Group Interview--coming prepared

[Lulu Belle, RN, EMT-B]

I am interviewing for one of those student nurse extern programs. The only face-to-face time we get with the hiring committee is a group discussion on an article.

The discussion rubric focuses on (1) how we facilitate the discussion and pick up on cues from our peers, and (2) how we demonstrate our preparation.

My question is this: since the primary purpose of the group discussion is obviously to demonstrate that we can work well with others, what is the best way to show I have also carefully read the article and come up with talking points?

Do I

1. bring notes (and risk becoming too engrossed in them/looking like I've missed the purpose of the exercise), or

2. do I memorize my talking points (but risk getting nervous and forgetting everything/looking like I did not adequately prepare)?

Thanks in advance

ETA: just realized I posted this in General Nursing, feel free to move to more appropriate forum

[SaltySarcasticSally, LPN, RN]

That is such a strange way to interview people. How well can they really determine if someone may be a good fit based off if a article discussion?

Yes, I would bring notes and good luck.

[Nurse SMS, MSN, RN]

Make a few notes but don't focus on them. This kind of interview has far more to do with judging your ability to read a room and interact appropriately. In other words, will you get along? Do you seem to be a good fit, personality wise? Secondary will be your insights and understandings on the article and the ability to analyze it for pertinent points but also ability to question if or when appropriate.

Go to it as cool, calm and collected as you can. Smile, laugh, use humor if you are able to sensibly do so. Interact, not just with the panel but with the other applicants if there are some there. See it as a chance to just sit down with other nurses or nurses-to-be and "talk shop".

[jodispamodi]

I've only done 1 group interview, frankly it was a waste of time.

[ChryssyD]

Know the article well, and also be aware of any possible discussion points, any controversial or questionable points in the article. You need to show your knowledge, but you also need to show your openness to criticism and conflicting points of view. You should also consider the impact of whatever the article is discussing on nursing in particular--in what way does the information inform nursing practice?

Best of luck to you. Based on your post, I feel you will do well. :)