PLEASE help me w/ letters asking for references / recommendations

[ismee_c]

Hi,

I really need help with how-to request references and recommendations. I have googled examples of letters and such, but I still need help. I have Aspergers/ASD, and so maybe that is why I am so perplexed (yes, I am an awesome nurse despite ASD, so please no snarky comments.)

here is my scenario: I graduated in December 2012, and haven't had a job yet. Also, I split my last semester cuz of GE stuff, so I did my preceptorship in the Spring of 2011. the unit i precepted on had a strict no new-grads policy, but yesterday they posted one opening for a new-grad eligible position. I want to ask my former preceptor and maybe some old teachers if they are able/willing to act as references, and/ or write letters of recommendation.

specifics i need help with:

1) am I still "allowed" to email old preceptor and ask him this? I haven't talked to him since the rotation ended, about a year ago. And, we definitely weren't a match made in heaven (though, not made in the depths of hell, either.)

2) people have told me to go in and drop off my resume and talk to the nurse manager. I have no idea who the nurse manager is, firstly (there were some.....issues.... with management.) and, um, can you just do that? What do you do? walk up to reception, and ask for the nurse manager? then give them your resume? then what do you say?

[lhflanurseNP, APRN]

If you haven't maintained a relationship with your preceptor, and you didn't "hit it off", I would not recommend asking for a letter of recommendation. Instructors whom you had a good relationship are willing to help. As a new grad, you could utilize any previous work experience. You should be able to find out the nurse manager from the facility's website. If not, you can always call the main number and ask the operator who the nurse manager is for that unit. Good luck...I admire your drive and remember you really want to connect with the nurse manager and HR person, so try to meet them in person and show them who you really are.

[ismee_c]

Hmmm. I guess what I was hoping was that if my ex-preceptor still works on the unit or at least knows the management, it would like basically 1/2 get me the job, lol, as he was that well-regarded. Thanks for the advice, maybe I'll try and see which nurses i sometimes worked with are still working there. Some of them I really got along with, so maybe if they know I'm applying they'd be willing to put in a good word...

[lhflanurseNP, APRN]

I think that sounds really good. Good luck!