Interview Preparation
Tips and resources to enhance medical interview technique
CONVERSATIONS WITH PROSPECTIVE EMPLOYERS
Discover Practical Insights for Successful Medical Interviews
Take an organised, proactive approach to your interview preparation by understanding the techniques used in different jurisdictions and healthcare organisations. Here is a sample of the topics you will find in this section:
Interview Technologies and Methods
Understand the interview technologies and methods employed for medical interviews in different jurisdictions
Evaluation of Workplace Culture
Evaluate workplace culture during on-site interviews
An Overview of the Interview Process
Interview Preparation
The first step to interview preparation is thorough research of the employer and the job.
The Employer
- understand the history of the company and its vision, goals and values
- learn about the services or products produced by the company
- find out details of any new projects
- find out the names and positions of the people you will work with if appointed to the job
The Job
- what is the purpose of the job and how does it help achieve the organisation vision and goals?
- what are the key requirements in terms of qualifications and skills?
- do your own qualifications and skills align favourably with the job requirements?
- what are the major duties and responsibilities of the job?
Practice Common Questions:
- Prepare concise and compelling answers to typical interview questions.
Prepare Questions to Ask
- Formulate thoughtful questions about the role, team, and company.
Plan Your Outfit and Logistics:
- Ensure you have appropriate attire and arrive early for the interview.
By understanding the purpose of a job interview and taking the time to prepare effectively, candidates can increase their chances of making a positive impression and securing the job
Interview Format and Technology
Establish the format of the interview and how it will be conducted.
- telephone
- teams, zoom
- customised interview platform
- assessment platform
- in person interview
- assessment or presentation
- pre-recorded interview
Interview Technologies
Familiarise yourself with the relevant technology by practising interviews with friends, family or recruiters. Ensure that you have:
- good mobile connection and sufficient battery life
- good internet connection
- adequate lighting
- a professional background
- a good microphone and camera
Interview Questions
Employers look for three essential criteria to evaluate a candidate's suitability for a job:
- competency to do the job well (qualifications, skills, experience)
- motivation to perform
- team working ability (personality which will be a good cultural fit)
Employer Questions
Questions will be directed at clarifying the three criteria above focusing on the candidate's current and past work performance, motivation for moving to a new role and ability to work within and possibly lead a team.
Candidate Responses
Candidates should aim to answer the interviewers questions thoroughly and demonstrate conculsively their ability to successfully do the job, work effectively with a team and convey their motivations for taking up the job.
Candidates should also prepare at least 3 questions for the interview panel about the job or company.
Interview Dress and Travel
Dress
Dress is just as important for virtual interviews as live ones and candidates should always aim for a professional appearance.
- select an outfit in advance and ensure it is clean and pressed.
- for virtual interviews, consider the background and impact of colour.
- avoid excessive make up and accessories
- ensure hair is clean and brushed
Travel
- find out the address of the interview and plan travel in advance making allowances for delays
If you are not familiar with the route, consider making a practice run
set alarms and plan to leave in plenty of time to allow for traffic/delays
Additional Considerations
- Print out a spare copy of your CV to take with you
- Prepare a copy of your qualifications and/or examples of your work (if necessary)
- Make sure you are able to give references upon request
Post-Interview:
Follow up with a thank-you note to reiterate your interest and highlight key points discussed.

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