Preparing for Your LPN Job Interview
LPN job interviews can be extremely exciting. Unfortunately, they can be quite terrifying as well. If you are faced with an upcoming interview, put your fears to rest, as the following valuable tips will help you gain the confidence you need to ace your job interview and obtain the position you want!
Practice Answering Common Questions
One of the best ways to prepare for an LPN job interview is to practice answering various questions that your potential employer may ask you. Although what questions you will be asked depends entirely on your interviewer, there are a few questions that are commonly asked during LPN job interviews, such as:
- Why did you choose to become an LPN?
- Why do you want to work for us?
- What can you do for our company?
- What do you like most/least about nursing?
- What is your biggest strength/weakness?
- Do you handle stress well?
- What do you see yourself doing in five years?
- Are you good at taking directions?
- Can you work as a member of a team?
Prepare a List of Your Own Questions
Next, you will want to prepare a list of your own questions. By asking your interviewer a few questions, you will show that you are highly interested in the available position. However, do not ask too many questions, and steer away from questions pertaining to such things as salary and time off. Stick with about three or four questions such as those found below.
- What is the nurse-to-patient ratio in this facility?
- Can I have a tour of the facility?
- What will be my main responsibilities in this position?
- What other types of personnel will I be working with?
- Do you provide continuing education coursework?
- What are your procedures for employee evaluations?
- Is there room for advancement within the facility?
Dress in Professional Attire
It is of the utmost importance that you appear professional when you show up for your interview. As such, make sure that you choose your clothing wisely. Never wear informal clothing to an LPN job interview and avoid brightly-colored clothing as well. The best attire for such an appointment is a solid-colored business suit that is a neutral color such as navy, gray, black, brown, or tan.
Keep Accessories to a Minimum
When appearing for your interview, it is essential that you keep any accessories to a minimum. This includes earrings, rings, necklaces, bracelets, body piercings, and hair accessories. Remove any body piercings and wear only one set of modest earrings. If you choose to wear a necklace or bracelet, wear one that is small and not overly extravagant. Finally, do your best to cover any visible tattoos you may have.
Always Be Friendly and Polite
Lastly, it is important that you remain friendly and polite, even if you feel as if the interview has gone badly. Shake hands with your interviewer before leaving and thank him or her for taking the time to speak with you. Doing so will show to your potential employer that you have excellent character, which can help you ace the interview and obtain the position.
