How to stand out during an interview

Take a copy of your resume and pass it out as you sit down. Be confident and take a deep breath. If you don't know an answer, DO NOT GUESS!!!! I was asked a tough clinical scenario question where the patient was having some serious issues that I wasn't 100 percent sure how to respond to. I had a guess, but I said, "I am a new grad, I am not 100 percent sure of the answer, so I would ask my charge nurse or call the doctor. I will never endanger a patient because I think I know something." I think HUMILITY and being willing to learn is HUGE, especially for a new grad.

By the way, I graduated this month and have secured a new grad job 1 week post-graduation in the ED with 6 months of orientation/training. I only tell you this because I just went through this whole process for a very competitive hospital job.

Dress for success! Smile and be courteous. Give a nice strong handshake. Make eye contact. Come ready with questions to ask. Read up on the facility. Be ready to share personal experiences from nursing school. Be passionate. Don't be afraid to show your excitement for the OR. Be humble and respond carefully. You don't have to answer a question right away. You can say you would like to think about it and ask if you can go back to the question. Show that you are eager and ready to learn. Read up on common interview questions a head of time so you won't be so surprised.

Thank you both for your excellent tips! :)