Interview for Dream Job!

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I have an interview for my dream job next week. She said they had 200 applicants in 5 days for 2 spots, I am in shock that I even got the interview. I am 28 weeks pregnant with my third little boy and it is obvious. How much will that hurt my chances of actually being offered the job? How many people do unit managers usually interview for each position?

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Specializes in Oncology.

Oooh, that is tough. Pregnancy is a protected category, meaning it's against the law to discriminate against pregnant workers. That doesn't mean it doesn't happen though. As far as how many managers interview, that just depends on the facility and the manger. My previous boss didn't really have time to interview, so she only interviewed as many people as she had job openings, I think. She relied heavily on the nurse recruiter to send her good, pre-screened people, and as long as the person wasn't a complete idiot, if they got an interview, they got hired. Others interview 5, 10, 15 people for a few spots. It really just depends. Good luch!

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Thank you for your response. In a perfect world, a protected category of people truly would be just that, protected; however, when you have a neon sign on your abdomen that says I am going to need a leave of absence in 12 weeks, it is hard to stay objective. Then again, this is a specifically new graduate RN job so maybe they will not mind moving back my start date or just allowing me to take a few weeks out since they really know it will be a while before I am on my own anyway. New Grads on L&D usually have 3-6 month orientations, I think. I want this job so badly. Wanting to work with obstetric patients is what sparked my interest in nursing in the first place, and my family also desperately needs the income. It is a really tough spot to be in...I still have another 3 days until the interview. I am sure it will work out for the best one way or the other but the suspense is driving me slightly batty!

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Specializes in Critical Care; Cardiac; Professional Development.

Honestly? I think it is going to hurt you a lot. They have a large number of other candidates just as equally qualified who won't need the time off.

Just really shine through in your interview. Gauge those who are interviewing you and project yourself as a great fit for the job. Let your enthusiasm show and don't hold back. Follow all the good advice given in this forum for effective interviewing, from dressing appropriately to researching the hospital to having questions prepared to making eye contact. Good interviewing skills could be your ticket to swelling past your belly and into their mind as the right person for the job despite the hurdles you present on first impression. Good luck and I hope it goes well.

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Specializes in Oncology.

I empathize with you and wish you luck! On my last interview, I found myself being really honest. I am a straight shooter anyway, and it worked well for me (I got the job). Maybe you could mention it? Say, "I know you have many other qualified candidates that won't need a maternity leave, but this is why I would be a great employee... I will be so understanding of moms in labor... I will be challenged to be a better L&D nurse because I will have observed my own care..." Whatever you feel is appropriate. Since it is a neon sign, as you said, it might be better to mention that huge elephant in the room instead of dancing around it. Either way, let us know what happens!

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