Virtual Interview - Healthcare
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Practice, practice, practice! The Virtual Interview contains interview questions ranging from the very difficult to the simple puffball to killer that are typically asked of healthcare candidates. This interactive section gives you the opportunity to test your answers in a safe environment so that when you are ready for the real thing, you can engage in a meaningful exchange rather than grope for a clumsy comeback.
Question 1: What are your strengths and weaknesses?
Answer 1: My strengths are that I am reliable, dependable and a hard worker. My weakness is that I get impatient when other employees don't do their work on time, because my work suffers as a result.
This is not the best answer.
Reliable and dependable are almost the same thing, and almost everyone thinks of themselves as hardworking. Think about your strengths before the interview. It is very difficult to admit to a weakness in an interview. It is best to have an answer ready, just in case. By not having an answer, you demonstrate a lack of self-knowledge. Also, learn to give specific examples to support your claim. So, if you say you’re hardworking be sure you’re able to back it up. In terms of weaknesses try to avoid talking about personality flaws like impatience. Personality is hard to change whereas technical flaws are not.
Answer 2: I don't really have any weakness that I can think of. Maybe I could use some more technical training. My strengths are probably my ability to handle emergency situations in a calm manner. I usually don't get upset easily, even when I've had to handle some rather unpleasant situations. I am also pretty adaptable.
This is not the best answer.
leads with the weakness and then dodges the issue. Avoid saying you don’t have any weaknesses – no one’s perfect. The strengths are good qualities, but stated in a vague and uncertain way: maybe, probably, usually and pretty. Avoid terms that may place doubt in the interviewers mind. Also, learn to back up your statements with specific examples. Make your quality statement firm and believable. The words you choose to describe yourself can make a difference.
Answer 3: My strengths are my ability to be flexible -- I've seen companies go through many changes in structure and management philosophy and just adjusted my style to the new environment. I also have excellent written and oral communication skills and have taken several projects from start to completion. As far as weaknesses, I really enjoy my work, and sometimes I put in too much time, but by being aware of my tendency to overwork, I have learned to pace myself more and work less overtime.
This is the best answer.
This answer gives specific examples of strengths, not just the skill. The number one trait All employers are looking for good communication skills and flexibility. The number two trait is flexibility. The weakness question (which everyone hates) is handled best by leading with a positive statement, slipping in the negative and ending on a positive note. Weaknesses are best put in the past so you can demonstrate how you’ve improved. Avoid mentioning something that’s really going to harm your chances.
Question 2: Tell me about a time when you had a confrontation with a co-worker or boss.
Answer 1: I've never had a confrontation with a co-worker or a boss. I try to ignore people who irritate me. Sometimes I just go for a walk if someone is bothering me, or I avoid him or her if I can. I really try to get along with everyone.
This is not the best answer.
This answer indicates excessive passive behaviour. While it might keep the peace, it is probably the least healthy way to deal with problems. When you "stuff" ignore things that bother you rather than work them out, you aren't really working as a team member or contributing to good group dynamics. You may also be causing your body undue stress.
Answer 2: I did have an issue with someone who was getting on my nerves. I kept getting her work, because she wouldn't finish the details. I asked her if I could talk with her one day, and we had a good discussion. It turned out she was not aware of the impact of her actions, and she really needed to have an explanation of the procedure. I took the time to explain the procedures, and there haven't been any problems since that day.
This is the best answer.
What the problem was about is secondary in comparison to how you handled and resolved the situation. The example showed initiative and good communication skills by asking for a meeting with the person. Good communication skills are one of the most important qualities the number one quality employers are looking for in employees. This answer also indicates some assertiveness -- by showing that you can take care of yourself without stepping on someone else to do it.
Answer 3: One of my co-workers was coming in late and leaving early every day, and I didn't think it was fair. I told him what I thought about his habits. We haven't spoken since, but at least I got it out in the open.
This is not the best answer.
It is too aggressive. Unless you are responsible for monitoring someone else's behaviour, you don't have the authority to tell him or her what to do. By confronting the tardy employee, you took care of your feelings, but what about his? Also, this answer does not demonstrate that you solved the problem. An answer that indicated you investigated his problem or discussed it with your supervisor would have shown better communication skills and compassion. You cannot have successful team dynamics when team members refuse to talk to one another.
Question 3: Tell me about a time when you had to handle a morale issue with your staff.
Answer 1: When morale is low, I try to treat everyone a little gentler. I figure if I can cut them some slack, they won't be so grouchy. Sometimes, just avoiding someone who is having a problem is the best way to handle a situation. They get over it with time. It's more difficult when others join in with the same issues. I have held meetings and tried to communicate, and sometimes it has helped.
This is not the best answer.
This answer does not show leadership but rather avoidance. Even though there are times when avoidance may be the best strategy, your answer should demonstrate more initiative. There is no specific example but a general statement. When your answer reflects a negative attitude, you can sometimes turn the interview sour.
A good answer would briefly describe a conflict situation, the steps you took to resolve it and the outcome.
Answer 2: Morale is not something that you handle with my staff. There are just some people who are not very happy in their jobs. I figure if that's the way they feel, maybe it's best if they find opportunity elsewhere. Morale is never high in the department where I work, and that's one of the reasons I want to leave. It's difficult to work around people with attitude.
This is not the best answer.
Not only does this not show leadership, it shows defeat. Be careful about giving negative information regarding your previous job. If it happened there, it can happen again.
Answer 3: When I took over the department, there was an issue of people leaving the department. I sat down with the staff to find out what was going on. The problem was they were expected to cross-train, and they didn't like it. It was my job to convince them that it was for the best. By showing them the benefits of doing this and what would be available to them as a result, they eventually bought into the program.
This is the best answer.
It answers the question with an example and shows leadership and communication skills. It also shows that you were able to turn the situation around. Not every story has a happy ending, but the story you relate should it can still demonstrate your skills, reasoning and abilities.
Question 4: What qualities do you think are important to this position?
Answer 1: To show up and work hard. You have to be reliable in this line of work. When you show up, you have to be willing to work hard.
This is not the best answer.
The answer is very short and to the point, but it really doesn't say much about you as an individual or what you can bring to the position. It sounds like you are there for a job and a pay-check. to have which may be the case, but may not be a competitive answer. When you’re asked about your qualities always support your statements by giving specific examples.
Answer 2: There are basic qualities you need to have to get the job done, and qualities required to improve the situation. I am very reliable and get the job done, and I take my job seriously. Patient care is my primary concern. The patient is the customer in this case, and I want to make his or her stay as comfortable as I can considering the circumstances. Several of my patients have written to say thanks for the caring and concern I have shown.
This is the best answer.
By talking about specific concerns for the patient, you are letting the interviewer know what you value about the job. The story is a good example of the results of your caring. This attitude and caring demonstrate good customer service, which would benefit the reputation of the hospital.
Answer 3: The most important qualities for this job are to keep up the reputation and high standards set by the hospital. We all have to do our part to keep the standards high. We all work very hard, and we support each other.
This is not the best answer.
The answer is very general and doesn't let the interviewer get to know you. Be especially careful about using the pronoun "we." What part of we is you? When you say we, you don't give yourself credit for the work. It is a very common mistake when interviewing to overuse this pronoun.
Question 5: When have you been the most satisfied with your job?
Answer 1: I’ve been satisfied with all my jobs in the beginning, but as I learned how to do them, they became routine and lacked challenge. I am at my best when I am learning. I’ve had to change jobs a lot to continue to be challenged.
This is not the best answer.
This answer indicates a desire for challenge, but not adaptability. How long before you become bored with the job you are applying for? Changing jobs too often can be dangerous to your track record. If you have left a job before for a more challenging position, chances are you’ll do it again.
Answer 2: My biggest satisfaction is when I experience growth in a job. When I first started in healthcare, I had a lot to learn. But through hard work, advice from some good mentors, and continued education, I’ve come a long way. I have learned to be flexible when possible and to deal with difficult people in a positive manner. I am continuously learning new things either through training or experience. In all my previous jobs I’ve had to grow and meet new challenges and I’ve enjoyed every one of them.
This is the best answer.
It indicates a desire to continue to grow and develop. Learning how to handle difficult situations and people is experience that cannot be learned from a textbook. Listening to others, working hard and taking advantage of opportunities are all desirable qualities in an employee.
Answer 3: I've really never been completely satisfied with a job -- there always seems to be something missing. I’m still waiting to find a job where I can utilise my strengths and capabilities. I think your job is just what I’ve been looking for. If I can just get an opportunity like this one, I know I will be satisfied like I’ve never been before.
This is not the best answer.
Although a flattering answer for the employer, it could indicate a desire to find the “ideal” job, which may or may not exist. What makes you think that this company and job will be any different from the rest when you get to know the situation? What are you seeking in this job that the other jobs lacked? Perhaps some values work regarding what is important to you, is in order.
Question 6: Do you have any questions? (Usually asked by the interviewer at the end of the interview.)
Answer 1: No, not really. You seemed to have covered all the things I was interested in learning. I'm sure once I started working here I would have a lot of questions.
This is not the best answer.
Although, it may be appropriate in situations where the interviewer has been very thorough. However, it is the answer most commonly given. Most people say "no" when asked if they have any questions. Don't you want to know a few things about the company before you commit yourself to working there?
Answer 2: I was wondering about benefits and when they would go into effect. Also, what is the yearly vacation allowance and when would that start? Does the company match employees' 401k plans? offer above regulation super? Do you have a retirement plan or flexible spending plan? flexible working hours and salary substitute packages?
This is not the best answer.
In fact, it is the wrong answer. Depending on where you are in the interviewing cycle, the discussion of benefits comes later in the process. It could be interpreted that all you are interested in is what’s in it for you. You definitely need to find out this information before accepting an offer, but you still have a lot of information to find out about the company before you, or they, commit.
Answer 3: Answer 3: Yes, I do – thank you. What would you say would be my greatest challenge in the first year? Where do you see the company being in two years time? Could you tell me more about your staff training programs (if they've got them!). I'm keen on furthering my skills and knowledge, what opportunities can I look forward to with you? If I were to ask one of your employees, "What is the best thing about working here?" what would he or she say? Why is this position open? Is there a job description I could see?
This is the best answer.
In most cases it’s important that you ask questions. In fact, in some cases interviewers are listening to what you ask or don't ask. This is your chance to find out what they have to say about the company. You are interviewing them as much as they are interviewing you. Is this a good place and a good fit for you? Listen to the questions they ask and formulate some questions of your own based on them. Some tips: Avoid asking potentially embarrassing questions, or questions that the interviewers may not be able to answer. Also, avoid asking too many questions because interviewers generally do not like being grilled. Ask questions that have a specific bearing on you.
Question 7: Tell me three positive qualities your co-workers would use to describe you and your work style.
Answer 1: They'd say I was a hard worker, a team player and have a great sense of humour.
This is not the best answer.
Apart from being too short, a very large percentage of people answer this question by saying "hard worker." What does hard work mean to you? Give some thought to some original things your co-workers would say about you and why they would say them.
Answer 2: They'd say I am very punctual -- I always meet deadlines. If I say I'm going to do something, I do it. They'd also say I am a cheerful person to work with -- I don't bring my problems to work. I try to have a positive attitude about work. And thirdly, they'd say I am flexible -- I accept change easily, and go with the flow. You have to be flexible to survive in this industry.
This is the best answer.
Not only did the answer give three positives, it also gave reasons. By giving more detail, you give the interviewer a better look at how you think others see you and what you think is positive about your work style. Also, the answer didn’t just focus on skills. It mentioned your personal attributes and motivation levels.
Answer 3: That is very difficult for me to say. I really don't know what they'd say. I know we all get along and I'm well liked. I think they think I'm good at what I do, but that's expected. I guess they'd say I have good attention to detail. I don't think they'd say anything negative, and if they did, it would probably be that I work too hard.
This is not the best answer.
It is very difficult for some people to "brag" about themselves. Some people just cannot think of good things people would say about them. This is where a little preparation can make a difference. What are your skills? What are you good at doing? Remember: at interviews leave your shyness at the door.
Question 8. Tell me about a time when you had to handle a highly stressful situation.
Answer 1: It is not unusual in the nursing profession to work short-staffed. One night, I was one of two nurses on duty, and we had 28 patients to care for. It was one of those times when everything that could go wrong did. The other nurse and I discussed the situation and did a quick priority check. She took those most in need of service on one side of the hall, and I took the patients on the other side. By partnering we kept cool and supported one another rather than criticising and stressing. We would give each other a look from time to time to let each other know that we were hanging in there.
This is the best answer.
It briefly describes the situation and what steps you took to handle it. It’s an example of a real team player that can handle stressful situations. This reply demonstrates by example the ability to remain cool and think straight when things get too hot to handle.
Answer 2: That's a way of life in this profession. If you can't handle the stress, you have no business being a nurse. We all work as hard and as fast as we can, but sometimes that's just not enough. We get complaints and have to deal with them. It's just the nature of the game. There are always shortages and budget problems. You just have to deal with it.
This is not the best answer.
In addition to sounding very negative, this answer does not address the question about a specific time. This answer has the tone of someone with a defeatist attitude. That may be the way things are, but the answer points out all the negatives of the job and none of the positives. This could be interpreted as coming from a person who is burnt out or has given up trying to improve the situation.
Answer 3: I pride myself on staying calm when everything around me is falling apart. I don't like stress, but I know how to deal with it. I just do my work and try to ignore the unpleasant things that take place. I'm paid to do a service, and I do it. We each have our own area of responsibility. I do mine, and I do it well. I get through my shift, and that's the end. I don't take problems home with me.
This is not the best answer.
It is too general. This does not give a specific example as asked in the question, nor does it demonstrate any team spirit. This person does the job, and probably does it well, but is not concerned about co-workers, the department or the hospital. The answer does not express any passion or feeling about the job.
Question 9: Tell me about a time when you went above and beyond the call of duty for a patient.
Answer 1: A patient that had been hit by a motorcycle and had no identification came into the hospital. I worked very hard to come up with an identity. At first, I just started making calls to medical tracking facilities and homeless shelters. I found a social worker that helped, and together we were able to get him a case manager. Through social security, we were able to get his name. We called his mother, who had lost contact with him a few years before. She was happy to hear from us and came to see him. He still keeps in contact with us and is doing quite well.
This is the best answer.
It is a good example that reveals many skills: problem solving, tenacity, resourcefulness, communication skills, follow-through, teamwork and caring. Stories reveal a lot more than what happened at the time. Stories tend to be more interesting, therefore they’re remembered more easily by the interviewers.
Answer 2: Helping a patient in whatever way I can is part of the everyday job. I try to go out of my way whenever someone has a specific need or problem. The reason I went into this profession is to help people. If I don't help them, I'm not fulfilling my goal. Some patients are more demanding than others, and some just aren't much trouble. I try to be there for all the patients.
This is not the best answer.
The intent behind the answer is good, but the statements are too general. They border on motherhood statements. By giving a specific example of assisting a patient, the interviewer could see more skills behind the theory. Instead of making general statements, think of a specific example and try to weave a story around it. Stories are much more compelling and easily remembered by the interviewer.
Answer 3: I work a lot of overtime so that there will be coverage for the patients. I spend the greater percentage of my life working for patients. I go above and beyond the call of duty. Most people work regular schedules, but nurses can be on call on weekends and nights. Sometimes I feel my whole life is wrapped up in my job and helping patients.
This is not the best answer.
This is an example of a person who is a hard-worker, even a dedicated worker. But the answer is not specific. This answer has a complaining tone. It sounds like this person needs a vacation or a break from the fast-paced environment that has become a lifestyle.
Question 10: Tell me about yourself and your past experience.
Answer 1: I was born and grew up in Pennsylvania Sydney. I got married and moved to Michigan, Brisbane where I started taking nursing classes. When I completed my degree, I was offered an opportunity in the main hospital as a staff RN. permanent staffer. I've worked there for 10 years but took time off to have my children. I'm ready to come back to work now and am hoping to pick up where I left off.
This is not the best answer.
Too much personal information is given. Your marital status and the fact that you have children are considered off-limits or illegal to ask in an interview, so there is no need to volunteer this information. Be careful about giving information that is unnecessary or irrelevant to the question.
Answer 2: I've always liked being a nurse. I really like working with people, and get along with almost everybody. I've worked in different hospitals in a variety of situations and have received excellent performance reviews. I work well under pressure and can do multiple tasks.
This is not the best answer.
It is too vague and whilst it talks about your love for the job there’s little to no mention of your skills and personal attributes. By emphasising You need to mention specific examples of knowledge-based skills, transferable skills, and personal traits, in order to reveal a summary or snapshot of yourself.
Answer 3: I have eight years of nursing experience, and have worked in several hospitals. For the past two years, I have been working in critical care. In addition to my nursing skills, I have excellent teaching skills, and I have taught nursing classes at various locations. I interact well with peers, patients, administrators and doctors. I thrive on challenge and work well in high-stress environments. My enthusiasm for working in this field remains undiminished.
This is the best answer.
By emphasising specific examples of knowledge-based skills, transferable skills, and personal traits and motivation levels, you reveal a summary or snapshot of yourself. Remember: when interviewers ask you to talk about yourself what they’re really wanting to know is: Are you the right person for the job? So, avoid talking about your personal life and focus on your: skills, personal attributes and motivation levels.
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