Members do not see these Ads. Sign Up.

Hi,

I was wondering whether anyone could give me any tips on what questions the NHS may ask in interviews. I've tried to have a look at various websites for some tips but have not been too successful, don't really know what to expect.

Any tips would be of great help

 

Hi Colleen,

The questions I was asked (from what I can remember) Areas of particular interest. Strengths & weaknesses. Where I saw myself in 10 years!:rolleyes: (Not in the NHS);) Not that I told them that at the time.

My tips. Be early, be confident, ask them questions too. Also if you have time before the interview day ring & ask may you spend a morning in the department. Make yourself known to the team, on interview day you're a known face. May give you the edge over other candidates.

Good luck :drinks

Regards,

Mandy.

 

Hi Mandy,

Thanks for your reply, its good to finally get some brilliant advice, I will defintely be using your tips.

Thanks

Colleen

 

If the experience of a friends daughter is anything to go by, be prepared for the odd HR lady who might ask "If you could be any animal which one would it be?" and "If you had one wish for the world what would it be? :eek:
You could answer - to get everyone into orthotics - but I don't think she was looking for that. Think she spend her impressionable years at beauty pagents!

Remember You don't get a second chance to make a first impression.
My husband has a quote - "check the teeth, check the shoes, if they're not clean, neither is what lies between!"
So clean, smart but not too much power dressing.
Enter the room confidently with head up, make eye contact with interview panel, if there aren't too many and it's appropriate, shake hands (FIRMLY) not limply.
If you've got a portfolio with you, place it on the floor, not on your lap. (It's always a good idea to take something along that's shows off your strengths - but not necessary)
Remember they have to ask every candidate the same question, but how you answer it opens up the opportunity for them to probe further, so if you're weak in an area don't highlight it.
If they've asked a question such as are you a good communicator don't just answer yes - "I worked reception/behind a bar/in an old people home" provide the evidence! That goes for everything.
Don't fidget.
If you don't know the answer - say so, but follow it up with - hopefully the training by the department will provide that.
Do your homework - demographics, large elderly population, or thriving younger population - who are you likely to see in clinic - you know the usual ones, but there could be a cluster of something unusual.
And have at least one question - whether it's about rotation in various clinics, or progression or further qualifications - but don't make an issue of that one or they may think you're only there to get the money to eventually get your Phd.
Be honest - sometimes it's worth telling people you work for money - if people want loyalty they should get a dog!
Good luck

 

Thanks Jacqui, your help is greatly appreciated all tips will come in handy

Thanks

Colleen

 

I have to ask - what's the rationale here?? If I was interviewing someone and they put something on the floor I'd think that quite strange.

Colleen, In my opinion interviews are merely a way of deciding if you are presentable, and if they like you. Nothing more. An interviewer makes a decision on both of these points within the first 5 minutes. So stay relaxed, show your personality and look the part. Also, don't forget it is a two way street - it's not just about them deciding if they want you to be a part of their team, but also about you deciding if you want to be part of their team. After you've told them what you think you bring to the table as an employee, find out what they bring to the table as an employer.

 

Even if it was a briefcase? Because people who keep things on their laps tend to fidget with them which can be distracting for interviewers and interviewee. Hands placed calmly on the lap gives a much better impression.

I agree the first few minutes are what matters, but most interviewers will have read the cv's and have a good idea as to who are the top few candidates they would like for the job. But some candidates are very good at writing cv's and don't live up to the expectation, and vice versa. Ian's right, be natural, personable, and let them convince you that they are the people you want to work with.
Good luck