Panel interview & meeting with staff-advice

[KimberlyRN89, BSN, RN]

Hi all, I recently had a phone interview for an assistant nurse manager position on a mother baby unit. I have 7 years of nursing experience, 4 yrs of that in mother baby, charge nurse experience, but this is my first time applying for this type of position. The manager set up a second step of the interview process in which I meet with the night shift staff (this position is on night shift), as well as other department managers in various units such as NICU, peds, l&d, and the director of women’s services. I am pretty nervous! Any advice?

[Orca, ADN, ASN, RN]

I would start by having the nurses describe their shift routine, and perhaps have them give you a tour of the unit. When you meet with the other department managers, take the opportunity to ask them what their main challenges are, and what advice that they might give to a new manager. People who have done a similar job can be a great resource.

[SummerGarden, BSN, MSN, RN]

Be yourself and know why you want the job. Also, do a little research (talk to some ANMs) about what the expectations are of the role so you can provide examples on how you are a good fit. In addition, since you are seeking a role as an ANM on a unit with which you are familiar and have staff and charge nurse experience, you already will be acceptable to most of the staff members who will be on the panel. I have only encountered staff being less than enthused by nurses seeking an ANM positon in a specialty he/she knows nothing about and/or has little to no experience as a front-line staff member. Being an ANM is an entry-level front-line management positon so staff nurse work experience and charge nurse experience in that specialty matters. Good luck!