What to Bring to a Nursing Interview? 10 Important Things

When invited to a nursing interview, you should consider what to bring with you. Depending on the type of interview, there are certain items that will help you make a good impression.

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These things include your updated resume, a list of references, a notepad and pen, and your professional portfolio.

But why are some of these things important in any nursing interview? Here’s a more detailed look:

1. You look like a professional

When you bring an updated resume to your nursing interview, you show that you are a professional who is taking the time to prepare for the meeting.

This is the first step in impressing your potential employer.

Moreover, it is always a good idea to have a few extra copies of your resume on hand, in case the interviewer wants to share it with other members of the hiring team.

2. You are ready to talk about your experience

If the nursing interview is more like a conversation, then you will want to have a list of references handy.

These people can vouch for your clinical skills and professional character.

Having this list ready shows that you are prepared to talk about your experience and are ready to answer any questions the interviewer may have.

3. You are engaged in the conversation

Nursing interviews can be intense, and it is important to show that you are engaged in the conversation.

This means having a notepad and pen handy to take notes.

It also means that you should have any questions that you want to ask the interviewer prepared in advance.

This shows that you are interested in the position and are taking the time to learn more about the company.

4. You are a well-rounded nurse

As a nurse, you should always be continuing your education.

This means that you should have a professional portfolio to show the interviewer.

This portfolio can include things like:

your nursing license,
continuing education credits,
and professional memberships.

Having a portfolio shows that you are committed to your career and are always looking to improve your skills.

It is important to remember that the nursing interview is your chance to make a good impression on potential employers.

By being prepared and bringing the right items with you, you can set yourself apart from the other candidates and show that you are the best person for the job.

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Table of Contents

What to Take to a Nursing Interview?

A few days before the nursing interview, there are several things you should always remember to prepare.

Make sure that the following things/items are included in your bag:

Your updated resume

A resume is one of the first things you will be asked for in an interview.

During the interview process, your potential employer will want to know about your previous experience, education, and skills.

Having an updated resume shows that you are a professional who is taking the time to prepare for the meeting.

Furthermore, it is always a good idea to have a few extra copies of your resume on hand.

This is because the interviewer may want to share it with other members of the hiring team.

List of references

Let’s assume that the nursing interview is more like a conversation.

In this case, it would be beneficial to have a list of references ready.

References are the people who know you on a professional and/or personal level and can vouch for your clinical skills and professional character.

Having a list of your references (normally three) shows that there are professionals who are willing to talk about your experience and recommend you for the job.

A notepad and pen

Imagine you went to an interview and completely blanked out.

In order to avoid this, it is always good to have a notepad and pen with you during the interview.

This way, you can take down key points that the interviewer says and/or questions that you want to ask.

Additionally, taking notes shows that you are engaged in the conversation and are interested in the position.

A professional portfolio

As a nurse, it is essential that you continue your education even after you receive your degree.

This means that you should have a professional portfolio to show the interviewer.

Your portfolio can include things such as your nursing license, continuing education credits, and professional memberships.

This means that wherever you work, always keep a file of your professional accomplishments to show future employers.

Here’s a great video about what to include in your professional nursing portfolio.

Video made by: Nurse Blake

A few questions for the interviewer

At the end of most interviews, the interviewer will ask if you have any questions.

This is your chance to learn more about the company, the position, and what the interviewer is looking for in a candidate.

Asking questions also shows that you are engaged in the conversation and are really interested in the job.

Breath mints

There are a few things that can ruin a good interview and one of them is bad breath.

For this reason, it is always important to have a pack of breath mints with you.

This way, you can avoid any awkwardness and make sure that your breath is fresh for the entire meeting.

However, remember to use them sparingly and avoid chewing gum during the interview.

A neat bag/laptop case

When you go to an interview, first impressions are everything.

This is why it is essential to have a neat and professional-looking bag or laptop case.

This will show the interviewer that you are an organized person who is taking the time to prepare for the meeting.

Copies of your transcripts

If you are a recent graduate, then the interviewer will more than likely ask to see your transcripts.

For this reason, it is always a good idea to have a few copies of your transcripts on hand.

This way, you can avoid any delays in the interview process and show the interviewer that you are a qualified candidate.

A form of identification

Most nursing interviews will require you to show a form of identification.

This is because the interviewer will need to verify your identity and make sure that you are who you say you are.

So, before you go to the interview, make sure to bring your driver’s license or passport with you.

Wipes/tissues

Even if you don’t think you need them, it is always a good idea to have a few wipes or tissues with you.

This is because you never know when you might need them.

For example, if you have a cold or are feeling under the weather, then having a tissue can help you avoid any awkwardness.

Additionally, if you happen to spill something on yourself, then having a wipe can help you clean it up.

These are some of the things that you should bring with you to a nursing interview.

By being prepared and bringing these items with you, you can set yourself up for success.

What NOT to Bring to a Nursing Interview?

We just covered what you should bring with you to a nursing interview, but what about the things that you should avoid bringing?

There are those items that will affect the interviewer’s perception of you in a negative way, so it is best to avoid them.

Some of the things that you should avoid bringing with you to a nursing interview include:

Your cell phone

Your cell phone should be turned off and put away before the interview even starts.

This is because having your cell phone out can make you look distracted and uninterested in the conversation.

Additionally, if you receive a phone call or text during the interview, it will be very disruptive and can make you appear unprofessional.

Candy or gum

As we mentioned before, it is important to have fresh breath for the interview.

However, this doesn’t mean that you should chew gum or eat candy during the meeting. This can be very distracting and can make you appear unprofessional.

A laptop or tablet

Unless you are specifically asked to bring a laptop or tablet, it is best to avoid bringing one with you to the interview.

This is because they can be very distracting and can make it difficult to pay attention to the conversation.

Reading materials

There is always a chance that you will have to wait for the interviewer before the meeting starts.

However, this doesn’t mean that you should bring a book or magazine with you to read.

This can make you appear uninterested and bored.

Bad attitude

Attitude is not an item that you can physically bring with you to the interview, but it is something that you should avoid bringing.

This is because a bad attitude can quickly turn off the interviewer and ruin your chances of getting the job.

Always respond to the questions with a positive attitude and be respectful to the interviewer.

Conclusion: What to Bring to a Nursing Interview?

When you are preparing for a nursing interview, it is important to know what to bring to a nursing interview.

Knowledge is power, and by being prepared, you can set yourself up for success.

By following the tips above, you will be able to make a great impression on the interviewer and improve your chances of getting the job.

Good luck with your upcoming nursing interview!

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