6 Tips for Your Nursing Interview

The interview process is your chance to impress potential employers and convince them that you’re the best fit for a position. You might be nervous about your nursing interview but with the proper preparation, you don’t have to be!

Here are six tips to help you prepare for your nursing interview.

1. Dress to Impress

An interview is a chance to make a positive first impression. Your appearance is important, so wear business casual attire or something more dressed-up. In some cases, hospitals and other health care facilities prefer nursing candidates to interview in scrubs, so ask your human resources or department contact if you’re not sure.

2. Know the Company

Make sure you research the company you’re interviewing with before your interview. You should know general information like how large is it, how many locations are there, and in which department/facility are you likely to work. Also, learn about its values, goals and culture as well as treatment areas in which it specializes.  

You will have valuable talking points for your interview and allow you to ask your own questions. It will also help you when answering questions about why you’re a good fit for the company and position.

3. Bring a Copy of Your Resume

Always bring a few copies of your resume as well as any documents and certifications that you would like to discuss. You can reference these in your interview. Having this information on hand not only makes you look prepared, but it also provides potential employers with a physical reminder of your skills and experience.

4. Practice Makes Perfect

Taking the time to practice for your interview can improve your confidence and ability to effectively answer questions. Recruit family members to help you practice to help you identify and strengthen any weak points in your interviewing skills. You could also record and playback a mock interview. Also, be sure to research and review common questions asked by nursing employers such as:

• Tell me a time you were faced with a challenging situation; how did you handle it and what were the outcomes?
• What are your strongest skills as a nurse?
• What is the hardest thing about being a nurse and how do you handle stress?
• Where do you see yourself in five years and what are your nursing goals?

5. Have Your Own Questions

Asking the interviewer questions is your opportunity to determine whether or not this role is right for you while also demonstrating your interest in the position and employer. Be sure to bring a notebook and take notes throughout the interview, which shows that you are serious about the interview and this opportunity.

Some questions to ask a potential employer following your interview:

• What are your expectations for new graduate and experienced nurses?
• Can you provide me more information about the scheduling requirements and patient ratios?
• Are there opportunities for growth or professional development?
• What is the next step in this process?

6. Send a Thank You Note

You might stand out from the competition by sending a thoughtful thank you letter or email after your interview.

A thank you note allows you to remind potential employers why you are the ideal candidate. You should thank the interviewer for your time but also subtly highlight why are a good fit and like t work for the company. Make sure that you make your note personable but professional.

Interested in becoming a nurse? Check out Herzing University’s nursing programs and register today!