“What Do You Bring to the Table?” — How to Nail This Interview Question as a Nurse
Nursing interviews are filled with questions that sound simple on the surface - but can totally catch you off guard if you’re not ready. One of the most deceptively tricky ones?
“What do you bring to the table?”
It’s vague. It’s open-ended. And it can throw you off your game if you’re not prepared with a thoughtful, strategic response.
Instead of blanking and saying….’uhhhh’. This is your moment to shine!
This is your chance to deliver your elevator pitch: a short, confident, well-prepared summary of what makes you you, and why you’re a great fit for the role.
Similar Questions That Mean the Same Thing:
Sometimes, interviewers phrase it differently. Keep an ear out for versions like:
- “Why should we hire you?”
- “Why are you the best candidate for the role?”
- “What else should we know about you?”
- “Why do you feel you’re a good fit for this position?”
No matter how it’s worded, the intention is the same: they want to hear how your skills, experience, and personal strengths make you a valuable addition to the team.
💁🏻♀️AKA: they want to hear you brag about yourself! So don't be shy or too humble.
What to Include in Your Answer:
Use this question as an opportunity to touch on three key areas:
- Relevant Experience
Reiterate any experience that ties directly into the role or shows your ability to succeed in a similar environment. Think clinical rotations, externships, prior healthcare jobs, or even related volunteer work.
- Strengths and Soft Skills
Highlight your personal and professional strengths - especially the ones you haven’t had a chance to mention yet. Are you known for being calm under pressure? A team player who steps up during chaos? An empathetic communicator with patients and families? Say so.
- How You’ll Contribute
What kind of nurse will you be on this team? What kind of teammate? Will you go the extra mile, take initiative, volunteer for committees, or help train new grads in the future? Paint that picture.
Bonus Tip: Timing Matters⌚
If this question is asked early in the interview, use it to give context for the rest of the conversation. Introduce yourself as a strong candidate by previewing your key strengths and focus areas.
If it’s asked at the end, treat it as a closing argument. Re-emphasize the biggest strengths you’ve already mentioned, add anything you didn’t get to say, and wrap it up with a sincere thank you for the opportunity to interview.
Want Help Crafting Your Elevator Pitch?
This is exactly the kind of question we tackle in my interview course, “1 Hour to RN Interview Confidence.” Inside, I walk you through how to answer common (and tricky!) interview questions with clarity, confidence, and a touch of strategy.
Let’s make sure you never get caught off guard again. Check out the course here.
