperate. I have personal experience as my son was transferred to an RNICU (when we lived in a different area, so not this one), but I'm not sure if that should wait for an interview. If I can get an interview, that is. I can emphasize the OB/GYN patient care in the "responsibilities of current position" section on the online application...or the cover letter...or both? Managers are familiar with what our unit does, but I want to make it clear that's what I enjoyed most about my unit.

Basically I want to stand out in a good way. Enthusiastic but grounded. And even if they hire someone else I want to make a good impression so they'll remember me for future positions. Because this really is my dream job and I don't want to blow it by sounding excitable...but I want to get noticed too. Advice?

[drmazur]

I'm not sure how much I can help you-I am a new grad starting in the NICU next month. I will say, I had a lot of life experience that didn't really fit into the scope of a resume, so I mentioned it in my cover letter. I figure that is one of the first insights they have into who you are as a person, and if you leave all of that for the interview, you might not get the chance.

I also made sure make my interest well-known to the recruiter for the position, asking questions and such.

I would definately go into detail in the responsibilities section you mentioned, but also maybe briefly mention that in your cover letter? something along the lines of that is the part you've enjoyed most of your current position?

hope that helps!

Good luck :)

Danielle