Ep 49: (Video Podcast) New Grad Nurse Interviews: Why First Impressions Matter More Than You Think

First impressions in nursing interviews matter more than most candidates realize — and they form fast. In this episode of Life After Nursing School, we break down what hiring teams are actually noticing in the first few seconds of an interview, often before you even answer the first question.

Drawing from over a decade of experience on new grad nurse hiring teams, we explore why first impressions are so “sticky,” how they influence interview decisions, and how they can either work for you or against you throughout the entire interview process. You’ll learn how arrival time, body language, professionalism, warmth, confidence, and energy shape hiring decisions — sometimes within the first 60–90 seconds.

This episode is especially helpful for new graduate nurses, nursing students preparing for interviews, and nurses navigating career transitions. We talk about how to show up prepared, lead with warmth, and project confidence — even when you’re nervous — so hiring teams stay engaged and open to your answers.

If you’re preparing for a nursing interview, residency program, shadow experience, or networking opportunity, this episode will help you show up intentional, confident, and grounded from the moment you walk into the room.

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