It’s a daunting experience for many and not one that is particularly comfortable. However, it doesn’t need to be. Use these tips and tricks to prepare accordingly and set yourself up for the best chance possible to smash your next interview
1. Wear something that makes you comfortable
Obviously, it is important to look smart and professional however it is also essential that you are comfortable. Confidence is key during an interview therefore if you’re not comfortable in what you are wearing it can come across in your body language and communication. Also remember, you’re not interviewing for an office job, your day-to-day uniform is comfortable, practical and approachable. A simple blouse/shirt or comfortable dress will be perfect, let your personality do the talking.
2. Evaluate your experiences
For nursing jobs, it is common for interviewers to ask you about yourself and your previous experiences. These can often be the hardest of questions to answer so plan some responses. For example, they may simply ask you for one of your strengths. It’s important not to drift on these so be specific and try to pick one thing e.g. communication but go on to provide an example of how you’ve shown good communication which links to the job you’re applying for. Another question may be, ‘talk about a time when you were in a difficult situation and how you dealt with it’. So essentially what I’m saying is have a few answers and examples ready, so you’re not caught out and left rambling.
3. Research, Research, Research
Interviewers want to find out if you match the core values of their organisation and if you are passionate about working for them. Get to understand their values and culture by taking a look through their website, speaking a friend of a friend who works for the company and researching any posts on their social channels. Learn these as best you can and be able to provide examples of how you represent these. For example, ‘I show honesty and integrity in my day-to-day work as a nurse by…’
4. Carefully read the interview invitation
It’s important to thoroughly read the interview invitation as this should outline important steps and advice you require for the day. It should state the documents and certificates you will be required to bring. A form of ID is always a good place to start. In addition, if this is a face-to-face interview it is important to know the exact the location, so you can sort out your travel arrangements in good time. If possible, a test run to the location is never a bad idea. Lastly, there is often an outline of how the day will go and if there will be more than one stage to the interview. So, have a read and get well acquainted with what to expect so there’s no nasty surprises on the day.
5. Prepare some questions
There will almost always be an opportunity to ask questions at the end of an interview so its’s a a good idea to have some questions ready. It shows your interest in the job and the hospital and can be a useful way to find out something about a place you may be working at for quite a few years! For example, ‘what opportunities do you provide for training and professional development?’. This is more for you if anything – don’t be afraid to ask tough questions so you make sure it’s the right opportunity for you.
I hope these tips can be of use to you, and I guess my main bit of advice is that you can never be over prepared for your nursing interview. Just don’t forget to be yourself, trust your training and experiences and good luck!
I hope these tips can be of use to you, and I guess my main bit of advice is that you can never be over prepared for your nursing interview. Just don’t forget to be yourself, trust your training and experiences and good luck!
