If you’re trying to find an NP Preceptor, let me tell you the biggest secret in the game: you have to win over the office manager. Every clinic has one, and they’re the real decision-makers when it comes to letting you through the door.
The office manager is the gatekeeper. Think of them like the agent of a celebrity. You don’t get your movie script to Tom Cruise—you get it to his agent, and that agent decides whether it’s worth passing along. The same thing applies here: if you want to place an NP student with a great preceptor, you’ve got to start by getting past the front desk and building a relationship with the person who runs the show behind the scenes.
Step 1: Learn Their Name
Before you can build any real connection, you need to know who you’re talking to. Call the clinic and ask, “Hi, can I get the name of your office manager?” Sometimes they’ll give it to you, sometimes they won’t—but just ask.
If they hesitate or ask why, try this: “I’d like to send them a thank-you card.” That answer usually works. And it’s not just a line—actually send one. A handwritten thank-you card through good old-fashioned snail mail can make you stand out in the world of NP Preceptor outreach.
Step 2: Use Their Name Confidently
Let’s say you find out the office manager’s name is Brenda. Next time you call, don’t say, “Can I speak with the office manager?” Say, “Hi, it’s Chloe for Brenda!” You’re not just a random cold call anymore—you know who you’re trying to reach. That familiarity builds instant credibility.
And when Brenda picks up the line? “Hi Brenda! It’s Chloe.” Friendly. Confident. Personal. That connection makes all the difference when you’re trying to secure an NP Preceptor slot for your student.
Step 3: Be a Real Person, Not a Script
Office managers deal with chaos all day. The more human and respectful you are, the more likely they’ll listen. It’s not about smooth talking—it’s about being thoughtful, persistent, and kind. If you can make their life easier, they’ll remember you.
Final Thought
There’s no guaranteed formula to securing the right NP Preceptor, but one rule is non-negotiable: the office manager is your in. Learn their name. Use it. Respect their time. Send the thank-you. Make the follow-up. That’s how relationships are built—and that’s how students get placed.
They might not wear scrubs, but they hold the keys to the clinic.
—Chloe
Recruiter, Preceptor Tree
