How important are reference letters? Which ones really count?

[AQEELSMOM]

My clinical instructor let me know that she would be happy to provide me with a reference letter, which got me thinking about this. When you applied for jobs, did you include reference letters? From whom do they carry the most weight?

Would you include them when submitting a resume to an online post, or just put that they are available on request?

What about floor nurses that you have worked with during clinicals? How about nurse managers (given that you impressed the pants off them and developed some kind of relationship with them while on the floor).

Any input appreciated! :)

[Nurse_]

It's very helpful for big hospitals with online applications. So it's best to have two with you.

The problem with reference letters is most often than not they are not specific to the person. A generic letter of recommendation/reference can easily hurt your chances so make sure it's not some generic letter.

Nurses you worked with on the floor will not be a good reference unless you'll be applying in the same hospital (unless it's the nurse manager then if she's writing you a letter... why not ask her to hire you instead?)