Our NICU is staffed 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. What is your overall availability to work varying shifts?

"I am open to working any shift on any day as long as the schedule for particular shifts is out at least two weeks ahead of time. With my husband also having a full-time job, I need to be able to plan ahead for childcare during the weekday hours should the need arise. We are very fortunate to have a great support system with family and friends if needed."

In truthfulness to yourself and the potential future employer, you should be as honest as possible regarding what your availability is when it comes to nights, weekends, and holidays. While reiterating that you are open and flexible, make sure that your interviewer knows of any personal commitments that you have because it is important that these things are discussed during the interview process. Based on your research into the hours requirements for the position, make sure to reiterate that you can handle potential 12-hour shifts and even required overtime. If needed, you can always ask clarification questions to your interviewer.

"I noticed this position was posted as 37.5 hours per week. Can you confirm if that's accurate or if overtime will be required? As a new grad, I'm eager to get started, and I know I will require additional onboarding, orientation, and training time, so I'm willing to flex my schedule to ensure I have adequate availability. My ultimate shift preference is during the day, but I'm willing to work evenings as needed. Unfortunately, I'm not able to work overnight shifts at this time. I also understand that nursing care isn't just Monday-Friday, so I'm willing to work rotating weekends and holidays as well."