Preparing for Your NHS Interview
An International Medical Graduate’s guide to preparing for an NHS interview.
The Structure of an NHS Interview
Typically, an NHS interview lasts between 30 to 45 minutes and includes the following segments:
– Introductions: The interview begins with introductions from the panel members, usually comprising both clinical and HR personnel.
– Your Overview: You’ll be asked to provide an overview of yourself, which can include details about your employment history, career goals, and qualities that make you suitable for the position.
– Your Speciality: Questions may cover why you chose your speciality, what attracted you to it, and your experience and skills within that field.
– Maintaining Good Practice: There may be discussions about areas where you seek further training and support, as well as how you maintain good practice in your current role.
– Training and Teaching: The interviewers may inquire about your experience in training and teaching.
– Management Experience: You might be asked to discuss your management experience or skills.
– Clinical Scenarios: It’s likely you’ll be presented with at least one clinical scenario, where you’ll need to diagnose and plan treatment for a patient based on provided symptoms and details. For junior doctors, this will most likely be a general scenario, while for senior doctors, it is likely to be specialty-specific.
– Interviewee Questions: The panel will give you the opportunity to ask any questions you may have before the interview concludes. This is an excellent chance to inquire about the hospital, the team or department, the job role, and to clarify any queries you might have.
Pre-Interview Preparation
Prior to your NHS interview, it’s recommended that you:
-Research the Hospital: Visit the hospital’s website to learn about the services they provide and their values. It’s also a great place to read about any recent news or developments within the trust.
– Research the Interviewers: In addition to understanding the hospital, research the members of the interview panel you’ll be meeting. This will give you better insight into the department and team you may join and demonstrates thoroughness to the panel.
– Review Your CV: Be prepared to answer questions about your experience and skill set based on the information in your CV.
– Evidence Your Suitability: Re-examine the job plan provided before your interview and note the areas the hospital has highlighted as important. Refer back to your CV and list the reasons why you’re suitable for the role.
– Practice Interview Techniques: Familiarise yourself with the interview format and practice answering questions spontaneously. You might want to ask a friend or family member to assist you, as they can help identify areas for improvement.
– Prepare Questions for the Interview Panel: Prepare at least three questions to ask the interview panel at the end of the interview. Try to focus these on different areas such as clinical procedures, technology, training, or department goals.
Preparing for Your Video Call
Several online platforms are used by NHS hospitals for interviews, including Microsoft Teams, Zoom, Skype, and Webex. Once your interview is scheduled and you know which platform will be used, it’s advisable to:
– Familiarise Yourself with the Platform: Ensure you understand how to use the video conferencing software.
– Have the Meeting Link and Details Ready: This prevents any delays in joining the meeting.
– Check Your Computer’s Updates: Ensure your computer is fully updated on the day before your interview to avoid unexpected delays or technical issues.
– Set Up in a Suitable Environment: Choose a bright, clean room with minimal distractions.
– Conduct a Test Call: Perform a test call to check that your account is working without any issues.
– Allocate Extra Time: Keep an hour free either side of your NHS interview to allow for any last-minute changes or delays on your side or the hospital’s.
Interview Day: Things to Remember
On the day of your interview:
– Be Friendly in Your Introduction: Although you may be nervous, try to make a good first impression by smiling and being polite to the panel.
– Listen Carefully: Pay attention to the questions asked and avoid interrupting the panel members.
– Take Your Time: Give thoughtful and structured answers to each question.
