references and recommendations

[brista]

I'm an FNP grad and am not able to start working until early next year due to work commitments as an RN. I like to be prepared when the time comes to apply for FNP jobs, of course. When the time comes to apply for various positions, will I simply need to list contact information for preceptors who will then be contacted for references/recommendations? What is the average number of references requested for FNP positions? Three? A few classmates already acquired actual letters of recommendation from preceptors, which I remember having to do in my undergrad program. Is this really necessary at the FNP level? It's hard to know exactly what I'll need now since I'm currently not applying for positions. If I simply need to list preceptors who an employer may contact for a recommendation I plan to contact each preceptor now letting them know my time frame and ask them in advance if they will be willing to serve as a reference when the time comes. Thoughts? Experiences? Tips? TIA

[DizzyJ DHSc PA-C]

The job will dictate what they want for references. At my first job out of school they required 3 physician references. Others jobs wanted 3 peer references and some wanted any 3 references. Three is the magic number, but always give an additional 1 or 2 if possible because a reference failing to respond can stop credentialing from moving forward.

[brista]

That's helpful. Did you simply need to list contact information for 3+ references, or did anyone request written letters?

[DizzyJ DHSc PA-C]

Only my first job did they want letters of recommendation given to them. Beyond that every hospital system I've worked for will send emailed questions or a specific form to be completed by the reference and then returned. Most references prefer a simple form to complete over needing to free form their own letter. Most places just have you listed name and email address, some want detailed address/fax/email/cell though sometimes.