Career-defining moments

FigureAs I prepared to host the September 2025 Nursing Journal podcast, which focuses on success strategies for interviews, I considered the insights that I gained from interviews with nurses seeking to be hired or promoted. Most people go into an interview with the intent to present their personal best, but they may not be aware that far more information follows them into the interview than what is reflected in their resume or curriculum vitae. The reality is that preliminary opinions may have been formed long before the formal scheduled meeting. Nurses with reputations that precede them for strong relationship skills and a commitment to excellence have the best chances for success and landing their desired job. However, if the opposite is true, donning a nice suit and a smile will not erase a history of poor teamwork or difficult behavior. Organizations often use an interview team approach that includes staff in support or assistive roles in addition to clinical nurses and nurses in leadership positions to gain perspective on how the job applicant interacts with all levels of coworkers. Working well with other healthcare professionals but having a reputation for treating subordinates, new staff members, or students in a condescending or dismissive manner may come back to haunt those who strive to portray a different image in the interview. Body language also matters. Be self-aware. As a case in point, I recall an individual who had a bad habit of noticeably rolling her eyes and displaying boredom whenever a guest spoke at a staff meeting. One particular speaker was not impressed and privately remarked that the individual should not apply for a job in her department anytime soon. The bottom line: The world is a stage, and people remember. On that note, it is a good strategy to dress for success in an interview. I have seen interview attire range from party dresses to club wear, and to outfits most appropriate for cutting the lawn. The takeaway message is that clothing should be clean, neat, and befitting a professional workplace. A nice suit is a good investment. An earned reputation for excellence can propel a nursing career forward. Success in interviews is not just about presenting a personal best self in the moment, but the ability to demonstrate and maintain a solid work ethic, integrity, and the ability to create effective working relationships with a variety of people in diverse roles. Until next time, LINDA LASKOWSKI-JONES, MS, APRN, ACNS-BC, CEN, NEA-BC, FAWM, FAAN EDITOR-IN-CHIEF, NURSING2025