INTERVIEW TIPS

Being prepared for an interview helps you to project a more self-confident image. Your goal is to leave the interviewer with a positive impression of you.

Preparing for the interview

· Define your career goals and objectives.  Be prepared to explain your interest in the position.

· Do your research. Become familiar with the facility and find out the name of the interviewer.

· Be aware of making eye contact, your posture, pacing your answers and avoiding any distracting mannerisms.

· Do prepare responses to common interview questions such as:

1. Describe your best and worst day at a former job?

2. What are your best skills you can bring to this position?

3. How have your obtained your previous jobs?

4. Give an example of the changes you have made in your most current position?

5. Tell me about a time where a key change was made in your work environment.

How did you cope?

· Don’t be late. Make sure you have adequate directions.

· Take extra copies of your resume to the interview, along with reference contact information and nursing license. New grads should bring 2 letters of recommendation from clinical instructors.

During the interview

· Dress in business casual. First impressions can be the last impression.

· Be polite and professional with everyone you come in contact with at the site.

· Know your resume thoroughly. Be prepared to address any gaps in employment or “short   stays” in positions. Be honest and truthful in defending any job history weaknesses.

· Listen to the hiring manager for cues as to what skills and qualities are valued.

· Do remember the interviewer’s name and use it periodically throughout the interview.

· Answer questions fully in a conversational manner, instead of one or two word responses.

· Do not “badmouth” previous employers.

· The interview is your opportunity to find out about the facility, patient unit, orientation

· process, unit culture, rotation schedule and seniority. The more information you have the better decision you will be able to make on which unit you would like to work.

Closing the interview

· End on a positive note and be prepared to ask for the job if you decide it is a good fit.

· Remain friendly and thank the interviewer for taking time to meet with you.

· Politely ask when the hiring manager will be making the final decision about the position you  are applying for.

· If an "offer to hire" is extended during the interview, take time to make your decision and ask the interviewer when your decision needs to be received.

· Write a follow-up thank you letter, as soon as possible, after the interview. Refer to your interview date, expressing gratitude for the interview, reinforcing your interest in the position and highlighting the strongest reasons you would be a good fit for the position.

· Make sure to follow up with additional information, as requested.