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Interview Questions and Tips
Prepare to ace your travel nurse interview with our list of travel nurse questions. Answer questions like a pro and demonstrate your knowledge of travel nurse interview questions.
Interview Tips for RNs or LPNs Seeking a Travel Nursing Job
While many do involve an interview prior to offering you a position, we also have many "Auto Offer" positions, which do not require an interview. "Auto Offer" means that the employer's decision to hire is made based on your qualifications, work history and references, without an interview. For those positions that DO involve an interview, it may be a telephone interview with a third party hiring firm, with the healthcare facility's management, or even via an online 'virtual' tool. For those healthcare employers that do a person-to-person interview, some will pre-arrange a time for a call, while others will call you without notice. During the interview call, you will find out more about the hospital, the travel position, and the area where the hospital is located. Your recruiter will provide all the specifics on if, when, and in what fashion an interview will take place.
If you are expecting a personal interview prior to being offered a position:
Anticipate Detailed Questions: Employers will likely ask detailed questions about your past experience and clinical abilities. Review your profile, resume, and skills checklist beforehand and craft responses that showcase your clinical abilities and experiences using specific examples from your professional history. You’ll likely also be asked specific questions about your qualifications, so be prepared to answer them promptly and confidently.
Ask Thoughtful Questions: Plan questions in advance to ask during the interview. This demonstrates your genuine interest in the position and your commitment to providing excellent patient care. Confirm the hospital name, start date, shift, and length of assignment. Inquire about on-call requirements, weekend and holiday requirements, how scheduling
works, floating, nurse-to-patient ratios, and support while on duty. Will you be transporting patients? What type of travel nursing job orientation can you expect and will there be prework?
Prioritize Patient Satisfaction: Remember that patient satisfaction is paramount to healthcare facilities. Make it clear during the interview that patient well-being is your top priority.
Highlight Your Skills: Ensure your uncommon or in-demand skills are clearly represented on your profile. Use the interview as an opportunity to showcase skills and experiences.
Stay Informed: Keep yourself updated on nursing literature and continuing competency to be well-equipped to handle any nursing-related questions that may arise.
Be Alert, Focused, and Upbeat: During the phone interview, stand to stay focused and find a quiet place with minimal distractions. Good communication skills are vital, so stay on topic and answer questions fully yet succinctly. Pro Tip - Smile! Believe it or not, smiling will help convey a positive, upbeat tone to your interviewer, something nurse managers
consider an asset to their staff.
Show Flexibility: Demonstrate flexibility with dates, shifts, and schedules to increase your chances of securing the position. Highlight your ability to work well on a team and be willing to make accommodations when necessary. If possible, avoid requesting specific time off while on an assignment; however, if unavoidable, be sure to let your recruiter know in advance and bring up the dates during the phone interview. Be flexible and offer something in exchange such as an extra weekend or holiday shift.
Take Notes: Always have a way to take notes during the interview. Verify important job details such as start date, shift, unit, floor, length of assignment, and clarify any uncertainties.
Be Available: Be sure not to miss a call regarding your interview. Remember, you may not recognize the number calling so answer every call promptly when possible. Missing a call could decrease your chances of getting the job. If you do miss the initial call, be sure to call back immediately and leave a detailed message with your name, contact info, and expressing your sincere interest in the position. If you’re asked to call the hospital by your recruiter, it’s important to do so as soon as possible. The first qualified candidate to make the connection will most likely get the job.
By following these tips, you’ll be well-prepared to ace your travel nursing job interview and land the position that fits best with your nursing career and lifestyle.
Top Travel Nurse Interview Questions Employers Ask
It’s crucial to be well-prepared with answers to common interview questions and thoughtful inquiries of your own. Nursing interview questions from prospective employers aim to gauge your motivation, commitment, qualifications, and work history in the field. They may also encompass questions targeting behavioral and competency-based aspects of your
nursing experience.
Here are some key travel nurse questions you may encounter:
Education, Training and Career Inquiry
- Where did you receive training, and in what specialty? Were any certifications included?
- How does your training and experience align with our job requirements?
- What are your most significant accomplishments to date?
- What do you consider your strengths and weaknesses as a nursing professional?
- What are your future goals?
- Why are you leaving your present job?
- What did you like and dislike about your previous position?
- Why do you want to work in our hospital and/or community?
- How do you stay current with the nursing profession?
- What are some of the primary challenges you face in nursing today?
Technical Skills, People Skills, and Managerial Skills
- Can you describe a situation where you effectively managed a difficult patient?
- Are you adept at making sound judgements and quick decisions? Please provide an example.
- Have you ever disagreed with a colleague over the management of a patient? How was this resolved?
- What changes have you initiated in established practices to improve patient care?
- Can you share personal frustrations you’ve encountered as an RN and how you addressed them?
- Could you describe a typical day in your previous role?
- How do you cope with stressful situations in the nursing environment?
Preparing well-articulated responses to these questions will demonstrate your readiness and suitability for the travel nursing position, and your ability to navigate complex scenarios and contribute effectively to patient care.
Travel Nursing Interview Questions You Should Ask
Asking thoughtful questions during your interview demonstrates your genuine interest in the position and showcases your professionalism. Here are some samples of travel nurse questions you might consider asking:
- What is the nurse-to-patient ratio?
- What kind of support do registered nurses receive here?
- Can you walk me through your scheduling process?
- How long has this job been open, and what are its main expectations?
- Could you provide information about available shifts and the one I am being considered for?
- How many other travelers are currently working at this facility?
- Can you please tell me about your orientation process?
- Which units will I float between when the census is low?
By asking these questions, you’ll gain valuable insights into the role and the work environment, helping you make informed decisions about your career as a travel nurse.
Navigating the travel nurse interview process can be exciting. By preparing thoroughly, showcasing your skills and experience confidently, and asking insightful questions, you can increase your chances of securing your dream travel nursing job. Remember to stay positive, flexible, and professional throughout the process, and don’t hesitate to reach out to your recruiter for support and guidance. With the right approach and mindset, you’ll be well-positioned to embark on an enriching and rewarding journey as a travel nurse. Best of luck on your interview!
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Getting Started/How it Works
Looking for adventure and new clinical skills? Discover how to become a travel nurse! Learn about the education requirements and career preparation on how to become a traveling nurse today!
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What is a Travel Nurse?
A travel nurse is an RN or LPN hired to work on a temporary basis - typically for 13 weeks - to fill hospitals urgent staffing needs.
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New Graduates
Just out of school? For recently graduated RNs, a travel nursing career is an enticing option. Here's what you need to know first.
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