New RN Grad Interview Advice

[L&DShopaholic]

I'm so happy I'm a New Grad here in south florida & I've been looking for work since April 2011. I've been glued to my laptop applying to jobs (sometimes the same ones) everyday. I've recently been hired with an awesome hospital as a L&D nurse!!! This has been my dreams for years These are just some things that I thought may help some of you aspiring RNs like myself who are trying to get a chance out there to make a great first impression.

1. I had my preference to work on L&D floor however when your a new grad with NO EXPERIENCE...preferences go out the door....so apply at any hospital...in any department. Getting your foot in the door is the hardest part. Taking a med surg job doesn't mean you have to stay a med surg nurse forever. Besides supposedly in-house hiring is a lot easier.

2. A lot of people do not include a cover letter...which I think may mean the difference between picking you or another person for the position.

3. One big thing that I've been noticing from talking to my other classmates is that everyone one has particular shifts they want to work...particular days they can't....etc....I understand there are some single mother and fathers out there but just to be frank if Baptist is interviewing 10 ppl for 3 positions...do you think they would pass up a single young nurse who can work any shift and possible OT for someone who seems to have a lot on their plate. I'm not saying lie but we all have other priorities other than work....however in the interview let them know your available any shift, anytime, no accommodation needed. Deal with the road blocks of schedule conflicts once they arise...get a babysitter...do what you gotta do. There are lots of nurses applying for that same position....don't give them any reason to say no.

4. Prior to the interview I research the job requirements and also the facility. It looks good when you can somehow mention something. For example...Let's say Baptist is big on "Family Center Care" you may want to find a way during one of their questions to mention that you know that Family Center Care is very important here at Baptist...etc....

5. During the interview even though I was shaking like a leaf and nervous like crazy I made eye contact...smiled...engaged with them. I wanted them to see my compassionate side. I showed them my humor (only if the moment is there of course & don't be inappropriate). I was selling myself so I can leave them with something to remember.

6. After my interview I sent them a Thank You Letter...letting them know how thankful I was for them giving me the opportunity and giving them contacts if they needed anymore information.

7. Most importantly don't approach the situation with a sense of entitlement...it seems a lot of people are distraught that they went to Nursing school and they can't find a job....as if the nursing schools promised them a job when they got licensed. Be humble, grateful, and appreciative. Even if you go on an interview and don't get the job...that may be your chance to send them another "Thank you Letter" just for the opportunity.....who knows maybe that may leave a lasting impression and the next time a position is available you may come to their mind.

LASTLY....PRAYYYY!!! For those of you who don't and is finding a hard time getting a job...who knows maybe this may be a good time to start LOL! Good Luck Everyone. I hope these help you have a new perspective when you go out there looking for work. BTW....I got a L&D position with no experience at ALL!!! So anything is possible

[SweetseRN]

Excellent advice! You really hit all the key points. The only thing I would add is to bring a small "portfolio" with you to the interview. Put in copies of letters of recommendation, any awards you have received in school, list of references, any special certifications you may have...Anything that makes you special and sets you apart. Leave it with them at the interview so they have something to remember you by.

[PolaskyRN]

Congrats on landing a job and thank you for the tips! Best wishes to you

[Spydered]

Congrats and great tips...:)

[MombearNurse]

Thank you for the tips. I believe that I have been using all of your suggestions but just have not had any luck landing a job. I assume it is my answers during the interview but I just don't know what to do anymore. I am continuing to apply everywhere and hope the praying helps!