Diane just finished interviewing Marcus for a nurse position at her hospital. She was impressed with his answers based on his previous experience concerning how he handles stress, challenges, and multiple priorities. These were all important skills for a nurse. However, customer service and bedside manner were also important characteristics, and Diane was not sure that Marcus would be a good fit

Question

He often looked down when answering questions and had a hesitant, nervous manner. Nurses needed to be able to reassure patients with confidence and positivity. If Marcus wasn’t able to exhibit positive behavior during an interview, how would he handle stress with a seriously ill patient? Diane placed Marcus's folder on the "reject" pile, picked up the next resume, and resumed her search for the best fit candidate.

What would have helped Marcus in his preparation for the interview?

What unconscious body language do you send out that you would like to change?

Answer 1

Marcus could have used relaxation tactics prior to the interview. Marcus could have prepared question and answers as well as rehearsed them in advance. During the interview, he could have paused more often to allow himself to present more complete, confident answers.

Eye contact, posture, nervous gestures, etc. are possible answers.