Nothing is so much dreadful than a clinical panel interview. It's natural to be nervous of something you do not know what's going to happen. Going through interviews can be stressful for some especially to those who are not prepared well. Keep in mind that only the top 2% of the applicants are being called for an average job interview (Glassdoor). Here are practical tips to kill it in your next RN job interview.
1. Build up your CV
Keep your CV up to 3 pages maximum. Adjust margins to accomodate all the important information that you wish to showcase to the hiring manager.
References must be on a separate page. Take note that if you are applying for an RN position you cannot request a character reference from someone below the position that you are applying for like your unit LPN. Clinical instructor/nursing professors, unit manager or senior RNs can give you a reference for this job position.
References must be on a separate page. Take note that if you are applying for an RN position you cannot request a character reference from someone below the position that you are applying for like your unit LPN. Clinical instructor/nursing professors, unit manager or senior RNs can give you a reference for this job position.
Being updated with the most recent advances in healthcare is part of the standards of RN practise. If you have not done any continuing education, it is never too late to do some online:
Colleges/Associations of RNs websites
2. Do a quick research about the hospital and the unit
A good overview about the hospital or unit would give you an idea of what kind of professional environment you will be working in. This information is usually available online.
3. Be well-versed in the Standards of Practise for Registered Nurses
Refer to your Colleges/Associations' Standards of Practise for Registered Nurses. Most of the interview questions will revolve around this topic. It is important to know the indicators of these standards. RNs who know this by heart and mind get to hit the nail at its head!
4. Review the job qualifications
Before even hitting the Apply button, read through the qualifications. Knowledge-based practise and competent application of it matter to RN managers. Also, take note of the keywords: preferred, an asset and required. You MAY be eligible to apply for RN jobs with qualifications that are 'preferred' or 'an asset':
Mental Health and Addictions RN
Qualifications:
- Current registration with the College of RNs
- Mental health nursing CNA certification an asset
- Related experience preferred
- Knowledge ASSIST (Addiction Services Statistical Information System Technology) database preferred
- BLS-C Certification
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively
- Competencies in other languages, French preferred
If a qualification is deemed required and you believe you do not have the qualification, you are not eligible for this position. But it's never wrong to try though. Like for example:
Medical Day Unit/Apharesis RN
Qualifications:
- Current, unrestricted, full RN registration with the College of RNs required
- Ambulatory care nursing experience preferred
- Certification in CA chemo administration required
- Knowledge of apharesis preferred
- Strong assessment, adult teaching, counselling, leadership and knowledge of community resources would be a definite asset
- Minimum 2 years experience in the ICU or IMCU
- Competencies in other languages, French preferred
5. Never give up. Be inspired.
Hope for the best anticipate the worse. Move on and strive to do well on your next job interview. Through a series of interviews, you get to learn how to answer questions appropriately with the right words. The next thing you know, getting interviewed for a job will be as smooth as a normal conversation with a colleague. Congratulations on your RN job interview! Click here to get motivated!
Click to enlarge sample RN CV:
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