First Interview

[BELLE0924]

I have my first interview next week. I'm really nervous. I haven't even taken the boards yet. Any suggestions? Outside of the standard job interview questions what should I be prepared for. I already have a bunch of my own questions to ask. I hope that doesn't seem to overzealous, but I want to make sure the hospital fits for me and much as I do it..... Any info or help would be appreciated!!!!

[RosesrReder, BSN, MSN, RN]

Best wishes to you in your interview. :)

[Wren]

Congrats Belle on your first interview!! I think it is terrific that you have your own questions as long as they aren't along the lines of "how soon can I take time off?! :chuckle I do lots of interviewing and I am always impressed by the candidates who have taken the time to understand the company that I work for, what we do and are able to say why they want to work there. I am assuming that this interview is for work on a floor that interests you. If so, think of a couple of statements about why that is your passion...your grandpa died of of an MI and you want to work on Telemetry, etc., or you love teaching, enjoyed your ortho rotation so you think rehab nursing is a fit for you...whatever YOUR particular interest is. Nurse managers love to hire nurses who want to work, not just someone who is looking a job.

I'd ask what kind of training or mentoring program they will offer. How long will it last? Will you have one person that you will primarily work with or will there be a series of preceptors (Neither is necessarily good or bad but it is useful to know). I'd ask the nurse manager what HER biggest problem is in managing the unit. That should impress her and it may give you some insight into the culture of the place. I'd tell her that you are self-directed (if you are) and ask for her advice on books or journals to purchase or borrow to prepare you for working there. Finally, at the end of the interview, shake her hand, tell you are excited about the opportunity (if you are) and that you'd like to join her team or work there (using your words). Enthusiasm and professionalism will go along way :)

By the way....dress NICELY!! Don't wear scrubs or jeans. Wear business attire and if you have multiple piercings...remove as much of your hardware as you can tolerate.

Good luck!!