Phone Interviews

[cracklingkraken, ASN, RN]

I'm looking at residency programs for when I graduate. My plan is to relocate from the Midwest, which means that many of the programs I'm considering are not within driving distance. As such, I'm anticipating many phone interviews and possibly video calls as part of the process.

My question is this: what kind of questions can I ask in the interviews to get a better feel for the facility and work environment?

Since I personally won't be able to see the inside of the hospital or gauge the work environment, I am limited in identifying the overall culture of the facility from afar. Any suggestions in how I can tactfully ask questions that reveal more about the culture of the facility; Many of the programs require a 1-2 year contract after I complete the program, so I don't want to be stuck in a hellhole.

Thanks in advance!

[amb218, BSN, RN]

Hmm, not sure where you're planning on relocating but I do know that most residency programs require an in-person interview and if they like you, a shadowing day on the unit as well. Sometimes, the first interview will be on the phone or through a video but then a second one that is in-person. People fly across the country to interview for top residency programs - it's just up to you on how much you're willing to travel to interview.

As for the phone interview questions, I would ask more specific questions about the culture of the hospital like, "What kind of support and resources are offered for new grad nurses?" or directly ask the interviewer why he/she likes working at the hospital. Questions like that can give you a good idea of the culture/attitude of the hospital and nurses who work there.

[cracklingkraken, ASN, RN]

Hmm, not sure where you're planning on relocating but I do know that most residency programs require an in-person interview and if they like you, a shadowing day on the unit as well. Sometimes, the first interview will be on the phone or through a video but then a second one that is in-person. People fly across the country to interview for top residency programs - it's just up to you on how much you're willing to travel to interview.

As for the phone interview questions, I would ask more specific questions about the culture of the hospital like, "What kind of support and resources are offered for new grad nurses?" or directly ask the interviewer why he/she likes working at the hospital. Questions like that can give you a good idea of the culture/attitude of the hospital and nurses who work there.

Thanks for the advice.

There are programs that do require an on-site interview as part of the interview process, but some do take into consideration out-of-state applicants being unable to make an on-site interview.

I would prefer not to travel, since I'll be in school until May, but I will if my chances are good.