Providing references with job search

[GIEndoRN, BSN, RN]

I've worked in the same unit since graduating from nursing school. My previous career was in a totally unrelated field. I have recently been thinking about moving on to a larger hospital to gain more experience as I hope to start traveling at some point. I have not told anyone at work about this, as I'm honestly not sure if I will make a move or not. My unit has recently lost quite a few people as it is.

I applied to a job and got an interview, but they wish to have five professional references, at least two coming from a supervisor. How do I deal with this? So I would now have to announce that I'm thinking about leaving? I'm not sure if I'm comfortable doing this in case I don't end up taking another job.

[cleback]

For the last nursing position I was hired into, the HR rep offered me a position, pending references. So maybe have a list ready but explain you would rather not have your managers contacted until further along on the hiring process?

Do you have coworkers that you trust to be references at least? Any former managers from your non-nursing life? I imagine they check to be sure you're a good employee, so I don't think a non nursing reference would hurt.

[AceOfHearts<3]

I would reach out to a couple of coworkers you trust. A charge nurse and your preceptor if you are on good terms are great people to list. I'd also have a copy of your most recent review available.

I'd state up front you aren't comfortable giving your managers info unless they are serious about making an offer. I'd also call HR, you don't have to state who you are, and ask about the policy of managers serving as references- my last job had the policy of verifying employment and that is it.

I was really pressured for my old manager as a reference, but I held firm that I wasn't comfortable then updated them when I found out that it would be impossible to use my manager as a reference. I still got the job.

Good luck!

[SaltySarcasticSally, LPN, RN]

I agree with others, only have them use your manager reference once they are ready to offer. And my job also did not use manager references unless doing internal transfers so looking in to that because you can give the reason to your new job. Use old professors, current co workers who can keep quiet, etc.