20 Abdominal Sonographer Interview Questions & Answers
1. How can we motivate you on the job?
How to Answer
Every employer should know how each staff member is best motivated. Talk to the interviewer about the variety of ways in which you are best motivated on the job.
Written by Rachelle Enns on June 14th, 2021
Entry Level
"Here are some ways that an employer may try to motivate you. Which ones resonate most with you?
- Incentive programs where points are earned
- Showing complete trust in your work and performance
- Setting smaller, more achievable goals
- Helping you to find your greater career purpose
- Being a positive example to you
- Maintaining an open and transparent workplace
- Personalized incentives vs. Team driven incentives
- Getting to know you on a personal level
- Positive feedback based rewards system
- Offering a strong work/life balance by encouraging time off
- Letting you know your voice matters
- Allowing you to take the lead on projects that excite you
- Handing out big picture projects so you feel that you are contributing to the company's future
- Public recognition"
Written by Rachelle Enns on June 14th, 2021
Answer Example
"I am best motivated through words of praise and recognition for a job well done. I do like to know that my efforts are being noticed. In my current position, we have a leader board, and I do like that concept because it creates a healthy bit of personal competition in me as well."
Written by Rachelle Enns on June 14th, 2021
Experienced
"I am motivated by knowing something about my patients and being able to relate to them on a personal level. A personal touch always keeps me motivated."
Written by Rachelle Enns on June 14th, 2021
2. We are quite short staffed. When would you be available to start?
How to Answer
Before your interview, make sure you have a start date in mind for the new employer. Whether you need to give two weeks to your previous position or are unemployed and can start right away, be prepared with an affirmative answer. If you are currently working, you should always show professionalism by offering 2 weeks' notice to your current employer. Show that you are professional and reliable in all situations.
Written by Rachelle Enns on June 14th, 2021
Entry Level
"I am looking to start my new career immediately. I could start as soon as possible."
Written by Rachelle Enns on June 14th, 2021
Answer Example
"As a professional courtesy, I would like to give my current employer 2 weeks' notice. I could start anytime after that."
Written by Rachelle Enns on June 14th, 2021
Experienced
"I would need to give my employer 2 weeks' notice. Due to my length of employment, I may need to work an additional week, if they were to request it of me, to aid in the transition of my replacement."
Written by Rachelle Enns on June 14th, 2021
3. There are many specialties in medical sonography. If you could not be in abdominal sonography, which area of expertise would you choose?
How to Answer
Because medical sonography has a few specialty choices, the interviewer would like to know why you specifically chose to work in the abdominal field. Briefly discuss how you came to this specialty and what you would choose if you had to take your sonography career in a different direction.
Written by Rachelle Enns on June 14th, 2021
Entry Level
"That is a tough question, considering I just began my career as an abdominal sonographer! If I had to choose another specialty, I would choose breast sonography. When my mom was diagnosed with breast cancer, it made me realize just how important this line of work really is."
Written by Rachelle Enns on June 14th, 2021
Answer Example
"I love abdominal sonography because I find it to be one of the most complicated areas of sonography out there. If I had to choose another area of expertise, I would choose vascular sonography due to the level of challenge involved."
Written by Rachelle Enns on June 14th, 2021
Experienced
"Through my career, I have worked in a variety of areas including abdominal and breast. If I had to choose another area of expertise, I would find cardiac sonography to be incredibly interesting and detailed."
Written by Rachelle Enns on June 14th, 2021
4. As a medical sonographer, you must abide by a variety of ethics and rules. Have you ever had your ethics tested?
How to Answer
Ethical dilemmas in the workplace may come up from time to time. Assure the interviewer that you are able to handle these types of dilemmas with professionalism and poise.
Written by Rachelle Enns on June 14th, 2021
Entry Level
"I have never been in a situation where my ethics were in question and would not tolerate being put in any sort of ethical dilemma."
Written by Rachelle Enns on June 14th, 2021
Answer Example
"I have never been outright tested when it comes to ethics on the job. If I were asked to lie or break a confidentiality agreement, for example, I absolutely would not do that. I am not the type of person to be pushed around on the job. I will always be myself and keep my integrity first."
Written by Rachelle Enns on June 14th, 2021
Experienced
"Yes, I have been asked to lie on the job before. In a previous role, our inventory count was off. My co-worker wanted to go home and he suggested that I lie about our count. I refused to lie, and we stayed late. I would always choose honesty over lying, any day."
Written by Rachelle Enns on June 14th, 2021
5. Being a sonographer is a daily physical commitment. Are you able to perform the physical aspects of this role?
How to Answer
As a medical sonographer, you will be spending your days walking, sitting for long periods of time, bending, and lifting. Assure the interviewer that you are physically capable of handling these tasks. You can keep your answer short and to the point.
Written by Rachelle Enns on June 14th, 2021
Entry Level
"I am in great physical condition and have no concerns regarding the physical requirements associated with a career in sonography."
Written by Rachelle Enns on June 14th, 2021
Answer Example
"I am physically fit and have had no restrictions when it comes to lifting, standing, or sitting for long periods of time."
Written by Rachelle Enns on June 14th, 2021
Experienced
"In my 7 year career as a sonographer, I have never come across any issues related to the physical components of the role. I am fit and active."
Written by Rachelle Enns on June 14th, 2021
6. Have you ever trained students or other medical sonographers?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know the extent of your experience when it comes to training and mentoring other medical sonographers. The training that you refer to can be a formal job requirement or perhaps you helped out a new hire at some point in your career. Informal or formal, assure the interviewer that you have what it takes to be a leader.
Written by Rachelle Enns on June 14th, 2021
Entry Level
"I have not trained anyone as a sonographer since I am so new to my career. With that said, I did tutor a couple of my classmates during University, which included medical sonography and technology coursework."
Written by Rachelle Enns on June 14th, 2021
Answer Example
"Although I do not have formal training and leadership experience, I have spent time helping new hires and more junior sonographers. It feels great to help a team member out, whether I am asked to or it's my own initiative."
Written by Rachelle Enns on June 14th, 2021
Experienced
"Through my career as an abdominal sonographer, I have likely trained over 50 new medical sonographers. I love helping people to boost their careers, so training others is truly one of the favorite parts of my day."
Written by Rachelle Enns on June 14th, 2021
7. Tell me about your experience with operating ultrasound equipment.
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to further understand the extent of your experience when it comes to operating the equipment required to be used in this role. Keep your answer simple by listing the equipment you are accustomed to using and letting the interviewer know how many years' experience you have with each type of equipment. You can also rate your skills in each as beginner, intermediate, or advanced.
Written by Rachelle Enns on June 14th, 2021
Entry Level
"During my time in University, I was primarily trained on the GE Voluson E10 Ultrasound Machine. The facility where I completed my practicum used the GE Logiq E9. I am newer to sonography but have caught on very quickly during my studies and practicum hours. I'm excited to learn more about the equipment used at your facility!"
Written by Rachelle Enns on June 14th, 2021
Answer Example
"I have experience with abdominal sonography equipment including ultrasound machines, transducers, and coupling gel. I bring approximately 5 years of experience with this equipment and would rate myself as an advanced user."
Written by Rachelle Enns on June 14th, 2021
Experienced
"Through my 12 years of experience as an abdominal sonographer, I have been exposed to a variety of ultrasound machines including the GE LOGIQ E9 XDclear 2.0 Ultrasound Machine, Siemens Acuson S3000, and the Philips EPIQ 5 Ultrasound Machine. I consider myself an expert user. Could you share with me the type of machines that you use here?"
Written by Rachelle Enns on June 14th, 2021
8. Why are you looking for a new position?
How to Answer
When an interviewer asks you this, make sure you always keep your answer positive. If you are leaving your position because you don't like your boss, be sure to phrase it more eloquently. If you aren't sure how to do that, remember - it's always a safe bet to focus your answer on career growth and exciting opportunities.
Written by Rachelle Enns on June 14th, 2021
Entry Level
"I recently graduated with my degree in radiologic technology and am ready for this great first step in my career as an abdominal sonographer."
Written by Rachelle Enns on June 14th, 2021
Answer Example
"I value growth. It's important to me that I grow in my career to continue to be a valuable asset to the organization I'm working for. I've noticed tremendous growth at your facility the past year, and that really appeals to me."
Written by Rachelle Enns on June 14th, 2021
Experienced
"I am currently looking for career trajectory and professional development which is driving me to leave my current position."
Written by Rachelle Enns on June 14th, 2021
9. Why should we hire you?
How to Answer
If you can't think of ways that you are unique, ask a few friends or family members what they feel sets you apart from other people. Their observations may help you understand how you are perceived.
Perhaps you already know what sets you apart! This could include any industry accolades, special achievements, additional industry-related training, a second language, or how involved you are in the community. Don't be afraid to brag about yourself a bit. In an interview, you are your strongest advocate.
Written by Rachelle Enns on June 14th, 2021
Entry Level
"I believe that you should hire me as your next abdominal sonographer because, in addition to graduating top of my class, I completed a successful internship where I gained an incredible amount of knowledge related specifically to abdominal sonography."
Written by Rachelle Enns on June 14th, 2021
Answer Example
"I'm qualified and passionate about your cause, as well as patient care. I am excited about the idea of delivering value to your organization and will go above and beyond for your patients."
Written by Rachelle Enns on June 14th, 2021
Experienced
"I have over a dozen years of experience as a medical sonographer at one of the largest medical facilities in this state. I have a proven track record of successes and will bring my years of knowledge to this role. Having been a part of the industry for nearly half of my life, I have seen a ton of change and have adapted to each and every change or innovation with ease and excitement, and I look forward to doing that here as well."
Written by Rachelle Enns on June 14th, 2021
10. When have you had to lead by example?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to know that you are aware of the need to always lead by example. As a leader, your actions, decisions, and demeanor are always under some form of scrutiny. The most stressful workplace situations often surround change, so it's a great idea to talk about a time when your organization went through a major change and how you led others by setting a good example.
Written by Rachelle Enns on June 14th, 2021
Entry Level
"Last year, our facility merged with another private medical office, and there was talk of pending lay-offs. Rather than show my stress, I encouraged my team to try harder than ever. I suggested that we show our corporate office exactly what we could do! We ended up being the number one team in our region, which resulted in zero layoffs."
Written by Rachelle Enns on June 14th, 2021
Answer Example
"I often lead by example when it comes to mandatory overtime. I work in an order-driven environment, and sometimes we have to work late to get the job done. I don't let my peers see me get upset at last-minute announcements."
Written by Rachelle Enns on June 14th, 2021
Experienced
"I believe it's so important to always act as though someone is watching. As a parent, that's something that is literally always a possibility, and in the workplace, it's just as important to be on your best behavior at all times."
Written by Rachelle Enns on June 14th, 2021
11. Tell me about your greatest work-related accomplishment.
How to Answer
Talking about your greatest accomplishment will give the interviewer a strong idea of where you place your values. It will also show the interviewer more about your personality, how you like to be motivated, and how to coach you in the future. It is okay to brag a little bit when answering this question. Show that you are proud of yourself and your career accomplishments!
Written by Rachelle Enns on June 14th, 2021
Entry Level
"I am very proud of the way that I handled my time in University. After completing my degree in sonography technology, top of the class, I feel incredibly confident that my career as a sonographer will be successful."
Written by Rachelle Enns on June 14th, 2021
Answer Example
"The greatest accomplishment in my career was graduating University as an honors student while still working part time in a related field. This showed me that I am able to dedicate myself to my career and reach the goals that I set for myself. It felt great to accomplish so much and be recognized for my dedication."
Written by Rachelle Enns on June 14th, 2021
Experienced
"I have many accomplishments that I am very proud of. Overall, I would say that my greatest work accomplishment is the positive reputation that I have as a medical sonographer."
Written by Rachelle Enns on June 14th, 2021
12. How will you earn the trust of your coworkers?
How to Answer
Workplace relationships are important to nurture. Talk to the interviewer about how you plan to earn the trust of your new co-workers, should you be offered the position.
Written by Rachelle Enns on June 14th, 2021
Entry Level
"Here are some ways that you can build trust with your coworkers:
- Show common courtesy. Say hello, hold the elevator door, bring coffees now and then
- Be respectful in your communication, avoid over cc'ing unnecessarily in emails
- Avoid being a distraction, respect the use of their time
- Respect personal space and the line between work life and personal life
- Always ask if they have time before diving into a conversation
- Try to find the answer to your questions before running to ask a manager or co-worker
- Connect with them on LinkedIn but avoid more person social media platforms
- Treat everyone the same, regardless of their job title
- Do not complain about your job to your coworkers
- Reach out to new employees and make them feel comfortable
- Own up to your mistakes and fix them
- Be timely with your followups and meet your deadlines"
Written by Rachelle Enns on June 14th, 2021
Answer Example
"I feel that the best way to earn the trust of my co-workers is to be helpful, always do what I promise, and be honest with them at all times. Strong relationships have to be built on these principles."
Written by Rachelle Enns on June 14th, 2021
Experienced
"Trust is something you earn over time with people. I will lead by example and be transparent in my communications. Trust happens when people deliver on doing what they say they will do. I take the approach of under promising and over delivering to accelerate the trust process. With strong trust, teams can accomplish great things together."
Written by Rachelle Enns on June 14th, 2021
13. How many days were you absent from work last year?
How to Answer
Part of being a diligent employee is ensuring that you are always on time and present when expected. It's great to even be 10 minutes early rather than just showing up right on the dot. Talk to the interviewer about your attendance.
Written by Rachelle Enns on June 14th, 2021
Entry Level
"I cannot recall the exact number, but I think it was around 3 days total. All absences were excused and with notice."
Written by Rachelle Enns on June 14th, 2021
Answer Example
"I had zero unexcused absences last year. In total, I took 12 vacation days out of my 15 allotted days. I was sick just 2 and those were accompanied by a note from my doctor. Once I was late due to a terrible snow storm, and I always try to be 10 minutes early for my shift."
Written by Rachelle Enns on June 14th, 2021
Experienced
"I think I missed 10 days, counting vacation time. Of those, 5 were for my vacation. For 3 days, I was excused with a doctor's note. The other 2 absences were pre-approved family days."
Written by Rachelle Enns on June 14th, 2021
14. Do you consider yourself a patient person? How do you increase your patience level in challenging situations?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know if you consider yourself a patient individual. Impatience can cause a lot of stress and anxiety in coworkers, so it is really important that you are able to showcase your ability to remain patient and professional in workplace situations.
Patience is certainly a virtue, but can be difficult to maintain when it seems that situations continue to push your buttons. Show the interviewer that you posses the ability to keep your cool in challenging situations.
Written by Rachelle Enns on June 14th, 2021
Entry Level
"In one of my recent University courses, I was working with a group that could not quite get along. This tested my patience because it prevented us from staying on track and focusing on the goals of the project. I went above and beyond in helping the group get along by scheduling lunch meets, so we could work while getting to know each other on a more personal level."
Written by Rachelle Enns on June 14th, 2021
Answer Example
"I do consider myself a patient person. I would rate myself an 8 /10 for patience because I certainly have room to grow, but I do have a very long fuse. If I need a boost of patience in a challenging situation, I will take a step away, count to 10, and then return to the situation. I recently read a book, 'The Power of Patience' by M.J. Ryan which also gave me some great new methods for coping under stress."
Written by Rachelle Enns on June 14th, 2021
Experienced
"I feel I'm a patient person but, like everyone, I have my limits. When I feel those limits being pushed, I will take a step away to regain composure. From there, I can approach the situation with a level head. If that isn't an option, I literally will take a sip of water and a few deep yoga breaths."
Written by Rachelle Enns on June 14th, 2021
15. When have you worked among a diverse group of people?
How to Answer
Think back to when you have worked with a very large or diverse team of individuals. Assure the interviewer that you can handle an environment that offers diversity. Explain when you have worked among diverse individuals.
Written by Rachelle Enns on June 14th, 2021
Entry Level
"In my current role, I work alongside cross-functional teams regularly. There has been a lot of diversity during my time at University and my practicum as well. I fully embrace diversity."
Written by Rachelle Enns on June 14th, 2021
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 a great learning opportunity."
Written by Rachelle Enns on June 14th, 2021
Experienced
"I would say that pretty much every organization and facility I have worked for has valued diversity. Working with people from all walks of life helps shed different perspectives and identify potential problems faster."
Written by Rachelle Enns on June 14th, 2021
16. Would you say you are a better verbal or written communicator?
How to Answer
Being in the medical field, you need to be able to communicate in all ways clearly. Describe how you prefer to communicate - written or verbal. Discuss your preference with the interviewer and support your answer.
Written by Rachelle Enns on June 14th, 2021
Entry Level
"I do not lean one way or another when it comes to verbal or written communication. Both are equally important to me. If I have to choose just one, I will choose written communication, as one can always look back on written communication for reference."
Written by Rachelle Enns on June 14th, 2021
Answer Example
"I prefer verbal communication because I feel that with written communication, a lot can be misread due to lack of tone, fluctuation, expression, and body language. I will always choose a face-to-face conversation whenever possible."
Written by Rachelle Enns on June 14th, 2021
Experienced
"I am comfortable with both, so it would depend on the message, I suppose. Big news needs to be communicated verbally and followed up in written form. Still, quick messages or simple changes can be communicated effectively through email without the hassle of breaking away from work for a call or meeting."
Written by Rachelle Enns on June 14th, 2021
17. The medical field often requires overtime commitments. Would you be willing to work over 40 hours a week?
How to Answer
Before answering scheduling questions, it's important to be clear on the interviewer's expectations. If you haven't had a chance to clarify their scheduling needs, now would be the perfect time to ask. If they expect you to work 12 hour days, it would be important for you to know that before responding with, 'Absolutely! No problem!' You want to be sure that you can meet their expectations. If it turns out their schedule expectations won't work for you, think about what you CAN offer and see if you can meet in the middle. It's much better to discuss these things in an interview than to commit to a schedule that won't work for you.
Written by Rachelle Enns on June 14th, 2021
Entry Level
"If overtime is required in this role, I am happy to accommodate whenever I can. Being new to my career as a sonographer, I understand that I will not receive the first pick of shifts, and that is okay with me."
Written by Rachelle Enns on June 14th, 2021
Answer Example
"I am available for full-time work, which is preferably 8-5 Monday to Friday. I am happy to be a team player and work some overtime, as required."
Written by Rachelle Enns on June 14th, 2021
Experienced
"With a career in the medical field, I anticipate working over 40 hours. With that said, that obviously comes with some limits, as I do value healthy work-life balance."
Written by Rachelle Enns on June 14th, 2021
18. Have you progressed in your sonography career as you have expected?
How to Answer
Career progression can be a touchy subject, especially if you feel that your career hasn't progressed as well as you would have liked. Talk to the interviewer about your career progression and what you would like to see in the future.
Written by Rachelle Enns on June 14th, 2021
Entry Level
"Although my career is a bit new yet, I am very happy with the progress so far. I am proud of my accomplishments and look forward to growing even further with your facility."
Written by Rachelle Enns on June 14th, 2021
Answer Example
"Overall, my career has progressed a touch slower than I would have liked. I have held a couple of positions that didn't offer the growth and learning that I was expecting; however, I have bounced back nicely. I feel that this particular position would take my career exactly where it should be."
Written by Rachelle Enns on June 14th, 2021
Experienced
"Overall, I am satisfied with my career progression. Everyone, including me, hits roadblocks or setbacks, but I have been able to push through them and stay on track."
Written by Rachelle Enns on June 14th, 2021
19. With the ongoing changes in the medical industry, how do you keep your knowledge current?
How to Answer
Employers expect employees to stay up-to-date in their respective fields, and today's technology makes this fairly easy! List several ways you access industry resources and stay on top of trends. Tell the interviewer about those daily update emails you receive from professional organizations, conferences you attend, seminars you have taken, and professional organizations you are a part of. 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 Rachelle Enns on June 14th, 2021
Entry Level
"I plan to keep my knowledge current by reading medical related journals and articles surrounding medical sonography. I am always interested in learning about new resources. I would love to hear what resources you recommend."
Written by Rachelle Enns on June 14th, 2021
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. I would love to know what resources you prefer in order to stay on top of industry trends and changes."
Written by Rachelle Enns on June 14th, 2021
Experienced
"I am a member of several professional associations related to medical sonography. I also follow medical industry influencers on LinkedIn. I find these resources to be incredibly helpful."
Written by Rachelle Enns on June 14th, 2021
20. When have you had to adapt your workload due to increasing demand from your supervisors?
How to Answer
Being in the medical field, you understand that workloads will fluctuate depending on factors out of your control. Talk to the interviewer about how you adapt to these changes. Assure them that you are able to roll with the inevitable changes!
Written by Rachelle Enns on June 14th, 2021
Entry Level
"While attending University, we had one professor who would often assign further reading or writing assignments at the last minute. Often times, I thought I was ahead of the game and that would change in an instant. It was challenging but did teach me better time management and increased my ability to handle large workloads without becoming overwhelmed."
Written by Rachelle Enns on June 14th, 2021
Answer Example
"I fully understand that my workload will increase from time to time, and I readily accept that. Personally, I prefer it when times are busy. It helps my days to go by quickly, and I feel like I've made a difference for more people. For those reasons, I definitely do not mind an increase in my workload."
Written by Rachelle Enns on June 14th, 2021
Experienced
"In my current position, my workload changes depending on the team and their needs. I am able to adapt to those needs quickly and effectively. Just last week I had 2 team members who were sick, and my workload increased significantly. I worked overtime and met my deadlines."
Written by Rachelle Enns on June 14th, 2021