Yesterday I mentored a new Certified Legal Nurse Consultant who pursued an opportunity for an interview with a very large firm with five offices in the U.S. The firm’s objective was to hire an in-house Certified Legal Nurse Consultant for each office. The problem, this CLNC® consultant’s objective is to be an independent consultant.
My advice, “If the law firm’s goal is to hire an employee, you’re probably not going to get them to change their mind. But, go ahead and proceed with the next level of interview – even if you know you don’t want an in-house position. Emphasize your nursing specialty and your willingness to testify. At the very least you’ll get to hone your interview skills and meet influential people you may meet again in the future.”
I added, “If that doesn’t work, remember there are 1,687,830 attorneys in the U.S. Move on to the attorneys whose needs match your goals as an independent Certified Legal Nurse Consultant.”
I’m Just Sayin’
P.S. Comment and share whether you want to be an independent or in-house CLNC consultant? Why?
If you’re a life-time student, take advantage of every opportunity to learn. You may not change their minds, but you will find out what they think they are going to get if you listen. Big ears, as many successful musicians say.
Excellent advice, Vickie. I have interviewed for in-house CLNC® consultant positions just as you suggest even though my goal is independent RN contracting. The firm may not waiver in their needs, but I leave them with the prospect of a seasoned CLNC® consultant on call to work with their existing team. Even their legal nurse consultant takes vacation, etc. It is a perfect way to develop interview skills as you have demonstrated on national TV. Thank you, Vickie.