News :Valuable Interviewing Tips for Nursing Careers

Posted on Monday, August 24, 2009

Whether you’re about to enter the workforce, returning after a hiatus, or trying to advance your career, you want to do your very best during the interview process.

But what’s the secret to keeping your cool when several people are firing questions at you? How do you remain calm when you’re asked something you didn’t expect or prepare for?

Here are some good tips for interviewing from the experts at MaximNurses.com that could help you pass the test and get the job.

Tips for a great interview.

• Proofread and spell check your resume at least twice prior to the interview.

• Print a few copies of your complete, updated résumé.

• Bring copies of your nursing license.

• Bring several copies of a typed list of references and previous managers, including complete names, titles, addresses, and phone numbers.

• Type a list of addresses from the previous five to seven years in case you’re asked to approve the employer conducting a background check.

• Practice answering standard nursing interview questions, such as: “How are you a team player?” … “How would you deal with difficult doctors?” … “What approach would you take with hard-to-please patients and their families?”

• Rehearse your answers to open-ended questions, such as, “Tell us about yourself.”

• Prepare for tougher questions, such as: “What qualities do you have that will help you hit the ground running with your new unit?”

• Practice answering these questions several times in front of a mirror, on video, or even stage a mock interview so you can see your body language and evaluate your answers.

• Create a list of your own questions, such as “What is the nurse-to-patient ratio?” and “What development opportunities are available to your staff’s nurses?”

• Research the facility you will be interviewing with to find out as much as possible about their culture.

• Finally, try to stay relaxed. Answer each question thoughtfully and honestly. Don’t exaggerate your best qualities.

For more career tips or to search for nursing jobs in your area, visit www.MaximNurses.com.