Conquering Your Next Interview: Expert Advice for Nurses
Embarking on the journey of a job interview can be quite nerve-wracking, especially in the high-stakes world of healthcare. But fear not, we’ve got your back! We’re thrilled to share invaluable insights from a seasoned healthcare leader, Lene Schille, DNP, MSN, RN. With her rich experience spanning over two decades in hospital leadership, including roles at Banner Health, PeaceHealth, Providence Swedish, and North Alabama Medical Center, Lene currently serves as the Senior Vice President of Clinical Services at GQR Global Markets. In this blog, she divulges her wisdom to help nurses navigate through interviews with confidence.
Making a Lasting Impression
The Power of Storytelling: Lene emphasizes the importance of sharing specific stories during your interview. “Stories related to the experience that is being asked about.” These narratives are powerful tools, illustrating how you react or behave in various scenarios. Remember, a well-told story, even if repeated, can make a lasting impression.
Dress to Impress: Contrary to the casual or uniform attire that nursing often entails, Lene advises to “Dress up. It goes a long way. Yes, you are a nurse, but don’t wear scrubs or jeans”.
Punctuality is Key: Arrive at least ten minutes early. This shows your dedication and respect for the interviewer’s time.
Disconnect to Connect: “Turn your cell phone OFF.” Ensuring your phone doesn’t interrupt the interview is crucial to maintain professionalism and focus.
Interview Questions to Anticipate
Lene suggests preparing for behavioral-based interview questions, a common approach in healthcare settings.
Examples include:
Conflict resolution experiences.
Handling policy changes you disagree with.
Tackling unknown challenges.
Using stories to demonstrate your problem-solving skills in these scenarios is highly effective.
Questions You Should Ask
Engagement Opportunities: Inquiring about involvement opportunities shows your eagerness to be an active, continuous learner within the organization.
Continuous Education: Questions about educational opportunities reflect your commitment to growth in a rapidly evolving field.
Finding the Right Fit: Remember, the interview is a two-way street. Ask about training, mentorship, the organizational culture, and growth opportunities to ensure the role aligns with your career aspirations.
Equipped with these insights, you’re now ready to excel in your nursing interviews. But wait, there’s more! For more secrets to acing your interview, check out the GQR Healthcare TikTok and Instagram Accounts. Our teams work closely with hospital systems nationwide and we are eager to share their expertise and answer all of your burning questions!
