Assistant Manager Interview

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Specializes in Critical Care.

Hello everyone. I am looking for some input on an upcoming interview for an assistant nurse manager position in the ICU I am employed in. One of the four assistant managers left for graduate school so a position is open for internal candidates. Myself and another nurse have both applied and interviews will be next week.

The interviews are being scheduled after our scheduled shift. So my first question is should I bring a suit to change into after my shift or do I wear my scrubs?

Next, any tips or suggestions as far as interview questions or what I should be prepared for?

Thanks in advance for the help!

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Specializes in ED, ICU, MS/MT, PCU, CM, House Sup, Frontline mgr.

Thanks for posting. Not many candidates post here. Most wait utnil he/she gets the job, which gives the impression that landing an entry-level mangement nursing position is as simple as just wanting to be one or finding an opening, which is not true.

First, do you know the time of your interview during your shift? If not, find out because if you have time to dress appropriately, do so. Second, Assistant Nurse Manager and similar positons require you to step out of your comfort zone and with what you are familiar to focus on your department in a big way. So prepare to be peppered with questions related to customer service, being team player, conflict resolution, compromise, working with other departments, the flow of the department, supervising or leading others, disciplining others, and last but not least, why the heck you wish to be an Assistant Nurse Manager?!

If you make it or don't let us know! If you do not make it, do not give up! Figure out what you did wrong then improve yourself, your resume, your interviewing abilities, your network, your reputation, your experience with whatever, etc.... because the only guarantee that you will not be a manager of nurses someday is if you give up trying. Good luck!

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Specializes in Critical Care.

Thank you for the input! This is actually the second time I've interviewed for this position. The first time was almost 6 months ago, but another candidate was chosen. Now that it has opened up again I wanted to try again. However, I plan on being more prepared.

I have my ideas of what I would like to change, how I feel I will manage, and a bunch of other ideas written down. Is it inappropriate if I take my notes with me? Also, (to answer your question), my interview is an hour after my shift so I will have time to change clothes and dress appropriately. So should I change clothing even if my manger told me, the last interview, that scrubs were ok? I really am hoping to get the position and I will definitely keep trying in the future if I don't get it this time. Also, I will let you know. Thanks again for the input!

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YES..... Change Change Change!! Always dress professionally for the position you are applying for.

I agree with the bringing the notes. It shows you have given thoughtful consideration to areas of opportunity on your unit.

I would suggest reaching out to the person that got the job before you. They landed the job previously, they may have some insite into what your manager is specifically looking for.

Know your metrics, know how your unit is measured. SCIP / CAUTI /CLABSI etc and be able to speak to them. Employee engagement and accountability are very difficult things to balance, know how you will handle it. Speak to what you have done in the department up until now to prove you are a leader/informal leader.

Good Luck and keep us informed

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Specializes in Critical Care.

Thank you again for the advice. I was offered the position yesterday! I am extremely excited to begin this next chapter in my career!

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Specializes in ED, ICU, MS/MT, PCU, CM, House Sup, Frontline mgr.
Thank you again for the advice. I was offered the position yesterday! I am extremely excited to begin this next chapter in my career!

Good for you for not giving up and CONGRATS!!!! :) :) :)

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