Interview tips: Interview day

1. It is important to make a great first impression.
Like the old adage says, "You only get one chance to make a good first impression," and the success of your nursing career may depend on those first few moments of an interview. Studies have shown that managers often make hiring decisions within 30 seconds of meeting a candidate. It's that initial impression that stands out in the interviewer's mind when they are evaluating you vs. another candidate. This is why dress, grooming, a clear speaking voice and a winning smile are important.

2. Dress to get the job.
What are you going to wear? If you do not know the personality of the hiring manager or the corporate culture of the hospital, dress in professional business attire. The degree of formality and what's acceptable varies around the country, but it is better to err on the side of being too dressed up than to come across as less-than-professional.

Ask your most "image conscious" nursing colleague for advice about what is appropriate to wear, or check with anyone who might have worked at that facility or department in the past.

Whatever clothes you choose, make sure they are impeccable; freshly cleaned and pressed. Don't forget to shine your shoes and make sure they are in good shape, as well. Dressing in neat, professional clothes shows respect for the facility and your nursing career. Hiring managers pay attention to these details since they reflect a candidate's diligence.

3. Keep personal accessories to a minimum.
Remove or tone down personal accessories that could be considered distracting or distasteful; avoid flashy nail decor, heavy makeup and clunky jewelry. The emphasis during the interview process is to portray a professional and neat appearance, not broadcast your unique style.
Style your hair so it is pulled back and off your face, a mirror of how it will be when you are doing patient care.

Avoid any scented lotions, perfume or after shave. It could trigger an allergic reaction and make a less than favorable impression.

4. Allow plenty of time to get to the interview.
Punctuality at your first meeting with a potential employer is crucial! It is a mark of your dedication and professionalism, and sets the right tone for the next step in your nursing career. So start out early and allow plenty of time to make it through traffic, find the facility, park your car and walk to the interview location. If possible, get directions ahead of time and ask about parking and access to the place where you need to interview.

Plan to arrive early just in case an accident or something unforeseen might slow you down. This pre-planning will also allow you to arrive at the interview relaxed and prepared. If you're very early, you can use the time to review the nurse interview tips and rehearse your answers to common questions.

5. Do not smoke before your meeting with the hiring manager.
No matter how tense you get, do not give into the urge for a cigarette. The smell of smoke on your clothes and breath can create a very negative first impression.

6. Greet your interviewer warmly.
Make eye contact, smile warmly and shake the interviewer's hand. Take a look at their personal décor in the office and find something pleasant to say about an item that draws your attention, or mention something about the facility in general. This "connection" can help set the tone and get the interview started on an upbeat note. Maintain frequent eye contact throughout the interview to show your continued interest.

7. Listen, respond and relax during the interview.
It's only natural to be a little nervous, especially during your first nursing interview. So don't worry if you stumble on your first sentence or don't immediately get your full point across. Look for the opportunity to provide more details and demonstrate your strong points.

Relax, take a couple of deep breaths and maintain a calm, even conversational tone. Listen carefully to each question and respond to what is being asked, not to what you anticipate will be asked. Ask for clarification if needed and be careful not to rush through your answers.

8. Your turn to ask questions.
Most interviewers will give you a chance to ask questions, so use this opportunity to show your interest in the position and find out key details about the workflow. Feel free to check your notes, but avoid asking questions about items that are already spelled out in the hospital's literature.

You might ask questions about the unit, current developmental projects, orientation and getting acclimated into the existing work group. It is also helpful to ask the hiring manager what skills they think are most important to succeed at this job, and then be sure to point out how you have demonstrated those skills in previous situations.

9. Extra things to bring to the interviewer's attention.
Discuss your professional association memberships and any committee positions which you've held. Mention research you've helped with, volunteer projects, published articles and continuing education.

Let the hiring manager know if you're interested in extra responsibilities such as committee or task force memberships. Express your willingness to take advanced training in subjects needed to fill in clinical competencies in the unit.
Ask for a tour of the facility and to meet some of your peers. Use this experience to get a feel for the unit.

source: Nurse Zone