How to respond after shadowing experiences

[everthesame, LPN, LVN]

I recently interviewed for a position I applied for so long ago I forgot I had applied for it. Seriously, I applied to this hospital eight months ago and didn't hear back until a few days ago. I heard from them Monday and interviewed Tuesday. I thought the interview couldn't have gone better. Near the end of the interview, the department director let me know she was hiring for both night shift and weekend option days. I have now shadowed on both shifts and have to e-mail her this weekend and let her know which shift I would prefer.

I think I want the weekend option position. I plan to return to school for my MSN next year and think it would be easier if I am on that schedule. But I also wouldn't be too disappointed if I were offered the nights position.

I am looking for suggestions on what to say in my e-mail so that I let her know my preference while still letting her know I would also accept the nights position if offered. But I don't want to come across as desparate.

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

[Old.Timer]

I would just make note that you appreciate the opportuity to interview and observe and remain interested in working at xyz facility on xyz unit blah blah blah. Then state that your primary choice of shift would be _____ but that you are fortunate that you schchedule allows you the flexibility to work either shift.

Clean it up a bit bviously but something along that line if you really are willing to do either if it came downto that. You don't see the applicants getting the option too often - I might poke around and see if I uncover any reason for openings across the board . Doesn't necessarily mean anything, but it could.

[canesdukegirl, BSN, RN]

Do exactly as she requested-state your preference. She may very well need to fill both positions and is of the mind-set of 'first come, first served'. If you prefer the weekend option, it is likely that she will give that one to you.

You wouldn't sound desperate if you worded your email something like this:

"Thank you for the opportunity to shadow for both the weekend and the night shift options. I enjoyed the time I spent on your unit and feel that I would be a good fit with either option. I prefer to work the weekend option, but would also be interested in the night shift should it fulfill the unit's needs.

I look forward to hearing from you.

Sincerely,

You"

You are making clear what your preference is while not rejecting the night shift option. You come across as a team player with the unit's needs as a priority. I would bet that you get the weekend option:)

Good luck to you!

[sauconyrunner]

I think Old.Timer has the right way to go about this. SImply state that you enjoyed shadowing on both shifts, then state your preference, and that you would be flexible to work either shift. As long as your would be willing to work either shift.

[everthesame, LPN, LVN]

I currently work nights so another position on nights would not be an issue for me. The openings occurred because of a couple of nurses who are leaving. One of the nurses I shadowed will be leaving due to her husband's military post changing.

Thank you for all of the suggestions, now I better get cracking on that response!