Just got rejection letter, what happened?

WildcatFanRN, BSN, RN · Aug 12, 2008

I don't know what to tell you. I don't think they will give you a reason you weren't chosen. I have recieved more rejection letters in my email since graduation than I even thought I would. I get them without the benefit of an interview. All I can say is keep applying. Good luck.

MoopleRN · Aug 12, 2008

Job interviews are SO stressful. I wouldn't email them back. I do get the impression, however, that they were hoping you'd be more active during your shadow experience. It sounds like they're looking for someone who is going to ask questions/be very involved in orientation.

Things always have a way of working out and you WILL find the right job for you!

MelodyRNurse · Aug 12, 2008

Job interviews are SO stressful. I wouldn't email them back. I do get the impression, however, that they were hoping you'd be more active during your shadow experience. It sounds like they're looking for someone who is going to ask questions/be very involved in orientation.
Things always have a way of working out and you WILL find the right job for you!

I went on this interview on a monday-had do drive two hours to get there. Drove home-another two hours that night, worked tuesday and Wednesday, drove two hours again on Wednesday night to be on time for the shadowing Thursday morning. So needless to say I was pretty burnt out. I tried not to show it and I did participate, I showed interest, I was friendly, and enthusiastic. I wasn't sure exactly where my role was. I helped answer call bells, turn patients, empty urinals. But I thought I was supposed to be observing so that is mostly what I did. If I was in orientation it would have been different. But your probably right. I did the best I could with what I had at that time and I guess it wasn't enough. So I will try harder next time. Thanks.

Nurse K8 · Aug 12, 2008

I actually would email them back and ask why you weren't selected. You can use the info to prepare for the next interview you go on (there will be more!). The worst they can do is not respond. I was also shocked at the in depth scenario questions I was asked in my med/surg interview. Just use this as a learning tool and prepare for the next one...and keep your chin up, the right job is out there waiting for you!

Kate

SusanKathleen, RN · Aug 12, 2008

Hi,

If you pm me, I'll send you a list I have compiled of great information on getting ready for an interview. There is nothing wrong with you ---know that--- you just need to prep for the interview.

Good luck,sweetie - pm me!

squee-gee · Aug 12, 2008

I actually would email them back and ask why you weren't selected. You can use the info to prepare for the next interview you go on (there will be more!).
Kate

I think I remember reading (on monster.com or somewhere like it) that this tactic is perfectly acceptable - it would be so helpful for you to know so you can ace it next time.

Good Luck - and look forward!

amjowens · Aug 12, 2008

It sounds like a pretty serious interview-if they had you shadow, plus two interviews. They did invest their time, and something about you really interested them! Since they did give so much time toward trying to decide whether to hire you, I think it would be very responsible (and courageous!) of you to follow through with what they saw "wrong". It shows that you are willing to learn and grow. Make the most of the experience, and don't take it so personally, as doing so probably wouldn't be fair to you. Sorry about your disappointment, though!

IngyRN · Aug 12, 2008

I would definitely email or call to inquire why you were not accepted and thank them for the opportunity to interview. First, it will serve as a learning experience and 2nd, it may show them how interested you are in the position for future inquiry.

Think of the questions they asked, how you answered them and how you could improve the answer. Research online typical interview questions and "good" answers online on monster. Many managers follow a template, if you will, of questions. They are looking at how you answer them to determine, for example, if you are self driven, a team player, how you resolve conflict and generally if you will be a good fit and an asset to their unit.

Remember, in essence, you are interviewing them as well. Have questions prepared for them like RN:pt ratio, support staff, education opportunity and career growth.

Look professional-it will make you feel more confident, it helps exude that confidence. Bring some kind of small binder, a copy of your resume (in case they have misplaced yours-it happens!) & references if available, get to interview early.

Hope that helps. Don't get discouraged. Good Luck, you will find something-I am sure of it!!!

futurecnm · Aug 12, 2008

I had my first interview for a med-surg RN position. I was extremely nervous and they asked me a lot of questions that, in my opinion, were difficult to answer on the spot. They then asked me to come in and shadow a nurse for a day. I did that and unfortunately she was extremely busy, so I did not ask that many questions, because I didn't want to slow her down. Anyway at the end of the day they again asked me more interview questions, like what kind of questions did you ask today? Well I honestly was so nervous I couldn't remember. I had no idea an interview could be that hard.
It also seemed like they thought that I didn't know what a med-surg unit was like because I have been working in long term care, which is silly because I just graduated with my RN and spent six months on three different hospitals units.
I don't know what else I could have done. Would it be to forward for me to send an e-mail and ask why they didn't chose me? If it was one of my references then I want to know who they are so I don't use them again. And if it was for some other reason then I would like to know how I can improve for the next time.

It really does sound like they were interested, or else they would not have had a shadow day. Unfortunately the nurse you shadowed with probably did not think you were a good fit because after that day they chose not to hire you. Don't get too discouraged, and I don't think it hurts to ask them why. And you mentioned your references, I made sure to personally ask all of my references if I could use them and if they would give me a positive reference. I wouldn't just put anyone down because you never know if they will give you a good one or not. I'd let them all know you plan to use them and ask if it is ok.

futurecnm · Aug 12, 2008

I went on this interview on a monday-had do drive two hours to get there. Drove home-another two hours that night, worked tuesday and Wednesday, drove two hours again on Wednesday night to be on time for the shadowing Thursday morning. So needless to say I was pretty burnt out. I tried not to show it and I did participate, I showed interest, I was friendly, and enthusiastic. I wasn't sure exactly where my role was. I helped answer call bells, turn patients, empty urinals. But I thought I was supposed to be observing so that is mostly what I did. If I was in orientation it would have been different. But your probably right. I did the best I could with what I had at that time and I guess it wasn't enough. So I will try harder next time. Thanks.

Burnt out or not, an interview is your one and only chance to make a good impression. Maybe you appeared tired or worn out. I'd make sure to be well rested.

traumahawk99 · Aug 12, 2008

i say to hell with it. you've got to find a unit where they'll invest enough in you to develop into a producer.

killers for me in interviewing others are:

1. a smoker. this means the nurse will constantly be looking for smoke breaks instead of patient needs.

2. perceived whining/lousy work ethic.

3. a know it all attitude.

i'd make it very plain that you are looking for an opportunity to become a producer. this is language that management understands. good luck, keep applying.