The day I received the email stating that a hospital wanted to set up an interview, I was excited. I was getting my first nursing position, I quickly replied with available dates and times. Then the excitement immediately turned to absolute dread. “I have an interview.”
#1 Research the Company or Hospital
Some of you might have begun to research the prospective position while applying; some might have applied to everything available forgetting one facility or blended them. Either way, learn about the company with two specific items to look at if you do nothing else the mission statement and the services provided. The mission statement I wrote down on an index card and highlighted essential words. These keywords I made sure to include in my answers during the interview. The facility I interviewed for had a variety of services it was not limited to a small amount or specialized in a specific. If asked the question “why do you want to work here?”. The answer found in the mission statement or the hospital or company services provided.
#2 Interview Question
Before getting an interview, start to get your hands on the questions. Google and Pinterest were perfect for researching most common interview questions. Start to look at as many interview items and begin to formulate answers. The way I prepared was with index cards. At the top of each card, I wrote the question. Some were easy to answer, and then some extremely hard. It’s essential to accompany each answer with a short narrative, an example of your answer. It comes across better to provide some kind of answer than nothing. I carried the cards with me when I was out of my house when an answer came to mind I was able to jot it on the index card. The cards were read through and recited out loud nights before and the morning of the interview. Keep in mind; you don’t want to sound scripted. But keeping these answers and examples fresh in your mind allows easy access to them when most needed. When reading them, I practice what I would say by hitting my critical points on the cards. All the question I answered in the interview I had reviewed in one form or another. I wasn’t hesitant on a question, and I thoroughly explain everything.
#3 The Look, The Clothes
My school had a few days during our senior year when business casual was mandatory, such as State level conventions, mental health orientation, award banquets, and NSNA National Convention. I highly recommend anyone accepted into nursing to purchase a few mix and match business casual pieces to make a few outfits. Men have the option of khaki or black slacks, no cargo pants, with a simple button-up shirt. The shirt can be solid or patterns but no logos or screen prints. Shoes are to be black or brown, not sneakers and socks should be black, a tie is optional, not necessary. Women, on the other hand, have so many options and decisions. Finding the right outfit almost falls into decision fatigue. Starting at the bottom, the foundation of an outfit, pants or skirt. Skirts worn are below the knee. Black is a classic color, neutrals and greys are safe tones to wear. Other colors and patterns that are subtle, but you don’t want your clothes to look flashy or bold, someone might not be impressed. I usually wear black or grey pants. There are several blouses to choose from, button up, sleeveless, etc. Remember to look professional. I like a wear a sleeveless shirt with a full or 3/4 sleeve cardigan or a business jacket. I love to wear layers. A few choices of outfits mix or match makes finding the right clothes suitable.
#4 A Drive By
If you are unfamiliar with the area, it will be an excellent idea to drive-by and get an understanding of the layout, the parking, and the streets. Before my interview, I did not even know where to locate the hospital. I was new to the city and did not know where to find much of anything. The hospital was also within the city limits, which means one-way streets, multiple lanes, and an anxiety factor would increase every time I travel to an unknown place. My first attempt at driving to my interview I started heading south when I needed to go north, and I passed the street. When I was going to my meeting, I was able to get there without an issue or event, and I had already played out all the mistakes the night before.
#5 Be early
I woke up early. I showered. I ate a small breakfast. I left early. I remember sitting in my car with butterflies in my stomach. I took long deep breaths to relax. In my car, I pulled out my cards and went through the questions and answers. I entered the hospital. I was about 10 minutes early when I reached the nurse’s station to ask for my interviewers. My interviewer applaud me for my promptness, they have not seen that trait in many applicants.
#6 Bring Copies
Usually, they will have the copy of your resume. Maybe they don’t. I didn’t know how many people would be present at the interview. I carried with me a handful of resumes and reference pages. I was nervous because many people online through different resources made mention of letters of recommendations. I never heard of this before my research, nor did I encounter this at my interview. I was not asked to provide letters, but if you do have a letter of recommendation, it won’t hurt to bring copies. It’s better to be over prepared than to look incompetent. The interview is your first and sometimes only shot at making an impression.
#7 Question
Ask questions. They will ask do you have any questions. Prepare at least one, if anything a generic question. If anything else comes up ask, but have at least one question to ask. Inquiries will make you look interested in the position. Even if you know the answer and want a clarification, ask.