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Beat the Toughest Nursing Interview Question

An answer for those who want to be experts: If your career goal as a nurse is to be an expert in your field (this is more likely to be true of younger nurses, or those who are newer to their careers) you may want to say something like, “ In five years, I see myself as a successful pediatric nurse (or specialization of your choice) learning new skills that will benefit the hospital and help me achieve my career goals. I am eager to experience new challenges and excited to invest five years time specializing in a career I find extremely interesting and motivating."

An answer for those who wish to be management: If your career goal is to move up the ranks because you’ve become an expert in your field, you may want to say something like, “In five years I see myself in a management role, as a supervising nurse. This would allow me to demonstrate my aptitude for managing nurses, handling difficult patients, and having more responsibility. I am a dedicated nurse and hope to better both my career and this hospital via my commitment and enthusiasm.”

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Tip #2: Be realistic and motivated.

It doesn’t matter how well you answer the five-year question, if you don’t answer it realistically, you’ll loose the respect of your interviewer. For example, it’s probably not the best idea to announce that you’d like to be head nurse in five years if you’re fresh from nursing school. Once you’ve presented yourself as unrealistic, good luck trying to get your interviewer to take the rest of your nursing interview seriously.

Tip #3: Communicate that you’re in it for the long haul.

Many interviewers ask this dreaded question to decipher whether you’re just settling for the position or using it as stepping stone for bigger, better opportunities. Assure your interviewer that you’re looking to make a long-term commitment to the hospital and your career as a health care professional. Do this by stating goals clearly. Make sure to convey that you believe future success comes with everyday excellence. You can steal that last part if you want.