Our purpose is to transform lives and communities through excellence in care, discovery and learning. What does this mean to you?

"Every employee of the UHN has the ability to impact, influence, and transform the lives of those they interact with, no matter what role they are in. I would provide excellent customer service by being positive, caring, and compassionate in all interactions with patients, their families, my coworkers, and the public. I would do my best to provide the best possible support and ensure each patient had the resources they needed. I am passionate about learning, so I would pursue further training and education that allowed me to better support and serve the patients."

Be sure you do your research on the UHN's mission, vision, purpose, and core values. The interviewer will likely as you a question specific to one of these areas, so it's best to be prepared. Speak to the interviewer about your thoughts on working for a healthcare company like the UHN that has the ability to impact and transform so many lives. Tailor your answer specifically to the role that you're applying for.

"I understand the impact I have on patients and how important it is to provide them with the best possible patient experience each time I interact with them. I want to promote an organization that serves as a leading provider in the community and is one that citizens trust with their healthcare needs. That starts with providing excellent customer service. I am a life-long learner and would take advantage of any and all opportunities to upskill and grow in order to better serve the patients of UHN."

In the healthcare services industry there are many emotions in a day. Have your emotions ever been in the way of your productivity?

"Everyone is emotional to a certain degree, and I would consider myself kind-hearted and open. A career in healthcare can be emotional at times; however, I choose to focus on the positives. For instance, - if we are close to losing a patient, I will focus on positive memories rather than the illness. This mindset has consistently allowed me to continue with a productive shift, no matter the emotions that come my way."

UHN works with many patients, many of which are battling debilitating illnesses or diseases, so you will have to be prepared to handle difficult or challenging emotions at work. Consider your past experiences with coworkers, patients, their families, or members of the public. Talk to the interviewer about the emotional situations you have encountered and how you manage them in the workplace.

"This is a great question. I think the right answer is, 'of course, but not for long'! We've all had those severe cases. A child dies, or you have to give someone a cancer diagnosis. It's professional to take a few minutes after an encounter like that and let those emotions come and go. I cope with these emotions by telling myself that it's not my story, its the patient's story. I think it's okay to be moved by someone else's experience, but I don't need to make it mine."

Compassion is one of our core values. How do you demonstrate compassion in the workplace?

"I try to relate to my patients and their families by listening to their stories, concerns, and questions, empathizing, striving to understand their emotions, and trying to put myself in their shoes to gain perspective. It can be a very stressful time for patients to be in the hospital, so I want to reduce their anxiety and demonstrate that I genuinely care about them and their well-being. If a patient is sad or lonely, I take the time to sit with them, to listen if they want to talk, and to make an effort to make them smile, even if it's just grabbing them an extra snack from the kitchen or helping them find their favorite television program. My motto is always to treat my patients like I'd want my family member to be treated, even when I'm busy or have a lot of tasks to do."

All healthcare organizations, UHN included, value and promote compassionate care for patients and their families, caregivers, and friends. They also promote compassion amongst coworkers. Compassion can be shown to patients or coworkers in several ways, such as going the extra mile for someone, building trusting relationships with patients and their families, or showing genuine interest when interacting and listening when they need someone to talk to. Share ways, big or small, that you demonstrate compassion and empathy to your patients or coworkers in the workplace.

"I demonstrate compassion in the workplace by actively listening to my colleagues and providing support without judgment. I'm sensitive to the situation of others, and I always try to empathize and understand where a person is coming from. When working with the public, I treat everyone I meet with respect, and I actively listen to them as well, trying to understand their concern or question so that I can provide the best answer for them. I'm always helpful and supportive, and I feel this is another way to demonstrate compassion for others."

Why do you think you will be successful in this role?

"I know I will be successful in this role because I have been working in this industry for five years with great training and mentorship. I have a solid understanding of X, Y, and Z (skills listed in the job description). Also, I have all of my updated certifications as outlined in your job description. I am well-prepared for this next step in my career."

Rather than share how you have gone beyond expectations in the past, focus on how your qualities will help you to exceed company expectations. Discuss the reasons why you will be great at this job. Talk about your qualifications and skills that will help you to do this job well. If you can, match your strengths to the requirements outlined in the job description.

"I believe my success with UHN will come from having all of the hard skills that you are looking for, whether learned in school or gained through my internship experience. I have a great deal of current knowledge in the healthcare services industry and stay informed of best practices."

What is your patient care philosophy?

"I believe all patients should be treated with respect and compassion. When caring for cancer patients, the care requires a higher level of urgency and empathy. I firmly believe in working together at all levels of the care team to ensure the patient is well cared for, and their family members understand the care plan every step of the way. I treat each patient like they are my mother or father."

UHN's core values include safety, compassion, teamwork, integrity, and stewardship. Review their website and familiarize yourself with these five values and what they mean specifically to UHN. Discuss your patient philosophy and tie in elements of the organization's core values.

"I have three philosophies when it comes to my work; One view for the clinic, one for me, and one for the patient. First, I work in a system, and I respect that. I follow the rules, I maintain my certifications, and I appreciate the policies and values of whatever site I work. Patient care is a privilege, and I respect the role I have in clinical care and the part other people have. Second, I want to be the best at what I do. Every day I learn something, and that's because I choose to get better. Last, I adapt to the individual. If I'm meeting the requirements of my position, and evolving within my profession, then I am free to adjust to my patient and be the provider they need. Some patients need a lot of attention; some want less, and some need boundaries. I have trained myself to adapt my communication style, so a patient gets what they need."

What is your greatest weakness?

"I know this will come off as cliche, but it's truthful. My weakness is not delegating. I know what I want and how I want it done, so it's often easier to do it myself. However, it can inhibit my ability to grow. I cannot take on every step of a project; I need to be able to give the task or a portion of it to another team member or direct report, let go of the control, and know it will be taken care of. I've spoken with my current manager about it, and we've developed a system where he can call me out on the behavior since often I'm not aware of it. By bringing awareness to it at the moment, I find my propensity to hold onto control has decreased, so I'm certainly moving in the right direction."

Pick a weakness that is not a core skill required for this position at UHN. You can be candid in your answer, recognizing that you aren't great at something and acknowledging your need to improve. Be sure to have an action plan in place for improving on this weakness. Perhaps you are watching TED talks to gain skills in a particular area, reading the latest and greatest book on the subject, or maybe you are taking a seminar at a nearby community center. We are all human with our weaknesses, so don't be afraid to share yours!

"At this point in my career within healthcare services, my newness is my greatest weakness. To overcome this, I have committed to ten extra hours per week of study. I dive into various medical journals and spend a great deal of time educating myself beyond what my degree and internship have offered."

It is often said that a career in healthcare is a 'thankless job.' How can we keep you motivated and engaged, even on the days when you feel your work goes unnoticed?

"My chosen career was helping people at exactly the point they were least capable of censoring themselves or giving back. So, I stopped needing thanks from my patients. It's not like I don't need positive reinforcement. Everyone does. But I made a point to find it in other places instead of expecting it from my patients. Nowadays, I make an effort to expressly thank the people I work with when they do a good job. I focus on being grateful to be allowed to see private, raw, emotional parts of people's lives."

The interviewer would like to know how they could continue to motivate you - even on the hardest of days. Employers like UHN want to ensure their employees feel recognized and rewarded for their achievements. When employees feel recognized, morale and performance are boosted. Individuals have different preferences regarding how they like to be recognized, so be honest and genuine in your response. Consider various ways recognition is given (public praise in a staff meeting, a private email or chat from your manager, monetary rewards, employee of the month, etc.) and include those you enjoy receiving.

"I am an easily motivated individual, and it does not take much to keep me engaged. I am fully aware that healthcare-related positions can seem thankless. Honestly, the best thanks that I can get is a pat on the back now and then. The majority of my motivation comes from simply helping people."

If hired, how would you demonstrate professionalism in the workplace?

"I know that compassion and integrity are core values at UHN, and I demonstrate those values in the workplace in my everyday interactions with patients, their families, and other staff members. I always consider the other person's perspective because putting myself in their shoes helps me be more empathetic and understanding of their feelings or the reason they are acting a certain way. Being a patient can be stressful, so I maintain a positive attitude and calm demeanor, never gossiping, speaking ill of anyone, or complaining. If a patient or colleague is speaking to me, I stop what I'm doing and actively listen so they know I value and care about what they are saying. I maintain a tidy appearance in uniform and also take care to make sure my workstation is neat and orderly as well."

In any role, you can demonstrate professionalism through behaviors, communications, actions, and interpersonal skills. You will likely interact with patients, other staff, and visitors in the healthcare setting, so professionalism must be demonstrated in all aspects. When responding to this question, give examples of ways you would demonstrate professionalism in your day-to-day work and incorporate some of UHN's core values in your answer.

"I strive to maintain professional communication at all times. For example, I never swear at work or use nicknames or phrases that could come off as unprofessional or even offensive. If a patient is angry or disrespectful, I go above and beyond to maintain a positive attitude and tone and do not let their actions impact my response. I respond in a calm and professional manner, knowing when I need to step away from a situation before it escalates. I also take accountability for my actions, which reduces errors and other adverse impacts on patients."

What part of your healthcare career brings you the most stress?

"When the schedule is running behind due to lack of hustle on my or my team's part, I find it stressful. I like to be on time with my schedule to ensure that our patients and clients get the proper, timely help that they need. Effective communication can help mitigate this stressor. Collaborating with the team to understand priorities, setbacks, and challenges can help things run more smoothly."

Stress can often be a regular part of the day-to-day work experience. Talk to the interviewer about which areas of your career are the most stressful and what strategies and techniques you use to reduce or manage stress. Perhaps you take regular breaks, do some deep breathing exercises, or ask for help from peers when you're behind. Demonstrate that you understand the importance of the topic and share ways that you mentally prepare for your shift, prioritize your day, and manage throughout the shift. Ensure that your answer does not include a factor that would make you appear unfit for the position. (Ie: a healthcare worker should not find facing illness to be the most stressful part of the job).

"The fast-pace of healthcare can be stressful in itself. Over the years, I have learned many stress-management techniques. I get plenty of rest every night, so I'm mentally sharp and focused at work. I also take my meal breaks to regulate hormones and blood-sugar levels to perform at my best. I'm not afraid to ask for help if I need it and to speak up and communicate with my manager if something isn't going well in the unit. Open communication and dialogue among the team keep the shift operating smoothly. Lastly, I try to leave work at work and not take the emotions and stress home with me, so I can recharge for the next day."

We support a healthy work/life balance for all employees. How do you balance life and work?

"I find that with the right company, it's pretty simple to balance life and work. When I enjoy what I do, it doesn't feel like a chore. I am always sure that when at home, my family gets my attention first. I take time on the weekends to do things for myself and ensure that I regenerate before the work week begins."

Healthcare workers are prone to burnout due to the natural stressors of the job. Many organizations like UHN are now being proactive in preventing this among their teams, as turnover is a major issue in healthcare. Give examples of how you try to maintain a healthy work-life balance and include elements in the workplace and at home. Examples could include taking breaks, shutting off your work phone/email where appropriate, prioritizing health and wellness, exercising, and open communication with your manager.

"I make a strong effort to keep a healthy balance by spending my free time away from my cell phone and having more face-to-face time with my friends and family. In my off time, I partake in hobbies I enjoy, like painting, cycling, and reading. By consistently rejuvenating in this way, I can relax and recharge so that I can give my best when I am at work."

To work for us you must be able to pass a full background check. Do you understand this requirement?

"I understand that this is a requirement of employment, and I would be happy to consent."

In a particular role at the UHN, you may be in direct contact with patients or sensitive information. Add to that the fact that you may be working with vulnerable people, children, and their confidential information. Because of this, you will likely be subjected to a series of criminal background checks if hired by UHN. Your interviewer wants to hear that you are ready and willing to comply with all aspects of their background check process. Give a brief answer that you acknowledge this requirement to be hired and would consent if offered the position.

"I read this requirement in the job description and completely understand the need for a background check. I have no problem consenting."

We seek to hire individuals who have ambitions of growing their career. Where do you see yourself in 3-5 years?

"In 3-5 years I would like to see my career with UHN include a path towards a leadership role. I am very keen on paving a long-term career in the healthcare services realm and would love the opportunity to do that here."

The interviewer wants to understand your ambitions and desired career trajectory better. Respond with the ways that you would like to see your career flourish. If you aren't interested in eventually pursuing a management role, speak to how you want to grow and expand other skill sets or continue your education. If you have researched a specific career path or are interested in a particular leadership role, express that area of interest in your response.

"One of the attractive points of working for UHN is that you care about the growth of your employees. I'm motivated to learn and am looking for a long-term fit. In 3-5 years, I'd like to be grounded in the clinic, learn about this site, your patient base, and earn certifications that would help the unit advance. I want to get involved in some of the local volunteer organizations. I speak Spanish, and I have an interest in urban outreach, so it would be nice to do something formal in that context, health-education, or fundraising."

How would you rate your knowledge of medical terminology?

"On a scale of 1-5, I would rate my knowledge of medical terminology at a 4. I have worked in the hospital for about five years, so I've built an extensive vocabulary and a thorough understanding of medical terms, acronyms, and jargon. If I do not recognize a word or acronym, I'm quick to look it up on the internet or in the medical dictionary I keep in my desk drawer."

A thorough understanding of medical terminology will make you a more desirable candidate when applying for certain roles at UHN. Speak about your knowledge and experience in this area and any courses or classes you may have taken. If you lack skills in this area, demonstrate to the interviewer your willingness to learn and your ability to self-help and learn new information quickly.

"I would rate myself a 2 out of 5. I'm newer to healthcare, but I do have a foundation of terminology from a couple of healthcare courses I took in secondary school. I love watching healthcare shows on TV, so I've picked up a bit of knowledge from that as well. I'm very eager to learn and am more than willing to put the effort into researching and learning to be successful in this role."

Rate your problem-solving skills from 1-10. How do you justify your rating?

"I rate my problem-solving skills as an 8/10. When faced with a problem, I'm able to remain calm and come up with a strategy. I typically investigate to determine the root cause of the problem, and then I look at the problem from multiple perspectives. I try to brainstorm multiple solutions and think about how it will impact others and the costs associated as well."

UHN values problem-solving skills in its employees. Consider your approach to solving problems in the workplace. Provide your self-assessment and discuss your skills in detail. Consider sharing things like being objective, open-minded, accepting mistakes and failures and learning from them, the ability to get to the root cause of the problem, and how you come up with potential solutions. Speak to your strengths and where you feel you may have room for improvement or further skill development.

"I would say I get a solid 8.3 on a scale of 10. It seems weird to give myself something like a .3, but I think of it as an 83%, which is a B- teetering on a solid B. It's a solid grade, with definite room for improvement, since I'm certainly not perfect. The reason for the B-/B grade would be that I'm quick to take action and figure out the solution as I go, but sometimes I could benefit from taking a moment to pause and reflect or gather other contributors before taking action. That said, I believe I generally get the best outcome possible when faced with a challenge."

What computer skills do you possess?

"I am very familiar with Windows, Google Suite, Microsoft Office, and EMR platforms like Epic and Praxis. I'm a quick learner, though, so if City of Hope uses a platform I'm unfamiliar with, I'm confident I could learn and pick it up quickly."

UHN is a very modern medical care provider, so it's critical that you possess the computer skills to do the job. Review the job description to see what software or platforms they specifically require or prefer candidates to have experience with. Give examples of what you have experience using; if your experience is limited, speak about your ability to learn new things quickly.

"I do not have any formal experience using specific healthcare software and platforms, but I'm proficient in Windows and Google. I love learning by watching videos, reading blogs, visiting websites, and consulting with other colleagues. I learn new things quickly and would be more than willing to learn the software required to be successful in the role."

Working with the public can be difficult. What interpersonal skills do you possess that will allow you to succeed here?

"I will build trust and relationships with new patients by effectively communicating and being honest and transparent with patients. For example, it's important not to over-promise or commit to things you cannot deliver on. Even if the patient requests something simple like fresh ice water, it's easy to get caught up in other tasks and forget something like this, but it's important that if you say you're going to do something, that you do it and in a timely manner. Following through shows patients they can rely on you to do what you say you will do. I will also communicate with them regularly so they know what to expect. If the doctor is running behind or is ordering more labwork, I let them know what's happening and the why behind it. I also give the patient the opportunity to ask questions and better understand things. All of these are interpersonal skills I use to build relationships with patients and promote a positive experience."

Employers like UHN value interpersonal skills like communication, conflict management, empathy, compassion, and patience. Working with the public can be challenging if a patient or family member is upset about a situation and you may be the first person to answer their call or interact with them. To succeed in this role, you must possess strong interpersonal skills to effectively build relationships and ensure each person you interact with has a positive experience while at UHN.

"Working with the public can be challenging at times, but I possess strong communication skills, empathy, compassion for others, and patience, which allow me to succeed in my role. When a patient is angry or frustrated, I try to remember not to take it personally; that helps me react without involving my emotions. Seeking to understand the root cause of their frustration and being genuine in my interest in assisting them often makes a difference in their attitude and approach. I'm a good listener, and sometimes, that is all a person needs. I'm always focused on the patient experience and go out of my way to have a positive attitude and approach situations with an open mind and patience. I can effectively communicate, whether by email, on the phone, or in person. I communicate messages clearly and answer questions professionally and calmly."

Have you ever been involved in ordering medical supplies, maintaining inventory, or other types of healthcare-related administrative duties?

"I have experience in ordering medical supplies and maintaining inventory. I fully understand that there is an art to being properly organized when it comes to the availability of supplies. For medical ordering and inventory, I have used a variety of software and programs such as ABC and XYZ."

In certain roles at UHN, you may be responsible for ordering and maintaining inventory. Describe your experience stocking the unit or area with basic clinical and patient supplies, inventorying, ordering, and maintaining supplies. If you've used any specific software or programs, provide some insight into tools you're familiar with. Don't forget to include soft skills in your answer, like accuracy in your work, close attention to detail, and your ability to communicate if there is an issue in the process.

"In my current role, I'm responsible for keeping certain supplies stocked on the maternity unit, maintaining the inventory, and ordering replacement supplies. I'm also tasked with making sure all items are labeled clearly and appropriately and replacing missing or incorrect labels. I know that if we do not have the appropriate supplies, patients may have a poor experience, or the nursing staff may not be able to do their jobs. I'm very thorough and careful when I'm inventorying so that we prevent such issues. If there is a shortage of an item, an unusual amount of supplies used or missing, or any other issues, I report it to my supervisor immediately and take their direction to rectify the situation. I'm very comfortable with this task and would have no problems taking this on in my next role."

Healthcare service companies require strong organizational skills and attention to detail. How do you ensure that your work is properly organized, and highly accurate?

"I double-check my work and repeat information as often as possible to verify it. For example, if I'm scheduling an appointment with a patient over the phone, I give them the date and time and repeat it back to them as I double-check what I've entered into the computer. Scheduling mistakes cause frustration to the patient and the other clinical staff members. I also ensure accuracy by focusing on my task at hand and reducing distractions or refraining from multitasking when working with critical information or reporting. This focus and dedicated attention to a task reduces errors. If it's a situation where I can run a report to audit or double check my work, I'll utilize that tool as well."

The success of the healthcare industry thrives on the accuracy of information and organization. Accuracy in your work reduces errors and improves processes and quality of care in the workplace. At UHN, you will likely be responsible for relaying important information, updating medical records, and scheduling appointments, so you must have an eye for detail and make very few mistakes. Discuss the techniques you use to ensure you're performing tasks accurately and provide the interviewer with specific examples.

"I'm a bit of an organizational nerd. I carry around a notebook and write down important facts if I think there is a chance I will forget them. But this is usually just for transitions. Every clinic I've ever worked in has its way of communicating and recording facts, so I put time and attention into using the system the people around me are using. That way, its easier to transition care, and the patient has all their info in the same place. My notebook saves me when I'm swamped, but I try to be efficient and put info directly into the (group record/EMR/chart) when I can."

We take pride in our great relationships with clients, vendors, coworkers, and patients. Do you consider yourself to be a strong relationship builder?

"I have earned compliments on my relationship-building skills. I like to get to know people and ask them questions about themselves. Most people love to talk about themselves, and I find it's a great and simple way to start building rapport with others. I consider myself to be a strong relationship builder and take pride in my 'people skills'. Rest assured, I would be a great ambassador of positive relationships for UHN."

The success of UHN depends on the patient experience and satisfaction of those they serve. Assure the interviewer that you would treat everyone at UHN with great respect and a positive attitude. Discuss the ways that you would build strong and healthy relationships if hired.Some ways to build strong relationships in the workplace: - Have strong follow-up habits - Offer sincere conversation - Get to know people on a personal level - Be trustworthy - Avoid gossip - Offer mutual respect - Be mindful of your actions - Compliment others - Be positive - Be a strong listener

"I am happy to hear that UHN values long-term relationships. This fact is a bonus for me, and it's one of the reasons I chose to work in the medical field. I like working in an industry where genuine care is valued. Healthcare is not a place for gimmicks because health is precious and irreplaceable. I've had success in university and my internships by focusing on building a reputation for consistency and followup. What you describe is a good fit for me, and I'd like to represent a company that wants to create long-term sustainable partnerships."

Tell me about yourself.

"A bit about me - I love to travel, read, and conduct research. I spent the past few months traveling the world with Doctors Without Borders. It was the best experience that I could have given myself as I was able to learn so much from seeing how the rest of the world lives. I returned to the US just last month and had been actively looking for new work for the past couple of weeks. I am eager to getting into the routine of a career again."

The interviewer would like to get to know more about you. Give an overview of how you got into healthcare, your education and experience, your current role, and what brings you to the interview with UHN. Engage the interviewer by telling your story with enthusiasm! Consider sharing a skill you developed that will be useful for this position. Avoid giving too many personal details (marital status, how many children you have, your religion, etc.), and try to keep your answer brief (no more than a couple of minutes).

"I am an avid marathon runner and have traveled to 10 countries in the last eight years to compete in a variety of races. I am a competitive individual and enjoy keeping fit. New to my career in healthcare services, my biggest goal is to take as many related courses as possible. I am eager to get a great start on my career."

If we hired you today, what would you accomplish first?

"When we were speaking earlier, you mentioned that you were urgently seeking to improve the level of patient care and compassion at this facility. I want to offer my skills when it comes to building patient rapport and help to improve the satisfaction of everyone that uses the services of UHN. I plan to make a positive impact very quickly."

When you start a new position, it is essential to be clear on how you will make a positive impact after being hired. This question is a delicate one, and you need to show respect for the onboarding process, then give a moderately ambitious project that you could execute. This concept is often called your 'value proposition' in marketing. 'Hire me because I'll do X.'Remember, this is your campaign promise. If hired, it will likely be your first target to hit, and depending on the environment; it could make or break you. The best approach is to give a functional analysis of the employers' needs and your skills.Tell the interviewer what your impact goal is, should you be the successful candidate. Be sure to refer to the immediate needs of the company, such as increasing budgets, or improving patient care, for instance.

"If hired today, I would commit to diving into every resource provided to me, speeding up the learning curve typical of a new hire who is also new to their career. I will soak in every learning opportunity that comes my way so that I can be a self-sufficient member of your healthcare service team within the first 30 days."

With the ongoing changes in the healthcare services industry, how do you keep your knowledge current?

"Every morning I listen to X Podcast because I find the information to be fresh and valuable. In addition to this podcast, I also subscribe to a couple of industry blogs. One is ABC, and the other is XYZ. I greatly value the information shared between fellow professionals. What resources do you prefer to stay on top of industry trends and changes?"

Healthcare is constantly evolving. Employers expect employees to stay up-to-date in their respective areas, and today's technology makes this reasonably easy! List several ways that you receive your industry knowledge and stay on top of trends. Tell the interviewer about those daily update emails you receive from professional organizations, conferences you attend, and seminars you have taken. Lastly, it's a great idea to ask the interviewer what resources they refer to for industry trends. That question can start up a great conversation, and you may learn a thing or two as well.

"I am an avid fan of Google alerts! I will receive an email with the related information any time there is a major headline about the healthcare services industry. In addition to this, I also subscribe to a couple of medical-related journals, including A and B."

What interested you in a career in healthcare?

"I've always been interested in science and the medical field, and I have many administrative skills, so I pursued a path in healthcare administration. I enjoy helping others and being a part of a team, and I found that healthcare connects both of those passions. I'm very outgoing and enjoy working with the public and meeting new people, so this environment is ideal for me. I plan to remain in healthcare for many years as I expand my skill set and perhaps eventually pursue additional certifications."

The interviewer wants to learn more about why you chose the healthcare industry. This question is very personal, so briefly give the interviewer some insight into what motivated you to pursue this path. Perhaps you interacted with a healthcare professional in the past who had an impact on you, or maybe you have family or friends who have been in the role who inspired you, or maybe you just like being a part of a team that cares for others. If you have a unique story that led to your decision, feel free to share that and give a meaningful answer that demonstrates your passion for the field.

"Growing up, my mother and cousin were nurses at the local hospital. I was introduced to the work they did at a very young age, and that exposure attracted me to the field. I explored this interest further in secondary school by taking some healthcare-related classes. I also volunteered at the hospital to gain experience and solidify my interest in this career. I completed my nursing program this past spring and can't wait to start working. I love working with people of all ages, and I find such fulfillment in helping others!"

If you could expand your knowledge and expertise in any area of healthcare services at UHN, which would you choose?

"If I could expand my expertise in any healthcare service area, I would choose anything within primary care. This interest is one of the reasons I have applied to your company. I feel that your focus will be a great fit with my long-term career goals."

The interviewer would like to dig deeper into your real areas of interest when it comes to healthcare services. They want to know that your passions align well with what UHN is offering. Talk to the interviewer about the areas of healthcare you would like to focus on most, and then tie that information in with what the position at UHN would be offering you.

"I'm interested in research. One of the things that attracted me to working with your company is your ongoing community-based research collaborations. I'd be curious to hear if the (clinic/hospital/program) had any needs in this area. Is this something junior staff can be involved in?"

We have a diverse workforce. When have you worked among a diverse group of people?

"I have worked with hundreds of patients over the years, all coming from different backgrounds, ages, and cultures. I treat everyone with respect and provide the same level of excellent care to all. I also speak French and am able to communicate effectively with that population as well."

UHN serves a diverse group of patients, families, and members of the community. Discuss your experience working with people of different backgrounds, socioeconomic statuses, religions, and cultures. Describe how you make all patients feel welcome and deliver excellent service or care to all. Also, consider mentioning any skills you have in this specific area, like speaking another language.

"I have worked with a wide range of people in my career. I also volunteered with my church for several years and went on mission trips in other countries, where I learned a lot about different cultures and customs. That has helped me honor and respect diversity in the workplace and also given me additional skills to work with people of all backgrounds."

What healthcare settings have you worked in before?

"I worked for five years as a ward clerk and then moved into the medical secretary role, which I've been in for the last three years. As a ward clerk, I worked on the surgical ward with a team of about 20 other staff members. I did everything from data entry to answering phones and making appointments. It was very fast-paced, and I enjoyed that setting. As a medical secretary, I have been working for a private clinic that sees mostly pediatric patients. It's a little slower pace, but I've gained a lot of exposure and experience here. I enjoy and am comfortable working in both settings and environments."

This question allows the interviewer to explore your healthcare background and what environments you have worked in to understand if your background aligns or if you've worked in an environment where your skills would transfer well. Give an overview of the settings you've worked in (care home, hospital, consultant's office, general practice, etc.) and include the range of patient populations you've worked with. You can also include details about the pace of the environment or give insight into the size of the organization or even the volume of staff and patients you supported in your roles.

"I have ten total years of experience as an occupational therapist. My first three years were in a hospital setting, working on the Rheumatology Occupational Therapy team. Currently, and for the past seven years, I have been working for a home care company, providing services to children and adults in the comfort of their homes."

What experience do you have working with confidential information? How do you protect patient information?

"Throughout my training, we frequently discussed the importance of protecting patient information in the workplace. I would frequently verify the patient's address, phone number, and email to ensure all communication went to the right person. I would also make sure that I kept patient information private by not gossiping with other coworkers or sharing information with friends or family when I returned home from work. Lastly, I would ensure patients signed all appropriate privacy and consent forms as needed."

All employees at UHN must be knowledgeable about when and how to protect sensitive or private information. Demonstrate your understanding of the importance of protecting patient information in the workplace and consider ways you ensure patient information is not left in public places or stored inappropriately. Perhaps you speak in a lower voice when relaying confidential information so other patients don't overhear, or maybe you lock your computer anytime you leave your workstation. When responding, give an overview of your experience in healthcare protecting this type of data and examples of ways you ensure patient information is safe.

"Each day, I work with sensitive information as I have several responsibilities relating to patient records. I keep files with private patient information secure by locking them in my desk drawer if I leave my workstation or by locking my computer when I'm away if I'm using electronic medical records or charting. Anytime I fax information to another office, I use a cover sheet and mark the document confidential to notify the office they need to protect the data they are receiving. Anytime I receive a phone call from a friend or family member of a patient, I confirm they are authorized to receive such information, which also protects patients."

Tell me about your experience and education.

"I have a nursing degree as well as additional on the job training within clinical research. I feel that my nursing education opened up many potential industry-related avenues for me. I graduated top of my class and completed a valuable internship with 'XYZ Health Services.' All of these experiences have helped prepare me for success in this role with UHN."

The interviewer may not have had an opportunity to review your CV/resume or application, so be prepared to give a high-level overview of your experience and education. When speaking about your experience, provide your total years of experience, describe the settings you have worked and provide some insight into the patient populations you have worked with. Then provide the interviewer with details about your education and certifications and any other training relevant to the position you're applying for with UHN.

"I did my undergraduate in chemistry and medical school at St. George's University. I loved surgery, so my electives were in general surgery, trauma epidemiology, and orthopedics. I'm happy to be moving on to more responsibility as a resident. I have had some amazing mentors, and I found that I could perform with some different teaching styles."

We seek to hire those with strong problem-solving skills. When were you able to successfully resolve a problem in the workplace?

"I was working in a clinic where the primary population was low income. We had a lot of concerns with patients not showing up for appointments when expected. The staff wanted to start double-booking patient time slots. Instead, I got permission to spend a day in a highly-rated clinic serving the same population. Instead of scheduling, they had these 'drop-in mornings' with a shared waiting room. I took these methods and incorporated them into our setting. We did that twice a week, and it completely solved our scheduling problem."

Problem-solving and dispute resolution are critical skills to possess in any role at UHN. Display to the interviewer that you are capable of problem-solving within the workplace. Talk about a time when you were creative, proactive, and displayed the leadership qualities required to resolve a workplace issue.

"We had many group projects in university, and I noticed a consistent problem with team members showing up late for meetings or messaging in sick at the very last moment. As the team leader, rather than getting upset, I proposed that when a team member disrespectfully dropped the ball, they would be asked to leave the group and find a new group or commit to an independent project. I felt this encouraged accountability and showed teamwork as a privilege rather than a right. Team member commitments increased as did work ethic among the groups."

Tell me about a time you had to work with a difficult colleague or patient. What made him or her difficult? How did you successfully interact with this person?

"I once worked at a small medical facility where the primary physician was very demanding. When he would walk into the facility, employees would quietly announce that he was in the building, so that everyone could prepare for his arrival. This physician had great intentions; however, his people skills were a little rough. I could see that he meant well, and I recognized that he wanted to do a lot of good things. When we interacted, I always took his feedback with the understanding that he didn't mean things as harshly as he might say them."

Working in healthcare and within an organization as large as UHN, you will likely interact with a high volume of people daily, including colleagues, senior leaders, patients, their families, and public vendors. Possessing the skills to handle difficult situations and people in the workplace is essential. Think about a time you had a challenging coworker or patient and what made it difficult. Describe the situation and how you handled it, and include aspects of communication, interpersonal, and conflict-resolution skills. Avoid speaking negatively about a former colleague or patient when answering.

"During my internship, I had a fellow student who didn't pull their weight. This unmotivated person created more work for the rest of the team by being slow and unresponsive. Our team started to complete most of the tasks when it came to group projects. It didn't take much time before our professor noticed this particular individual was slacking. I feel like, in most instances, the underachievers will weed themselves out over time, and it's rarely worth making a fuss over."

UHN Interview Questions

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1. Our purpose is to transform lives and communities through excellence in care, discovery and learning. What does this mean to you?
2. In the healthcare services industry there are many emotions in a day. Have your emotions ever been in the way of your productivity?
3. Compassion is one of our core values. How do you demonstrate compassion in the workplace?
4. Why do you think you will be successful in this role?
5. What is your patient care philosophy?
6. What is your greatest weakness?
7. It is often said that a career in healthcare is a 'thankless job.' How can we keep you motivated and engaged, even on the days when you feel your work goes unnoticed?
8. If hired, how would you demonstrate professionalism in the workplace?
9. What part of your healthcare career brings you the most stress?
10. We support a healthy work/life balance for all employees. How do you balance life and work?
11. To work for us you must be able to pass a full background check. Do you understand this requirement?
12. We seek to hire individuals who have ambitions of growing their career. Where do you see yourself in 3-5 years?
13. How would you rate your knowledge of medical terminology?
14. Rate your problem-solving skills from 1-10. How do you justify your rating?
15. What computer skills do you possess?
16. Working with the public can be difficult. What interpersonal skills do you possess that will allow you to succeed here?
17. Have you ever been involved in ordering medical supplies, maintaining inventory, or other types of healthcare-related administrative duties?
18. Healthcare service companies require strong organizational skills and attention to detail. How do you ensure that your work is properly organized, and highly accurate?
19. We take pride in our great relationships with clients, vendors, coworkers, and patients. Do you consider yourself to be a strong relationship builder?
20. Tell me about yourself.
21. If we hired you today, what would you accomplish first?
22. With the ongoing changes in the healthcare services industry, how do you keep your knowledge current?
23. What interested you in a career in healthcare?
24. If you could expand your knowledge and expertise in any area of healthcare services at UHN, which would you choose?
25. We have a diverse workforce. When have you worked among a diverse group of people?
26. What healthcare settings have you worked in before?
27. What experience do you have working with confidential information? How do you protect patient information?
28. Tell me about your experience and education.
29. We seek to hire those with strong problem-solving skills. When were you able to successfully resolve a problem in the workplace?
30. Tell me about a time you had to work with a difficult colleague or patient. What made him or her difficult? How did you successfully interact with this person?

UHN Interview Questions

1. Our purpose is to transform lives and communities through excellence in care, discovery and learning. What does this mean to you?

2. In the healthcare services industry there are many emotions in a day. Have your emotions ever been in the way of your productivity?

3. Compassion is one of our core values. How do you demonstrate compassion in the workplace?

4. Why do you think you will be successful in this role?

5. What is your patient care philosophy?

6. What is your greatest weakness?

7. It is often said that a career in healthcare is a 'thankless job.' How can we keep you motivated and engaged, even on the days when you feel your work goes unnoticed?

8. If hired, how would you demonstrate professionalism in the workplace?

9. What part of your healthcare career brings you the most stress?

10. We support a healthy work/life balance for all employees. How do you balance life and work?

11. To work for us you must be able to pass a full background check. Do you understand this requirement?

12. We seek to hire individuals who have ambitions of growing their career. Where do you see yourself in 3-5 years?

13. How would you rate your knowledge of medical terminology?

14. Rate your problem-solving skills from 1-10. How do you justify your rating?

15. What computer skills do you possess?

16. Working with the public can be difficult. What interpersonal skills do you possess that will allow you to succeed here?

17. Have you ever been involved in ordering medical supplies, maintaining inventory, or other types of healthcare-related administrative duties?

18. Healthcare service companies require strong organizational skills and attention to detail. How do you ensure that your work is properly organized, and highly accurate?

19. We take pride in our great relationships with clients, vendors, coworkers, and patients. Do you consider yourself to be a strong relationship builder?

20. Tell me about yourself.

21. If we hired you today, what would you accomplish first?

22. With the ongoing changes in the healthcare services industry, how do you keep your knowledge current?

23. What interested you in a career in healthcare?

24. If you could expand your knowledge and expertise in any area of healthcare services at UHN, which would you choose?

25. We have a diverse workforce. When have you worked among a diverse group of people?

26. What healthcare settings have you worked in before?

27. What experience do you have working with confidential information? How do you protect patient information?

28. Tell me about your experience and education.

29. We seek to hire those with strong problem-solving skills. When were you able to successfully resolve a problem in the workplace?

30. Tell me about a time you had to work with a difficult colleague or patient. What made him or her difficult? How did you successfully interact with this person?