How do I approach my manager for reference/interview

[KiRa1251]

Hello Everyone,

I've been a long time lurker around AN. Finally gathered up courage to write my first post on this site.

I would like some advice regarding a matter.

I graduated back in summer of 2010. There was a hiring freeze. So almost after a year I started my first RN job (part-time) at a community hospital in my town. I have been here for 7 months and it has been pretty good experience. I work on a medicine and telemetry floor. Also, I'm being trained for new three bed room we are opening on our unit. That room will have pt who need more close monitoring but who do not require CCU/ ICU type of care (I hope this makes sense). Furthermore, they are replacing 7 full times RN with RPN. Although, part timers are not being laid off on this floor. Due to seniority I may be bummed to another floor. So there are a lot of changes going on this floor. So, I started to apply for job and was invited for an interview at a teaching hospital. The only problem is I need three references. So far I have two. One reference is from my clinical instructor and the other one from previous job manager (non- nursing job). For the last one should I ask my NM? I believe I need her reference since this is my first and only Job as RN. I'm not sure if I should approach her or not. Also, I'm nervous of her reaction. What if I approach her and later I find out I don't get the job. She will know I'm looking for another job. Have you guys been in similar situation? If so how did you guys approach this situation?

Please and Thank You for your comments

[Double-Helix, BSN, RN]

I personally would not ask a nurse manager for a reference if she did not know that I was seeking other job opportunities. I would ask another co-worker who held a leadership position, such as a charge nurse. Is there a charge nurse that you trust to give you a good review and maintain your confidence about your new interview? If so, I would ask that person to be a reference for you.

[Been there,done that, ASN, RN]

It is not appropriate to ask your current manager for a reference.

Any reference from your current work place will go through human resources.

Apply for the new position... they will use the current work place as your third reference.

This information is also valuable as, the response is limited to your date of hire and maybe your attendance record.

Don't sweat the small stuff.. go for it!

[KelRN215, BSN, RN]

I just went through the whole job-search process. I did not say a word to my manager until I had accepted another position and was ready to give her my resignation. I used charge nurses and a senior nurse I had worked with in a volunteer nursing position for several years as references.

I gave my notice on Monday morning and my manager has refused to look at me since. I cannot imagine how uncomfortable it would have been had she known the whole time that I was looking to get out. I also am not sure I could trust her to give me a positive reference as I've been on her bad side since I challenged a ridiculous practice of the hospital's several months back. On the other hand, I do know that other people on my floor have told her that they are looking and have used her as a reference.

[Esme12, ASN, BSN, RN]

I would tell the manager that this amazing opportunity has crossed your path and that you are torn about what to do and that they are also asking for 3 references and you don't know who to ask being so new in the profession. Tell her that you love your job you are interested in the possibility of working at an academic facility. Ask her if she would give you a reference.

I have always been proud of employees that look for their dreams. I have been very sad in the past to lose some really great nurses but at the same time I was proud to watch them grow. Had it not been for a loving manager who wanted me to be the vest me I could be when I graduated nursing school.....I would never have become the nurse I am. so I have always supported those who wanted to look to other facilities. When they found out that maybe it wasn't what they wanted, they always returned to the unit. I have always encouraged the staff to be ambitious and educated. I believe that surrounding myself with the best and the brightest makes my job a walk in the park.

There is a risk, now a days, it seems managers have a different point of view. I have seen managers become petty and angry at the staff who leave and I can only explain that those individuals are insecure and jealous. There is a risk that your boss is not one of those generous people and there will be back lash against you with bad schedules and refused days off.

I like to believe that there is still those out there that can see past their noses and allow someone to follow their heart. But i also know of managers that won't give references as there have been lawsuits against the one's who gave their reference so the make it their "policy" to not give references.

Ask a supervisor and not your direct manager, but if this is something you want, grasp the opportunity! Good luck.

[BostonTerrierLover, BSN, RN]

:bow:Why add more, as usual Esme12 nailed this one!!!

[KiRa1251]

Hello everyone,

Thank you for all of your wonderful advice. Its unfortunate my interview got cancelled. Today I recvied the email stating the interview for that position is cancelled.

[GitanoRN, BSN, MSN, RN]

i'm sorry, however, don't despair there will be other positions that you will be suited for, and remember if it's meant to be, no one can take it away from you. in addition, look at it as an opportunity to get all of your papers in order for the next interview. i have no doubt that sooner than you think you'll be posting good news. wishing you the very best always ...aloha pomaikai~ (bye and good luck)