Picu interview/calming interview nerves

[Colleen2515]

I have been on quite a few interviews since graduating (2 hospital and 3 school nurse) and I have to say that interviews are not a strength of mine. I did very well in school and I am able to handle working under pressure, but interviews somehow get the best of me! I have two interviews next week in the PICU and an adult neurology floor. Any advice for getting over the nerves? Also, does it really look THAT bad to hiring managers to be nervous?? Any other tips for preparing? Thanks!!

[NotReady4PrimeTime, RN]

I think interviewers expect a certain amount of nervousness. Arrive early so you can calm yourself a bit before the door opens. Dressing appropriately is vital. Nothing too casual, no excessive scent, tasteful jewelry, clean shoes, hair pulled back neatly... you know, first impressions. Give them a firm handshake. Sit up straight with both feet on the floor. If you're a fidgetter, fold your hands in your lap and keep them there. Breathe slowly in through your nose and out through your mouth while you get settled. Consciously hold in all the "umm"s that betray your nerves.

One big piece of advice I can give you is to take your time and think about your responses to their questions. Don't just blurt out the first thing that comes to mind. (I've been guilty of that too many times to count!) When asked clinical questions, apply the nursing process to your response. Even if you don't reach their expected answer, they'll see that you're thinking like a competent and confident nurse. When asked about interpersonal relationships, always follow the chain of command if it's something you'd need to report. And make sure you can talk about a weakness. They're going to ask that question... My usual response is, "I tend to try and manage on my own when I really should be asking for help. I've been working on that a lot, especially recognizing when I can't manage and have gotten more comfortable about asking for and accepting help when I need it." Ask about their orientation program and opportunities for further education. Ask about their typical patient assignments. And don't forget to thank them for their time.

Specific to PICU interviews, review respiratory illnesses in children because ALL children in PICU will have a respiratory component to their condition at some point. If you can find out what types of patients they admit most often you can review that too. By that I mean some PICUs have a large cardiac population and others don't. Some have a lot of traumas or burns, others don't. Good luck!!

[Colleen2515]

I got the PICU job!!!! I am so excited!

[JeanOfAllTraits]

Congratulations!!!!

[3peas]

Congratulations!