Moving into management....interview

[marysmom1216]

Hello All!!!! I have been an ER RN for close 8 years. I am interviewing on Monday for an ER Clinical Coordinator position. What questions are important for me to ask? What questions should I be prepared to answer? I am really exited, as the hospital is flying me from CA to NY for the final interview....the last 2 where phone interviews. Tips? Suggestions?

Alicia

[jrt4]

I can only give you what I ask but maybe it will be helpful. I try to focus on behavioral questions...for a staff nurse or front line supervisor I might ask...

1. What are your career goals? This question helps me understand...if I am looking for someone who is going to stay in this position for a long time or am I looking for someone with ambition. Usually ambition sticks out.

2. Tell me a about a time you felt great when you left work and what happened? Helps me get a feel for what motivates them...also helps me understand how they interact with people. Make it a great story...make it about the patients!

3. Tell me about a mistake you made and what you did to correct it or deal with it... Be honest. In 8 years you have made a serious mistake...we all have. Its important that you follow it up by what you learned...how did you share your mistake to make sure others didn't make the same mistake?

4. Be prepared to answer questions about how you motivate individuals vs a team. What ideas you have about retention. Give examples of certain situations you have been in regarding staffing or difficult families.

The easiest thing to do is just reflect on your own experiences...think about challenging times, think about your successes, think about experiences with your patients..good and bad. If you come prepared with some good "stories" you will be good to go! Good luck!