With staffing shortages at most U.S. hospitals, a nurse can find a job nearly anywhere they’d like to live. But location isn’t the only factor to consider when looking for new employment.
If you’re in the market for a new employer, Scrubs Mag suggests you ask the following five questions during your interview to ensure the right fit for you.
What is the workplace culture?
When you’re touring the hospital or facility, pay attention to what’s happening around you. How do the nurses seem? Are they in a hurry? Are they frustrated? Do they look like they enjoy working together, or is there tension? You should also talk to current and former employees to see what they think of the job.
How much input will you have on your schedule?
If you’re going to change jobs, you should make sure it improves your well-being. Ask the hiring manager how schedules are decided, and if being a parent or caregiver at home will factor in to your hours. Will you be expected to pick up extra shifts? If work-life balance is a priority, you’ll want to know what to expect before accepting an offer.
Will there be training?
No one wants to be thrown into the deep end right away, so you’ll want to ask about the hospital’s training program. Even if you’re an experienced nurse, there will be things to learn in your new job. Will you have a supervisor or mentor to help you get acclimated or will you be expected to jump right in?
What does diversity look like at the facility?
“Everyone talks about diversity and inclusion. Everyone says they believe in it, but to actually see it and live it every day is very, very important,” Brittany Moore, a nurse manager at Northwell Health Presbyterian Medical Center, told Scrubs Mag. “Being an African American leader, I see a whole lot of us. I pride myself on our unit being a diverse unit.”
A diverse work environment can improve not only nurses’ performances but also patient outcomes, studies have shown. During the interview process, find out if a patient’s background factors in to their diagnosis and if staff are trained to care for LGBTQ+ patients.
Does the employer support continuing education?
In addition to mandatory continuing education, you might want to earn another degree. How supportive will the new employer be? Will you be able to take classes online? Is there a tuition reimbursement program?
“The company should help you access resources and support that can help you further your education while working full time,” according to Scrub Mag.
