Panel interview with 4 different unit managers... how does that work?

[miniangel729]

I have a panel interview coming up with 5 people: managers from 4 different unit (Cardiac telemetry, Respiratory, Med-Surg & Pre-Op.) and the recruiter.

I've been wondering, how to prepare answering the questions - such as why do you want to work at our unit? Because I have no idea which unit I will be working for.. I also don't want to sound like I prefer one unit more than another ruining the chance of getting into any one of them. (btw, what is respiratory unit? is that part of med-surg..) what other questions should I expect? I don't have any experience with the Pre-op unit, not even during nursing school, what questions should I prepare/info. to study?

another question I've been wondering, what questions should I ask at the end of the interview? I found many great question on the forum. but I don't know how to ask them in a panel interview - since I'm being interviewed for 4 separate units, who do I look at and ask? for example:

- What is the typical nurse to patient ratio?

- What qualifications are you looking for this position?

- What challenges are there for this position?

- How often do you offer in-services and other education?

- How is orientation structured? How many weeks?

- How long have most of the nurses worked on this unit? (turn over rate?)

Since it is 4 different units, I don't know what to do. Do I just pick a random manager and ask? Do I ask the recruiter? or do I phrase questions in a way that covers all units - such as how long have most nurses work on each of the units? (hmm that sounds weird..) what are some good questions to ask at panel interview for multiple unit?

I've never been to a panel interview, especially not one for multiple units. Feeling a bit overwhelmed, any specific things I should prepare for/study ahead for these units?

any suggestions/tips/comments are welcome :) thanks in advance!

[tnbutterfly - Mary, BSN]

Moved to Nursing Interview Help for more response.

Good luck with the interview.

[katinme]

First of all...relax, be yourself, and take time to thoughtfully answer questions they ask, there is no need to rush your answers. YOU WILL BE FINE!

Second- they are interviewing you as a group, because it saves time, lets them all meet you, and each interviewer will often focus on different parts of your answers and comments . Usually, the managers of the unit will discuss (after your interview) which unit they think you will fit best in. Regardless of which unit you would like to work it (its ok if you don't) you need to address everyone in the interview.

Your questions are good.

- What is the typical nurse to patient ratio?

- What qualifications are you looking for this position?

- What challenges are there for this position?

- How often do you offer in-services and other education?

- How is orientation structured? How many weeks?

- How long have most of the nurses worked on this unit? (turn over rate?)

Good luck!

[miniangel729]

haha thanks for the RELAX katinme!! :) lol I will make sure to not rush my answer!!

and can you elaborate a bit more on what you mean by "you need to address everyone in the interview"? do you mean I should prepare a question for each of the manager? or when I answer to make eye contact with each interviewer..? or..?

[katinme]

You should definately give good eye contact first to the person who asks you the question, but then as you continue with your answer look at the others. Do your homework about the hospital and units if you can. Sometimes finding information about the specific units is difficult. I often try to incorportate information that i've found on their website, this way they know you are interested enough in getting the job to do your. When you ask your questions, you can use that as your opportunity to ask the different interviewers if you don't have specific questions about each section. If there is a certain unit that you think you would like better, mention it.

Keep this in mind...As much as you want a job, they want a RN that will grow within their unit. It has to be a mutual fit. I think that is something that RNs often forget. It's a partnership of sorts - if you are happy there, you will be a much better nurse.

As a new grad you need to want certain things too. For example - a healthy environment, good mentors, great leadership who will listen, and an adequate orientation.