When to tell my manager?

[jen42]

I have decided that my job and I are not a good fit. I graduated in June... been working at this unit ever since and it's just not the kind of work I want to do. I told my manager I was thinking over this issue and she's aware of it. But I've pretty much made up my mind. The question is: When do I tell her? I just sent out my resume, I haven't gotten any interviews yet. Do I tell her when I get my first interview? Or after my first interview, since I assume they'll have to talk to her for a reference? Or do I give a charge nurse as a reference and keep her in the dark? Will anyone accept that reference? Can I give my nursing school professors as a reference? I don't want to lose my old job while searching for my new one, I can't afford it. I don't want to spring it on her either, and leave the unit shorthanded. She's been very nice to me throughout this whole thing but has a reputation as a "loose cannon". Any advice, please?...

[llg, PhD, RN]

As you apply for a new job, ask those people to NOT call your current employer without letting you know and giving you a chance to talk with your current boss first. Explain that while you understand their desire to talk with her, you would rather not have that happen sooner than necessary. Most people hiring will understand your situation if you simply explain it and will wait until late in the hiring process to do that reference check. Professionals understand the need to keep your job search a secret and will be willing to wait until the "last minute" to give your secret away. In fact, they may only check the references of the people who make it through their first screening and are very likely to be offered the job.

Some places don't check references at all because they know that many institutions (such as mine) do not allow their employees to give references. They simply confirm dates of employment with human resources and find out if you are eligible for re-hire or not.

If you have someone you trust other than your boss who would write a letter of recommendation or give you a phone reference, you might use them as your "first reference" and ask that you current boss only be contacted to conclude the hiring process.

llg (ddd is my home account)

[traumaRUs, MSN, APRN]

I agree with DDD...I wouldn't tell your manager until you have secured another position.

[BeenThereDoneThat74, MSN, RN]

You said your NM knows you were thinking of leaving, so It probably would not come as a surprise to her if she got a call. I guess it depends on what you think she would say about you. What is her perception of why you want to leave? Or, you can do as the others have mentioned (ask that they don't call her, explaining that you don't want her to know yet).

I think at this point, you could still use your instructors. You may have to, if you are not planning on using your NM.

I certainly wouldn't resign if you have not secured another job. I think it looks like you were very desperate to get out, which could raise a red flag.

[SmilingBluEyes]

I agree w/the others. Best have that ace in the hole before showing your hand.