After 3 interviews at a rehab hospital a few months ago and not getting an offer, I want to email the CNO and HR manager again to let them know I'm still interested in working there. They said ultimately they were hesitant to hire me as a new grad, because they said they unexpectedly had a new grad transferred from another location and I came across as too desperate the job (whatever the heck that means). I've since been working at a SNF on the rehab unit and have hit the ground running and have learned a tremendous amount and I know have more to learn. I still want to seek a position them, because it is a much nicer facility for a little more money and only 8-9 patients max with 3 12's a week, rather than the 5, 10 hr shifts I'm doing now. My husband says I need to word the email in a way that conveys to them all the things I'm am presently doing and let's them know I can handle the pressure of 25-29 patients at my current facility, so I would be an asset to them. I have a hard time writing why they "need" me, rather than me needing them. It starts off good and then I find myself switching to reasons why I want to work there, instead of why they need me working there. Please give me some suggestions of things to write and how I can convince them they really need me I just checked their website and they have a position for RN open as well as LPN and charge nurse position. I know they have low RN retention rates and they told me as much in my interview, saying that many new grads get some experience there and then move on to hospital positions. I want to convince them they need me, because I'm a damn good nurse and they do, but I just can't say it like that.
They key to a great cover letter is to convey the unique 'value' you could bring to the organization. This encompasses much more than simply clinical competency, although that is obviously an important factor. In order to do this, you need to 'think like a hiring manager'... what keeps him/her up at night? What type of employee would make their job easier? In many cases, it is someone who can not only take on some administrative responsibilities, but one who seems to be eager to do so. AND it must come across as sincere, not just kissing up.
First of all, I would suggest doing some intensive homework... find out as much about the facility as you can. Accreditation reports are public record. Also check any available 'quality' ratings because these frequently uncover important issues. Point out your own attributes as well as any accomplishments that would be relevant.
You have an advantage over most younger new grads... you undoubtedly have previous work experience. So NOT mention your age, but highlight these skills and abilities in your cover letter. Have you been involved in any performance improvement initiatives? Functioned in any leadership roles? Done any staff teaching? Organized a complex process? Managed day-to-day inventory? Are you very adept at customer service? What are your communication skills? ALL of these types of things are value-added for any hiring manager.
It's clearer to me now too after reading your post :)
That being said...given that they told her she was coming across as too desperate, I still see no good in her attempting to write this message--at least, not at the current time--as it'll only confirm their beliefs about her.
She should definitely work on the ideas you offered for her next cover letter (and I'll admit that I'm going to shamelessly steal some of these ideas for my next letter) wherever she applies to. But I think this particular job's boat has sailed for her.
As others have suggested, you're best to stay put for now and refrain from sending emails to this employer. Wait another 6- 7 months, acquire more experience at your current job, and then email the employer. Ask if they have a need for casual / PRN and explain why you would be an asset to their organization.
It's an employers market and they all know it. If you're coming across as desperate, your resume will be discarded. A cover letter should briefly highlight your skills. Use their mission statement/ values and explain what you can offer.
I just checked their website and they have a position for RN open as well as LPN and charge nurse position. I know they have low RN retention rates and they told me as much in my interview, saying that many new grads get some experience there and then move on to hospital positions. I want to convince them they need me, because I'm a damn good nurse and they do, but I just can't say it like that.
HouTx, BSN, MSN, EdD
9,051 Posts
I totally get OP's intention.
They key to a great cover letter is to convey the unique 'value' you could bring to the organization. This encompasses much more than simply clinical competency, although that is obviously an important factor. In order to do this, you need to 'think like a hiring manager'... what keeps him/her up at night? What type of employee would make their job easier? In many cases, it is someone who can not only take on some administrative responsibilities, but one who seems to be eager to do so. AND it must come across as sincere, not just kissing up.
First of all, I would suggest doing some intensive homework... find out as much about the facility as you can. Accreditation reports are public record. Also check any available 'quality' ratings because these frequently uncover important issues. Point out your own attributes as well as any accomplishments that would be relevant.
You have an advantage over most younger new grads... you undoubtedly have previous work experience. So NOT mention your age, but highlight these skills and abilities in your cover letter. Have you been involved in any performance improvement initiatives? Functioned in any leadership roles? Done any staff teaching? Organized a complex process? Managed day-to-day inventory? Are you very adept at customer service? What are your communication skills? ALL of these types of things are value-added for any hiring manager.