Often being the final obstacle between a candidate and a role, interviews can be a stressful experience. However, MSI International's interview guide can prepare you for success by making the process painless and convincing employers that you are the right person for the job.
Why do you want this job?
Interviewers usually start with a broad question. The answer can be concise and should talk about why you have a passion for nursing and want to work in that branch.
Why do you think you’re a good nurse and how can you evidence this?
An answer that portrays confidence in your ability and a detailed example that portrays you as an advocate for your patients can work well. If applying to an NHS Trust, make sure to mention the 6 Cs - care, compassion, competence, communication, courage, and commitment – And how you would employ them. Be prepared to answer questions about your example or to answer a separate question such as: “If you witnessed a fellow nurse failing to follow health and safety procedures, how would you handle the situation?” An example from your past may be useful in this scenario. Remember, employers not only want someone who can follow procedures but someone that signifies good team-working capabilities.
How would you deal with a challenging patient?
Compassion should shine through in the answer to this question, while also showing the ability to keep calm and deal with difficult and unpredictable situations by using an example.
What makes a good shift?
Nurses should demonstrate the delivery of effective and reliable care in this answer. Avoid portraying that higher numbers of staff mean an easier shift. A nurse should also know the importance of breaks and catching up with their fellow staff members, this can highlight their skills in stress management and team-working.
Have you ever had to cover for another nurse's shift at the last minute? How did you navigate this?
The answer should demonstrate your commitment to patients and their well-being and your ability to adapt, providing insights into how well you manage unpredictable or conflicting situations.
What are your professional goals?
Interviewers want to hire motivated nurses who are aiming to progress in their careers. It’s important to have a thorough and tangible set of goals. Ambition is good; however, candidates should strike a balance and make sure that the goals in their answers are achievable.
What issues are currently faced by UK healthcare providers?
The answer to this question should once again demonstrate the candidate’s ambition and how seriously they take their career. If an applicant is committed to the healthcare industry in the long term, they should have an interest in the issues their industry faces.
Although these questions can be a good guide to how your interview will be structured, job interviews can often be unpredictable. This is where our dedicated consultants, through their years of experience can guide you and comprehensively ensure that you are prepared to succeed.
