Interview went well but didn't get into the transition prgm!

[Cabodre]

I need some advice fellow nurses. I just had a interview for a seat into the CCU transition program at my employer. Let me first start by saying how gosh darn ticked off I am!!!! I have three and 1/2 years experience on Telemetry with ACLS cert and ecg interpretation knowledge. I interviewed well and was passed over by a fellow peer (whom I respect) that has none of the exp that I gained on the telemetry floor. She is med/surg and been a nurse a bit longer than I have about 7 years I'm guessing. This is the scenario, the CCU patient care director is notorious for hiring RN's with ZERO to bare minimum knowledge.. I wanted to be a CCU nurse for the past two darn years and waited patiently for the right moment and this happens. I was almost certain that I had a shoe in. My own manager said I was ready for that position, so what gives? I was 20 minutes early for the interview, resume was complimented by the CCU patient care director, AND I Took NOTES!! Asked questions, answered all interview questions with assertiveness and confidence. I need advice how to handle this situation!!!!!!! What should I do? Has this happened to anyone else?

[L8RRN]

You stated she tends to hire people with zero to bare minimum knowledge. I worked with a doctor who was the same way (would rather hire a new grad than experienced nurses). When questioned, he stated that he trains them the way he wants them and doesn't have to worry about how they have done things in the past. Doesn't COMPLETELY make sense, but thought I would share. I know it doesn't make you feel any better, but she may have a similar outlook and it doesn't reflect on you at all.Good luck reaching your goal!

[llg, PhD, RN]

How should you handle it? ...

With grace and dignity. Congratulate the nurse who was selected if/when you get the chance. Smile. Thank the hiring manager for the chance to interview. etc. She has a right to choose the person she wants to for the job.

After you have demonstrated such class, then ask to speak with the hiring manager. Seek her advice as you can advance your career in the direction your would like to go. Ask her to give you some advice on how to strengthen any applications you might make in the future. Show her that you have no hard feelings and take her career advice if it seems remotely reasonable. That may get you the job next time -- or at least, it will give you information you need to make a good assessment of your career prospects there.

I'm sorry you didn't get the job you wanted this time. ... But that doesn't mean you won't get it next time. Give yourself the best chance possible by handling this set-back with class.