Nursing Interview Questions

[aspenc12]

I am about to graduate with my BSN, and so the job hunt has begun! I work as a tech and have a few interviews lined up. I was just wondering what I can expect in the interview? I am nervous and just want to calm my nerves. I see that there may be a "panel" interview, and was just wondering how everyone felt about their interviews. Should I be worried about the case scenarios they may throw at me?

[Been there,done that, ASN, RN]

Many threads here on interview tips. Read them. Brush up on "behavioral questions".

I would say the most important thing to bring to an interview is confidence. That is an acting skill, practice in front of a mirror.

Best of luck.. let us know how it's going.

[samdbgt]

Someone please post some questions that we need to be prepared for. I mean, i am also waiting for the Q & A. Keep this thread alive guys.

[Rocknurse, MSN, APRN, NP]

I possess the dubious honor of having been offered a job at every single interview I've ever done, mainly because I follow the following rules: exude confidence. Not arrogance, not superiority, but quiet calm authority that commands respect but is warm and friendly. Draw your interviewers in with a smile, a warm, firm handshake and a genuine interest in the people you meet. From the front desk person to the CNA that you get introduced to, look them in the eye and say hi warmly and in a friendly manner. Show enthusiasm for your abilities and your experience.

Talk openly about your achievements and your goals. Explain what you see in this place that inspires you to want to come there. Ask lots of questions. I don't mean "what's the schedule going to be like" but more pointed questions about what kind of treatments/surgeries/therapies are used there. What are the advantages. What is the process of learning/education/certifications etc. You want to impress but not overdo it so you turn people off. You want to be friendly but not casual. You want to dress the part and reflect the person you want to be. How you present yourself is how people will perceive you. If you're not confident, that's ok. Fake it till you make it as they say. You don't have to be confident to exert confidence. If you're not sure of your abilities or are nervous of your inexperience, then just be confident in your desire to improve. Focus on that.

Another tip is to carry a smart leather binder with a notebook inside to write a few notes. I also print out a sheet of possible questions that I discreetly glance at now and again so I don't forget them. Put a resume printed on good quality resume paper in there and make sure you leave a copy with your interviewer.

Good luck!

[samdbgt]

I possess the dubious honor of having been offered a job at every single interview I've ever done, mainly because I follow the following rules: exude confidence. Not arrogance, not superiority, but quiet calm authority that commands respect but is warm and friendly. Draw your interviewers in with a smile, a warm, firm handshake and a genuine interest in the people you meet. From the front desk person to the CNA that you get introduced to, look them in the eye and say hi warmly and in a friendly manner. Show enthusiasm for your abilities and your experience.

Talk openly about your achievements and your goals. Explain what you see in this place that inspires you to want to come there. Ask lots of questions. I don't mean "what's the schedule going to be like" but more pointed questions about what kind of treatments/surgeries/therapies are used there. What are the advantages. What is the process of learning/education/certifications etc. You want to impress but not overdo it so you turn people off. You want to be friendly but not casual. You want to dress the part and reflect the person you want to be. How you present yourself is how people will perceive you. If you're not confident, that's ok. Fake it till you make it as they say. You don't have to be confident to exert confidence. If you're not sure of your abilities or are nervous of your inexperience, then just be confident in your desire to improve. Focus on that.

Another tip is to carry a smart leather binder with a notebook inside to write a few notes. I also print out a sheet of possible questions that I discreetly glance at now and again so I don't forget them. Put a resume printed on good quality resume paper in there and make sure you leave a copy with your interviewer.

Good luck!

Thank you.. You really are a rock nurse