09/30/2026
Nurses… Before Your Next Interview for a Leadership Position (open or internal), Prepare to Answer: “Tell me about some of your accomplishments as a Nurse Leader”
The reason I ask you to prepare for this question is because, in my experience, many nurse leaders struggle to answer it. They seem to think sharing accomplishments is bragging or the accomplishments are just what is expected for the position.
It isnt!
Your accomplishments help an organization better understand the situations you have faced and the difference your leadership has made throughout your career.Remember, leadership accomplishments are not always big or dramatic.
Perhaps you:·
Improved retention.·
Improved survey outcomes.·
Improved census.·
Improved CMI.·
Reduced falls, pressure injuries or rehospitalizations.·
Reduced nursing costs by improving nursing systems.·
Developed a struggling nurse manager into a strong leader.·
Opened the door for further education for staff members.·
Improved communication with residents and families.·
Walked into a department with low morale and helped rebuild the team.
These are leadership accomplishments.
Before your interview, take time to identify three or four situations where your leadership made a difference. Write down what was happening, the actions you took to help turn the tide and, most importantly, what changed as a result.
Never forget strong Nurse Leaders dont accomplish results alone. They accomplish them through people. Clearly define your role but give your team credit for their contributions.
Organizations are not only interested in the leadership positions you have held: They also want to know what changed because you were in that position.
Peg Tobin, RN - Let Tobin & Associates help you excel as a Leader (www.tobinway.com) Healthcare Leadership Strategist | Executive Coach | Speaker | Author Founder & President, Tobin & Associates
