Sometimes applicants are so relieved that the interview is concluding that they forego the opportunity to ask questions. Arrive prepared with questions to ask! Asking questions allows you to gain clarity and is an opportunity to shine. Do your homework, and ask meaningful and thoughtful questions that will help the interviewer remember you without challenging the interviewer.

Ask what their favorite thing is about the hospital.
Ask if there are any interesting perks not readily known at the hospital.
Ask about the local area and interests.
Ask about the staff turnover rate.
Ask about in-house nursing leadership programs.

Do not hesitate to ask questions relevant to you wanting to accept the position. As much as nursing is a passionate vocation, it is also a business transaction. You will be trading valuable hours of your life for hours worked for payment, so you want to ensure that your first career inspires you to continue. Ask the hard questions that are important to you.

It is wise to have a mental list of intriguing questions that not only give you an answer but allow the interviewer to think about what they like about working there! Most of the nuts and bolts questions are available online, so take this time to humanize the interaction and build rapport with the organization. The hard questions about insurance and other important considerations can be asked in the second round. Get through the first interview door in a way that authentically represents you and your career needs.