An interview is a two-way process
When interviewing for a nursing job opportunity, your potential
employer is attempting to discover what type of employee you will
be. At the same time, you must also determine what type of
employer this organization will be. Know what is important to you,
and don’t be afraid to ask about:
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Salary, working conditions and hours
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Career growth opportunities
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Unionized or not
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Benefits
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Other critical care nurses whom you can talk to about working there
A nursing job interview is AN opportunity. It is not the ONLY opportunity
Critical care nursing is an industry where demand outstrips supply. Be objective
and realistic if a nursing job interview does not go well, or if the job does
not feel right for you. There will be other nursing job opportunities – which
also means that you do not have to take a job simply because it is the first
one offered.
Politeness counts
Thank each interviewer personally at the beginning and end of each interview. In
addition, send a thank you note via mail – NOT email – within 24 hours of your
interview.
Be persistent
Ask whom to contact to see how your application is proceeding – and how often it
would be appropriate to check in. Then follow up on your application,
especially if this nursing position is one you really want.
Finally, there are many interview resources available via the Web. Take
advantage of them. A quick Google search will turn up an extensive list of
how-to sites, from well-known job search giants to specialized sites
specializing in interview strategies.
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