Back to more insights

Comprehensive Interview Guide for Healthcare Professionals

Whether you're preparing for a virtual interview or walking into an onsite visit, interviews are a critical step in your career journey. This guide is designed to help healthcare professionals confidently navigate each stage of the interview process, from set-up and presentation to asking the right questions and making informed decisions.

Best Practices for Virtual Interviews

Virtual interviews have become a common first step in the hiring process, especially in the healthcare industry. Making a strong impression in a virtual setting requires just as much preparation as an onsite visit. Use these best practices to help you present yourself confidently, communicate clearly, and avoid common virtual interview pitfalls.

1. Test Your Setup

Before the interview, test your technology. Download and use the required platform ahead of time to ensure your camera and microphone work. Conduct a test call with a friend to familiarize yourself with the platform's features and settings.

2. Choose Your Space Wisely

Your interview setting reflects on you. Choose a quiet, well-lit space free from distractions. Avoid overly cluttered backgrounds or blank walls that create a sterile atmosphere. A professional background with office décor works well.

3. Dress Professionally

Dress as you would for an in-person interview. Professional attire conveys seriousness and respect. Avoid casual or inappropriate clothing, as it can leave a negative impression.

4. Position Yourself on Camera

Frame your head and shoulders in the screen to ensure a balanced and professional appearance. Look into the camera to establish eye contact with the interviewer. Adjust your lighting to eliminate harsh shadows and ensure your face is clearly visible. If possible, use a high-quality webcam for optimal clarity.

5. Eliminate Distractions

Minimize interruptions by turning off notifications on your computer and phone. Close unnecessary browser tabs and applications to keep your focus sharp. Let those around you know you are in an interview to prevent background noise or unexpected interruptions.

6. Approach It Like an In-Person Interview

Prepare thoroughly by researching the employer and having a list of questions ready. Avoid reading from notes, as it can appear disengaged. Take notes if needed, but inform the interviewer to prevent misinterpretation. Remember, the employer is also trying to impress you, so engage actively.

Best Practices for Onsite Interviews

An onsite interview is your opportunity to connect in person, get a feel for the facility and team, and demonstrate your professionalism and fit. Employers are evaluating more than your resume - they're looking at how you carry yourself, how you interact with staff, and how well you understand their environment. These best practices will help you make the most of your onsite visit.

1. Research the Facility & Community

Before your onsite interview, thoroughly research the hospital, clinic, or practice. Learn about their mission, patient population, and any recent achievements. Understanding local demographics, lifestyle, and cultural aspects of the community can help you determine if it’s the right fit, especially if relocation is required.

2. Dress for Success

Business professional attire is essential for onsite interviews. A well-groomed appearance demonstrates professionalism and respect for the opportunity. Dress conservatively, and make sure your clothing is free of stains and wrinkles.

3. Arrive Early and Be Prepared

Plan to arrive at least 15-20 minutes early. This allows time for unexpected delays and demonstrates punctuality. Bring multiple copies of your CV, a notepad and pen for notetaking, a list of references, and any other necessary documents.

4. Engaged with Everyone You Meet

Your interactions with all staff members matter. Be courteous and professional with receptionists, nurses, and administrators. Smile and maintain eye contact during every conversation. Employers often ask their staff for feedback on candidates' demeanor.

5. Pay Attention to Facility Culture

Observe how employees interact with one another. Pay attention to teamwork, communication styles, and overall morale. The work environment can indicate whether the organization aligns with your values and career goals. A positive, collaborative culture often leads to higher job satisfaction and long-term success.

6. Take Notes and Follow Up

Jot down important details from your interviews, including key discussion points, names and titles of interviewers, and any next steps mentioned. These notes will help you recall details when making your final decision. After the visit, send personalized thank-you emails to everyone you met, reinforcing your interest in the position.

Common Interview Questions to Expect

While every interview is different, many questions follow a familiar pattern. Being ready for common questions helps you feel more confident and communicate your experience clearly. You may encounter the following questions during an interview, so reviewing them in advance and preparing responses can help you respond with assurance and clarity. 

Personal & Professional Background

  • Tell me about yourself.
  • What are your interests outside of medicine?
  • What did you choose to go into medicine?
  • Why did you choose [your specialty]?
  • What do you like most about [your specialty]?
  • What do you like least?
Current Practice & Motivations

  • Tell me about your current practice. 
  • Why are you looking for a new position?
  • What attracts you to this opportunity?
  • Where do you see yourself in three to six years?
Preferences & Professional Goals

  • What is your ideal practice?
  • What kind of work-life balance are you seeking?
  • What are your short-term practice goals?
  • What are your long-term practice goals?
  • What salary do you expect to make in this position?
Clinical Experience & Skills

  • What was the best and worst experience you had in training?
  • Tell me about your past work history.
  • Tell me about the most difficult case you’ve had and how you handled it.
  • What special skills do you bring to this position?
  • What do you think your colleagues would say about their experience working with you?
Strengths & Areas of Improvement

  • What are your strengths?
  • What are your weaknesses?
  • How do you work to overcome or improve upon your weaknesses?
  • What skills would you like to improve upon in this position?
  • Why should we hire you for this position over anyone else?

Questions to Ask Interviewers

Asking thoughtful questions demonstrates your genuine interest in the opportunity. Even if you have received an overview, reconfirming details shows diligence. Here are key questions to consider:

Questions About the Position

  • What does the day-to-day look like for this position?
  • What is the patient population?
  • How many patients am I expected to see per day?
  • How much time is allotted for new patient visits and follow-up visits?
  • How will my productivity be measured? 
  • How will patient referrals be directed to me?
  • Are there weekend or night responsibilities?
Questions for Leadership

  • Why is this position open?
  • Can you describe the personality traits of your best providers?
  • What are some things a new provider could do to improve the team?
  • What is the organizational culture like?
  • How is staff retention within the clinic?
  • What does marketing look like for a new provider?
  • Are there opportunities for professional growth and mentorship?
Questions for Other Providers

  • How long have you been with the organization?
  • What made you choose this practice over other options?
  • What sets this organization apart from others where you have worked?
  • How many hours per week do you spend charting or on administrative tasks?
  • If you could describe your support staff in three words, what would they be?
Compensation & Benefits Questions

  • What is the base compensation range? 
  • Is there a compensation guarantee? If so, how long is the guarantee?
  • Do you offer any bonus opportunities? If so, what are they?
  • Are there opportunities for ancillary revenue?
  • What are the details of your benefits package?
  • What malpractice coverage do you offer?