NP job interview in specialty ADVICE needed!

[fitchick20]

I graduated from FNP school in May 2012 and took my boards and passed a couple months later. Since then, I have been going on job interviews with no luck. My last RN job was at an ENT clinic which I loved! I landed an interview at a different facility in an ENT clinic. So, not only do I need this job, but I'm pretty sure it would be a good fit for me. I am needing advice on how to "sell" myself. I had an ENT interview in the past and it went well, but they went with someone with experience. Also, this position may involve surgical assisting, I am not sure yet. I would love that as well, but my experience is limited. I am intelligent and love learning, reading etc. so I am confident I can handle it. But, other NP/PAs with experience keep getting chosen over me. All of my past interviews have went well, but I know I need to do or say something different this time, because I really need/want this job. Any advice is appreciated!

Thank you,

Cass

[bsnanat2]

Maybe you could emphasize that you have ENOUGH experience and exposure to be good at the job but without the baggage of bad habits that sometimes comes with MORE experience. Also emphasize your ability to learn and find the answers. This is the approach that has gotten me several offers here lately. The downside of making lack of experience into a positive is that it makes compensation an issue. You simply have to sell that issue just as hard. What I've done here is to let them offer, counter offer with what I want and include a willingness to have a salary step system in place to get to my final number within 6 months or so. You are still worth a high end salary even if the experience is not yet in place, after all, you can still bill no matter what your experience. NP's are too often willing to just take what is offered without thought for the future and this drives all salaries down. Plan your work and work your plan!

[fitchick20]

Thank you for your response! I really appreciate it! I think the interview went well, but they always do. Hopefully, I will hear back from them soon!

Thanks for all your advice!