So you've decided to take the leap and either enter contract staffing full time, or pick up some extra shifts on your days off. Good for You!! Gaining the opportunity to work in another facility requires an interview (obviously). Most interviews for temporary staff take place over the phone, and even in-person interviews are typically prescreened by phone. Many of you clinicians (and you know who you are!) have not interviewed by phone or otherwise since graduating from nursing school (or the Carter Administration), and interviewing is a diminishing skill. The purpose of this article is to refresh your memory on the process and provide you with 3 simple guidelines that will help you highlight your strengths, gather the info you need, and get you a job offer.
1.
Prepare to be questioned. Use any and all
information your agency has regarding unit size and description to determine
what you might be asked int your interview. If you are particularly light or particularly
proficient in a required skill, strategize with your recruiter on
how to address that skill set. Be confident in your responses. Find ways to put
a positive spin on your answers.
“I
understand that your floor sees abc patients. While I have not worked full time
on a floor with abc patients, I have floated, and have cared for abc patients
on other floors. I am very comfortable with abc patients.”
2.
Prepare questions of your own.
Interviewing is a two way street. What do you want to know about the unit? As examples, many seasoned nurses have asked about the floor/unit
atmosphere, average census, typical diagnoses, the dress code, shift times, and
how scheduling is handled for temporary staff.
Others have asked about census, and likelihood of call off, and facility
parking. Work with your recruiter to develop your list of questions.
3.
Prepared to ask for the position. Practice.
Here is an example of one way to ask for the position. “From what we’ve
discussed, this opportunity sounds very much like the type of work I’m
accustomed to doing. I am excited at the
prospect of working for you, and can start as early as ###. Do you have any
additional questions for me? Where do we go from here?” Take the above verbiage and make it your own.
In closing, the above steps may
seem very basic, but consider that a manager may have 3-4 resumes on her desk,
all with similar skill sets and experience. His/Her decision will be made based on
how well the candidates interview.
Take a tip from the boy scouts and “Be prepared.” Happy interviewing!
