31 Virginia Mason Medical Center Interview Questions & Answers
Below is a list of our Virginia Mason Medical Center interview questions. Click on any interview question to view our answer advice and answer examples. You may view six answer examples before our paywall loads. Afterwards, you'll be asked to upgrade to view the rest of our answers.
1. Virginia Mason Medical Center has a diverse workforce. When have you worked amongst a diverse group of people?
How to Answer
Are you accustomed to working with a very large or diverse team of individuals? Assure the interviewer that you can handle an environment that offers diversity. Even better, give an example of being able to embrace diversity in the workplace.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 30th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"I have worked with diverse groups of people most of my career, including my time in University. I am most comfortable, and happy, in this type of environment because it offers me unique learning opportunities."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 30th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"I am so glad you pointed out your need for diversity at Virginia Mason Medical Center. I greatly value diversity. I grew up in a fairly homogeneous town in Montana. When I hit my 20's, it was so important to me to learn about other cultures. I worked with community volunteer organizations in Peru, inner-city Chicago, and Russia."
Written by Ryan Brunner
2. What do you know about Virginia Mason Medical Center's community improvement efforts? Why do you feel these things are important to the greater community we operate in?
How to Answer
Virginia Mason Medical Center puts a great deal of resources and effort into great community health improvement projects like health education, nutrition education, fitness initiatives and projects that extend internationally as well. For this question, make sure to research some of the efforts that the organization takes part in and speak to the one's that hit close to home for you in talking about their importance. If you've taken part in any community health initiatives in the past, be sure to bring up the details of what your participation entailed. As well, talk a bit about the greater health of the community and the impact that can have.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 30th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"During my five years working as a Dialysis Technician, I have assisted in diabetes education classes for both newly diagnosed patients and for community awareness seminars that my organization has put on. As part of the team, I have spoken about the dialysis process and what patients can expect as far as their dialysis treatment goes. For both the patient and community education seminars, my input was always well received and important. Programs like this are important because a lot of diseases and illnesses have very negative stigmas in the general public's eye and by simply educating people, these stigmas are negated. I'd look forward to working on any diabetes related education initiatives with your organization."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 30th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"I have a first hand experience on how effective community health initiative programs can be. My brother in law was facing some severe health problems due to obesity and his motivation to finally turn things around came from nutrition and cooking classes that were offered by a local healthcare organization. While his family and friends could talk until they were blue in the face, being among others in his situation and hearing professionals talk about the benefits of healthy eating and being shown how to cook healthy meals were the turning point for him. Seeing the effect a simple program had on him, I'm a true believer in community health efforts."
Written by Ryan Brunner
3. Do you think it is possible to be a good team member, yet disagree with the leader?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to know that you can be diplomatic in the workplace, even when you may not agree with your leader.
Show the interviewer that it is possible for you to be a good team member, yet disagree with the leader from time to time. Explain that you believe everyone is entitled to their own professional opinion, yet capable of maintaining respect for each other at the same time.
Show that even if you disagree with the final decision they make, you support the direction the team is heading.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 30th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"I think that it is possible to be a great team member, even when disagreeing with the leader. It's all in how you maintain respect for each other despite the difference in opinion."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 30th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"I believe that being a good team member is more about attitude than it is about compatibility. You do not need to agree with everyone 100% of the time, to be effective in your job."
Written by Ryan Brunner
4. Why do you think you will be successful in this role with Virginia Mason Medical Center?
How to Answer
Rather than just sharing how you have gone above and beyond expectations in the past, focus on how your qualities will help you to meet and exceed expectations with Virginia Mason Medical Center. Discuss the reasons why will you 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.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 30th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"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."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 30th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"I believe my success with Virginia Mason Medical Center will come from having all of the hard skills that you are looking for, whether learned in school or gained through work experience. I know all the key players in this region and stay informed of best practices."
Written by Ryan Brunner
5. What is your greatest weakness?
How to Answer
Pick a weakness that is not a core skill for this position. 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!
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 30th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"I believe I could improve on some technical skills including Excel and Word. Currently I am at a beginner to intermediate level; however, I would be more comfortable at an advanced level. I have enrolled myself in an evening/weekend workshop for the next six weeks. We will see how stellar my skills are after that course!"
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 30th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"I know this will come off as cliche, but it's truthful. My weakness is in not delegating. I know what I want to be done 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."
Written by Ryan Brunner
6. In the time that you spend face to face with your patients, what is important to get accomplished in your mind?
How to Answer
Virginia Mason Medical Center prioritizes and optimizes face to face time with patients for their employees. The organization expects that time spent with patients is focused on key ares and your interviewer will be looking to hear what you feel those key areas are. Put some thought to the job that you are interviewing for and the patients that you will be working with and prioritize what will be important in your time with patients to enhance their overall experience and satisfaction while in your care.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 30th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"Nursing care in the Emergency Room atmosphere starts with me ensuring that patients needs are attended to first and foremost. From the first moment I am with them, I am documenting symptoms and asking questions on pain and their symptoms to help the physician make a diagnosis. Being that our setting is often awkward and uncomfortable, I do my best to ensure that my patients are as comfortable as possible by asking them questions and by reading their body language. While our time together is shorter lived than most nurse-patient relationships, my face to face time with patients in the ER is vital to their care and I prioritize that time spent with them."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 30th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"CT scans are often a very scary proposition for the patients that I work with so my first goal is to create a relaxed environment for them while in my care. I do this by conversing with patients and explaining how the entire process works. By understanding the process, most patients become much more relaxed during the scan and that allows for a better scan and better readings for the radiologists. While in the scan, I continue dialogue if it helps the patient."
Written by Ryan Brunner
7. In your opinion, what makes you a great problem solver?
How to Answer
Employers want to know that you have a methodical approach to problem-solving. Consider the skills and qualities that help you successfully face problems. Perhaps you have a keen eye for detail. Maybe you can see opportunity when others can only focus on the issue. Share your strengths as a problem solver, and your ability to come up with innovative solutions.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 30th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"I am a great problem solver because I do not allow stress to cloud my judgment and mute my sound decision making. I am a keen observer with a great memory which allows me to recall unique solutions or ideas."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 30th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"I believe I am a great problem solver because I am sure to gather as many facts as possible, I look at the problem and its potential solutions from multiple angles, and I am not afraid to make a creative decision that might seem off the beaten path."
Written by Ryan Brunner
8. What type of work environment do you dislike working in?
How to Answer
Are you pretty flexible in your ability to work in most environments? Have you experienced a position where the atmosphere wasn't conducive to your productivity? Be sure to know the type of situation offered in this position prior, to the interview. If you aren't completely clear on the workplace environment or culture, kindly ask the interviewer to expand on the work environment for you.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 30th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"I can be productive in most work environments, so long as the mentality is positive and teamwork is encouraged. I cannot work in an environment that feels negative or toxic."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 30th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"I prefer to focus on the positive, so if it's okay, I would like to share with you what my ideal work environment looks like. My ideal environment is organized, collaborative, positive, energetic, and encouraging. I love working with like-minded people who set challenging goals for themselves. I thrive when I work for supervisors who encourage curiosity and creativity in problem-solving."
Written by Ryan Brunner
9. With the ongoing changes in the healthcare services industry, how do you keep your knowledge current?
How to Answer
Employers expect employees to stay up-to-date on their respective field, 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.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 30th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"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?"
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 30th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"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."
Written by Ryan Brunner
10. Think about a difficult boss, professor or coworker. What made him or her difficult? How did you successfully interact with this person?
How to Answer
Show the interviewer that you work well with most personalities even though you recognize there are some folks out there who are quite difficult to please.
Think about that one person at work who is seen as hard to please. Perhaps there is someone at work who tries to intimidate others. Talk to the interviewer about what made this person challenging and what their relationship was with you. Avoid speaking poorly of anyone and be sure to end your response on a positive note.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 30th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"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 be prepared 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."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 30th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"In my previous position, I did have a coworker who didn't pull their weight. This unmotivated coworker 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 department head 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."
Written by Ryan Brunner
11. If Virginia Mason Medical Center hired you today, what would you accomplish first?
How to Answer
When you start a new position, it is essential to set a goal on how you will make a positive impact quickly after being hired. Tell the interviewer what your impact goal is, should you be the successful candidate. If you want to make an impact with your answer, refer to the immediate needs of the company such as increasing budgets, or improving patient care, for instance.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 30th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"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 strong skills when it comes to building patient rapport and help to improve the satisfaction of everyone that uses the services of Virginia Mason Medical Center. I plan to make a positive impact very quickly."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 30th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"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."
But 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."
Written by Ryan Brunner
12. If you could expand your knowledge and expertise in any healthcare service area, which would you choose?
How to Answer
There are many facets of health care. If you could choose any area of healthcare to specialize in, which would you choose? Be sure to tie your answer into some aspects of what Virginia Mason Medical Center does.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 30th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"If I could choose any area of healthcare services to be a subject matter expert in, I would choose geriatric care. I do feel that this particular focus is not as popular as some, and become an expert in it would allow me to snowball in my career."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 30th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"I have a variety of interests within healthcare service, so that is a tough question for me! I suppose if I had to narrow it to just one area of expertise, I would say palliative care and the necessary family care that comes with it."
Written by Ryan Brunner
13. What are some ways that you would say that you work efficiently and why is this important?
How to Answer
As part of Virginia Mason Medical Center's Virginia Mason Production System, the organization strives to take measures to eliminate waste and inefficiencies in their work processes to allow their employees more direct time with patients to talk, listen and treat them. In your answer to this question, talk about efficiencies that you have developed in your work that allow you more face to face contact time with your patients and talk about why this is important in the job that you perform. Gear your efficiencies towards administrative tasks and other tasks that take you away from direct patient care.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 30th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"Working as a nurse in the Home Health setting, being efficient started with my own personal organization to start and end each day to ensure that I was spending enough quality time with patients on action packed days in the field. This organization started with detailed planning for the day and ensuring I had all of the supplies needed each day. This prevented potential unnecessary running for supplies. Organization also included following up on emails and charting, which I blocked away time for at least every other day when making out my visit schedule. While knowing these things were important, dedicating time to these duties was important so I could still have ample time with each patient's home visit."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 30th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"In the lab setting, things can get quite hectic at my current job so staying efficient starts with a clean and organized work area. Where I've seen many Medical Lab Techs not prioritize a clean and clutter free work area is where I've witnessed failure to be efficient, so I take the time to maintain organization in our lab and my work area. Efficiency in my work also comes from staying on top of new orders and not letting work pile up. As in any lab setting, the workload can fluctuate and all of a sudden an order that is procrastinated gets at the bottom of a very large pile of high priority orders. This isn't fair to the ordering physician or the patient that could be awaiting life altering results."
Written by Ryan Brunner
14. Tell me about yourself.
How to Answer
Take a few minutes to tell the interviewer a few things about yourself. You can begin with your recent education, family life, volunteer work, or talk about your travels. Bring up anything that is interesting and highlights your ability to be a responsible, reliable, and bright individual.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 30th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"A bit about me - I love to travel, read, and conduct research. I am a recent grad from Columbia University and have spent the past 12 months traveling the world. 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 work the past couple of weeks. I am looking forward to getting into the routine of a career again."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 30th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"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. Being newer to my career in healthcare services, my biggest goal as of late has to take as many related courses and workshops as possible. I am eager to get a great start on my career."
Written by Ryan Brunner
15. Virginia Mason Medical Center supports a healthy work/life balance for all employees. How do you balance life and work?
How to Answer
It is essential to keep a healthy work/life balance to prevent burnout. Talk to the interviewer about how you can maintain that appropriate balance for yourself.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 30th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"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."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 30th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"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. I indulge in the things that make me happy, on my time off. By consistently rejuvenating in this way, I can give even more energy when I am at work."
Written by Ryan Brunner
16. Do you prefer to work in a team based position or individually?
How to Answer
In which situation are you the happiest and most productive? Talk to the interviewer about your preference when it comes to teamwork or working individually. Be sure to avoid pigeonholing yourself into one particular scenario (IE: I only like to work by myself). You may work well without the need for much management or direction, or perhaps you are better driven in a collaborative and team led environment. Either way, be honest with the interviewer about your preferences without leaning negatively, either way.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 30th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"Whether I am doing an independent project, or working in a team environment, I always give my best. I enjoy the camaraderie of working in a team, but I can be successful working autonomously as well."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 30th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"I have found, in the past, that I work well in an individually driven environment; however, I can certainly be productive in a team-based setting as well."
Written by Ryan Brunner
17. Patient care requires a strong amount of compassion. Do you consider yourself a compassionate person?
How to Answer
To succeed in the healthcare services industry, you should have a solid level of compassion for your patients or customers. Talk to the interviewer about the compassionate qualities that you possess. How would you rate your level of compassion for others?
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 30th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"I understand that compassion is one of the top qualities that I need to bring to the workplace, being in the healthcare services profession. I consider myself a very compassionate individual. I am warm hearted, responsive to my patients' needs, and always empathetic."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 30th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"Some ways to describe yourself could be:
- Understanding
- Warm Hearted
- Empathetic
- Responsive
- Charitable
- Tender Hearted"
Written by Ryan Brunner
18. How would you describe your personality?
How to Answer
Personality and character are two very different things. The interviewer is looking for more information on your traits vs. your integrity. Your example could include buzzwords such as introverted, energetic, and confident.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 30th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"I would describe my personality as approachable, light-hearted, and positive. I believe that, if asked, my colleagues and supervisor would say the same about me."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 30th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"I'm genuinely easy-going, probably from all the international travel I experienced in my 20's. I like to do the right thing, and sometimes I get stressed trying to reach that goal, but I think it's a worthwhile endeavor. I can be funny, but my sense of humor is pretty dry, so people don't always know that about me when they first meet me."
Written by Ryan Brunner
19. Here at Virginia Mason Medical Center, we are in the continual pursuit of the perfect patient experience. In your mind, what does the perfect patient experience entail for those that you work with?
How to Answer
Through continuous quality improvement, safety and service efforts, Virginia Mason Medical Center is committed to providing the best patient experience possible. The perfect patient experience per se. For this question, your interviewer will be looking to hear what the perfect patient experience looks like in your world. Really think about the job you perform and the patients you work with and let your interviewer know what that perfect experience looks like to your patients. Be sure to hit on keywords like outcomes and needs while also factoring in environmental factors that increase their experience while in your care.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 30th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"Nursing requires constant attention to the patient experience and I done this in a number ways during my career as a nurse on a busy Med/Surg unit. To make their experience as desirable as possible, my care starts with being attentive to patients needs by asking questions and getting to know them through simple conversation. When a rapport is built quickly between us, my patients will let me know if they are hungry, uncomfortable or feeling anything else and this allows me to provide better care. On top of these things, I'm always attentive to small details like cleanliness of the room, lighting and volume on the radio or television. I never hesitate to customize my care for patients with differing needs and preferences as well."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 30th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"For me as a Respiratory Therapist, the perfect patient experience comes down to quality, compassionate care that leads to a great outcome for the patient. To do this, I approach each patient by explaining the care that I will provide and answering any questions that they have. Then, my technical skills take over to provide both safe and effective care for the patient. With this approach, I ensure that I've done my part to help provide the best possible outcome for the patient and have enhanced their experience to the best of my ability."
Written by Ryan Brunner
20. Virginia Mason Medical Center seeks to hire those with strong problem solving skills. When were you able to successfully resolve a problem in the workplace?
How to Answer
Problem-solving and dispute resolution are critical skills to possess. 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.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 30th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"In my most recent position we had a consistent problem with employees showing up late for their shifts or calling in sick at the very last moment. Rather than the typical documenting and reprimanding style that management usually takes, I decided to track the results of an accountability reward system. For 180 days, my employees were rewarded for coming to work 10 minutes early. Also, for every month with zero sick days, a bonus was added. In the end, we awarded those with perfect attendance a $600 bonus. The bonus' cost us less money, in the end than the cost of lowered productivity due to absent employees. The program was a success, and upper management chose to keep it implemented for another six months. We will re-assess in December, but it seems to be working very well."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 30th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"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 common 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."
Written by Ryan Brunner
21. At Virginia Mason Medical Center we seek to hire individuals who have ambitions of growing their career. Where do you see yourself in 3-5 years?
How to Answer
Every hiring manager would like to know that their investment of time and training will pay off. Assure the interviewer that you see this position as a long-term fit. How does this role with Virginia Mason Medical Center fit into your longer-term plans?
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 30th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"In 3-5 years I would like to see my career with Virginia Mason Medical Center 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."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 30th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"One of the attractive points of working for Virginia Mason Medical Center 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. Personally, I'd like 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."
Written by Ryan Brunner
22. Have you ever been involved in ordering medical supplies, maintaining inventory, or other types of health care related administrative duties?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know if you understand what it takes to keep on top of ordering medical supplies and inventory. Assure the interviewer that you are capable of foreseeing needs, and making the appropriate action. Highlight your ability to be responsible when it comes to related administrative tasks.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 30th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"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."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 30th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"Yes. I used to do this in my former position. I was responsible for maintaining supplies on the general surgery ward for five years. It was great at working behind the scenes with the result being efficiency for others."
Written by Ryan Brunner
23. 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?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know how they could continue to motivate you - even on the hardest of days. Do you need to have verbal recognition? Are you motivated solely by the success of your team? Talk to the interviewer about how you have stayed motivated in the past.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 30th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"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."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 30th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"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 peoples lives. And I make work-related goals I can achieve for satisfaction."
Written by Ryan Brunner
24. If you could expand your knowledge and expertise in any area of healthcare services, which would you choose?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to dig deeper into your true areas of interest when it comes to healthcare services. They want to know that your passions align well with what Virginia Mason Medical Center 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 Virginia Mason Medical Center would be offering you.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 30th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"If I could expand my expertise in any healthcare service area I would choose anything within primary care. This is one of the reasons I have applied with your company. I feel that your focus will be a great fit with my long-term career goals."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 30th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"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?"
Written by Ryan Brunner
25. Healthcare service companies require strong organizational skills and attention to detail. How do you ensure that your work is properly organized, and highly accurate?
How to Answer
The success of the healthcare industry thrives on the accuracy of information, and organization. Talk to the interviewer about the ways that you ensure accuracy and organization in your day to day activities. Perhaps you use a particular app or software. Maybe you are a pen and paper person. Whatever your method, be sure to highlight that you are successful in organizing your day.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 30th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"I am a highly detailed person, and I thrive on having a high level of organization in my day. This organization includes my scheduling, paperwork, and more. If I am offered a position with Virginia Mason Medical Center you will never find me to be disorganized! I utilize my Outlook calendar and set alerts for myself for deadlines and important activities. My documentation is strong as well."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 30th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"I'm a bit of a 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."
Written by Ryan Brunner
26. At Virginia Mason Medical Center, we have strong outreach care programs available to patients in rural locations. Have you participated in outreach before in your career?
How to Answer
As an organization, Virginia Mason Medical Center believes strongly in providing outreach through a few different avenues. They provide respite care to the homeless population around the Seattle area and they have their Access Northwest program that provides specialty care services to community clinic patients. If you have direct experience working in an outreach type of setting, be sure to bring that up to your interviewer. If you don't, be sure to expand on why these types of programs are important. To really nail this question, give your interviewer the impression that you are open to opportunities to provide outreach care if it is warranted in the job you are interviewing for.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 30th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"During my time working in Orthopedic Surgery, the surgeon I operated with did outreach to some smaller Oregon clinics that had operating capabilities for minor procedures. I really liked the travel aspect of the job to be able to meet other remote clinic colleagues as well as being able to meet the needs of patients that would have likely gone without their procedures because of travel to our home hospital. The patients in these locations were often the most grateful for our services and that always brought a big smile to my face."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 30th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"Patient care is a top priority and I'd be proud to work for an organization that prioritizes outreach opportunities for patients that might otherwise receive the care that they need. While I haven't been a part of any efforts to this point in my career, do the Nurse Practitioners in Oncology typically have any outreach duties to outlying clinics or facilities? I would definitely be open to anything that would arise in the future if hired for this position."
Written by Ryan Brunner
27. What is your patient care philosophy?
How to Answer
It's always a great idea to research the company before your interview. You want to get to know their care philosophy so that your answer can reflect what is important to them. What is the core of your care philosophy? Keep your answer concise yet sincere.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 30th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"Every day at work, I remind myself that everyone I come across has their struggles. Every person we care for has a story. I make sure to get to know my patients whenever possible. Everyone has the right to compassionate care."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 30th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"I have three philosophies when it comes to my work. One 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."
Written by Ryan Brunner
28. At Virginia Mason Medical Center we take pride in our great relationships with clients, vendors, coworkers, and patients. Do you consider yourself to be a strong relationship builder?
How to Answer
Assure the interviewer that you would treat everyone at Virginia Mason Medical Center with great respect and a positive attitude. Discuss the ways that you would build strong and healthy relationships if hired.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 30th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"I have often been complimented 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 Virginia Mason Medical Center."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 30th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"Some ways to build strong relationships in the workplace:
- Have strong follow-up
- 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"
Written by Ryan Brunner
3rd Answer Example
"I am happy to hear that Virginia Mason Medical Center 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. In the past, I've had a lot of success by focusing on building a reputation for consistency and followup. What you describe is a good fit for me, these skills are valued by reputable vendors, and I'd like to represent a company that wants to create long-term sustainable partnerships."
Written by Ryan Brunner
29. Tell me about your healthcare related education and training.
How to Answer
Take a few minutes to walk the interviewer through your formal post-secondary education as well as any on the job training. Talk about your most positive take-away's from your post-secondary experience and be sure to tie in how that experience will help you succeed in this position.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 30th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"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 Virginia Mason Medical Center."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 30th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"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."
Written by Ryan Brunner
30. During your career, what types of safety initiatives have you been involved in and why were these important to you?
How to Answer
As part of the Virginia Mason Production System, the organization continually seeks measurable improvements in safety, quality, service, staff satisfaction and cost. For this question, your interviewer will be looking hear about your thoughts and experiences working with both patient and employee safety measures. If you have direct experience working as part of a safety committee or writing safety policies, talk about them with your interviewer. If you don't have direct experience working on safety policy, you've surely been a part of following safety measures so expand on those and their importance. No matter how you answer, be sure that your interviewer has the clear sense that you serious about safety.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 30th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"As a Clinical Dietitian, I have to remain focused on both the safety measures and policies in place for our dietary staff as well as the patient safety measures that are in place on patient care floors. I currently act as our department's liaison on the local safety committee that meets formally on a monthly basis as well as attending the weekly huddles. When on the patient floors, even though I may only be in a patient's room for mere minutes, I still follow all safety procedures by thoroughly washing and garbing, if necessary. These measures keep myself, the patients and my colleagues as safe as can be when it comes to infection prevention and I'm always willing to take the extra time to do this."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 30th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"Working for 10 plus years as a Registered Nurse, I have patient safety engrained into my brain and it never leaves the forefront of my mind. What can often get overlooked by some is then the safety of ourselves and our fellow colleagues. After noticing some new nurses that I was orienting using improper lifting techniques, I approached my director about further training for ergonomics in our job. The previous year, we had two different nurses on our unit go out on FMLA with repetitive lifting and motion injuries, so I felt this was important. Our director worked with our Workforce Learning department on providing the much needed training and it went over really well."
Written by Ryan Brunner
31. At Virginia Mason Medical Center we seek to hire individuals who display a keen interest in the healthcare arena. Would you consider yourself dedicated to a career in healthcare services?
How to Answer
Assure the interviewer that you are dedicated to a lucrative career in the healthcare services industry. The hiring manager would like to know that this position fits into your long-term plan and that, if hired, you would stay with Virginia Mason Medical Center as long as possible.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 30th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"My entire career has been dedicated to the healthcare services field. I find it incredibly rewarding and interesting because I get to help others and every day brings new challenges! One of the reasons I applied for this role with Virginia Mason Medical Center is because I can see a long-term fit here. I plan to work in the healthcare segment for my entire career."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 30th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"I know this career can take a toll on personal life, and I understand that while it can be more-or-less sustainable, it's more than just a job for me. So far, I have dedicated my entire adult life to this career. I have shadowed numerous professionals and have worked multiple clinics. I know this is the right career for me."
Written by Ryan Brunner
3rd Answer Example
"This career is not just something I want to do 8-5 to get by; it's something I want to BE. I want to be someone who dedicates themselves to a craft. I chose healthcare because the learning opportunities are endless. It's constantly evolving. I find the human body is fascinating, and I think that society is only healthy when it cares for its wounded."
Written by Ryan Brunner