job interview

[ICRN2008, BSN, RN]

I am interviewing for a position in a family practice clinic after six months of working in inpatient pediatrics. I am leaving my job because there is little chance of me getting off of the night shift for at least a year, and it is wreaking havoc on my physical and mental health (Sleep deprivation will do that to you). There are other issues with my leadership team that I won't go into, but suffice to say that I haven't seen or heard from my manager or supervisor for months. How do you suggest I respond to questions about why I am leaving my first nursing position after such a short period of time? TIA

[loricatus]

I think you should just tell them that although you are happy with practically everything within your working environment, there isn't any hope of ever getting off the night shift (and how you were given the initial impression it would be temporary and now is permanent-this should cover you if someone asks why you took a shift that didn't agree with your internal timeclock).

Good Luck

[talondora1]

I wouldn't say anything negative about anything regarding your previous job.

Perhaps you could say that you needed a change and would like to expand your horizons, so to speak. This tells them that you are eager to learn and be flexible.

Good luck!

[caliotter3]

I would go with what loricatus said. Blame it on not being able to get off night shift. Don't say anything negative about the way they do things at your old job. If you have an exit interview or discuss it with your old manager, stick with the night shift reason. That is a valid reason without bringing any criticism on anyone. Good luck.

[mauxtav8r]

Until you tried it you couldn't really know that you would not be physically able to adjust.

As was said above, stick with the facts and keep a tight lid on the negatives about the old place. Chances are, everyone where you are going already knows the deal there anyway (unless it's not in the same area). Keeping your mouth shut shows that you don't blab, which is a great trait to show off in an interview.

Good luck.