NURSING MOCK INTERVIEW TEMPLATE

STUDENT NAME: ___________________________________________ DATE: ___________________________

COMMONLY ASKED INTERVIEW QUESTIONS

QUESTION INTERVIEWER COMMENTS ANSWER
EXAMPLE BAD ANSWER: I worked in the
retail industry prior and decided that wasn’t
for me. I switched gears and then went on
to “X” (and so on). Now here I am looking
for a more challenging role in healthcare.

Instead of giving a chronological work

history, focus on your strengths and how
they pertain to the role. If possible,
Illustrate examples.

EXAMPLE GOOD ANSWER: I’m really

Tell me about yourself. energetic and a great communicator. Prior
positions helped me build confidence and
the importance of customer (or patient)
care. I’ve also got a track record of success.
In my last job, I juggled a variety of
customers and assisted in a charity
fundraiser becoming and advocate for those
less fortunate. Because of these
experiences, I felt nursing would be my life-
long career path where I can focus on
quality patient care.

EXAMPLE BAD ANSWER: I love to talk

medical jargon, Even as a kid, I spent hours
flipping through medical dictionaries
pretending I was a nurse.

Don’t just say you like it. Anyone can do

that. Focus instead on your history or
experience with the healthcare industry,
and if you can, tell a success story.

Why do you want to work in this EXAMPLE GOOD ANSWER: I’ve always
industry? loved nursing, but my interest in healthcare
really started when I volunteered at a
homeless shelter. Seeing so many people
without care inspired me to pursue a career
devoted to caring for others. I feel like I was
able to contribute positively to society that
then led me to a field I feel so passionate
about.

Provide a real-life example of what inspired

YOU to become a nurse.

Unitek College, Revised 12/2017 Nursing Mock Interview Template

NURSING MOCK INTERVIEW TEMPLATE

COMMONLY ASKED INTERVIEW QUESTIONS

QUESTION INTERVIEWER COMMENTS ANSWER

EXAMPLE ANSWER: At Unitek, I

experienced several rotations at (name
How have your clinical rotations some of the facilities) which gave me the
prepared you for a nursing career? hands-on experience with patients that I
need in order to make a difference on day
one of starting my career.

EXAMPLE ANSWER: If the doctor is not

happy with my care of a patient in some
way, I would want to know how, so I could
How would you deal with a doctor that take corrective action to remedy the
was rude? situation. If I needed to, I would even bring
the question to my supervisor to help
resolve the issue.

EXAMPLE ANSWER: In this situation I would

first bring this concern to the attending
doctor to make sure that the patient’s pain
was being managed effectively. Then I
would reassure the patient that everything
How would you handle a patient who possible is being done to alleviate their
constantly complains? discomfort and I would listen
empathetically to their complaint reassuring
them that their concerns are being heard
and we are doing everything possible to
help them.

What would you do if your shift EXAMPLE ANSWER: I would notify my shift
replacement did not arrive on time or at supervisor and offer to stay until my
all? replacement arrived.

EXAMPLE ANSWER: I think for me, the most

What do you find most difficult about difficult part of being a nurse is when I may
being a nurse? have a patient that is very uncomfortable or
in a lot of pain and I cannot comfort them.

EXAMPLE ANSWER: I would listen to all

How would you handle a family
their concerns and make sure that if any
member who is displeased with your
were well founded, that they were
patient’s care? addressed immediately.

EXAMPLE ANSWER: I would first ensure the

How would you handle a patient that patient had no valid complaints and then
complains about everything? just be patient reassuring them that we are
doing everything we can for them.

Unitek College, Revised 12/2017 Nursing Mock Interview Template

NURSING MOCK INTERVIEW TEMPLATE

COMMONLY ASKED INTERVIEW QUESTIONS

QUESTION INTERVIEWER COMMENTS ANSWER
Nothing says “HIRE ME” better than
providing good results from a past job
or from your education. The STAR
method works best for this question.
Set up the SITUATION, describe the
TASK, explain what was ACHIEVED and
What is your greatest achievement? what was the RESULT.

Although it may be tempting to say

“your kids”, “your family”, etc. as your
achievement. Try to stay away from
personal situations. Keep it professional
and school related.

The interviewer wants to get a sense of

how you will respond to conflict and
challenging situations. Again, try to use
Tell me about a challenge or conflict the STAR method being sure to focus on
you faced and how you dealt with it. how you handled the situation
professionally and respectfully (at a
previous job or in school) and what was
the outcome or resolution.

EXAMPLE BAD ANSWER: Relaxing on a

beach in Maui or Doing YOUR job.

There really is no right answer to this

question, but the interviewer wants to
know that you are ambitious, career-
oriented and committed to a future
with the organization. Instead of
sharing your dream for early
retirement, or trying to be funny, give
them an answer that illustrates your
Where do you see yourself in five drive and commitment.
years?
EXAMLE GOOD ANSWER: In five years
I’d like to have an even better
understanding of the healthcare
industry. Also, I really love working with
people. Ultimately, after continuing to
learn and grow in a nursing position, I’d
like to be in some type of leadership
role. I can use my people skills and
nursing knowledge to benefit others
that may be working for me and the
patients as a whole.
Unitek College, Revised 12/2017 Nursing Mock Interview Template
NURSING MOCK INTERVIEW TEMPLATE

COMMONLY ASKED INTERVIEW QUESTIONS

QUESTION INTERVIEWER COMMENTS ANSWER

Ideally, an environment that is similar to

What type of work environment do you facility the position is located. Research
prefer? the facility and the position so the
answer can be tailored accordingly.

EXAMPLE BAD ANSWER: I work too

hard, or for the comedian, Blondes.

This question is a great opportunity to

put a positive spin on something
negative, but you don’t want your
answer to be cliché – joking or not.
Instead try to use a real example of a
weakness you have learned to
overcome because of your training as a
nurse.
What weakness do you have that you
EXAMPLE GOOD ANSWER: I’ve never
are working to improve?
been comfortable speaking up, which as
you know, can be a hindrance n nursing.
Realizing this was a problem, I really
worked hard in class to be a leader and
a “voice” to be heard, often speaking
and doing presentations in front of
others so I could overcome this fear.
Since then, I’ve made great strides in
sticking up for others and having better
communication that will allow me to be
a good nurse. I still don’t love it, but no
one else can tell!

You need to assume that references will

likely be checked so you need to be
honest. Try to pull strengths and traits
How would your boss (or instructor)
that were already discussed in the
and co-workers (or classmates) describe
interview that would apply to the
you?
position. IE; strong work ethic,
willingness to pitch in and help others,
reliability, good with customers, etc.

Unitek College, Revised 12/2017 Nursing Mock Interview Template

NURSING MOCK INTERVIEW TEMPLATE

COMMONLY ASKED INTERVIEW QUESTIONS

QUESTION INTERVIEWER COMMENTS ANSWER

You should start by explaining what you

would need to get started in terms of
What do you think your first 30, 60 or
training and getting up to speed. Then
90 days look like in this role?
how they would work to support where
needed at the facility.

EXAMPLE BAD ANSWER: I did my

homework and I know that nursing jobs
can start around $30 per hour so I’m
looking for at least $62k to start.

If you can AVOID it, don’t give an exact

number. The first person to name a
price in a salary negotiation loses.
Instead, reiterate your commitment to
the job itself. If you have to, give a
broad range based on research you’ve
What are your salary requirements? conducted about wages for a new
nurse in your geographic area.

EXAMPLE GOOD ANSWER: I’m more

interested in the role itself as I’m
excited to start my career. That said, I’d
hope to be paid the appropriate range
for this position based on my skills and
education. I also think a fair salary
would bear in mind the cost of living in
the area.

CAUTION! Interviewers may ask some

personal questions to understand if you
would be a good fit with their culture.
This gives you the opportunity to show
What do you like to do outside of work? your personality or hobbies and it’s OK
to share what makes you tick. Be
careful NOT to overshare and divulge
personal information that could keep
you from getting the job.

Unitek College, Revised 12/2017 Nursing Mock Interview Template

NURSING MOCK INTERVIEW TEMPLATE

COMMONLY ASKED INTERVIEW QUESTIONS

QUESTION INTERVIEWER COMMENTS ANSWER

You should always try to tie back

qualities that would be successful in the
position. EX: Patient focus, quality work,
good technical skills, reliability, etc. Tie
What qualities do you feel a person the qualities back to an example of how
needs in this position need in order to you previously demonstrated these
be successful? qualities at a past job or in school and
how they would be applied to the job.
You should show you possess have
transitionable skills that would apply to
the job.

EXAMPLE BAD ANSWER: I’m the best

candidate for the position.

A good answer will reiterate your

qualifications and training while
highlighting what makes you unique.

EXAMPLE GOOD ANSWER: I’ve enjoyed

every moment of my training at Unitek
Why should we hire you? and thrived during the clinicals, often
receiving positive feedback regarding
my performance. I’d eager to apply all
that I’ve learned and will continue to
learn in my first nursing position. Your
organization’s focus on providing
quality care to your patients is exactly
the right match. I hope to have the
opportunity to prove it to you.

EXAMPLE ANSWER: I have always

wanted to make a difference in other
What made you choose a nursing
people’s lives. I see the nursing field as
career?
a challenging and exciting opportunity
to do just that.

Unitek College, Revised 12/2017 Nursing Mock Interview Template

NURSING MOCK INTERVIEW TEMPLATE

COMMONLY ASKED INTERVIEW QUESTIONS

QUESTION INTERVIEWER COMMENTS ANSWER
EXAMPLE BAD ANSWER: I am most
satisfied when I did well and got praised for
my work.

Don’t give vague answers. Instead think

about something you did well and enjoyed
that will be relevant at this job. This is an
opportunity for you to share your
interests, prove that you’re a great fit for
the job and showcase your enthusiasm.

EXAMPLE GOOD ANSWER:

When are you most satisfied in your
I’m truly a people person. I know that
job? sounds cliché, but I’m always happiest and
most satisfied when interacting with people
and patients making sure I was able to meet
their needs and giving them the best
possible care. It was a favorite part of my
clinicals and it showed as I received really
good ratings from the Clinical Supervisors
and Instructors. I’m excited about this
opportunity as it will allow me to have even
more interaction with patients on an even
more critical level.

EXAMPLE BAD ANSWER: Doing a good job

and being rewarded or recognized for it.

It’s not that the above answer is wrong, it

just wastes an opportunity. This question is
practically begging you to highlight your
positive attributes. So don’t give a vague,
generic response; it tells the interviewer
little about you. Instead, try and use this
question as an opportunity to give the
interviewer some insight into your
character and use examples where
What motivates you? possible.

EXAMPLE GOOD ANSWER: I’ve always been

motived by a challenge. In one of my
clinicals, I had a rather tough patient with a
bad attitude. I was able to find something
we had in common which calmed him
down. After the patient saw me make an
effort to better understand his situation, he
became much more agreeable to my aid. I
love facing and overcoming challenges on
such a personal level.

Unitek College, Revised 12/2017 Nursing Mock Interview Template

NURSING MOCK INTERVIEW TEMPLATE

BEHAVIORIAL BASED INTERVIEW QUESTIONS

QUESTION INTERVIEWER COMMENTS ANSWER
EXAMPLE BAD ANSWER: I seldom finish
anything so getting through nursing
school was a big accomplishment for
me. I’ve learned that it’s a huge mistake
to give up just because the going gets
tough.

You don’t want to actually highlight

any major regrets; especially one that
may expose an overall dissatisfaction
with your life. Instead, focus on a
smaller, but significant mishap and
how you feel it will make you a better
nurse.
What is your greatest failure and what
EXAMPLE GOOD ANSWER: When I was
did you learn from it?
in High School, I took an art class and
didn’t take it very seriously. I assumed
compared to my biology classes, it
would be a walk in the park. My low
grades proved otherwise and I knew it
would jeopardize my honor roll status
and college application as well as
potential for scholarships. I knew I had
to get my act together so I spent the
rest of the year making up for it and
ended up getting a decent grade in Art.
I learned that no matter what I’m doing,
I should always strive to do it to the
best of my ability. Otherwise, it’s not
worth doing at all.

Unitek College, Revised 12/2017 Nursing Mock Interview Template

NURSING MOCK INTERVIEW TEMPLATE

BEHAVIORIAL BASED INTERVIEW QUESTIONS

QUESTION INTERVIEWER COMMENTS ANSWER
EXAMPLE BAD ANSWER: I’m easy to get
along with so I’ve never had any kind of
discord with anyone.

Interviewers don’t like these types of

“easy out” answers. And besides, they
know you are probably not telling the
truth. Think of a relatively benign (but
significant) instance, and spin it to be a
positive learning experience.

EXAMPLE GOOD ANSWER: I locked

heads with a fellow student while I was
in school that I was often paired with or
Describe a time when you didn’t get put in a group for assignments. We
along with someone. disagreed over a lot things. Our
personalities just didn’t mesh and it was
effecting the outcome of our
assignments. After our third time
together, I pulled her aside and asked
her to lunch. At lunch we talked about
our differences and why were weren’t
getting along. It turned out, it was all
about communication. We just
communicated differently and once we
knew that be began to work well
together. I really believe that talking a
problem through with someone can
usually help solve any issue.

Unitek College, Revised 12/2017 Nursing Mock Interview Template

NURSING MOCK INTERVIEW TEMPLATE

INTERVIEW CLOSING
QUESTION INTERVIEWER COMMENTS ANSWER
Student needs to have questions
prepared for the interviewer. Not asking
questions can show the interviewer the
What questions do you have for me?
student doesn’t really care about the
position or didn’t take any time to
prepare.
EXAMPLE QUESTIONS TO ASK THE INTERVIEWER

1. Why is the position available?

2. How soon are you looking to hire?

3. What does the orientation and training process look like?

4. Do you have a mentoring program for nurses new to the organization?

5. What are your expectations for a new person in the position in the first 30-60 days?

6. What is the nurse-to-patient ratio?

7. What is the culture of the facility like?

8. What do other nurses love about working here?

9. What do you like best about working here?

10. What would you say are the two or three qualities of the most successful nurses currently working here?

11. What are the team and the doctors like?

12. What are the next steps in the interview process?

13. Are there any other questions I can answer for you about my qualifications or my desire to join your organization?

Unitek College, Revised 12/2017 Nursing Mock Interview Template

NURSING MOCK INTERVIEW TEMPLATE

MOCK INTERVIEW SCORING/GRADING METRIC

MAX POINTS
CRITERIA COMMENTS
POINTS ACHIEVED
PRESENTATION
Grooming, poise, mannerisms, body language, 10
hand shake, eye contact, etc.
ENGAGEMENT
Confidence, level of enthusiasm, synchronizing to 10
the position

COMMUNICATION SKILLS
Clarity of voice, dictation, ability to articulate 15
sentences, minimal “uhms, ahs, likes,” or similar

SUBJECT MATTER, KNOWLEDGE & EXPERTISE

Understands the role & is ready to take on the job 15

PORTRAYED KNOWLEDGE OF THE COMPANY

Showed interest in the field, the organization and 5
gave appropriate responses
PROPER INTERVIEW CLOSING
Thanked the interviewer, closed the discussion 5
well and asked for a business card and next steps

GRADE
POINTS
EQUIVALENT
POINTS ACHIEVED: ____________ 56 – 60 Points A
51 – 55 Points B
46 – 50 Points
C
2nd Mock Interview Required
< 45 Points
D/F
2nd Mock Interview Required

2nd Mock Interview Scheduled For: _________________________________________

Date

___________________________________________________ _______________________________________
Interviewer Name Job Title

Unitek College, Revised 12/2017 Nursing Mock Interview Template

NURSING MOCK INTERVIEW TEMPLATE

 NEVER show up late. Do a drive by the day before if necessary. Plan for
traffic, parking, etc.
 Be dressed appropriately. Neat, clean, wrinkle free clothes appropriate
for the company and/or the position.
 Do not wear excessive colognes or perfumes. You never know if your
interview is sensitive or has allergies.
 Do not wear excessive accessories and makeup.
 Be cognizant of exhibiting good verbal and non-verbal communication
skills. Interviewers are not only listening to what you say but also what
your body language says
 Have a firm confident handshake. Avoid limp handshakes and sweaty palms.
 Be sure to smile and be attentive.
 Bring multiple copies of your resume, a nice note pad and pen. You never know if there will be another person in the
interview so be prepared with extra copies of your resume. A note pad will help you jot down notes for you to ask follow
up questions at the end of the interview that may be specific to the position.
 Always ask for a business card at the close of the interview and send a “Thank You” for the interview, re-expressing your
interest the same day.
 Do not provide short answers without elaborating or giving examples. Be sure to fully listen to every question and
provide an appropriate response.
 Check any arrogance or ego at the door no matter how qualified you think you are for the position
 Never speak negatively about past employers, coworkers, classmates, your school, etc.
 TURN OFF YOUR CELL PHONE or leave it in your car!
 Do not appear to be uninformed about the company or the role. DO YOUR RESEARCH before the interview. Research the
company, their mission, value proposition, specialties, growth plans, etc. You can also read reviews on various websites
about an organization. However, take those with a “grain of salt”. Remember, unhappy people or those that can never
be pleased are always first to complain publicly while those that have had a good experience simply don’t think to post
the positive BECAUSE they had a good experience.
 Be sure to always ask questions at the end of the interview. It looks bad when you state you have no questions for the
interviewer. Try to ask specific questions regarding the company or the role based off the interview.
 Do not provide too much personal information. Avoid over sharing! However, sharing a little personal information can
sometimes be good because it shows the interviewer a peek into who you are, how you might be as an employee and if
you will fit into their culture.

Unitek College, Revised 12/2017 Nursing Mock Interview Template

NURSING MOCK INTERVIEW TEMPLATE

 AVOID QUESTIONS IN THE 1ST INTERVIEW REGARDING PAY, BENEFITS,

VACATIONS, TIME OFF, ETC.

 Save that for a 2nd interview or when negotiating a job offer.

 DO NOT tell an interviewer you will be needing time off for whatever
reason. If you do, wait until the job offer phase.

IF THE INTERVIEWER PUSHES YOU ABOUT YOUR PAY EXPECTATIONS

 An appropriate response would be something like, “I’m flexible and understand this is my first IT position out of school.
I’m sure your pay scale for these types of positions is comparable to other organizations in the area and I am
comfortable with that”.

 Try to stay away from specific numbers, especially in the 1st interview. However, be sure to research the company and
they type of job you are interviewing for so you have a general idea of salaries. If you find out average salaries for the
position are $15 per hour, your response would be something like, “I understand that average salaries in this area for
this type of position are around $15 per hour and I’m sure your organization stays competitive in this market. I’m
comfortable with average starting wages for this type of position but do have flexibility as I’m very excited by this
opportunity, to apply my education and learn even more.”

Unitek College, Revised 12/2017 Nursing Mock Interview Template