Last-minute interview prep tips for nurses

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Interviews can be pretty intimidating, so it’s understandable if you put off prepping for the big day because of nerves. Lucky for you, we’ve put together a cheat sheet of last-minute nursing interview prep tips, whether your interview is tomorrow afternoon — or two hours from now.

Procrastinators, rejoice. You still have a chance at that nursing job!

1. Dress Code

Looking the part really is half the battle. A professional interview outfit is part of making a good first impression. Ladies, keep it classy with appropriate heels, buttoned up shirts, and modest skirts. Avoid flashy jewelry, see-through blouses and low-cut tops. Men, a pressed shirt and dress pants are always an easy option; consider a tie and a business jacket if it’s appropriate. Never wear sneakers or shorts, and do go easy on the cologne.

2. Research

Get out your smartphone for a quick Google search on your hospital. Read up on any recent news items that the organization is mentioned in and make sure you take a look at the hospital’s website. Familiarize yourself with its mission statement and general services. Expect to be asked why you want to work for this particular hospital; is the hospital famous for something? Does it offer a unique specialty? You should also prepare to be asked a handful of other tough interview questions about the organization’s history. This is challenging even for the most prepared of interviewees, so don’t worry if you find yourself stumped. But if you do some research beforehand, you won’t look like a deer in headlights.

3. Prep Materials

Always print out a copy of your healthcare resume and any related job materials so that you have it on hand for the interview. Don’t have a printer? Ran out of ink? Email the necessary documents to yourself and make a quick run to your local copy store. Worst case scenario: Email your resume to your interviewer just before your interview so at least they have a soft copy.

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