Interview Question

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So I have an ICU interview coming up. One of the questions I know that they are going to ask is "Why are you not trying to move into the ICU at your hospital?"

I come from a big level I trauma hospital Stepdown unit, and my interview is at another (local) level I trauma hospital. I do not want to stay at my hospital because it has gotten really bad with management. Everyone is leaving, so I am sure the "new" hospital knows why, but will still probably ask me.

What do I say?

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Specializes in Prior military RN/current ICU RN..

Try saying good things about the hospital where you want to work and avoid bad mouthing the place you are leaving.

Do some research on the facility. Bring up what you like about the facility where you want to work.

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Thank you! I do plan on delving into their website. But I do not think I can avoid their question by answering how much I like their hospital. I am stumped because I know I should not say anything bad about my employment now, but I do not know how to put a "good" spin on it. The critical care division has really gotten bad with ratios all the way to ALL (and I mean ALL) of the ICU management being fired.

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Specializes in Prior military RN/current ICU RN..

Do you know what the ratios are at the hospital where you will be applying? Maybe just say you feel these ratios will allow you more individual time with the patients.

I just recently moved for a new job and I had a bunch of interviews. The key is be professional...that is really it. I ALWAYS say sir/ma'am. You do not have to spin anything. You tell them why you want to work there and what you bring to the table.

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Specializes in Emergency/Cath Lab.

"While my current hospital is able to provide me with opportunities as well, I feel that I am a better fit with your company because ....."

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Specializes in home health, hospice, SNF, geriatrics.

Just be plain and simple

I like my current hospital but this hospital offers more opportunity for advancement and is better aligned with my needs at this time.

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Thank you all so much. I think I confidently answer this question now.

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Specializes in Case mgmt., rehab, (CRRN), LTC & psych.

Moved to the Nursing Interview Advice forum for more replies.

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