NHS job interviews typically involve a combination of questions designed to assess your suitability for the role. Here are some common NHS interview questions you might encounter:
- Values-Based Questions:
- Example: “Describe a time when you demonstrated compassion in a challenging situation.”
- Purpose: To assess your alignment with the NHS values (care, compassion, competence, communication, courage, commitment) and your ability to apply them in practice.
2) Competency-Based Questions:
- Example: “Give an example of a time when you had to work effectively as part of a team to achieve a common goal.”
- Purpose: To evaluate your skills and experience in areas such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and decision-making.
3) Technical/Clinical Questions (for clinical roles):
- Example: (For a nurse) “How would you manage a patient with deteriorating vital signs?”
- Purpose: To assess your clinical knowledge, skills, and ability to apply them in real-life scenarios.
4) Situational Judgement Questions:
- Example: “You notice a colleague making a mistake that could harm a patient. What would you do?”
- Purpose: To test your judgment, ethical decision-making, and ability to handle difficult situations.
5) Motivational Questions:
- Example: “Why do you want to work for the NHS?” or “What are your career aspirations?”
- Purpose: To understand your motivations, career goals, and commitment to the NHS.
6) Questions About Your Experience:
- Example: “Tell us about a time when you went above and beyond to provide excellent patient care.”
- Purpose: To gain insights into your past experiences, achievements, and how you apply your skills in practice.
7) Specific Questions Based on the Job Role:
- For Healthcare Assistants: Questions may focus on your experience in providing personal care, assisting with daily living activities, and working as part of a healthcare team.
- For Nurses: Questions may cover clinical skills, knowledge of nursing procedures, patient assessment, and medication administration.
- For Administrative Roles: Questions may relate to your experience in managing records, communicating with patients and staff, and using relevant software systems.
Additional Tips:
- Research: Learn about the NHS values, the specific trust you’re applying to, and the role’s requirements.
- Prepare Examples: Think of specific examples from your experience that demonstrate your skills and values.
- Practice: Practice answering common interview questions to improve your confidence and delivery.
- Be Yourself: Show your enthusiasm, passion for healthcare, and commitment to patient care.
Resources:
- NHS Interview Questions and Answers | BDI Resourcing: https://www.bdiresourcing.com/img-media-hub/blog/nhs-interview-questions-and-answers/
- 10 Key NHS Job Interview Questions – With Answers [2024Update]: https://www.wikijob.co.uk/interview-advice/interview-questions/nhs-interview-questions
- NHS Employers: https://www.nhsemployers.org/
NHS interviews, regardless of the specific role, typically follow a structured format designed to assess your suitability for the position. Here are some key NHS interview techniques to help you succeed:
Before the Interview:
- Research:
- Thoroughly understand the job description and person specification.
- Research the NHS Trust’s values, priorities, and recent achievements.
- Familiarize yourself with the 6 C’s of NHS values: care, compassion, competence, communication, courage, and commitment.
- Prepare Examples:
- Reflect on your experiences and identify specific examples demonstrating your skills and alignment with the NHS values. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses.
- Prepare answers to common NHS interview questions (see previous responses for examples).
- Practice your responses with a friend or mentor to gain confidence and refine your delivery.
- Plan Your Logistics:
- Confirm the interview date, time, and location (or virtual platform if applicable).
- Plan your travel arrangements to ensure you arrive early and relaxed.
- Dress professionally and appropriately for the role.
During the Interview:
- First Impressions:
- Make a positive first impression with a firm handshake (if in person) and a warm smile.
- Maintain good eye contact and engage with the interviewers.
- Project confidence and enthusiasm for the role and the NHS.
- Answering Questions:
- Listen carefully to each question and take a moment to think before responding.
- Be clear, concise, and specific in your answers.
- Use the STAR method to structure your responses, providing context, actions, and results.
- Highlight your achievements and how your skills align with the job requirements.
- Demonstrate your commitment to patient care and the NHS values.
- Asking Questions:
- Prepare thoughtful questions about the role, the team, the Trust, and career development opportunities.
- Asking questions demonstrates your interest and engagement.
- Avoid asking questions that could easily be answered through research.
- Body Language:
- Maintain good posture and avoid fidgeting.
- Use positive facial expressions and gestures to convey your interest and engagement.
- Speak clearly and at a moderate pace.
After the Interview:
- Send a thank-you email to the interviewers, reiterating your interest in the role and summarizing your key qualifications.
- Reflect on the interview and identify areas for improvement for future interviews.
Additional Tips:
- Be yourself: Authenticity and genuine enthusiasm are valued.
- Show your passion for healthcare: Highlight your commitment to patient care and making a positive impact.
- Be prepared for unexpected questions: Stay calm and think on your feet.
- Focus on your strengths: Highlight your unique skills and experience.
By following these techniques and preparing thoroughly, you can confidently approach your NHS interview and increase your chances of success.
Resources:
- Managing the interview – NHS Jobs: https://www.jobs.nhs.uk/candidate/search/advice/managing-the-interview
- Healthcare assistant (HCA) interview questions – Thornbury Community Services: https://www.thornburycommunityservices.co.uk/news/healthcare-assistant-hca-interview-questions/99/
- NHS Healthcare Assistant INTERVIEW Questions and ANSWERS! (PASS your HCA Interview!) – YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ufl2t7ff9VY