The interview starts the moment you walk into the potential
employer's building. Who knows? The guy who rushes into the
elevator with you might be your interviewer. So be on your best
behavior from the get-go.
When the interviewer is introduced, repeat his or her name and
shake hands ("It's nice to meet you, Mr. Borland"). Be prepared
to make a little small talk—follow the interviewer's lead.
Once the actual interview begins, what you hear is as
important as what you say. Listen attentively to a question and
pause briefly before you begin to answer. Also, listen for clues
about what skills and traits are most important to the employer.
Emphasize those abilities in your answers. When the interviewer
mentions a problem that needs to be solved, clearly state your
ability to solve it.
The interviewer might look at your resume and ask a few
questions that are clearly answered there. The purpose of this is
to make a quick check of your honesty. You may also be asked to
expand on the information in your resume. Be prepared to explain
exactly how you achieved any accomplishments listed there.
What to ask them
When the interviewer has finished questioning you, it will be
your turn. Your questions must be informed ones, not general
questions that should have been answered in your pre-interview
research. Some suggestions:
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What is the institution's mission and
philosophy? |
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What is the standing of the institution in
the community? |
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What is the management's leadership
style?
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Other questions might concern the organization of the
nursing staff. What is the size of the nursing unit, what is the
ratio of nurses to patients, etc. You might have questions
concerning the orientation. When does it start? What does it
include? Regarding career advancement you might ask: How will my
performance be evaluated? Is certification or advanced education
required for advancement? What about the educational
opportunities available at this institution? What will the
working conditions be like? What is the schedule of a normal
workweek? What about salary and benefits? What about the
community? What is the cost of living in the area?
Be careful NOT to do the following:
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interrupt the interviewer. |
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bad-mouth your previous employers. |
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monopolize the conversation. |
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give "yes" or "no" answers. |
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talk just to fill an uncomfortable
silence.
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For more tips on how to begin your job search, read:
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