Letter's of recommendation, and cover letter's....

[EarthhAngel2013]

Hi everyone. I' extremely excited to now officially join your ranks and post my first post as a new RN (Not really my first post, but my first one as a nurse). Little bit of background: I am not exactly a new nurse graduate, I graduated in 2013, and have finally passed my exam a year and a half later (12/09/2104). Question one: Should I apply for New Grad Internships/Residencies? Or Should I go for any job offer available and not worry about an internship (I'm not even sure they'll hire me because I'm not technically a new grad)?

Now when filling out applications, I've never done a cover letter on a application. Do you all think it has really ever tipped the scales in our favor in regards to getting an interview? I never would have thought so before, however I'm tempted to change my mind now. Not that I have very many self studies to go on.

Also in the past I have never had anyone ask for letters of recommendation at any point. So is there a way I can sneak them in online? Maybe when I'm filling in the Cover Letter or resume bits?

Any help that would help me to get an interview would be greatly appreciated!

[joanna73, BSN, RN]

Welcome to Allnurses!

Most online applications require a cover letter, which can be attached with your resume, or you can paste a cover letter into their template.

Cover letters encourage the employer to continue reading your resume. They are a great way to articulate why you should be considered for a position amongst the other 100+ applicants. Ideally, a well written cover letter outlines how you are aligned with the company mission and values, rather than your resume verbatim.

Since the job market is tight, apply for everything. New grad postings, residencies, PRN......anything to get your foot in the door.

Good luck!

[mmc51264, BSN, MSN, RN]

Many of the online applications have links to upload reference letters. Same with the cover letters and resume.