15 Steps To Prepare For A New Grad Nursing Interview (PLUS + Pro Tips)

Written By: Darby Faubion, RN, BSN, MBA

Are you a new nurse grad ready to start your career? Does the idea of a job interview make you feel anxious or worried? Perhaps you are ready to get to work, but you wonder, “Where can I find information on how to prepare for a new grad nursing job interview?”

As a nurse with both clinical and administrative experience, I understand the perspective of both a job candidate and a hiring manager. In this article, I want to share some information and my personal insight about 15 steps and pro tips to successfully prepare for a new grad nursing job interview. With the right preparation, you can take the stress out of your job search, ace your interview, and get a new grad nursing job in no time!

HOW TO PREPARE FOR A NEW GRAD NURSING INTERVIEW?

(The following are the 15 steps and pro tips to successfully prepare for a new grad nursing interview.)

STEP #1: Update Your Resume

About The Step:

When you apply for any nursing job, you first need to prepare and submit your resume for review. If your resume is accurate and up to date, you can use it as a valuable resource to prepare for a new grad nursing job interview.

Pro Tip:

When updating your resume as a new grad nurse, use a reverse-chronological resume format. For new nursing grads, education is the key to having a stand-out resume. Because you are a new nurse, you want to highlight any relevant academic achievements, such as a good GPA and any extracurricular activities, especially those related to healthcare. Also, because you do not have any work experience as a nurse, be sure to highlight any paid or volunteer experience in any healthcare setting.

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STEP #2: Get Credible References

About The Step:

One of the things that often worries new nurses preparing for a new grad nursing job interview is the lack of nursing references. I recommend asking former nursing instructors or clinical preceptors if they are willing to give you a reference for a job. Because earning your nursing degree is the precursor to nursing employment, it is only logical to assume that your instructors and preceptors will have firsthand knowledge of your knowledge and skills and that they can give valuable insight into your likelihood of success in a job.

Pro Tip:

Of course, if you want a good reference from your instructors, you need to have a history of academic success. Clinical preceptors who find you pleasant to work with and willing to learn are usually happy to provide good references, as well. Take advantage of every learning opportunity possible so you can develop essential skills, be on time for class and clinicals, and always be professional.

STEP #3: Make Extra Copies of Any Licenses or Certifications

About The Step:

With little or no healthcare or nursing experience, you may be worried about what documentation or evidence you can present to show you are qualified for a nursing job. Keep in mind that, even as a new grad nurse, you will have a nursing license and IV certification, at minimum. One of the easiest yet important steps to preparing for a new grad nursing job interview is to make extra copies of your nursing license and any other licenses or certifications you have that are relevant to the job. Two copies of each should suffice. You can offer one to the lead hiring manager and offer the other to anyone else sitting in on your interview.

Pro Tip:

Although your prospective employer can verify your nursing license through your state Board of Nursing, having copies of your license and certifications shows forethought and preparation on your part. Having these documents in hand when you go to your interview could save time, especially if the interviewer has not yet verified your credentials.

STEP #4: Review the Job Description Carefully and find Ways to Relate Your Skills to the Job Requirements

About The Step:

Whether you apply for a nursing job through an online hiring platform such as Indeed or if you go to company websites to look for available positions, you should be able to find a job description for each available job. Reviewing the job description allows you to prepare for a new grad nursing job interview because knowing what the job entails allows you to think of questions you may be asked about the job during the interview and gives you time to think of questions you may want to ask the interviewer.

Pro Tip:

New nurses entering the workforce often struggle with how they will relate their skills to a job because of their lack of experience. Remember, though, even entry-level nurses have specific skills necessary to perform well in a nursing role. If you did not have those skills or abilities, you would not have graduated and passed your licensing exam. A few examples of skills you have that you can relate to requirements in the job description include time management, good communication, a team-oriented approach, and motivation to work hard.

When reviewing the job description, make sure you understand the expectations of the role. Then, think about how your skills, interests, experience, and expertise align with the duties of the job. If you know this, it will be easier to discuss the job with the hiring manager.

STEP #5: Research the Organization

About The Step:

Researching the organization where you are interviewing is important because the interviewer will probably ask what you know about the company. If you do your due diligence in researching, you can learn about the company's history, what services it offers, and understand the company's objectives and goals. As you research the company or organization, think about your professional nursing goals and try to determine if your plans align with the organization’s mission. If they do, you can find ways to relate your goals and the company’s mission to show why you are a good fit for the organization and how you can be an asset to the nursing team.

Pro Tip:

Most hospitals and large healthcare facilities have company websites where you can find a wealth of information about them. Also, consider checking social media pages for updates about things going on at the facility or any recognition the company or its employees have received. When a hiring manager asks what you know about their organization, if you can answer them with good information, it shows you have a genuine interest in the company and job, which employers value.

STEP #6: Prepare a Well-Written Cover Letter

About The Step:

A nursing cover letter is a personal explanation of who you are, your qualifications, and your interest in a nursing position. It is the first thing prospective employers see when they review your application/resume. Hiring managers may review several applications before inviting candidates to interview. So, they often review cover letters, looking for specific information. If your cover letter is well-written, it will tell the interviewer enough about you to determine if you meet the criteria to move to the interview phase of the hiring process. Preparing a well-written cover letter is essential because, as a new grad nurse, you do not have the nursing experience to make you a good candidate. A good cover letter should grab the attention of the hiring manager and make them want to get to know you, despite your lack of experience.

Pro Tip:

If you want your cover letter to be effective, you need to include some key elements. Begin your cover letter with a Header that includes your contact information. The following sections include the greeting (a salutation to the hiring manager), an introduction (basic details about you and why you want the job), your qualifications, your values and goals (Be sure they align with the company's mission and goals), a call to action (the final paragraph that summarizes your interests and prompts the hiring manager to move forward with the interview process), and the closing (a professional closing statement and your signature followed by your credentials).

STEP #7: Review Possible Interview Questions

About The Step:

As a new nurse grad, the idea of interviewing for a job can be a bit overwhelming. You may worry about whether you can stand up to the competition when it comes to qualifying for a job. I can tell you from experience that not all companies want only seasoned nurses. Many healthcare organizations like hiring new nurse grads because new grads are typically excited about working and motivated to do a good job. So, instead of worrying about whether you measure up against other candidates, follow another essential step to help you prepare for a new grad nursing job interview by familiarizing yourself with common new nurse grad interview questions and answers. The more you review potential interview questions and suggested answers, the more comfortable you will feel in the real interview.

Pro Tip:

Consider doing a mock interview with a friend or family member. Have them ask you questions and practice answering them instead of just reading the questions and answers. Actively practicing for a nursing job interview is key to a successful interview because it can help you become comfortable with the interview process, which leads to more confidence during the interview.

STEP #8: Make a List of Questions to Ask the Interviewer

About The Step:

In addition to reviewing potential interview questions and practicing answering them, you should also make a list of a few questions to ask the interviewer. I can tell you from personal experience that hiring managers want you to ask them questions. Asking questions shows true interest in the job and company and lets the interviewer know you are serious about wanting the position. This is an especially effective step for new grad nurses because it demonstrates a continued willingness to learn and confidence in speaking up when you want or need to know something.

Pro Tip:

Ask meaningful questions related to the specific job for which you are applying. For example, one of the best interviews I ever conducted was with a new nurse graduate who was applying for a job in a long-term care facility. I could tell she did her research about the facility and the position because of the questions she asked.

For example, she asked me how soon the new Alzheimer’s unit would be open and if staff nurses would have the opportunity to transfer to that unit before we hired outside nurses. She also asked if there would be opportunities to volunteer to spend extra time with clients who had no family or friends close by. I knew she had done her homework because one of the things our facility encouraged was staff involvement to make the facility truly feel like home, and that information was on our company website.

STEP #9: Learn to Talk About Specific “Points”

About The Step:

Most job descriptions list qualifications the employer is seeking in candidates. Another way to help prepare for a new grad nursing interview is to think about answers that you can use for different questions based on points listed in the job description. For example, the job description may list essential skills needed to perform the job. The interviewer will want to know how you developed those essential skills and how you have, or plan to, implement them in your job.

As a new nurse grad, you may feel uncertain about how you can relate your skills to the job requirements. Do not overthink it. Simply break down the job description into a list of duties and then match the skills you have that will help you meet the job requirements.

Pro Tip:

In many cases, the person who prepared the job description for the open position is the one who conducts the interview. Therefore, if you can demonstrate your understanding of the job and the employer’s expectations by providing answers that are focused on the points of the job description, you are likely to impress the interviewer and become a favorable candidate for the position.

STEP #10: Identify Your Weaknesses and Be Prepared to Address Them

About The Step:

Do not be surprised if the interviewer asks you what you feel your biggest weaknesses are. This is a common question in almost every type of interview. You can prepare for a new grad nursing job interview by thinking about things you feel you can improve or times when you could have performed a job more efficiently. Then, think about the efforts you have made to improve in those areas. Be prepared to provide examples that demonstrate your efforts to improve.

Remember, if we are honest, we all have things we feel we need to improve as far as our skills and abilities are concerned. The hiring manager knows you are a new nurse grad and expects you to have certain areas where you feel you need to improve. So, just be honest.

Pro Tip:

It is important to understand that interviewers do not ask about weaknesses to make you feel pressured or not good enough for the job. Instead, they ask about weaknesses to evaluate your ability to be self-aware and whether you are willing to actively seek ways to improve your abilities or skills. Hiring managers also want to know that any weaknesses you have will not negatively affect patient care and outcomes. The most important thing to do when you are asked this question is to be honest and reflect a desire to grow and learn.

STEP #11: Make Sure Your Social Media Accounts Reflect Professionalism!

About The Step:

Before becoming a nurse, you may not have thought much about the way your social media presence impacts your professional reputation. As a new nurse grad, however, it is essential to be mindful of what others see. Why? Because today, more than ever, we live in a world that thrives on social media, and your friends and family are not the only ones who access your social media pages.

According to the Harris poll, 67% of employers research potential job candidates by accessing social media profiles and posts. What prospective employers find on your social media site could give you a competitive advantage over other candidates or, if you have inappropriate or questionable content, could disqualify you from a job offer. You can prepare for a new grad nursing job interview by cleaning up your social media accounts.

Pro Tip:

I recommend all nurses create a LinkedIn profile, as this site is all about business. Keep your profile professional and updated, including having a current profile picture that is clear, and that looks professional. (You do not have to pay for a professional headshot. Just make sure your profile picture is professionally appropriate.)

While your Facebook or X (formerly Twitter) accounts may be used for more personal use, prospective employers may still look at public pages and posts. Therefore, you should be cognizant of what you post.

STEP #12: Choose an Appropriate Outfit for Your Interview

About The Step:

Have you ever noticed how you remember your first encounter with people more than subsequent meetings with them? I will never forget working at a job fair at one of my previous jobs. I, along with some other nurse leaders, conducted walk-up interviews to build a client pool of prn nurses. One of the candidates who came to my station told me she heard there was a job fair for nurses going on, and she thought she would stop by. She was wearing sweatpants, a pullover top, and tennis shoes, and her hair was pulled up in a messy bun. I honestly could not focus on interviewing her because I was focused on how unprofessional she looked!

As you prepare for a new grad nursing interview, keep in mind that first impressions are usually lasting impressions. Dress the part of a professional so you can make a great first impression.

Pro Tip:

You can usually look professional without buying a new wardrobe for your interview. Consider wearing neutral tones. Women should avoid wearing tops with plunging necklines. Instead, wear a mid-length skirt or slacks with a nice blouse. You can add a blazer as an added touch for a more professional look. Men should wear dress slacks, a dress shirt, and a tie. Most importantly, make sure your outfit is clean and wrinkle-free.

STEP #13: Prepare to Be On Time

About The Step:

I cannot stress enough the importance of being prompt for any job interview. One of the most important steps in preparing for a new grad nursing job interview is to ensure you can arrive on time.

Pro Tip:

If you have an in-person interview scheduled, familiarize yourself with the route to the facility and leave early enough to arrive at least 10 minutes before your scheduled interview. Even if your interview is scheduled to be conducted virtually, you should prepare by anticipating possible issues, such as technical delays. If your interview will be virtual, access the meeting link early enough so that you can troubleshoot any problems before the interview is scheduled to begin.

I can assure you that interviewers much prefer to receive a call or email from a candidate who reports issues with the sign-on link in enough time to remedy the issue instead of having a candidate who waits until the last minute to access the link and then finds out there are technical problems. Remember, as a new nurse grad, you must take every step necessary to give a good first impression, and arriving on time for an interview is an essential part of doing so.

STEP #14: Get a Good Night’s Rest

About The Step:

I am probably the world’s worst when it comes to making myself anxious about important meetings. Even with all my years of experience, I still struggle at times with thinking about all the “what ifs” that could happen and mess things up. As a result, I have spent many sleepless nights tossing and turning.

Unfortunately, staying up all night worrying about what could go wrong during your new grad nursing interview only makes things worse. You need to be well-rested for your interview. When you get enough rest, you look refreshed, your mind is sharper, and your mood is more pleasant.

Pro Tip:

A few tips for helping you get a good night’s rest include the following. Eat dinner early enough that you are not too full before lying down, which could cause indigestion and sleeplessness. Turn off electronics at least an hour before you plan to go to sleep. Also, avoid caffeine or alcohol before going to bed, as they commonly cause sleep disturbances.

STEP #15: Be Prepared to Follow-Up

About The Step:

It is normal for prospective employers to tell job candidates that they will contact them about the job once all candidates have been interviewed. Depending on the number of job openings and candidates scheduled for interviews, the process can take several days. One way to ensure your application does not get lost in the pile of candidates is to follow up with the interviewer.

Pro Tip:

While some hiring managers make time for incoming calls, I recommend sending a follow-up email. One reason an email is a good option is that it is another piece of communication between you and the person hiring that they can refer to during their decision process. By following up after your interview, you solidify your interest in the job as well as the manager's impression of you.

MY FINAL THOUGHTS

New nurse grads have so many things to consider. It is no wonder that one of the most pressing questions they have is, "Where can I learn how to prepare for a new grad nursing job interview?" In this article, I have tried to help you take the guesswork out of the interview process by sharing 15 steps and pro tips to successfully prepare for a new grad nursing job interview.

I encourage you to keep in mind that you have already accomplished so much! Graduating nursing school and earning your RN license is something to be proud of, and those accomplishments are certainly enough to get the attention of hiring managers. When you couple your accomplishments with the steps and tips presented in this article, you can make a great impression in your interview and get the perfect job!