Following up with the hiring manager after your nursing interview is a valuable practice and may even play a key role in getting the job. While the demand for good nurses is high, there’s still a lot of competition when it comes to landing those primo career opportunities. After your nursing interview, follow-up sets you apart and alerts the hiring manager that you are serious about becoming part of their staff.
Your resume speaks to your qualifications. You have your degree, your skills, and the necessary certifications. You may even have a fair amount of clinical experience. All of that gets you in the door and in front of a nursing interviewer. But interviews can be awkward and some things do get left unsaid. Change the script and stand out from the other candidates by putting some effort into your nursing interview follow-up. Here’s how.
Send a Thank You Right Away
You’ll stand out when you send a thank you letter right away. It might sound simple but keep in mind thank-you letters are somewhat of a lost art, and when the hiring manager receives one from you, it will set you apart from the rest. You can send an email or, if you like, a handwritten letter.
No matter what type of thank you letter you send do so right away, within 24 hours. Very few job candidates follow up in such a meaningful way. An email is perfectly acceptable but a handwritten thank you shows a depth of sincerity that tells the interviewer you really do want the job. Here are a few pointers:
- Address the thank you note to all of the people involved in your interview.
- Confirm the spelling of their names.
- Mention aspects of the interview and focus on reiterating any experiences you feel impressed your interviewers.
- Briefly mention specifics discussed during the interview and how you can address those needs.
- Emphasize your desire to work for them.
- Let them know you have a strong work ethic.
- Wrap up by thanking them for their time.
- Sign your name and include any contact information.
After You Send Your Thank You Note
Once you’ve sent your thank you note, schedule a time to follow up by reaching out to the hiring manager by phone. If you and your interviewer discussed when the decision would be made, wait a day or two after that time and reach out via phone. If no exact date was discussed, then allow a week or two to go by before following up with a phone call.
When you do reach out with your follow-up phone call let the interviewer know that you’re checking to see if a decision was made. Make sure they understand you are still interested.
They will likely let you know when to expect a call back so make sure you clear your calendar that day.
If a decision has been made and they have decided on another candidate, cordially thank them for their time and let them know you are available should anything come up or the candidate does not work out. The importance of reiterating your interest can’t be stressed enough. The more eager you are to work for them, the more likely you will be contacted. If not for the job for which you interviewed, then you’ll certainly be a likely candidate when something else comes up.
You’ve Got This and We’ve Got You
A nursing interview can be overwhelming and stressful. Take time to approach your interview with a calm demeanor and a professional attitude. You’ve got this! For more information and to check out our available jobs please contact BOS Medical Staffing.
