8 CNA Interview Questions and Answers

It pays to be confident during a Certified Nursing Assistant, or CNA, interview. The best way to come across that way is by preparing as much as possible. Familiarizing yourself with commonly asked CNA interview questions is an excellent strategy. The Internet is awash in sample CNA interview questions, and it pays to practice answering them in the days leading up to your interview. By doing so, you'll be ahead of the game and that much likelier to get the job.

You'll probably be asked at least a few of the following CNA interview questions, so be prepared to answer them:

Tell me a little about yourself.

Don't tell them your life story. Instead, talk about your skills, education and other credentials, and explain how they relate to being an excellent CNA.

Why do you want to be a CNA?

Avoid saying something generic like, "Because I want to help people." That's great, but you need a more personal touch. With that in mind, have an anecdote ready to go to illustrate why you want to pursue this line of work. For instance, perhaps a CNA helped an elderly relative once and inspired you to become one someday too.

Where do you see yourself in five years?

This may feel like a trick question, since you don't want to suggest you'll be working elsewhere. Instead, explain that you hope to gain a lot of experience through the job so that you can pursue advanced opportunities later in your career.

Why did you leave your last job?

Never express any negative sentiments about your last job. Even if you left due to extreme circumstances, be as diplomatic with your answer as possible. Regardless of why you left, you should be able to put a positive twist on things.

What is your greatest strength?

While you don't want to come across as being a braggart, this is your opportunity to showcase your best qualities. Focus on ones that directly relate to being a great CNA. For instance, being detail-oriented is a great trait for any CNA to possess.

What is your biggest weakness?

For this question, come up with one or two anecdotes relating to something you struggle with, and explain how you worked to improve or even overcome the issue. In other words, don't just mention a weakness; explain how you've actively worked to correct it.

Why do you want to work here?

This is where it pays to do your homework. Prior to your interview, learn as much as you can about your prospective employer. Being able to reply with specific things about the employer that appeal to you will be much more convincing than saying you've heard good things.

Describe a time when you dealt with a difficult patient or client.

Ideally, you'll have a story about a difficult patient. Even if it's about a client or customer, make sure to include how you were able to turn a bad situation into a good one. Don't end the story by saying you had a manager help instead. You must show that you can handle things yourself.

Prepare as much as you can for your interview by practicing answers to lots of commonly asked questions. Remember too that you're sure to get at least one or two seemingly from out of left field. If so, take your time and think things through to give the most thoughtful answer possible.