During a job interview for an allied health position, you have the opportunity to create a positive impression of yourself – the way you answer the interview questions, and how memorable your answers are, will determine whether or not you are a fit for the job. Before a job interview, prepare yourself for these common interview questions and the interview will fly by.
Tell me about yourself.
When asked to talk about yourself, have your elevator speech prepared – a quick and succinct summary that grabs the interviewer’s attention in less than a minute. Create a brief story that includes an overview of your allied health education and training, recent career experience if applicable, and interests.
What are your weaknesses?
This dreaded question can be answered effectively by focusing on your strengths – you may say that in your line of work, you understand how important communication skills are, which is why you are actively working to become a better communicator. Give examples of what you are doing to better yourself.
What do you know about our healthcare facility and why do you want to work here?
It is imperative that you have done your research before the interview and have given this question some thought. Discuss things you appreciate about the facility, including its culture, values, and mission statement. The interviewer wants to know that you are applying for the position because you truly want to work there, not because there was a position to be filled.
Why should we hire you?
This question gives you an opportunity to quickly summarize your experiences and give examples of how you could contribute to the practice. Explain how the medical facility aligns with your values and why it is on your list of desired places to work.
Additionally, it is very important to come to the interview prepared with an intelligent list of questions for the interviewer. Focus your questions on professional development and initiatives. As soon as you start your program with us, and especially when you get to the point in your healthcare training where graduation is on the horizon, be sure to stop by our Career Services department for some help with your resume and to set up a mock interview or two. They can help you polish your skills and give you the edge you need to land the allied health career of your dreams.