Although the field can be a stressful place, becoming the member of a healthcare team is one of the most rewarding types of jobs that are available, for various reasons. Healthcare offers job security and exceptional pay and benefits. There are many different types of positions to choose from that stretch beyond being a doctor or a nurse. But more importantly, you will get to make a direct impact on many people’s lives.

It doesn’t stop there. The relationships you build and lives you touch will make a lasting imprint in the world. What you do matters and is always going to be of necessity. The need for healthcare is always in high demand and shows no signs of slowing down, in fact, it is steadily increasing as the world changes and evolves.

Whether you are aiming for your first position or hoping to make a move to climb the ladder in your career, consider these five tips to ace that job interview.

First Impressions Matter

You want to make sure you are giving your future employer the best first impression, as this might be your only opportunity to impress them. Make sure you dress for success. Whether you are interviewing for a C-Level position or Level I RN position, make sure to be in appropriate business professional attire. This means a dress, skirt  or dress pants with a blouse or jacket for women and dress pants with a shirt, tie and jacket for men. Ladies, keep your makeup and jewelry classy and to a minimum! Plan to arrive at least 15 minutes early to show you are more than capable of being on time.

Do Your Research

Learn everything you can about the organization, hospital, staff members, and the interviewer. You will most likely be given the names of the individual(s) you are interviewing with. Spend some time researching each individual. Have they one any recent awards? What day to day job responsibilities do they hold in their current position? Make sure you know things about the hospital and organization such as their mission, beliefs, and awards. These are great topics to discuss and possible questions they could bring up during your interview. There is no such thing as being overly prepared! Google and LinkedIn are great online tools you can use to get started.

Show What You Can Do  

If you do not already have one, make sure you put together a professional portfolio that highlights your education and career. It should include any certifications, licenses, diplomas, awards, accomplishments, letters of recommendation, references, published articles, community service, etc. Bring multiple copies of your printed resume and be ready to hand it out. Don’t hesitate to bring up those accomplishments during the course of your interview if it does not come up in the interviewer’s questions.

Practice, Practice, Practice

Practice makes perfect, right? Search the web and find potential questions you will be asked in your interview. Find a friend or family member who is willing to review practice questions with you. Have them ask you a series of questions ranging from behavioral based questions to common questions related to the position you are applying for. Work on answering those questions not only with them but also in front of a mirror as well as practice greeting your interviewers and smile.

Be Confident

Never forget to show your enthusiasm for the position throughout the interview and smile! It is important to show your potential employers how much you want the position and how much energy you are willing to put forth. Preparing for an interview can be nerve-wracking and exhausting, so make sure you stay hydrated and nourished to remain upbeat. And don’t forget coffee if you need it! Also, just remember, you meet the requirements and guidelines for the position and have come more than ready, it’s time to shine!

KPG Healthcare is proud to be your go-to source for healthcare opportunities in the West, specializing in California. Whether you’re interested in travel nursing, per diem, allied, locum tenens or permanent placement, KPG Healthcare is your trusted partner for high quality, rewarding career opportunities. Contact us today!