Interviews allow employers to get to know every job applicant on a professional and personal level. They’ve already gone through and read your resume, and perhaps the employer, HR manager, or administrator has already made a few notes about you based on what they’ve read.
Considering the demand for nurses the WHO (World Health Organization) reveals that there is a shortage of 5.9 million nurses especially, in Africa, South-East Asia, the east Mediterranean region of WHO, and some parts of Latin America as well. To ensure you make a lasting impression and increase your chances of success, you must excel in your nursing job interview. Whether or not this is good, you can make things even better during that phase. In addition to demonstrating the right skills for the job, it’s also during that interview that you can give a glimpse of your character and personality, qualities just as essential as knowledge in the field of nursing.
There may indeed be hundreds of candidates must be waiting for their turn in the room. But, to stand out from the crowd, you can deploy these subsequent tips and practices to ace that. As you have landed on the right platform here are the best practices and tricks to execute.
Discuss Your Motivations for Becoming a Nurse in Detail
There are numerous reasons to become a nurse, and various individuals undoubtedly have their own. This is, after all, an extremely private matter. Hiring executives may ask, ‘Why do you want to be a nurse?’ as one of their most frequently asked inquiries to the candidates who come to them. As these recruitment managers may be nurses themselves, and they’re well acquainted with the needs of the profession and they are seeking something remarkable in you.
Answering this question as precisely as possible shows your commitment and determination, no matter how hard things get. Nursing jobs are also high-paying, but you must show that the profession matters to you beyond just the paycheck. Share a specific story that reflects your drive and dedication to nursing.
Dress Accordingly
A nursing job interview is also about leaving a memorable first impression. Your words, demeanor, and appearance all contribute to this image. Depending on the instructions provided, you may be required to wear a scrub suit, nursing uniform, or formal attire.
If you’re instructed to wear your nursing uniform, focus on maintaining clean and tidy hair, appropriate makeup, and ensuring your shoes are presentable. On the other hand, if there’s no specific instruction to come in your scrubs, it’s best to keep these guidelines in mind:
- Dress in professional business attire;
- Choose clean clothes, pressed, and fit well;
- Avoid flashy colors, prints, or patterns;
- Ensure your shoes are clean and polished.
- The overall look should be modest without revealing too much skin.
Lastly, whether you’re wearing scrubs or business attire, these tips will also come in handy:
- Keep your nails short and clean. Ideally, no nail polish should be worn, but if you really must, opt for clear or neutral colors;
- Men should maintain a clean-shaven appearance;
- Wear only mild perfume or cologne.
These are only a few general suggestions. Ultimately, when finalizing your attire, consider whether your appearance reflects your respect for both the occasion and the interviewer.
Share an Instance When You Provided Exceptional Patient Care
Knowledge and skills are essential, but attitude is everything. This will set you apart from other nurses; you’re a professional who goes above and beyond the minimum level of care required. Instead, for every patient, you aim to provide exceptional care.
Share stories that illustrate this commitment. The level of commitment among nurses varies, regardless of their qualifications. So, don’t hesitate to highlight instances where you’ve consistently gone the extra mile. It’ll show the interviewer that you do care about your job and that you aim to be the best all the time.
Research the Facility
Arriving at an interview without any knowledge about the facility is a missed opportunity. You don’t have to know everything about it; still, it would help to learn some general facts like the programs the medical facility provides, what demographic it serves, its history, milestones, and contributions to the community.
Researching the organization demonstrates your preparation and genuine interest in the position. It showcases your dedication to securing a job at the medical facility rather than merely taking a chance with any available opportunity.
Find Salary Information About the Medical Facility
Discussing salary expectations during a nursing job interview can be uncomfortable. Many applicants may fall silent for a few minutes, as they’d be worried about whether their ‘expected salary’ is too low or too high for what’s acceptable.
To navigate this potentially awkward conversation, research the starting pay for newly hired nurses at the medical facility. If you have friends working in the same place, ask them, or you can browse through the internet if it’s available online. While an exact figure may not be available, having a benchmark amount in mind will help you answer confidently. It’s better to be prepared rather than leave the question unanswered.
Do a Mock Interview
Practice makes perfect. Conduct mock interviews with friends or family members who can offer honest and constructive feedback. By simulating the actual interview experience, you can identify and address potential weaknesses. The more practice you have, the more confidence you will exude on the day of the interview.
Even if you lack assistance from others, you can still benefit from solo practice. Utilize online resources to access potential interview questions. Engage in self-reflection and practice framing your answers effectively. Rather than memorizing specific responses, draw inspiration and develop an outline to articulate your thoughts coherently.
Final Thoughts
Job hunting in the nursing field is stressful and challenging, whether you’re a fresh graduate or a seasoned nurse. Reaching the final stage of qualifying for a job interview is a significant blessing. Recognize that not everyone makes it this far and consider it an opportunity to double your efforts. By implementing the suggestions above, you increase your chances of becoming a top candidate and achieving your dream job. Embrace the process and take one step closer to your career goals.
