The Nursing Students’ Guide To Getting the Right Job
School of Nursing
University of Maryland
Office of Admissions and Student Affairs University of Maryland School of Nursing 655 W. Lombard Street Suite 102 Baltimore, Maryland 21201 January 2004
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Introduction Self-Assessment What are your top ten skills? Which career values are the most important to you? What type of job would you like? What are your job requirements? Compiling Your Personal Information Market Assessment Ways to Explore Your career Options Research Potential Employers How do you skills, interests, and values match the positions available? Resume Writing Three Kinds of Information on the Resume Guidelines for Completing a Resume What should be included in a resume? Additional Tips for Writing Resumes Action Verbs Sample Resumes and Templates References Reference Sheet Completing an Application Guidelines for Completing an Application Letter Writing Cover Letters Additional Suggestions for Writing Cover Letters What should be included in a cover letter? Interviewing Additional Resources Appendix 2 3
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INTRODUCTION
This manual is design to assist you in the process of getting your first job. You need to be thoughtful and thorough throughout the process so that you are able to find the right position, and, therefore, build a solid foundation for your nursing career. Working through the following stages will help with this career development process. Self-Assessment is the identification of your strengths and interests and clarification of your values to better understand yourself and what you have to offer a prospective employer. Market Assessment is the analysis of the job market and identification of positions most appropriate for you. Resume Writing is the construction clear, concise, and targeted documents that will result in your getting interviews. Letter Writing is the development of cover letters and thank you notes that personalize the resume and provide opportunities for additional communication with potential employers. Interviewing is the preparation of presenting yourself successfully in an interview.
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SELF-ASSESSMENT
The first stage of the process is finding out about yourself. You need to review your skills, interests, values, and personality as well as evaluate your career and educational options. What are your top ten skills (e.g., writing, working with people)? Which do you enjoy? Where is the overlap? Which of the following are most important to you? Job security Receiving sufficient training and supervision High salary High sense of achievement Self-development Which career values are the most important to you? Advancement Independence Routine activity Variety Working in a friendly environment What type of job would you like? What type of environment is right for you? Are you interested in the private sector, government, or a social services agency? Do you want to work for a large, medium, or small-sized employer? What is your geographic preference? Do you want to continue your education while you work? What are the job requirements and benefits? Relocation. Is it required? Likely? Necessary to advance? Travel. Is it required? How often? Work Schedule. Consider the number of hours in a typical work week. Will it change after a few years? Salary. Calculate how much money you need. List your anticipated expenses, i.e., rent, utilities, furniture, transportation, food, phone, clothing, entertainment, insurance, and college loans. Benefits. Consider various companies' medical, dental, retirement, profit sharing, and vacation benefits. What is most important to you at this time? Compiling Your Personal Information You need to compile information about your education, professional and/or volunteer experience. This list will help you focus on your interests, skills, ands strengths, as well as provide the basis for applications, resumes, and interviews. The following personal data sheet will help you organize the data.
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Keep in mind that all employers seek career-related experience, oral and written communication skills, interpersonal relations skills, leadership, ability to work as a team member, analytical thinking, problem solving, and computer knowledge.
PERSONAL INFORMATION
Name Address Social Security Number (or Alien Card Number) Position desired Date(s) available Full-time or part-time Temporary or permanent Shifts Objective Qualifications
EDUCATION
Undergraduate college/university 1 Address (city and state) Degree Degree dates Major(s) Special training, e.g., internships Awards Professional affiliations Undergraduate college/university 2 Address (city and state) Degree Degree dates Major(s) Special training, e.g., internships Awards Professional affiliations Undergraduate college/university 3 Address (city and state) Degree Degree dates Major(s) Special training, e.g., internships Awards
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Professional affiliations Graduate college/university 1 Address (city and state) Degree Degree dates Major(s) Special training, e.g., internships Awards Professional affiliations Graduate college/university 2 Address (city and state) Degree Degree dates Major(s) Special training, e.g., internships Awards Professional affiliations
EMPLOYMENT HISTORY
Employer’s Name/Organization 1 Address (city and state) Dates employed (month/year to month/year) Job title Supervisor Phone number Reason for leaving Ending salary Employer’s Name/Organization 2 Address (city and state) Dates employed (month/year to month/year) Job title Supervisor Phone number Reason for leaving Ending salary Employer’s Name/Organization 3 Address (city and state) Dates employed (month/year to month/year) Job title Supervisor Phone number Reason for leaving Ending salary
VOLUNTEER ACTIVITIES
Name of volunteer activity 1
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Title Dates volunteered (month/year to month/year) Supervisor Phone number Responsibilities, skills, knowledge
Name of volunteer activity 2 Title Dates volunteered (month/year to month/year) Supervisor Phone number Responsibilities, skills, knowledge
Name of volunteer activity 3 Title Dates volunteered (month/year to month/year) Supervisor Phone number Responsibilities, skills, knowledge
PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZATIONS
Organization 1 Dates (month/year) Responsibilities (president, etc.) Organization 2 Dates (month/year) Responsibilities (president, etc.) Organization 3 Dates (month/year) Responsibilities (president, etc.)
OTHER
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MARKET ASSESSMENT
Your next step is to explore career options and make decisions about which positions best fit your interests, values, skills, and abilities. Ways to Explore Your Career Options Attend the annual SON spring Job Fair Read career information available in libraries and on Web sites (A list of Web sites is included in Additional Resources section.) Perform volunteer work Talk to faculty Initiate informational interviews with various career professionals Interview alumni Finding Available Positions Attend the annual SON spring Job Fair Network with SON friends, faculty, preceptors, and professors Join nursing associations such as the American Association of Critical Care Nurses Attend nursing conferences such as the annual Summer Institute in Nursing Informatics held each summer at SON Search newspapers, nursing association Web sites, Web data bases, hospital Web sites Attend health fairs Research Potential Employers How large is the organization? What is its reputation? Where is it located? What is the organization’s culture? Are there opportunities to continue your education? Are they encouraged? How do your skills, interests, and values match the positions available?
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RESUME WRITING
Now that you have completed a self-assessment, know what kind of job you want, and have information about various employers, you are ready to write a resume. A resume is a tool to promote your experience, education, and accomplishments to prospective employers. It conveys to the employer that you have the skills to be a successful nurse. You want to send a clear and positive message. There are no rigid rules about writing a resume, only guidelines. Each person will have different information to convey and a different personality to express. What should be included in a resume?
Name block contains contact information.
Type you name in boldface at 13-14 points. Include permanent and current addresses, if appropriate. List you phone numbers as well as your personal e-mail address.
Name Address Home Telephone E-mail Address
Objective Statement states what you want and what you can do.
Be concise. It should not be more than two lines. Relate the statement to the position you are seeking. State the title or type of position you are seeking. Do not use an objective statement if you are not seeking a position in a specific area.
Objective: RN position in pediatric critical care unit
Headings define information sections that describe your unique skills and experience.
Arrange headings in reverse chronological order. Highlight all headings and be consistent, using same typeface, boldness or capitalization.
Education Professional Experience Professional Organizations Volunteer (or Community) Experience Activities
Headlines explain the where and when of your experience.
List the Education section before your professional experience if you have no related experience and your education is directly related to the position you are seeking. Include undergraduate GPA if above 3.5 and graduate GPA if above 3.75.
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Include all Professional Experience related to nursing in this section, such as internships, part-time nursing assistantship. It is acceptable to include experience that is not paid since this section is called Professional Experience and not Work Experience. Include other information such as professional memberships, publications, presentations, security clearances, language skills, computer skills, and travel abroad. Make sure they support your career goal. Include honors and awards if they are unique and relevant to your career goals.
Education
University of Maryland School of Nursing, Baltimore, MD Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree candidate, expected May 1999 GPA: 3.8 University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, 2000 Major: Biology
GPA: Biology 3.9; Overall 3.79; Phi Beta Kappa
Professional Experience
University of Maryland School of Nursing, Baltimore, MD Nursing Student, 2002-Present Provided direct care to laboring mothers and infants including vital signs, fetal monitoring, medication administration, newborn and postpartum assessments. Attended vaginal and cesarean births. Completed seven-week leadership practicum in labor and delivery.
Volunteer Experience
St. Agnes Hospital, Emergency Department, Baltimore, MD Patient Advocate Volunteer in Emergency Room, October 2000 – May 2002 Provided assistance during sterile and orthopedic procedures and patient education. Offered support to patients and families during emergencies. Facilitated communication among patients, families, and medical professionals.
Activities
Member, National Student Nurses Association, 2002 - Present
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Additional Guidelines for Writing Resumes Write your own resume. It is a reflection of you. Be truthful. Develop several versions of your resume in order to target various positions for which you are applying. Use action verbs to provide a forceful way of presenting you qualifications and experiences. A list of action verbs is provided on the next page. Use bulleted statements so that the reader will easily see what you have accomplished. Keep them short. Keep most important information along the left margin and closest to the beginning of each section of your resume. Use capitalization, bold, and indent to highlight important information. Be consistent. Use bullets or dashes, not plus signs or asterisks, to emphasize phrases. Avoid use of italics, underlined text, graphics, and shading. Do not use “the”, “a”, “an” or other articles throughout your resume. Do not use acronyms unless they are spelled out the first time used. Do not list high school if you have completed college. Do not include irrelevant information such as weight, height, age, or marital status. Do not include salary information. Do not lie or even stretch the truth. Do not use the title “Resume.” If a second page is necessary, be sure to include your name and page number in the upper left-hand corner. Avoid fancy fonts. Use Times New Roman, Arial, or Helvetica with a size of 11 points. Limit lines to 70-80 characters per line. Use a 1-inch margin throughout. Use quality bond paper between 16 and 25 lbs. Purchase matching envelops and personalized note cards as well. Reproduce professionally or use a laser printer. Do not staple the resume. Use a paperclip instead. Do not fold the resume. Use a 9”x12” envelope. Proofread your resume! Have someone read it, too.
Proofread carefully. Proofread carefully. Proofread carefully.
Proofread carefully. Proofread carefully. Proofread carefully.
Proofread carefrully.
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Action Verbs
Use actions verb to describe your qualifications and experience. They provide a forceful way of conveying your skills and accomplishments. Achieve Administer Advise Analyze Answer Apply Arrange Assemble Assess Assist Build Calculate Categorize Chart Classify Coach Code Collaborate Collect Communicate Compile Complete Compose Compound Compute Conduct Confer Conserve Consolidate Construct Consult Contact Contribute Control Coordinate Copy Correspond Define Delegate Deliver Demonstrate Design Determine Develop Devise Diagnose Direct Distribute Edit Eliminate Establish Estimate Evaluate Examine Expand Explain Formulate Gather Generate Guide Handle Help Identify Illustrate Implement Improve Increase Initiate Install Institute Instruct Interact Interpret Interview Judge Lead Lecture Maintain Manage Measure Mediate Modify Monitor Motivate Negotiate Obtain Offer Operate Order Organize Outline Perform Persuade Plan Prepare Prescribe Present Process Produce Promote Protect Prove Provide Realize Receive Recommend Record Recruit Reduce Refer Relate Repair Represent Research Respond Restore Retrieve Review Revise Revitalize Search Select Sell Serve Simplify Solve Spearhead Speculate Sponsor Study Succeed Summarize Supervise Supply Support Synthesize Teach Test Train Translate Troubleshoot Tutor Unite Utilize Verify Volunteer Write
Sample Resume and Template The following pages contain sample resumes for nursing students. are templates for writing your own resume.
Following the samples
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Carrie Smith
201 Elm Street Baltimore, Maryland 21205 (410) 555-1212 csmith@erols.com OBJECTIVE Nursing position in labor and delivery unit EDUCATION University of Maryland School of Nursing, Baltimore, MD Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree candidate, expected May 2004 GPA 3.92/4.0 University of Rochester, Rochester, NY Bachelor of Science in Biology and professional teaching license, May 1998 PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE University of Maryland School of Nursing, Baltimore, MD Nursing Student, 2002 - Present Labor and delivery clinical rotation Provided direct care to laboring mothers and infants including vital signs, fetal monitoring, medication administration, newborn assessments and postpartum assessments. Attended vaginal and cesarean births. Extensive experience including clinical rotations in OB/GYN, pediatrics, medical/surgical, psychiatry and community health (112 hours in each rotation). Completed seven-week leadership practicum in labor and delivery (precepted, 32 hrs/week) in Spring 2003. University of Maryland School of Nursing, Baltimore, MD Birth Companion, May 2003 Provided physical and emotional support to women with at-risk pregnancies. Assisted women in preparing for and carrying out plans for birth. Utilized techniques of doula training with laboring women. Facilitated communication between laboring woman and clinical care providers. Managed 40 JHUSON student birth companions as student program leader. Assigned clients to birth companions. Howard County General Hospital, Emergency Department, Columbia, MD Clinical Nursing Intern, May 2002 - May 2003 Conducted and charted patient assessments under supervision of RN. Implemented individualized discharge planning. Provided patient education upon discharge as directed. Developed patient education bulletin boards and posters. Performed blood glucose testing. Inserted peripheral venous catheters.
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Carrie Smith Page 2 Hobbit’s Glen High School, Science Department, Baltimore, MD Teacher, September 1998 - June 2001 Taught Biology, Earth Science, and Paramedic Biology to 9th through 12th grade students. Planned and implemented daily lessons using lecture, discussion, group activities, laboratory experiments, and community resources. Instructed 130-155 students including honors, standard, and those with special needs. Communicated with students, parents, faculty, and staff. VOLUNTEER EXPERIENCE St. Agnes Hospital, Emergency Department, Baltimore, MD Patient Advocate Volunteer in Emergency Room (PAVER), October 2000 - May 2002 Provided assistance during sterile procedures, orthopedic procedures, and patient education. Offered comfort and emotional support to patients and families during emergencies. Facilitated communication between patients, families, and medical professionals. ACTIVITIES President, UMB School of Nursing Senior Class, 2003 - 2004 Led bimonthly officer meetings. Organized fundraising activities. Planned and coordinated academic, volunteer, and social activities for class. Maintained communication between students and course coordinators. Vice President, UMB School of Nursing Student Government Association, 2002- 2003 Assisted in planning and implementing tri-school gatherings. Wrote and revised Student Government bylaws. Member, National Student Nurses Association, 2002 - present Member, Sigma Theta Tau international nursing honor society, 2003 - present
REFERENCES FURNISHED UPON REQUEST.
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Hanna Harrison
1551 Washington Street Baltimore, Maryland 21205 410-555-1212 hharrison@nursing.com
Objective Education
Family nurse practitioner position in multidisciplinary clinic. Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing, Baltimore, MD Master’s of Science in Nursing, degree candidate, expected May 2003 Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing, Baltimore, MD Bachelor of Science in Nursing, May 2001 University of Delaware, Newark, DE Bachelor of Arts in Biology, May 1995
Professional Experience
Family Nurse Practitioner Student, University of Maryland School of Nursing Baltimore, MD, 2001-present Participate in the following clinical rotations in Baltimore: Foster Health Services, Multidisciplinary Clinic providing comprehensive care to primarily HIV + population of all ages. Provide primary care, case management, and medication management. Johns Hopkins Burlington Health Center, Provide primary care, OB/GYN, podiatry, ophthalmologic, and cardiology services to patients of all ages. Hunt Valley Family Practice, Family practice clinic providing primary care. Take patient histories and perform assessments; order and review results of diagnostic tests, make diagnoses, prescribe treatment regimens, and monitor efficacy of treatment; provide health education and preventative services; refer to specialists as needed. Registered Nurse, Johns Hopkins Hospital Emergency Department Baltimore, MD, August 2001-present Urban emergency department serving predominantly minority, indigent, and/or socioeconomically disadvantaged population. Presenting complaints often related to chronic disease, substance abuse, and violence. Take histories and perform ongoing assessments of physical and mental status while medical work up in progress Coordinate patient care, social work referrals, and outpatient treatment Administer medications, perform EKGs, venous and arterial blood drawing, IV-line maintenance and insertion, and clean and dress wounds Provide patient education and explain discharge instructions Student nurse associate, Helen Green Community Center Baltimore, MD, January 2000-May 2001 Urban pediatric clinic offering free immunizations, well child, and sick child care to uninsured and underinsured families. Screen for hearing and vision deficits, and developmental delays of pediatric clients Administer immunizations
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Patricia Moyer Page 2 Clinical Nurse Intern, Johns Hopkins Hospital Cardiology Care Unit Baltimore, MD, July 2000-March 2001 Provide direct patient care Administer EKGs, central line management, IV-line maintenance and insertion, and manage airways of patients on and off ventilators Certified Nursing Assistant, Winter Health Care Center Casper, WY, March 1998-August 1999 Assisted physically and mentally disabled residents with activities of daily living Aided nurses with medical care activities Peace Corps Volunteer, United States Peace Corps Kathmandu, Nepal, September 1995-December 1997 Designed and conducted health training focusing on basic first aid, sanitation, and hygiene for 80 illiterate women in four villages Taught English and science to 4th-6th grade students in village school Designed and implemented several teacher training programs focusing on increasing knowledge base in science and English and utilizing effective teaching techniques Languages Spanish, fluent French, conversational
Professional Utah Nurses Association, January 2003-present Organizations American College of Nurse Practitioners, January 2003-present Sigma Theta Tau Honor Society (Nu Beta Chapter), May 2001-present
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_______________________________________ ___________________________________________________ _____________________________ ____________________
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OBJECTIVE
EDUCATION ____________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE ____________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________
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Name Page 2
VOLUNTEER EXPERIENCE ____________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________________
ACTIVITIES
REFERENCES FURNISHED UPON REQUEST
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_______________________________________ ___________________________________________________ _____________________________ ____________________
Objective
_________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________
Education
_________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________
Professional Experience
_________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________
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Name Page 2 _________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________
Volunteer Experience
_________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________
Activities
________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________
REFERENCES FURNISHED UPON REQUEST
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References You will need references for any nursing position you apply. There are some guidelines for developing a list of people who can speak on your behalf. Ask for permission before you list someone as a reference. Ask possible references if they have any reservations about providing a reference for you. Give references a copy of your resume and describe the position. Let references know when to expect a call and who may be calling. Keep references apprised of your progress. Send thank you notes thanking those who agree to be references. There are three main types of references: professional (e.g., current or past employers or coworkers); academic (e.g., current or former instructors; and personal (e.g., friends). List your references in the order in which you want them to be contacted. Begin with professional/academic references and use personal references as a last resort. Bring extra copies of your reference list to an interview. Reference Sheet (Type = work related/professional, academic, and personal) Type Name Title
Phone number
The following page illustrates a reference sheet.
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Your Name Address Phone number e-mail address List of References Dr. Susan Smith Professor University of Maryland School of Nursing 655 West Lombard Street Baltimore, MD 21201 410-000-1111 ssmith@son.umaryland.edu Dr. Hilda Mae Associate Professor University of Maryland School of Nursing 655 West Lombard Street Baltimore, MD 21201 410-000-1111 mae@son.umaryland.edu Ms. Carla Dune Nursing Supervisor University of Maryland Medical Center 22 South Greene Street Baltimore, MD 21201 410-000-1111 dune@son.umaryland.edu (Supervisor during rotation, 1/03-4/03) Professor Charles Cook Professor University of Maryland School of Nursing 655 West Lombard Street Baltimore, MD 21201 410-000-1111 cook.umaryland.edu (Advisor)
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Completing an Application You will have to complete an application for almost any job you apply. Use your personal data sheet to facilitate this process. Guidelines for completing applications Whenever possible, take the application home so that you have time to complete it carefully and neatly. This also allows you the opportunity to have someone proofread the application for you. Proofread carefully. Check for grammatical and spelling mistakes. Type or write legibly. Use correction fluid sparingly. Write longer answers on a piece of scrap paper before entering them on the application. Include skills that are relevant to the job. Never write “See resume.” Explain gaps in your work history in a positive way that can be related to the job. For example, if you cared for a sick family member, relate it to your nursing skills.
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LETTER WRITING
Letter writing included cover letters as well as thank you notes. Cover letters introduce you and your resume to the potential employer and encourage a follow-up call. Thank you notes express your appreciation to the people who have interviewed you, served as references, or assisted you in some way. Cover Letters Cover letters need to be concise and informative. From the job announcement for the position in which you are interested, identify one or two of your accomplishments that are most related to the requirements of this position. Describe them in such a way that the reader can link her needs to your skills. Cover letters should be no more than one page long (3 - 4 paragraphs). The first paragraph states why you are writing, the title or type of the position you are seeking, and where you heard about it. If possible, include the name of a networking contact--someone who knows both you and the employer. The second and third paragraphs should elaborate your experiences and interests. Be sure to focus on those that demonstrate your related skills. The closing paragraph outlines the action you will take to follow up on your application. If the advertisement requests no phone calls, end your letter with a statement such as, “I look forward to hearing from you soon.” Additional Suggestions for Writing Cover Letters Be clear and concise. Address the letter to a person and not to a position or title, if possible. Avoid using “Dear Sir” or “Dear Madam.” Make your letter brief. Make your letter personal. Avoid jargon. Proofread for grammatical, spelling, or typing errors. Type your letter neatly. Use the same paper as your resume. Get matching envelopes. Keep copies of all correspondence for easier follow-up.
Develop a basic cover letter and adapt it to fit any position for which you are applying.
Sample Cover Letter and Template The following pages contain a sample cover letter and template for nursing students.
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Return Address Date
Street
City, State, Zip Code Month, Day, Year
Inside Address
Contact Name and Title Company/Organization Street City, State, Zip Dear Ms. or Mr. Name:
Salutation Paragraph 1: State purpose
Paragraph 2: Express interest
Paragraph 3: Intentions & thanks
Closing Typed Name Signed Name
Sincerely, or Cordially, or Respectfully, First MI Last
Enclosure
Enclosure (Indicates you are including your resume)
Cover letter sample and cover letter template
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March 17, 2004
Amanda Tanner Associate Recruiter Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium 4141 Ambassador Drive Anchorage, Alaska 99508 Dear Ms. Tanner: I am writing in response to our discussion in Mid-November about nurse practitioner employment opportunities in the Fairbanks, AK area. As you can see from my resume, I will graduate in May 2003 from Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing with a Masters of Science in Nursing with a Family Nurse Practitioner focus. I am also a National Health Service Corp Scholar and hope to locate employment that will fulfill my two-year commitment and potentially establish long-term career placement. Throughout my work history and clinical rotations, I have had the opportunity to work in inner city, urban and rural health care settings. I have developed strong interpersonal and communication skills and the ability to work effectively with a wide range of constituencies in diverse communities. I have also developed sound organizational and leadership abilities. My experiences have enabled me to develop proficient skills that prepare me well for challenges of a family nurse practitioner. (Give examples here. For instance, in my clinical rotation at the pediatric clinic, I treated children with …., education parents on …., etc.) I am very interested in beginning by career as a nurse practitioner with the Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium in the Fairbanks, AK area. (Why? You might explain why here.) Please forward my resume to any agency within your organization that may have nurse practitioner career opportunities. (Add how you will follow up with her in a few weeks—be specific--since you have a contact, you should definitely take the lead on staying in touch.) Thank you for your time and attention. I look forward to speaking with you soon. Sincerely,
Julia Kaye Edge Knauff
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Cover Letter Template ___________________________ ___________________________ ___________________________ ___________________________
___________________________ ___________________________ ___________________________ ___________________________ _______________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ Sincerely,
Name
Enclosure
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Thank You Letters and Notes It is important to say "thank you." In addition to being the right thing to do, every "thank you" is an opportunity to sell your qualifications and leave a positive impression on the reader. Send a thank you letter or note to employers, employment contacts and references whenever they have extended themselves. This includes after a job or informational interview, when someone gives you a referral or information, or whenever someone takes time to help you. The best approach, letter or note, will depend upon the circumstances, personal style and preference. The best strategy is to select the approach that best serves the immediate need. The thank you letter should follow a standard business letter format, while the note may be a simple, handwritten note or card. The situation and your personal style will determine which you send. A written thank you letter or note should be sent after all interviews. This is your opportunity to make one more impression before the decision is made. Send a written thank you letter even if you're turned down for a job. Let employers know that you appreciate their consideration, and you'd be interested in future opportunities. Points to Consider Write a thank you letter or note no later than 24 hours after the interview. Be brief and to the point. Note the job you interviewed for, and also list the date of your interview. Always address a thank you letter to a person by name and title. Include your personal calling card if you have one. If there are multiple people, such as a panel interview, send a separate thank you to each person. When sending more than one thank you letter, vary each letter. When thanking a potential employer, restate your interest in the position and the employer. Briefly include any pertinent information you failed to mention earlier. Be sure to reemphasize your most important qualifications and skills for the jobTry not to start consecutive sentences with the same word. Offer to come in for another interview or to provide more information if needed. Make it a point to tell the person when and how you will be following through. Basic Parts of a Thank You Letter or Note Statement of appreciation Expressions of interest in the job Brief restatement of qualifications/skills An opportunity to add additional information you failed to mention Final "thank you" Date and time you will follow-up as previously agreed
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Sample Thank You Letter 1234 Howard Street Ellicott City, 55555 (555) 555-5555 September 20, 2004 Ms. Barbara Simpson Human Resource Manager Hollywood Hospital 111 Hollywood Way Baltimore, MD 55555 Dear Ms Simpson: Thank you for the opportunity to discuss the nursing position in your critical care unit. Our conversation gave me a better understanding of ABC Company and the requirements of the job. The additional information from Max and Katherine was helpful in gaining a better perspective of the position. My strong office and interpersonal skills will definitely make a contribution to your company. I am proficient in all the computer software packages you use, and I feel I possess the customer service experience you want. I enjoyed meeting the office staff and touring the facility. This is clearly a quality organization with an emphasis on efficiency and a dedication to teamwork. I would consider it a privilege to join your team and will contact you next week to inquire about the hiring decision. Again, thank you for your time and consideration. Sincerely,
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INTERVIEWING
Preparing for An Interview If you are called for an interview, you will have met the basic requirements. The purposes of an interview are for the employer to evaluate you and your qualifications, and for you to sell your skills and experience. Sometimes an employer or human resources office will conduct a preliminary interview by telephone to verify qualifications and establish a preliminary impression of the candidate's attitude, interest and style. If all goes well with is interview you will be asked to come for the “real thing.” Selection Interview The purpose of this interview is to discuss the candidate's qualifications and to assess the comfort level with which the candidate might establish working relationships. There may be numerous interviews at this stage. As the number of candidates whittled down, you may be invited back to speak with the same person and/or with other managers or members of the work group. Your ability to establish rapport and present yourself as the right person for the position is critical. You might be given an opportunity for you to meet and talk with your prospective coworkers. Just as in other interviews, this peer group will be evaluating you, determining how you fit in. You might be referred to a panel interview, which usually consists of three or more people, all asking questions. Direct your answer to the individual asking the question, but try to maintain some eye contact with the other members of the group. Getting Off to a Good Start Be prepared. Dress appropriately. Arrive on time for the interview. Fill out applications neatly, completely and in black ink. Bring a notebook, black pen, your personal calling card and extra copies of your resume. Bring letters of recommendation, your reference list, copies of licenses, and social security or alien card and any other documentation supporting your qualifications (portfolio, work samples). Your posture, walk, dress, facial movement, energy, gestures and eye contact are important nonverbal signals. Use a natural greeting and shake hands firmly, but only if a hand is offered to you first. Show reserved confidence. Let the interviewer start the dialogue. Listen carefully. Answering Questions Give direct, honest answers. Take your time. Develop the answer in your head before you respond. If you don't understand a question, ask for it to be repeated or clarified. Ask questions in return. Answering difficult questions that may reflect negatively on you can be answered by using the "sandwich model." This model has a positive statement followed by admitting the negative situation, and ending with another positive statement about what you've done to overcome the problem.
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Finishing Summarize why you're qualified. State strengths and qualities you may have forgotten to emphasize earlier. Mention a particular accomplishment or activity that fits the job. If you want the job, say so! Don't overstay your time. Ask what the next step is in the hiring process. Will there be additional interviews? When will the hiring decision be made? When could you call back for the decision? Follow-up Evaluate the interview. What went well in the interview? How can you improve? Send thank you letters or notes within 24 hours to each person with whom you interviewed. Sample Interview Questions Tell me about yourself. This is an icebreaker. Keep the answer job-related. Why are you interested in working for us? You can show that done your homework. State the positive things you've learned about the company and how they fit with your career goals. Tell me about your education. Some employers like to have you expand on your education. Mention your grade point average and good attendance record. Include all classes, seminars, workshops and on-the-job training you've attended that support your job goals. Why have you chosen this particular field? This is one way to discover your enthusiasm and dedication to nursing. Describe your best/worst boss. Don't present a negative picture of any past employers. If given a choice, always talk about your best boss. If pressed to describe the worst boss, pick a work-related characteristic that can be stated in a positive way. For example, "I had a supervisor who was vague when issuing assignments. I learned to ask questions so that I knew what was expected." In a job, what interests you most/least? This will give the employer another gauge for measuring how well you will fit the job opening. What is your major weakness? Always turn this into a positive! State a weakness and turn it into a positive by showing how you overcame the weakness. "In the past, it was difficult for me to accept criticism from my peers. However, I've learned to value and solicit this input and it's improved my job performance." Give an example of how you solved a problem in the past. It's important to be able to show the process you go through when presented with a problem. State the problem and the steps you followed to reach the solution. Think about something you consider a failure in your life, and tell me why you think it happened. Failure implies error. Answers that point to a negative should conclude with a success How do you think you will fit into this operation? This is the time to express your interest in the job and knowledge of the employer. The more you know about the operation the easier this question will be to answer. If you were hired, what ideas/talents could you contribute to the position? This is another great opportunity for you to sell your skills. By giving examples of past accomplishments, the employer can visualize your contribution to his/her company. Give an example where you showed leadership and initiative. Even if you haven't had the title of lead worker, supervisor or manager, give examples of when you recognized a job needed to be
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done and you did it.
What have you done to develop or change in the last few years?
This shows a willingness to be challenged and to improve. Employers are looking for people who are willing to continue learning. Talk about formal and informal educational opportunities you've pursued. Mention books and periodicals you've read related to your field of interest. Do you have any questions for me? By asking questions, you again show interest in the job. Listed on the next page are some questions you may want to ask at your interview.
Questions to Ask in an Interview What are the responsibilities and accountabilities of this position? Would you describe an average day on this job?
What aspects of this job would you like to see performed better? What are the key challenges or problems of this position? Where can I go from here, assuming that I meet/exceed the job responsibilities? How would you describe the ideal candidate? What are the employer's short- and long-range objectives? When and how will I be evaluated? What are the performance standards? With whom would I be working? Who would be my supervisor? Who would I supervise? What is the department's environment like? When will you make the hiring decision? May I call you for the decision? When is a good time?
Discriminatory or Illegal Questions What is or was your spouse's name or line of work? Have you ever filed a Workers' Compensation claim or been injured on the job? Do you have any physical impairments which would prevent you from performing the job for which you're applying? Have you ever been arrested? Title I of Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Prohibits These Questions What is your hair/eye color? What is your height/weight? Have you ever been hospitalized? If so, for what condition? Have you ever been treated by a psychiatrist or psychologist? If so, for what condition? Is there any health-related reason you may not be able to perform the job for which you're applying? How many days were you absent from work because of illness last year? Are you taking any prescribed drugs? Have you ever been treated for drug addiction or alcoholism? Once an employer offers you the job they may request Birth certificate Marital status Proof of citizenship Photographs Physical exam and drug testing Social Security card or alien registration card
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ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
General Nursing Websites
Nursing World - American Nursing Association Code of Ethics - read-only, must purchase printed copy Nurses for a Healthier Tomorrow Minority Nurse - career and educational resource for minority nursing professionals Exceptional Nurse - resources for nurses and nursing students with disabilities NursingNet - comprehensive resource that provides information on careers, critical care and pediatric nursing, journals and publications, continuing education, among others. This is a great site to research nursing information.
State Boards of Nursing
National Council of State Boards of Nursing, Inc.
NCLEX Preparation Nursing Specialties
Nursing Websearch Nursing Spectrum --provides information primary nursing positions, specialties, and alternatives to traditional nursing careers Nurse Practitioner Central -- resources for nurse practitioners Nursing Associations/Organizations American Nurses Association National Student Nurses’ Association Maryland Nurses Association State Nursing Associations US Nursing Associations International Nursing Associations National Black Nurses Association The American Assembly for Men in Nursing National Association of Hispanic Nurses
Nursing Certification/Licensure
American Nurses Credentialing Center -- Administers more than 37 specialty and advanced practice ce0rtification examinations each year including community health nursing, gerontological nursing, home health nursing, pediatrics, among others. Nurse Week -- Includes AANC certifications as well as many others (i.e., lactation specialist, diabetes educators, etc)
Career Resources
National Student Nurse Association Career Center -- great general career resources including: juggling nursing school and family, tips for thriving in nursing school, occupational outlook for nursing, etc.
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National Student Nurse Association Career Resources -- Career section of the National Student Nurses’ Association web site. Timely articles on specialty nursing, career profiles, preparing for licensure Minority Nurse -- Easy-to-use US map (also includes Puerto Rico, Guam, Virgin Islands, and N. Mariana Islands). Click on the location in which you are interested to get contact information for hundreds of health career organizations Professional Nursing Network - Search for nursing positions both in the US and internationally. Hospital Web -- Lists more than 1100 hospital web sites HRMED-- Register your resume and you’ll be contacted about nursing positions that meet your requirements. Nursing Volunteer -- Provides information for nursing volunteer opportunities in developing nations Salary Calculator -- Calculator compares salaries for states and cities Nursing Salary Statistics
Selected Job Posting Links
Nursing Spectrum Medjump RN.com Travelnursing.com Nursingjobs.com Nursezone.com
International Employment Opportunities
International Council of Nurses Health Volunteers Overseas -sends senior nurses and nursing faculty overseas on short-term missions to teach nurses in developing countries University of Michigan Directory of Work Abroad Web Sites
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