30 Mayo Clinic Interview Questions & Answers
Below is a list of our Mayo Clinic interview questions. Click on any interview question to view our answer advice and answer examples. You may view 5 answer examples before our paywall loads. Afterwards, you'll be asked to upgrade to view the rest of our answers.
Behavioral
1. Our company prides itself on providing excellent customer service. How do you provide excellent customer service?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Companies that provide excellent customer service greet customers with a smile and a greeting, listen to their customers, know their customers' preferences, and go above and beyond to make them happy. The interviewer asks this question to determine if your values align with theirs. The interviewer wants to hear how you provide excellent customer service to see if you will be a good fit for their team.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 15th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Think of how you like to be treated as a customer. Then, think of how you provide excellent customer service, treating your customers how you want to be treated. Describe the actions you take to provide excellent customer service to all, showing the interviewer you will be an asset to their team if hired. If you have received an award or recognition for the customer service or patient care you provide, be sure to include that in your response.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 15th, 2022
Answer Example
"I provide excellent customer service by introducing myself, shaking the patient's hand while smiling at them, and asking them what brought them in today. I answer any questions they may have and give them my business card after the visit so they can reach me if they have further questions. I received an employee of the month award three times at my last job, highlighting the excellent customer service I provided."
Written by Krista Wenz on May 15th, 2022
Behavioral
2. What is your greatest weakness, and what are you doing to improve?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer wants to hear about your greatest weakness as a healthcare professional to see that you are self-aware and can identify an area that needs improvement. When you admit you have a deficiency in a particular aspect of your profession and take steps to improve, it shows the interviewer that you are motivated and inspired to grow professionally.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 15th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on a weakness related to your profession, but not one that is an essential job duty. For example, suppose you say your weakness is your verbal communication skills. In that case, the interviewer may pass you over for another candidate since that skill is an essential part of being an excellent healthcare provider.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 15th, 2022
Answer Example
"My greatest weakness is my lack of experience in this field. I am improving this weakness by applying for this position. I just graduated college and received my bachelor's degree and only have experience from my practicals. My goal is to get chosen for the position to start gaining hands-on experience. I am a quick learner, and you will not be disappointed in my performance if hired for the position."
Written by Krista Wenz on May 15th, 2022
Behavioral
3. Would you describe yourself as a compassionate person?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The hiring manager wants to see if you consider yourself a compassionate person since the Mayo Clinic values helping others improve their health and well-being and care deeply about those they serve. The Mayo Clinic wants to hire like-minded professionals, so the interviewer will ask you if you are compassionate to determine if you will be a good fit for the team.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 15th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on ensuring the hiring manager understands you are a compassionate person. You can say you are a compassionate person, but giving an example where you have helped others is a better way to let the hiring manager know. For example, you can describe your volunteer experience, how you took care of an elderly relative, held the hand of dying patients, or comforted a grieving family member. Give your personal example that shows you have compassion for others.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 15th, 2022
Answer Example
"Yes, I am a very compassionate person. I have empathy and compassion for others and do not like seeing people down on their luck. I have volunteered at a soup kitchen that provides warm meals to people without homes for the past three years. I also volunteer at an animal shelter and take the animals for walks, play with them, and help clean their cages. I have compassion for animals and humans alike."
Written by Krista Wenz on May 15th, 2022
Behavioral
4. Can you work independently, or do you prefer to be closely supervised?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Many healthcare industry companies post they are looking for healthcare professionals who are self-starters and can work independently. While working in a team environment is also required as you collaborate with coworkers, the interviewer wants to see that you can work independently and not need to be closely supervised if hired.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 15th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on describing that you work well independently and work well with teams. The interviewer wants to hear that you can work in different types of situations but that you do not need close supervision.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 15th, 2022
Answer Example
"I am very comfortable working independently. I have worked as a healthcare professional for five years and have always worked well in a team environment and independently. I do not prefer close supervision as I am confident in my skills. If I have a question or require assistance from my supervisor, I do not hesitate to ask them."
Written by Krista Wenz on May 15th, 2022
Behavioral
5. Do you consider yourself a patient person? How do you increase your patience level in challenging situations?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer would like to know if you consider yourself a patient individual. Impatience can cause a lot of stress and anxiety in patients, family members, and coworkers, so it is essential that you can showcase your ability to remain patient and professional as a Mayo Clinic employee.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 15th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
The interviewer wants to hire healthcare professionals who are patient and can remain calm in challenging situations. Focus on letting the interviewer know that you are patient and professional and can increase your patience level during difficult times.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 15th, 2022
Answer Example
"I do consider myself a patient person. I would rate myself an eight out of ten for patience because I certainly have room to grow, but I do have a very long fuse. If I need a boost of patience in a challenging situation, I will take a step away, count to 10, and then return to the situation. I recently read a book, 'The Power of Patience' by M.J. Ryan, which also gave me some excellent new methods for coping with stress."
Written by Krista Wenz on May 15th, 2022
Behavioral
6. Working in healthcare is a stressful career. How do you handle stress on the job?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer asks this question to determine if you are someone who can handle stress on the job. Working as a Mayo Clinic healthcare professional can be stressful and fast-paced, and the interviewer wants to determine whether you will be a good fit for the team if hired. Talk to the interviewer about your ability to handle pressure in the workplace and techniques you use to minimize job stressors.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 15th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on letting the interviewer know you understand how to decompress away from work, so you are ready to mentally handle the pressures of your job. When healthcare professionals understand the stress factor of their job and have healthy ways to relieve stress, they are less apt to burn out or become sick or injured from stress.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 15th, 2022
Answer Example
"I understand this job is stressful, and I am prepared for that. If I feel overly stressed, I will discuss this with my supervisor. In addition, I eat a healthy, balanced diet, exercise, and spend time with my family on my days off. Taking care of myself mentally and physically prepares me to handle stressful situations with ease."
Written by Krista Wenz on May 15th, 2022
Behavioral
7. Name three of your greatest strengths related to your profession.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer wants to hear about three of your greatest strengths as a healthcare professional to determine if you have the qualities they are looking for. Review the job description before your interview and look for keywords the Mayo Clinic used to describe its ideal candidate. Then, choose three of those keywords that you have identified as your greatest strengths, showing the interviewer that you have the characteristics they are looking for.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 15th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Suppose the job description says the Mayo Clinic seeks an experienced, compassionate healthcare professional with strong communication and interpersonal skills to work in a leadership position. In that case, describe your greatest strengths as either your experience, compassion, communication, interpersonal, or leadership skills. Focus on using three keywords from the job description so the interviewer can see that you have the qualities they are looking for in their ideal candidate.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 15th, 2022
Answer Example
"My greatest strengths as a healthcare professional are my communication, leadership, and interpersonal skills. I have excellent verbal and written communication skills and can explain complex terms in easy-to-understand terms. I have led many diverse groups at work and in a volunteer capacity, and I have exceptional listening skills. I have over ten years of experience honing these skills in my profession."
Written by Krista Wenz on May 15th, 2022
Communication
8. How would you describe your communication skills?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer asks this question to see that you have the solid verbal and written communication skills required for healthcare professional positions. Your job duties will include speaking to your managers, coworkers, and the public. You will also be responsible for written communications when documenting reports and communicating by email. The interviewer wants to hear that you have the necessary communication skills for the role.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 15th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on describing your written and verbal communication skills. If you have a former supervisor who commented on your excellent communication skills in a letter of recommendation or performance review, use their description in your response. The interviewer wants to know that you can speak clearly with others while properly documenting reports and other forms of written communications.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 15th, 2022
Answer Example
"I have solid communication skills and feel this skill is one of my greatest strengths. I took two years of communications courses in college and have honed my verbal and written communication skills over the years. I have a letter of recommendation from my previous employer highlighting these skills and have a copy if you would like to see it."
Written by Krista Wenz on May 15th, 2022
Direct
9. We conduct early-stage criminal background checks and drug tests on all of our candidates. Is there anything you would like to disclose at this time?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The Mayo Clinic needs to be very cautious about who they hire for apparent reasons. All of the information you will access is confidential and dangerous if put into the wrong hands. You will be working with personal employees, patients, and company information and must maintain confidentiality. Depending on your role, you may also be working around medications and controlled narcotics. Assure the interviewer that you are most willing to comply with any background check and drug test they require.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 15th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
As with any interview question, you want to be completely honest in your response. As embarrassing as it may be, if you do not think you will pass the drug test or have a criminal background, you need to let the interviewer know that now. If passing the drug test will not be an issue and you do not have a criminal history, assure the interviewer that you will pass both tests.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 15th, 2022
Answer Example
"I am happy to comply with any background check required. My record is clean, and I do not participate in drug use. You can be assured that if you hire me for this role, I will maintain a clean record."
Written by Krista Wenz on May 15th, 2022
Direct
10. Are you willing to work a flexible schedule rotating with 2nd and 3rd shifts?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Some Mayo Clinic job requirements state that the employee must be willing to work a rotating schedule alternating with 2nd and 3rd shifts. The interviewer wants to see that you understand that job requirement and are willing to be flexible with your schedule.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 15th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on letting the interviewer know that you understand the requirement and are willing to work whatever schedule is needed for the role. The interviewer wants to hire an employee who accommodates the company's needs, showing you are a team player.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 15th, 2022
Answer Example
"Yes, I saw that is a job requirement on your website, and I am willing to work a rotating schedule. I have worked a rotating schedule for the past five years and enjoy having a flexible schedule."
Written by Krista Wenz on May 15th, 2022
Discovery
11. How did you hear about this position?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Companies invest a lot of money advertising their job openings. The interviewer wants to hear what methods are effective and which are not. They also want to hear if an employee of the May Clinic referred you. Describe how you heard about the position, and be sure to give the name of the employee or recruiter who referred you if applicable. Some companies offer their employees a referral fee when referring a candidate, while others hire recruiters to seek out qualified candidates.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 15th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
The interviewer wants to briefly hear how you heard about the position. Be concise in your response, focusing on describing the recruiter's name, the website where the agency posted the job, the Mayo Clinic website, or an employee referral.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 15th, 2022
Answer Example
"I heard about the position from your career page on your website. I knew I wanted to only work for your clinic and signed up for alerts when a job in my field was posted."
Written by Krista Wenz on May 15th, 2022
Discovery
12. How do you expect to make a difference at the Mayo Clinic?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer wants to hear that you are looking forward to working at the Mayo Clinic and have thought about how you can make a positive impact while working there. Think about what kind of impact you could make. Possible things that come to mind are:
- Creating a favorable environment for patients by smiling, asking them how their day is going, and providing them with excellent care
- Building business relationships with your coworkers so everyone looks forward to coming to work each day
- By being a mentor to other healthcare professionals
Whatever comes to mind that you are passionate about, share it with the interviewer!
Written by Krista Wenz on May 15th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on describing unique qualities and traits you will bring to the Mayo Clinic if hired. You can tell the interviewer about your excellent customer service skills, positive attitude, and willingness to help patients and coworkers alike. Let the interviewer know how you will benefit their company if hired.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 15th, 2022
Answer Example
"I expect to make a difference at the Mayo Clinic by bringing my ten years of exceptional customer service skills to your company and providing the patient-focused care you expect from your team members. I always come to work with a smile and a positive attitude, which always rubs off on those around me."
Written by Krista Wenz on May 15th, 2022
Discovery
13. Do you speak any foreign languages fluently?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer asks this question to determine if you have additional skills to benefit their company if hired. The Mayo Clinic has many patients who speak foreign languages, and they want to see if you speak any fluently to serve their clients better.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 15th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on describing any foreign languages you speak fluently. If you are not fluent in any other language, tell the interviewer of any classes you have taken and how you would rate your skills. For example, if you had two years of Spanish in high school and can speak a little conversational Spanish, explain that in your response. Be sure to let the interviewer know you are open to taking foreign language speaking classes to improve your skills, showing your dedication to the profession.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 15th, 2022
Answer Example
"I am fluent in American Sign Language as my sister is deaf. I also speak conversational Spanish, but I would not consider myself fluent. I took two years of Spanish in high school and have traveled extensively to Mexico and South America. I have always been able to understand the language and make myself understood, but I am interested in improving my skills."
Written by Krista Wenz on May 15th, 2022
Discovery
14. After reading the job description, what do you like most about this position?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer asks this question to see that you have read the job description in its entirety and determine what aspect of the role you like the most. Most healthcare professional job postings have many duties you will be asked to perform. The interviewer wants to know what you like the most to see where your strengths lie.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 15th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on describing what you like most about the job and provide your reason why. For example, you might like that you will be responsible for training all new employees and providing continuing education classes. Tell the interviewer why this particular job duty excites you.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 15th, 2022
Answer Example
"There are many aspects of the job description that are appealing. What I like most about this position is being in charge of training new employees and providing continuing education courses. I have worked in a teaching capacity for the past five years and love sharing my knowledge and experience with others."
Written by Krista Wenz on May 15th, 2022
Discovery
15. How do you stay up-to-date on the latest trends in your profession?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer asks this question to see how you stay up-to-date on the latest trends and techniques used in the healthcare profession. There are publications, webinars, conferences, podcasts, in-person training, and continuing education courses to offer healthcare professionals training in the latest technology and techniques. The interviewer wants to see that you take your profession seriously by staying current on the latest trends.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 15th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
When responding to this question, focus on describing how you stay current in your profession. The more methods you have to keep up-to-date on the latest trends in healthcare, the better.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 15th, 2022
Answer Example
"There are several ways I stay current on the latest trends. I speak with colleagues, read industry publications, attend annual seminars, and take continuing education courses. The last two places I worked had in-house training on the latest technology, which all employees were required to attend."
Written by Krista Wenz on May 15th, 2022
Discovery
16. Why did you leave your last job?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer wants to know why you left your last job to see if you were fired, gave notice, or were laid off. If you were fired, they want to know if you will admit why you were fired, if you take responsibility, and what you learned from the experience. If you gave notice, they want to understand what you did not like about your job to see if you would fit in with the company culture if hired.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 15th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on being direct and honest, and explain why you left your last place of employment. If you gave notice, were laid off, or fired, describe the circumstances behind your leaving. Be sure to end your response on a positive note and tell the interviewer how you are excited to have the opportunity to interview for the position with the Mayo Clinic.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 15th, 2022
Answer Example
"I left my last job because there was no room for professional growth or advancement. I want to work in a supervisory position, but that was not possible in my previous place of employment because of the company structure. I gave my two weeks' notice and left on good terms. I have an excellent letter of recommendation if you would like a copy for your records."
Written by Krista Wenz on May 15th, 2022
Discovery
17. Why do you want to work for the Mayo Clinic?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer wants to understand why you chose the Mayo Clinic over other companies to work for. They want to see that you have done your research and can give solid reasons for selecting the Mayo Clinic. Respond with enthusiasm and passion to show the interviewer you are excited about the opportunity to work for their company.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 15th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on showing the interviewer you have done your homework. Review the company website, online reviews, and the job description to give unique reasons why you want to work for the Mayo Clinic. For example, suppose you review the job description and find specific duties you would be responsible for if hired. Then, when you mention those particular duties in your interview, the interviewer will see you were diligent in reading the job description, showing an attention to detail.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 15th, 2022
Answer Example
"I want to work for the Mayo Clinic because your staff saved my mom when I was a little girl. Every Saturday, I remember going to the Mayo Clinic to visit my mom, who was hospitalized for four months with cancer. The staff was always so friendly, and they became like family to us. I know others feel the same way since the Mayo Clinic is consistently ranked the number one hospital in the nation for excellent patient care. I want to provide this excellent customer service with a company that has the same values as I do, and I am excited for the opportunity to interview for this position."
Written by Krista Wenz on May 15th, 2022
Discovery
18. What is your experience working in the healthcare industry?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The job announcement should say how many years of experience the Mayo Clinic requires. The interviewer wants to hear about your experience to ensure you are qualified for the position. Give examples of how many years of experience you have and who you have worked with previously.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 15th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on highlighting the number of years of experience you have working in the healthcare industry and what capacity. Describe where you have worked and your job duties to show the interviewer you have the experience they seek in a candidate.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 15th, 2022
Answer Example
"I have worked as a registered nurse for eight years. I worked for three years with Mercy Hospital as an emergency room nurse and worked for the past five years at Kaiser Hospital in their emergency department. I am responsible for triaging patients, providing emergency care, and am the liaison between the EMTs and paramedics. Additional responsibilities include attending healthcare seminars and other company-sponsored courses and taking that information to create continuing education courses for the organization."
Written by Krista Wenz on May 15th, 2022
Discovery
19. What do you like to do in your free time?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer asks this question to see what interests you and if you have healthy avenues to decompress. They want to hear what hobbies and activities you enjoy and know that you spend time away from work destressing from the pressures of the job.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 15th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on describing three or four activities you enjoy. The interviewer wants to see what you are interested in and determine how well you will get along with other healthcare professionals based on your interests.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 15th, 2022
Answer Example
"In my free time, I enjoy activities that keep me in shape. My favorite activities are surfing, trail running, and rock climbing. When the weather is bad, and I cannot do those activities, I enjoy cooking, listening to music, and reading history books."
Written by Krista Wenz on May 15th, 2022
Discovery
20. Why should we not hire you?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer hopes to hear that there is no reason not to hire you! Tell the interviewer that you would be a great employee, and confidently share that there is no reason not to hire you. You might wrap it up by sharing that you are patient-focused, have a proven employment record, and have excellent references.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 15th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on describing the attributes that make you a great employee and how they will benefit the Mayo Clinic if hired. Assure the interviewer there is no reason why they shouldn't hire you.
If you want to be considered for the job, avoid giving reasons why the interviewer should not hire you. You do not want to put doubt in the interviewer's mind and have them reconsider offering you the position.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 15th, 2022
Answer Example
"There is no reason why you should not hire me. I meet all of your educational and work experience requirements, and I am energetic, dependable, and have a strong work ethic. If you choose to hire me for the position, you will not be disappointed in my performance."
Written by Krista Wenz on May 15th, 2022
Discovery
21. Tell me about your greatest accomplishment in the healthcare industry.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
It is okay to brag a little bit when answering this question. Show that you are proud of yourself and your career accomplishments in the healthcare industry. Talking about your most significant achievement will give the interviewer a definite idea of your values. It will also show the interviewer more about your personality, how you like to be motivated, and how to coach you in the future.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 15th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on describing your most significant accomplishment as it relates to your career. Think of any awards or promotions you have achieved, saving someone's life, or placing at the top of your class when pursuing your degree and training. The interviewer is not asking for a personal achievement but rather a professional one.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 15th, 2022
Answer Example
"My greatest accomplishment in my career was receiving the National Distinguished Direct Patient Care Award. I was nominated for the award by my supervisor. It was such an honor to be recognized for the exemplary care I provide my patients and my leadership and mentorship skills."
Written by Krista Wenz on May 15th, 2022
Discovery
22. How would your references describe you?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer wants to hear that your references will positively describe you. Think about the constructive things your references have said about you in the past. Be complimentary of yourself - now is not the time to be super humble.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 15th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
If you have past performance reviews or letters of recommendation from your references, review them before your interview. You will be better prepared to answer the question if what they wrote is fresh in your mind. It is also good to have copies for the interviewer if they would like a copy for their file.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 15th, 2022
Answer Example
"I have an excellent list of references who will say that I am a hard worker who always brings a positive, compassionate attitude to the workplace. I have a strong work ethic and moral compass, and I seek opportunities to help others. I have three copies of performance reviews and letters of recommendation for your file if you would like them."
Written by Krista Wenz on May 15th, 2022
Discovery
23. What makes you the best candidate for this position?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer asks this question to hear what qualities you will bring to the Mayo Clinic and benefit them if hired. Now is your chance to highlight your best characteristics and experience, showing the interviewer you have all the qualifications they require.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 15th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Review the job announcement before your interview and highlight the qualities, experience, and education the Mayo Clinic seeks in an employee. Then, focus on using those keywords in your response. When describing how you meet their job requirements, the interviewer will see that you are a highly qualified candidate and place you high on the candidate list.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 15th, 2022
Answer Example
"I am the best candidate for the position because I meet and exceed your job qualifications. I have over seventeen years of experience working as a healthcare professional with diverse groups and cultures. I am empathetic, compassionate, level-headed, and work well under pressure. I have exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, and I look forward to bringing my skills and experience to your wonderful organization."
Written by Krista Wenz on May 15th, 2022
Discovery
24. Why did you pursue a career in healthcare?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer wants to hear your reasons for choosing this profession to understand what motivates you in your career. They want to hear if another healthcare professional mentored you, have family or friends who work in the industry, decided to change careers, or had a loved one who received excellent care at the Mayo Clinic.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 15th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on giving your personal reason for choosing this career, responding with enthusiasm and passion. There is no right or wrong answer. The interviewer wants to gain insight into what motivates and inspires you as a healthcare professional to determine if you will be a good fit for their organization.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 15th, 2022
Answer Example
"I chose to pursue a career in healthcare after witnessing my mother go through cancer treatments at your clinic when I was a little girl. I admired the care that my mother was given and the full recovery she made. I vowed to work in an industry where I could help humanity and make a positive difference in people's lives."
Written by Krista Wenz on May 15th, 2022
Education
25. Tell me about your education.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer asks this question to determine if you have the education needed to perform your job as a healthcare professional in your chosen field. They want to hear if you have a degree, certificates, or specialized training that qualifies you to work in this industry.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 15th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on describing your education as it relates to the position. Most healthcare professional jobs require a minimum of a bachelor's degree and/or specialized certification and work experience to apply for the position. You most likely have the necessary education and credentials, or you would not be invited to an interview. Assure the interviewer you have the required qualifications for the position.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 15th, 2022
Answer Example
"I obtained my bachelor's degree in healthcare management eight years ago from Western Governors University. I then received my master of science in healthcare management from Dartmouth University. I am now looking at online doctorate programs to continue furthering my education."
Written by Krista Wenz on May 15th, 2022
General
26. What is the Mayo Clinic's mission?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer asks this question to see if you have done your research on the Mayo Clinic before your interview. You should be prepared to answer any questions the hiring manager will have, such as the company's mission statement, core values, population, CEO, and the year they were founded. It is always recommended to do your homework before any interview and learn all about the company.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 15th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
The Mayo Clinic's mission is 'inspiring hope and promoting health through integrated clinical practice, education, and research.' Focus on memorizing the mission so you can respond to this question with ease.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 15th, 2022
Answer Example
"The mission of the Mayo Clinic is to inspire hope and promote health through integrated clinical practice, education, and research."
Written by Krista Wenz on May 15th, 2022
Leadership
27. Do you demonstrate leadership qualities even when you are not in a leadership role?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
You can be a motivator and a confident communicator in any situation at work or school! Give an example of how you coached a coworker who had difficulty preparing for a big presentation. Maybe you gave them confidence in their strengths by encouraging them, or perhaps you offered some helpful hints. Or, you might have tutored a classmate who was having difficulty in a particular subject. Focus on providing an example that shows you act as a leader even when not in a leadership role.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 15th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
If you have worked as a healthcare professional before, focus on giving an example from your industry. If you are new to the field, provide an example of how you have demonstrated leadership qualities at church, school, sports, or a previous job.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 15th, 2022
Answer Example
"I feel I'm always leading by example, with or without managerial authority. I always try to come in a bit early and stay a bit late, pitching in and going the extra mile whenever possible. I feel this makes me a good teammate and human, setting me up for a strong career trajectory. When the opportunity for a true leadership role presents itself, I have positioned myself to be top of mind for the promotion."
Written by Krista Wenz on May 15th, 2022
Leadership
28. Do you see yourself as a leader? When have you led a team?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Perhaps you have led a team at work, been a coach for a youth sports team, or were on the advisory board for a non-profit organization. You should always be prepared to show the interviewer that you have a natural ability to lead others. Whether you have led a group of 500 or a team of 2, you must display to the interviewer that you are capable of handling the responsibility that comes with being a leader and mentor.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 15th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Talk about your desire to be a leader. Focus on sharing with the interviewer that you strive to be a role model for others. Explain that you jump at the opportunity to lead groups, encourage your counterparts, and be the face of the organization when challenges arise.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 15th, 2022
Answer Example
"Yes, I see myself as a leader. Not only have I managed a team in two prior roles, but I also believe that leadership does not always equate to management. I am sure to lead at all times by providing the best model of enthusiasm and work ethic."
Written by Krista Wenz on May 15th, 2022
Scenario
29. What would you do if a coworker asked you to help steal?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer would like to know how you would react if put in an awkward or potentially harmful situation like being asked by a coworker to steal with them. Theft can occur in many ways in the workplace and is not necessarily reserved to blatantly taking an item. Ensure that you are aware of the different ways a coworker may try to pass stealing off as 'no big deal.' Some examples include:
- Timecard fabrication, also known as 'buddy punching,' where you punch in for a coworker who is not present
- 'Borrowing' money from petty cash
- Falsifying vendor or expense accounts
- Taking items from the lost and found
- Stealing data or documents containing trade secrets
- Taking expensive office supplies like ink or adding personal items to supply orders
- Billing patients for procedures that were not performed
Written by Krista Wenz on May 15th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Of course, you already know how to answer this question! Express that you would never engage in this type of behavior and discuss how you would go about reporting this type of situation. If this has happened to you in the past, you can talk about the case without providing your coworker's name.
Focus on letting the interviewer know that you are an honest person with morals and ethics. Make sure they understand that you would never condone or participate in this type of behavior and would report it to your supervisor.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 15th, 2022
Answer Example
"If a coworker asked me to help steal, I would be appalled. I do not condone theft of any kind, and I would let my coworker know that. I would report the incident to my immediate supervisor and document the encounter."
Written by Krista Wenz on May 15th, 2022
Situational
30. How do you handle a dispute with a coworker or supervisor?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
It is not uncommon for coworkers or supervisors to have a dispute or disagreement with someone they work with. The interviewer knows this and wants to see how you have handled disputes in the past. How you respond gives the interviewer insight into your problem-solving, communication, and conflict resolution skills, which are essential skills to possess as a healthcare professional.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 15th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on giving a detailed explanation of how you handled a past disagreement with a supervisor or coworker. You do not necessarily need to describe the reason for the dispute, just how you dealt with it. The interviewer wants to hear that you dealt with the conflict privately, calmly, and professionally and that there was a resolution.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 15th, 2022
Answer Example
"Luckily, I have had good coworkers and supervisors in the past with minimal conflict. If there is an issue with a colleague, I like to nip it in the bud. I ask them to speak in private, address the issue, and come up with a resolution that makes us both happy."
Written by Krista Wenz on May 15th, 2022