A nursing job letter of intent is a document written by a nurse to convey interest in working for a healthcare employer, such as a hospital, clinic, or nursing home. The applicant typically submits this letter of intent along with their resume to provide a thorough background of their education, relevant work experience, skills, and qualifications for the desired position.
This letter explains why the nurse believes they are well-suited for the organization and invites further contact for more information. While it may not guarantee immediate employment, the letter can be kept on file by the employer for future job openings.
Essential Documents for Applying to a Nursing Job
- Resume
- Letter of Intent
- Nursing License Copy
- Relevant Certifications (BLS, ACLS, PALS, etc.)
- Official Transcripts and Diplomas
- Letters of Recommendation
- Immunization Records
- Government-Issued ID
- Preparedness for Background Checks and Drug Screening
How to Write a Nursing Job Letter of Intent
Follow these steps to create a compelling letter:
- Gather Your Information: Collect all relevant details about your education, certifications, and work history. Make sure you have any necessary documents ready in case the employer requests them.
- Research the Employer: Learn about the organization you’re applying to, whether it’s a hospital, clinic, or other healthcare facility. Understand their services, team structure, and patient demographics. If possible, schedule a visit to get a firsthand look at the workplace.
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Draft Your Letter of Intent: With your research in hand, start writing your LOI:
- Introduction: Begin with a formal salutation (e.g., “Dear [Name]”) and introduce yourself. Mention your intention to apply and briefly state your background as a nurse.
- Education and Experience: Detail your educational background, degrees, certifications, and relevant work experience. Highlight how your skills and experiences align with the employer’s needs.
- Closing and Call to Action: Express your enthusiasm for the position and invite the employer to contact you for further discussion. Suggest a meeting or phone call to explore how you can contribute to their team.
- Submit Your Letter: You can send your LOI by mail, email, or in person. A physical copy can often make a stronger impression and be kept for future reference.
- Follow-Up: If you don’t receive a response within a reasonable timeframe, follow up with the employer to confirm they received your letter and to reiterate your interest in the position.
Mistakes to Avoid in Your Nursing Job Letter of Intent
- Typos: Accurate spelling is crucial, especially for complex medical terms like “Cardiomyopathy.” Typos can signal to hiring managers that you lack attention to detail, a critical trait for nurses.
- Overemphasizing Personal Achievements: While it’s important to highlight your accomplishments, they should be framed in a way that shows how you can benefit the employer.
- Dishonesty: Always be truthful in your letter. Any exaggerations or lies are likely to be uncovered and can severely damage your credibility and chances of employment.
- Incorrect Addressing: Ensure you address your letter to the correct person. Misaddressing your letter can lead to it being disregarded immediately.
- Repeating Your Resume: Your letter of intent should complement, not duplicate, your resume. Use it to convey your enthusiasm for the role and how you can contribute to the organization rather than just listing your qualifications.
Medicare's Quality ratings
Start your job search by checking Medicare’s quality ratings of healthcare agencies and providers. Look for the “overall star rating,” which reflects quality indicators and patient satisfaction.
Nursing Job Letter of Intent Sample
Download a customizable template available in PDF or MS Word formats.
