The Interview Process... Year 3 Week 41

Hello girls and boys!
I'm going to write what is hopefully a really helpful and informative post to you all about the interview process. From what to wear to what to say, it'll be here!


The beginning...
It all starts with a search on NHS Jobs online for suitable posts in your area, be aware you can't apply for just any post, once you click onto the application part it will sometimes ask you if you already have your PIN, and if you're newly qualified the answer would be 'nope' and you'd be back to square one.
My advice? Look around for weeks before you actually intend on applying, get a feel for what's available, read the person specification and what they are actually looking for. Don't wait until the deadline to apply because often they close applications early due to high demand.
Also, you can apply up to 6 months before you actually qualify, yay!

Step 1
Now you'll have to fill in all those pesky details; name, address, education, experience etc... And then to the most important part; your personal statement. This can be up to 1500 and should showcase why they want you. It should include all of your previous experience that you can link to this job, their person specification, the trust and more. Just wow them with your amazing-ness; you can do it!

Step 2
Waiting game!

Step 3
NHS jobs has a message waiting for you... YAY the day is finally here, you have an interview! And believe me, the chances are you will be invited to interview. The only time I wasn't was when I applied too early. This is also when you'll receive a date and will have to confirm your attendance.

Step 4
Now to find the perfect outfit...
Personally I went for a knee length, fitted floral dress with a smart navy blazer, black tights and navy flats. It was really appropriate, smart and eye-catching at the same time (if I say so myself haha).
You can go for anything smart. Don't go casual, you're trying to make someone want you on their team, not go for food and drinks. Some girls I saw were in leggings and a cardigan, maybe it worked for them but I wouldn't recommend it.
A pencil skirt and shirt. Trousers and blouse. Dress and blazer. Anything you want at the end of the day, just make it smart.
Tone down the hair and the makeup too, you want to make a really good first impression :).

Step 5
Today is the day! Whatever you do make sure you're there 15 minutes early. Leave way too early if you're worried about timings and traffic. DO NOT BE LATE.
I'll give you guys a list of the questions I was asked at both interviews so you have an idea:
- What would you do if your patient was having chest pain?
- What would you do if your patient had dementia and was constantly trying to get off the ward?
- What would you do if you found someone collapsed breathing and not breathing? (hint hint...BLS!)
- What do you know about infection control?
- Give an example of when you used good communication.
- Give an example of when you were in a difficult/complicated situation.

Most of the questions they asked were situations, but just try to be yourself and relax because in both of my interviews they were very friendly and we ended up having a chat by the end!

Step 6
On my first interview they told me then and there that I was successful. On my second I received an email the following day. They are normally pretty quick.
And here's the exciting part...YOU'VE GOT THE JOB!
And you should be so so proud of yourself, but the hard work doesn't end here, this is where it all begins :).

I hope you all found some if not all of this helpful, I know how much it would have helped me if I'd have known.

Take care,
Alex xx