From classroom to career, it’s time to stand out and shine
You’ve survived endless clinicals, submitted mountains of homework, and studied for every exam, including the NCLEX. Now, your first nursing interview is ahead. As you prepare, it is normal to feel anxious. You’re not just applying for a job, you’re launching your career.
Top nursing positions can be competitive. In fact, some hospitals receive thousands of applications for just one job. What can you do to stand out among the other candidates? Start by making sure you’re prepared, confident, and ready to make a lasting impression in your interview. With the right prep and practice, you’ll ace your interviews and get the job!
Understanding what interviewers want
Nursing interviews for newly graduated nurses are a little different than those for seasoned nurses. Interviewers understand that recent nursing graduates don’t have much hands-on experience. Hiring managers are more interested in your ability to succeed in fast-moving, stressful healthcare environments.
They want to make sure you have good communication skills, work well under pressure, and can thrive in a team-based environment. They are also interviewing you to see if you’ll fit in with the facility’s values and culture. Your goal for each interview is to show them you are eager to learn, improve, and make a positive impact on the facility and its patients.`
Top five questions and how to answer them
Expect a mix of standard and behavioral interview questions designed to assess your skills and character. Some of the most common include:
1. Why did you choose nursing as a career?
Recruiters want to hear a genuine, personal reason. For example: “I chose nursing because I want to make a direct impact on people’s lives. It allows me to combine my love for science and problem-solving with helping support people through difficult times.”
2. What are your strengths as a nurse?
Focus on strengths such as remaining calm under pressure, flexibility, and multitasking abilities. Support your answer with specific examples from your clinical rotations or volunteer work. An example would be: “I’m able to stay focused and calm under pressure, which serves me well when I’m in stressful situations. Plus, I’m great at prioritizing and managing multiple tasks while still giving patients supportive and attentive care.”
3. Where do you see yourself in five years?
Interviewers are looking for a commitment to nursing, interest in growth with the facility, and loyalty. An example answer to this question would be: “I see myself working for an organization like this. I’d like to be a more advanced member of the team in five years, developing my skills and maybe pursuing a specialty certification. I hope to be a valued part of this organization.”
4. Describe a challenging situation during your training and how you handled it.
Use the STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) method to structure your answer. Here’s an example:
Situation: “I cared for a patient on the med-surg floor who received a very upsetting and unexpected diagnosis. They became anxious and started refusing medication and didn’t want to cooperate with the care team.”
Task: “My priority was the patient’s safety and supporting them through that time. I knew we needed to continue with treatment.”
Action: “I listened to the patient’s concerns and answered their preliminary questions. I then collaborated with the physician and charge nurse to adjust the care approach so the patient felt comfortable with the next steps. I made sure to involve the patient in the decision-making process.”
Result: “After a little time and discussion, the patient felt more comfortable with the diagnosis and treatment plans. They thanked me for helping them feel supported in their own care plan and for being patient with their questions.”
5. Do you have any questions?
Always have questions prepared. Even if you know the answers, asking questions in the interview shows genuine interest in the role. It also shows the interviewer you’re trying to learn more to see if the facility is the right fit for you. Try this type of response: “Thank you for providing so much information about this role. Can you explain a bit more about professional growth opportunities? What does this facility provide and when would I be considered eligible to take advantage of this type of program?” Another two options are: “What do you enjoy most about working here?” or “What does orientation and training look like for this role?”
Dress for success and stay confident
You’ve heard the phrase dress for success. An interview is a time when this statement is completely true. First impressions are formed within seconds, so if the interview is in-person, take special care with your clothes. Make sure your outfit is clean (pressed, no wrinkles), aligned with the workplace culture (casual is okay, but jeans aren’t a good choice), and you’re prepared. Bring copies of your resume and documents you think you may need, and always have a pen and paper to take notes.
If your interview is virtual, ensure you’re camera-ready and adjust the lighting to be seen clearly on camera. On camera or in-person, the way you present yourself will set the tone for the entire interview – so place importance on looking professional and organized in your appearance.
Get ready: be confident and prepared
Remember that interviewing is just the beginning of a rewarding career in healthcare. By staying prepared, knowing what to expect, and making sure you have thought through potential questions and responses, you’re increasing your chances of landing the job you want.
Approach each interview as a learning experience. You’re learning about the role and the job, but the interviewer is learning about you, too. You’re also determining if you’re the right fit for what the facility is looking for. It’s a two-way process! Stay positive, and remember that your dedication, compassion, and determination got you this far. Those same qualities will carry you through your interview and beyond.
