This sample cover letter makes applying easy for registered nurses

A career in nursing is as exciting as it is diverse. It’s a role that’s truly predictable in its unpredictability. If you’ve just completed your registered nursing degree and are looking to get your foot in the door by applying for jobs at your dream hospital, stop and take a moment to breathe before taking the leap. 

Read through your resume, consider your most marketable nursing qualities, and gather information about the hospital you’re applying for before sitting down to write your cover letter. Need a little extra help with writing yours? Not to worry. Here’s an example of an effective nursing cover letter, including tips and soft skills to include that will get you hired. 

An example of an effective nursing cover letter

Your cover letter is the missing piece of information that ties your personality to your resume. Even if you look great on paper, it’s your communication skills, positive attitude, and willingness to learn and grow that make you an attractive hire to a prospective employer. Follow this sample of an effective nursing cover letter when you write your own to instill an element of trust.

10 Loycron Way 
Carston City, AR 71601

May 8, 2023

Ashley Abrams, Head of Emergency Care
Magnify Hospital
1450 Main Road
Carston City, AR 71601

Dear Dr. Abrams,

I would love to express my interest in the registered nursing position available at Magnify Hospital’s emergency care unit, discovered on CareerBuilder’s recommended jobs. I believe that with my Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Madross (where I passed with distinction) and my internship at Meddie 24-Hour Medical Center, I have the skills and expertise that would make me an invaluable member of your emergency care team.

I am very familiar with Magnify Hospital and I am impressed by its longstanding reputation as one of the most advanced emergency care centers in the country. I have experience working in a diverse array of environments, most notably the emergency room where I gained practical experience with accidents and emergencies, but also with home health care services where I have displayed compassion and empathy to support those nearing the end of their lives. 

I am extremely punctual, reliable, and always willing to go the extra mile to help people. I have excellent attention to detail, I am a great problem-solver and I can remain calm and have clarity of mind in the most stressful of situations. In addition to dedicating my time to providing the best emergency care possible, it’s also my goal to work alongside patients and their families to create a sustainable and effective long-term care plan for long after they leave the ER. 

I would really appreciate the opportunity to discuss my application or the role in more detail at your earliest convenience. I look forward to hearing from you.

Respectfully,

Carly Athens

“Always include valuable soft skills for nursing, such as problem-solving, communication, or empathy.”

Tips for writing a nursing cover letter

Writing a cover letter for a nursing resume can be daunting, especially if it’s your first time doing it. Follow these tips when writing your cover letter to increase your chances of success:

• Research the role, the culture of the hospital, or any studies to show that you have done your homework.
• Tailor your cover letter to the position and hospital you’re applying for.
• Always include valuable soft skills for nursing, such as problem-solving, communication, or empathy.
• If possible, address your cover letter to the hiring manager by name.
• Be positive and passionate and show a willingness to work.
• Ask a reputable mentor for a recommendation and include it in your cover letter.
• Mention any previous work experience, such as internships where you have gained transferable skills.
• Give quantifiable and real examples of your experience or expertise.
• Finish with a compelling call to action, encouraging them to contact you.
• Go to sleep and proofread your cover letter the next day to pick up any mistakes.

Nursing soft skills to include in your cover letter

Here’s a list of attractive nursing skills to highlight in your cover letter:

• Compassion
• Patience
• Conflict resolution
• Empathy
• Observation skills
• Emotional intelligence
• Strong work ethic
• Customer service skills
• Interpersonal skills
• Teamwork
• Time management
• Flexibility and adaptability
• Confidence
• Networking
• Leadership skills
• Taking initiative
• Problem-solving abilities
• Professionalism

There you have it. You can use this example of an effective cover letter when applying for a nursing position and use the tips and soft skills that can make you a more marketable hire. Still trying to find the best role at a hospital or medical center near you? Don’t sweat it. Why not upload your nursing resume on CareerBuilder and let the professionals come to you? It’s simple and takes less than two minutes to complete.

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