Travel Nursing Job interviews are usually done via telephone because of physical distance and timing constraints. Always remember that the interview process is a two-way street.Although the hiring manager is assessing credentials, work ethic and skills, it's also your chance to find out more about the facility to make sure it matches your needs. Keep in mind that Nurse Managers are looking for great communicators, people who are adaptable and can adjust to new situations quickly. 

Don't use one word answers during the interview. You will need to showcase your knowledge and experience and go into detail with your answers. It is true that facilities are clamoring for Registered Nurses and other travelers but that doesn't mean they will settle for just anybody.The interviewer is looking for someone that will be a good fit and will adapt to their new assignment quickly with a positive attitude.And, of course you want to remember that you obviously are not the only candidate for the job.

Make sure you have copies of your documents in front of you during the interview process as the interviewer will be asking questions based on your skills checklist and application form that were provided to them by your recruiter. Be Prepared, Informative and Professional during the interview.

Here are a few questions you may want to think about and practice before your interview:

What do you feel have been your significant job accomplishments?

Where did you receive your education and training? Any certifications and if so, why did you choose that specialty?

How does your experience and training meet the requirements of this assignment?

What qualities do you have that would show you are best suited for this job?

What do you feel are your strengths and weaknesses as a healthcare professional?

What about this nursing assignment interests you?

Are you ready for a change?

How do you manage stressful situations?

What career goals have you set for yourself in the future?

Why should I hire you for this travel nursing assignment?

How do you stay current with your profession?

What did you like and dislike about your previous assignment?

What do you feel are some of the challenges facing healthcare professionals today?

Describe a situation you have experienced with a difficult patient and how you handled it.

Can you provide an example of wise and fast decision-making?

Have you had a disagreement with a colleague over patient care and how was this resolved?

Are there any changes you have contributed to improve patient care?

And, of course there are some questions you need to be asking the interviewer as well. Some of these might include:

What is the nurse-to-patient ratio?

How long has this job been available and what are their expectations?

What is the availability and length of shifts?

What kind of support do RN's receive in this setting?

How is job performance measured?

What is the facility policy in regard to CEUs?

What is the job turn-over like and what happened to previous person in this assignment?

What specific challenges might I face in this facility?

What type of orientation is offered to travelers and is it general or specific to the unit?

What are the weekend and holiday requirements?

How is scheduling down in this unit and how far in advance?

What is the float policy and if there is a float policy what other units would I float to?

Is staff parking provided and is it free?

What are cafeteria hours?

What is the specific dress code?

How often is an assignment cancelled due to patient population?

As you can see there are many questions you need to prepare for before your interview call. Make sure you get ready in advance and like we said above:Be Prepared, Be Informative and Be Professional!!

Mary Crawford, HealthCare Employment Network