How to Ace Your Healthcare Provider Interview

You Got an Interview! Now What?

Congratulations on getting an interview as a healthcare provider! Here’s how to stand out from the rest.

We may be biased, but in our opinion, this is where all the fun begins. You get to learn about the organization and clinical team you’re interviewing with, and they get to discover all you have to offer as a provider and teammate. It’s a time to research the organization and opportunity thoroughly and showcase your knowledge, strength and skills.

You can always wing it – and you may choose to do so, particularly if you’ve been through many interviews already – but if you’re new or returning to the process, you may benefit from some insider insight and tips for success.

To help you navigate the entire process, so far, we’ve covered how to strategically launch your career as a healthcare provider along with what to know and what to do before applying for a healthcare job. Here, we answer your most common questions about what to do once you’ve secured your first interview. You’ll find insights on how the process works, how to prepare for your interview, how to make a great first impression, how to follow up and more.

How does the healthcare interview process work?

Every organization is different, but generally, the healthcare interview process involves:

1. Initial screening. First, the healthcare organization or staffing agency reviews many candidates’ applications, CVs, resumes, education, experience, certifications, licenses and skills. Then, they pare down the candidates for further consideration.
2. Initial interview. Next, the hiring manager or recruiter will conduct an interview, often by phone or video, to determine whether it’s a fit. During this interview, you may be asked about your experience, background, and interest in the organization and the position.
3. In-depth interview(s). If you move on to this step, depending on the type of positions you’re applying for (temporary, permanent, etc.), you will likely meet the clinical team and other stakeholders. These interviews may be via video, in person, over a meal or in front of a panel. Here, interviewers will ask more in-depth questions to determine whether you and the facility are an ideal match. Some facilities even conduct skills assessments, simulations or practical exercises to evaluate your abilities further.
4. Review of references. At this point, if you’re still a candidate, the hiring organization will check your references.
5. Job offer. If you’re the top candidate for the position, you’ll be offered the job at this point. You’ll learn additional details about the position, benefits, compensation, etc.

How do I research the healthcare organization and clinical position?

When you’re ready to learn more about where you may be working and what you’ll be doing, start by visiting the organization’s website. Check out their mission, values, history, services, programs, accolades, advancements and initiatives. Visit their social media sites like Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Also, look online for publications, news, press releases, etc., to learn about their performance or any challenges they may be experiencing.

Next, dig into the job description and read about the responsibilities, qualifications and skills. Also, consider exploring professional networking platforms like LinkedIn and reading reviews on Glassdoor or Indeed to get insights about working there. You can also attend career fairs where they’re present to understand the position, culture, work environment and overall organization.

How can I prepare for a healthcare provider interview?

After you’ve thoroughly researched the organization and position, to prepare for your interview:

• Create a list of questions you’d like to ask the interviewer about the organization, position and team.
• Review the sample interview questions below and compose your answers in advance.
• Ask a friend, family member, mentor or colleague to mock interview you.
• Plan how to get there – mapping, travel time, traffic allotment, online platform testing, etc.
• Prepare your clothes, shoes, briefcase, resume hard copies, etc.
• Get plenty of rest
• Eat something before your interview

What are some sample healthcare interview questions?

Here are examples of questions interviewers may ask during your interview:

1. Can you provide an example of an impactful change at a past organization you worked with and explain how you adapted to that change?
2. Can you discuss a time you had a conflict with a colleague, patient, patient’s family member or supervisor or observed a dispute between others and how you resolved the situation?
3. Do you perform well under pressure? Do you have any coping strategies for when things get hectic?
4. Can you give an example of an error you made and how you handled it?
5. In what ways do you make patients of various backgrounds feel safe and comfortable?
6. How do you ensure you’re continually learning in your career?
7. If you have served as a supervisor, give an example of a way you’ve been successful at delegating tasks and the outcomes.
8. How have you used teamwork to resolve a crisis?
9. If a patient started panicking, what would you do? What if they tried to leave the facility?
10. How might you respond to a colleague who behaved unprofessionally?
11. What motivates you?
12. Do you feel you are an advocate for your patients? How?
13. Are you comfortable speaking in front of others?
14. How do you demonstrate you are listening?
15. In what ways do you educate patients? How do you include patients in their own care journey?
16. What is your vision for your career?
17. How do you see your future with this organization?
18. What do you do if you lack the supplies, materials or resources you need?
19. How do you evaluate your own performance?
20. What brings you joy in your career?

How can I make a great first impression for a healthcare provider interview?

To differentiate yourself from the crowd and make a great first impression for your interview, dress professionally, be clean and polished and arrive early. Make sure to prepare an initial and concise introduction and be ready to deliver your intro confidently and naturally. Be positive, attentive and respectful. Show gratitude for the interviewer’s time and consideration.

What should I do after a healthcare provider interview?

After your interview, promptly send a thank you note or email. Thank each person you met and mention your interest in the position. Also, point out a few highlights from the meeting to personalize your note. Be sure to follow up on any requests for additional materials or information. If you haven’t heard back within the expected timeframe, contact your interviewer or recruiter for details. If you didn’t get your desired position, note what went well and what you could improve for next time. Remember, your ideal opportunity is still out there. If you did get the job, congratulations! Time to prepare for onboarding on your new career adventure.

Haven’t yet secured an interview? Still looking? To discover where patients need you in exciting locations across the nation, browse our provider opportunities now.