Top interview questions to expect

1. Tell me about a time you had to deal with a difficult employee.
2. Describe a time you had to make a difficult decision.
3. How do you handle conflict on your team?
4. Give an example of a time you had to motivate a team.
5. What is your leadership style?
6. How do you stay up-to-date on the latest nursing practices?
7. Tell me about a time you had to delegate a task.

Check the latest questions for this role:

Answering interview questions with STAR structure

The STAR method is a powerful tool for answering behavioral interview questions. STAR stands for Situation, Task, Action, and Result. This framework helps you structure your answers by providing a clear and concise narrative about a specific experience. By following the STAR method, you can effectively demonstrate your skills and abilities in a way that is relevant to the job requirements.

Sample answers to above interview questions

1. Tell me about a time you had to deal with a difficult employee.
*Example Answer: “In my previous role as a Charge Nurse, I had a staff nurse who was consistently late to work and often missed deadlines. I first tried addressing the issue with a friendly reminder, but the behavior continued. I then documented the instances and spoke with the nurse privately about the impact their lateness was having on the team. We discussed the importance of punctuality and the consequences of repeated tardiness. After that conversation, the nurse’s performance significantly improved.
*Explanation: This answer uses the STAR method. The Situation is the late nurse, the Task is to address the issue, the Action is the conversation with the nurse, and the Result is the improved performance.

2. Describe a time you had to make a difficult decision.
*Example Answer: “As a Charge Nurse, I was responsible for staffing the unit. One night, we had a surge of admissions, and I had to make a difficult decision about calling in additional staff. I weighed the need for extra support against the budget constraints and ultimately decided to call in a few nurses from the agency. This decision ensured patient safety while also minimizing overtime costs.
*Explanation: This answer uses the STAR method. The Situation is the staff shortage, the Task is to make a decision about calling in extra staff, the Action is the decision to call in agency nurses, and the Result is ensuring patient safety while managing costs.

3. How do you handle conflict on your team?
*Example Answer: “I believe in open and honest communication. When conflict arises, I encourage team members to express their concerns and listen to each other’s perspectives. I try to remain neutral and facilitate a constructive dialogue. I focus on finding solutions that benefit everyone involved and create a positive work environment.
*Explanation: This answer demonstrates the candidate’s conflict resolution skills and their commitment to team harmony. Although it does not use the STAR method, it does demonstrate the candidate’s problem-solving skills.

4. Give an example of a time you had to motivate a team.
*Example Answer: “During a particularly busy period, I noticed that my team was feeling overwhelmed and discouraged. To boost morale, I organized a team-building activity outside of work. We went to a local bowling alley and had a fun night together. This helped to lighten the mood and remind everyone of the importance of teamwork and camaraderie.
*Explanation: This answer uses the STAR method. The Situation is the team’s low morale, the Task is to motivate the team, the Action is the team-building activity, and the Result is improved team morale and a stronger sense of camaraderie.

5. What is your leadership style?
*Example Answer: “My leadership style is collaborative. I believe in empowering my team members and involving them in decision-making. I encourage open communication and provide regular feedback. I also strive to create a supportive and positive work environment where everyone feels valued and respected.
*Explanation: This answer provides a clear and concise description of the candidate’s leadership style. The candidate demonstrates their ability to work collaboratively and empower their team members.

6. How do you stay up-to-date on the latest nursing practices?
*Example Answer: “I am a member of the American Nurses Association and regularly attend professional development conferences. I also subscribe to several nursing journals and online resources to stay current on best practices and emerging trends in healthcare. I am committed to lifelong learning and continuously seeking opportunities to enhance my knowledge and skills.
*Explanation: This answer demonstrates the candidate’s commitment to professional development and their dedication to staying up-to-date on the latest nursing practices.

7. Tell me about a time you had to delegate a task.
*Example Answer: “As a Charge Nurse, I was responsible for delegating tasks to the nursing staff. One day, I had to delegate a complex medication administration to a new nurse. I first assessed the nurse’s skills and experience and provided clear instructions and supervision. I also made myself available to answer any questions and provide support. The nurse successfully completed the task, and I was impressed with their competence and confidence.
*Explanation: This answer uses the STAR method. The Situation is the need to delegate a task, the Task is medication administration, the Action is assessing the nurse’s skills and providing support, and the Result is the successful completion of the task.