Want more than a job? Ask this to unlock tuition help, promotions & specialties. See how CNAs level up – sample negotiation phrases inside.”
CNA Interview Questions to Ask Employer:
1. What does a typical day look like for CNAs here?
I’d love to hear how a regular shift plays out—like, how many citizens you’d usually be assisting, whether you’re mostly assisting with meals and personal care, or if there’s time built in for projecting. Do CNAs usually work with the same residents each day? I find that steadiness really helps build faith. Oh, and are baths mostly in the morning or spread throughout the day? Just trying to get a feel for the rhythm!
2. What’s your staff-to-patient ratio?
I know every facility’s different—could you share how many residents a CNA typically supports on a shift? And does that change between days/nights? I’ve worked places where proportions felt insecure, and it’s rough when you can’t give everybody the care they justify. Fairly, I’d rather know truthful if this is a spot where I’ll have time to really talk to residents while plateful them, not just rush through tasks.
3. How do you support new CNAs during training?
Initially somewhere new can be awe-inspiring! I’m snooping—do you pair new hires with a friend for the first week? Or is it more shadowing? And how long before I’d be flying solo? I learn best hands-on, so a patient preceptor who doesn’t mind questions would be huge. Also, is there ongoing training later? Like workshops for dementia care or lifts?
4. What do you love most about working here?
Totally putting you on the spot—but I’d love to hear what keeps you here! Perhaps it’s the team ambiances, or how guidance handles tough days. I operated at a place where nurses and CNAs really had each other’s backs—it made 12-hour shifts fly by. Here, is it more like a family? Or maybe residents who crack you up? Just tell me what makes it feel ‘worth it’ on hard days.
5. How does the team handle tough moments?
Let’s be real—some days in care work break your heart. If a resident passes or a family’s upset, how does the team cope? Do supervisors check in? I’ve seen places that do monthly ‘debriefs’ over coffee, which helped. Or is it more casual—like, can I grip a nurse to vent for 5 minutes? I don’t need pampering, but knowing I’m not unaided matters.
6. Are there growth opportunities for CNAs?
I’m passionate about growing in healthcare—maybe even nursing school someday. Do you help CNAs move up? Like tuition help or flexible scheduling for classes? Or even just cross-training for specialties like hospice? I’d stay loyal to a place that invests in me. But even if not, I’d love to learn new skills here over time!
7. How do you recognize staff?
Okay, be honest—do good CNAs get noticed here? Like shout-outs in meetings? Or a ‘Employee of the Month’ parking spot? My last job gave out $5 coffee cards when families complimented you. Tiny things matter! I don’t need trophies, but feeling seen keeps me motivated. How do you celebrate when someone goes above and beyond?
8. What’s your biggest challenge right now?
Every place has its struggles—maybe staffing shortages or EMR updates. What’s the real hurdle here? And how are you attempting it? I’d slightly join a team that’s straight about problems than one that play-acts everything’s perfect. Like, if turnover’s high, are you surveying staff to fix it? No judgment—just want to know what I’m walking into!
9. How do you schedule CNAs?
Scheduling’s a biggie for me. Are we self-scheduling? Or do managers assign shifts? And how far ahead do you post the roster? I’m flexible but need to plan daycare. Oh—and is overtime expected? I’ll pitch in during emergencies, but I’ve been burned before working 16 days straight. Just want to set clear expectations!
10. What’s your leadership style?
If I had an idea—like a better way to track vitals—could I share it? Or if I’m swamped, could I ask for help without eye rolls? How hands-on are managers? I thrive with supervisors who pop in to help lift a patient, not just criticize from an office. Basically—if I’m drowning, will someone throw me a lifeline?
