Multiple Job Interviews...Help!!!

HappyDay, RN · Feb 9, 2009

First, keep in mind that 'peers' or potential coworkers, were once (possibly recently) in your same position. Find out what was the most helpful information to them when they made their choice. Ask them what the schedule is like, how they balance work and life, what is the most refreshing aspect of the position, what does the hospital do for nurses to better their education/job/day? You can also ask about continuing education, uniform options (all white, color coded, or free choice), realistic patient load, best shifts for a newbie, etc.

Hope this helps. Just remember, you can ask the same questions of mgrs as of the peer nurse. They may just have 2 different points of view. This is a great opportunity to see what the unit/nursing culture is really like.

Good luck.

**NickiLaughs, ADN, BSN, RN** · Feb 9, 2009

I actually like peer review interviews better, there's a better chance of impressing at least one person, who can "convince" the others. Always be friendly, show them that you are someone who can be worked with. Coming off as a team player is perhaps one of the best signs, and of course, if they ask a question you don't know the answer to. You can say, "Because I am a new nurse, and my experience is limited, I would check the protocol and also ask another experienced nurse." Something along those lines, they know you're going to have questions, they want to make sure you're not afraid to ask them.

WildcatFanRN, BSN, RN · Feb 10, 2009

I've written down a list of questions from one of the threads on this site to ask managers. I never thought to ask the same ones at a peer interview. My guess is I also need to come up with unit specific and hospital specific questions to ask. Funny thing is, a lot of the time a lot of my questions get answered in the initial 5 minutes of the interview when the manager is going over things. I think I need to get specific in my questions...correct?

chicookie, BSN, RN · Feb 10, 2009

When I was peer interviewed it was quite easy! A nurse that I already new from when I had clinical on the floor came in and the unit secretary came in. They are looking for more of your personality is what they told me. While the manager focuses on if you can do the job, the other people focus more if you are a good fit for the floor.

When they came in they just asked me like what would interfere me from working, if I was willing to help others out, social life, they were really laid back about the whole thing, different from my manager that was uptight. =D

You will do great! I just know it!

chicookie, BSN, RN · Feb 10, 2009

I've written down a list of questions from one of the threads on this site to ask managers. I never thought to ask the same ones at a peer interview. My guess is I also need to come up with unit specific and hospital specific questions to ask. Funny thing is, a lot of the time a lot of my questions get answered in the initial 5 minutes of the interview when the manager is going over things. I think I need to get specific in my questions...correct?

The only thing I asked was if the unit was self scheduled or if someone else was doing the schedule.

WildcatFanRN, BSN, RN · Feb 11, 2009

I just hope I don't talk too much. That has been my problem when working, I seem to talk too much. I guess people don't like honest answers to questions asked. At least that has been my experience.

WildcatFanRN, BSN, RN · Feb 12, 2009

I have another question. This one might be a no brainer, but should I put my resume on professional resume stock to take with me to give to my interviewers. If we had done portfolios at my school I'd take that.

chicookie, BSN, RN · Feb 12, 2009

I have another question. This one might be a no brainer, but should I put my resume on professional resume stock to take with me to give to my interviewers. If we had done portfolios at my school I'd take that.

I think if you can you should. It makes it stand out.

HappyDay, RN · Feb 12, 2009

Resume stock costs so much! If you have it, or the money, use it. However, an alternative... Go to Target, and purchase for $3-4 a pack of varigated speckled paper (usually gray, blue, tan, peach or so) and use the gray or blue. I did that and did not have one person question my choice. Just make sure that your resume and referances match. Also, when you choose Print, make sure under your options you pick the best or optimal copy. (No fast print, no every day).

WildcatFanRN, BSN, RN · Feb 13, 2009

I wish now, that my school had concentrated at least one week to interviewing and resume prep. We did have to turn in a resume, but it wasn't critiqued or anything. I didn't get a good critique until a very nice nurse on allnurses looked it over and gave me advice. Darn thing is still long, but at least it looks very good.

HappyDay, RN · Feb 13, 2009

Make sure you list your clinical sites and the rotation you did there -- even if you only spent one day at a place. Also, list your CPR-BLS as a liscensure. Most hospitals are looking for experience. Go heavy on that if you have it, and lighter on other areas. Never list hobbies unless they are directly related to nursing/healthcare. Always put the same header (name, address, phone, email) at the top of each page you give them (including a referance page or cover letter). Try your hardest to keep it to a 1 page resume. Decrease margins, decrease font size/type face if you need.

In my experience, the resume was hardly even looked at. HR only looks at the hospital specific applications. If you are lucky, there is a place you can cut and past your resume into - however, you loose ALL formating.

Remember for an interview, bring transcripts, copy of your CPR card, RN liscense number/print out from your BON, letters of recomendation, etc.