40 Healthcare Project Manager Interview Questions & Answers
Below is a list of our Healthcare Project Manager interview questions. Click on any interview question to view our answer advice and answer examples. You may view 5 answer examples before our paywall loads. Afterwards, you'll be asked to upgrade to view the rest of our answers.
Ask The Interviewer
1. This concludes our interview. Do you have any questions for me?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer asks this question to see that they covered all your questions in the interview, and they want to hear that you are eager to learn all you can about the organization and the role you would be filling. It is best to ask a question or two, showing your excitement to learn more. Good questions to ask are ones not covered in the job announcement or the company website, such as why the interviewer likes working for this company, if this is a new role they have developed, or the size team you would be working with.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
What to Avoid
When responding to this question, avoid asking questions that you could find when researching the organization. If you ask a question easily found when doing your homework, it shows the interviewer that you were not thorough when reviewing the company and the role you would be filling.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
Entry Level Example
"I do have two questions, and I appreciate you asking. If hired, what would be my first project, and what size team would I be working with?"
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
Answer Example
"Yes, I do have a few questions, and I thank you for asking. Is this a newly developed position, and if not, why did the previous project manager leave their job?"
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
Behavioral
2. Do you consider yourself as someone direct and forthright with others?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
As a healthcare project manager, you will need to be direct and lead your team to project completion. The hiring authority wants to see that you do not leave people hanging when it comes to answering questions, providing direction on a project, or offering necessary feedback. Talk to the interviewer about a time when you were candid with a coworker, customer, or superior, ensuring that they had the direct information they needed from you.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
What to Avoid
When responding to this question, you want to avoid coming across as meek and timid to the interviewer. When searching for their ideal candidate, they want to hire a healthcare project manager who is direct and candid with those they work with. Be confident and optimistic in your response, showing the interviewer that you have the skills needed for the job.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
Entry Level Example
"I believe that part of being direct is sticking to the facts when discussing a workplace situation. As a recent university graduate, I had many opportunities to be direct and give feedback to fellow students during group projects. I would state where I saw the issue and then offer clear recommendations on how we could fix the situation before the assignments' due date. If there is a concern with my work, I would appreciate my supervisor approaching me promptly while outlining what needs repair."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
Answer Example
"Yes, I do consider myself to be direct with others. The most professional and respectful thing to do is get to the point across in a considerate way. I never sugarcoat a situation; however, I assume that everyone had the best intentions. One example of my being direct is when one of my employees delivers a project report with errors. I will approach them and say, 'There are errors in your report. Are you able to fix these by the end of the day?' By doing so, I point out the issue while being transparent and direct on what the deadlines are for resubmission. As the person leading a project to the finish line, I must be clear on expectations every step of the way."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
Behavioral
3. How do you maintain a good relationship with your director, the board, and other healthcare executives?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer wants to know that you can maintain a harmonious relationship with those who are considered your leaders or project stakeholders, whether internal or external. Some basic ground rules for a stable working relationship with your directors are open communication, proactive listening, and not taking things personally when feedback arises. If your relationships in the past weren't fantastic, think of what efforts you took to make them better. Positively, discuss your approach to cultivating a healthy relationship with those you report to.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
What to Avoid
You do not want the interviewer to think that maintaining good relationships with those you work with is not a top priority for you. You want to avoid saying that it is the directors, the board, or other healthcare executives' responsibility to maintain a relationship with you. As a healthcare project manager, it is your responsibility to cultivate and maintain those relationships.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
Entry Level Example
"I find that maintaining good relationships comes naturally to me. I plan to show respect to my director and other stakeholders and maintain interest in their professional opinion. I will ask for feedback and to be observed and evaluated through all project stages. All of these factors culminate in a solid relationship based on mutual respect."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
Answer Example
"My current director is a very particular individual. Over the years, I have taken the time to understand her preferences, her stress triggers, and what she enjoys seeing in my work. I find that if I stay one step ahead and maintain a positive attitude, we can work productively together."
Written by Rachelle Enns on February 16th, 2020
Behavioral
4. Have you ever received negative feedback from a director, and if so, how did you handle it?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Receiving negative feedback can be discouraging, but it doesn't have to be something that leaves you feeling incapable of doing your job. The interviewer wants to hear that you can accept criticism and use it as an opportunity to grow. Instead of thinking of negative feedback as a negative event, it is better to look at the feedback as constructive criticism and a chance to improve.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
What to Avoid
The critical thing to remember when answering this question is to avoid speaking negatively about the person who gave you the feedback. Instead, state what happened and how you grew from the event. When you speak negatively of others, it shows the interviewer that you may be a difficult person to work with and lack maturity.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
Entry Level Example
"I am sure that anyone who works in the healthcare industry for any amount of time will learn that receiving negative feedback is not always a truly 'negative' thing. I recall I once received a negative rating on one of my evaluations during my internship. It was a disheartening experience because I pride myself on doing good work. I scheduled a time to sit and talk with my supervisor and tried to understand his point of view concerning the negative rating. Then, I made a plan of action to improve on the issue."
Written by Rachelle Enns on February 16th, 2020
Answer Example
"I remember when I first began my project management career, I thought I had to do everything for everyone. I ended up taking on too many tasks and falling behind on deadlines. One of my directors told me another project manager complained because I seemed too rushed. I was so embarrassed because I didn't want anyone to feel like I couldn't do my job. I apologized to the director and the other PM. When I apologized, the director and board agreed to let me continue leading the project. I learned that it's okay to want to give more, but that I should not stretch myself too thin and risk compromising the quality of a project and, in turn, overall patient care and experience."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
Behavioral
5. The healthcare project manager plays a critical role in our organization. How can we motivate you as a leader, keeping you engaged in the job?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Healthcare project managers hold a crucial role in planning and overseeing a wide range of critical projects from start to finish. Healthcare PMs look after a projects' budget, ensure the keeping of regulations, and govern the obtaining of proper permits.
With such a busy and task-filled schedule, it's no doubt that even the most poised project manager can be in danger of feeling unmotivated and disengaged now and then. In turn, the hiring company wants to know how they can encourage you.
You should be able to identify and express what keeps you showing up, working hard, and supporting your team. Your motivation may be that the idea of success and achievement drives you. Perhaps you are working towards career advancement. Take some time to think about what truly motivates you.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
What to Avoid
You want to avoid saying that you do not need the company to keep you motivated, that you can do it on your own. Even the best leaders need outside motivation from their superiors and those they work with. The interviewer wants to see what they can do to help you shine in your position and keep you motivated and inspired as a healthcare project manager.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
Entry Level Example
"Being new to my project management career, it's important that I get started on the right foot. What will motivate me the most is joining a healthcare organization that is ethical and strives to do the right thing for its patients and employees. I am at my best when I am supported by those who have good intentions, high standards, and a strong work ethic."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
Answer Example
"What motivates me is the potential to continue to grow with a company and take on more responsibilities and larger projects. I value a company that appreciates me and all of its employees. I value recognition, especially when it plays a role in taking my career to the next level. Loyalty is rare these days, and it's something I truly value."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
Behavioral
6. If you notice that a project is off track, what action steps do you take to course correct?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
A project running off track can be incredibly frustrating for any project manager. The interviewer wants to know what you do, in these instances, to course correct and move the project to successful completion. Take the hiring authority through the steps you take, showing that you have confidence in your decisions. If you are new to your career, you can base your answer on a hypothetical situation.
Written by Rachelle Enns on February 16th, 2020
What to Avoid
When answering this question, you want to avoid appearing unsure of your abilities or hesitant in your response. The hiring authority is looking for a Healthcare Project Manager that is confident and has the leadership skills to recognize an issue with the project and turn it back on track. You do not have to have a long answer, just highlight the steps you would take to move the project forward in a constructive manner.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
Entry Level Example
"If I noticed that a project was running off track, I would first discover the core of the issue and then reassess my resources. Next, I would ensure that I had assigned the best people to the right tasks. This assessment may mean that I have to redelegate. I would also identify which team members could be more hands-on with critical activities. I would focus on competency and what I could do to move forward, rather than dwell on the setback."
Written by Rachelle Enns on February 16th, 2020
Answer Example
"If I notice that a project is going off track, I first uncover the core of the 'why' before jumping into action to fix the situation. Reacting too quickly can add to the initial problem if we miss the critical step of root-cause analysis. Information gathering is helpful for a team to continue working together while also developing systems for future situations where the issue could happen again. Once I have the accurate information, I can then move forward to reprioritize and restructure tasks."
Written by Rachelle Enns on February 16th, 2020
Behavioral
7. In your opinion, what are the most prominent signs that a project is off track?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
As a healthcare project manager, you certainly do not want to encounter the dreaded 'surprise' that your project is suddenly weeks behind or thousands of dollars off-budget. Show the hiring authority that you keep a keen eye on your projects and are well aware of the tell-tale signs that your project is veering off its original plan.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
What to Avoid
You want to avoid not having a prepared answer to this question. The interviewer wants to see that you can see the signs a project is running off course and take appropriate measures to rectify the problem. If you cannot give an example of how you determine a project is off track, the interviewer may think you are unprepared to handle this position.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
Entry Level Example
"From the knowledge gained while earning my master's in healthcare project management, I believe there are a handful of indicators that a project is running off track. These include team troubles with morale, missing simple deadlines, or communication hiccups that should have never been an issue. Also, if any disagreement begins between stakeholders - no matter how small - this could signify the project vision not being completely defined or understood. Can you share with me the top indicators that your teams look for when suspecting a hiccup in a project?"
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
Answer Example
"Through my years of experience, the biggest tell-tale sign a project is off track is when very simple deadlines or timelines are missed, or tasks are completed with poor quality. When a team begins to cut corners, it's a sign that they are having struggles on a more critical part of the project. It could mean that methodology steps are being skipped over to recover time elsewhere. Morale issues are another significant give-away. As a project manager, I put a lot of effort into gaining buy-in from my teams. If I begin to hear complaints regarding overtime, project scope, or the overall vision, I see these as symptoms of a larger issue. If I fail to assess these situations quickly, they can send a project off track in no time."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
Behavioral
8. Healthcare projects often have tight targets, and missing a cutoff can be very costly. How do you react when your team misses a deadline?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
In the healthcare industry, missing a deadline can be devastating to a projects' budget. Not only are missed targets a pain point for stakeholders, but they can also reflect poorly on you as a leader and Project Manager. The hiring authority wants to know how you react to disappointment and project plans not going your way. Give an example of a time when your team missed a deadline and walk the interviewer through the action that you took. If you have encountered this situation before, try to deploy the STAR method by including an overview of the Situation, Task, Action, and Result.
If your team has never missed a deadline or you are new to this field, describe how you would handle this hypothetical situation, explaining that you have never encountered missing a deadline before.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
What to Avoid
When responding to this question, you want the interviewer to know that you remain calm and take appropriate action to keep this from happening again. You want to avoid saying that you would yell at your team or punish them in any way. You need to take responsibility as the project manager and determine why this deadline was not met and make sure it does not happen again in the future.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
Entry Level Example
"As a healthcare PM, it is important that I never place blame on my team for a deadline that I missed. A project managers' entire job is to meet the timeliness of a project, so I would take full responsibility. For that reason, if I were to miss a deadline, I would first reflect internally and then ask my team and management for feedback. I would craft a plan around what went awry and how I could prevent it from happening again in the future."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
Answer Example
"We reach deadlines as a team, and we miss deadlines as a team. I truly believe in that philosophy. Although this does not often happen, I look at how we could have moved better as a group to meet the original delivery when we miss a deadline. I do not react negatively to my team members, but I use those situations as learning and coaching opportunities. For instance, last year, we had a $15M hospital project underway when it came to my attention that some of our supplies were on hold due to new changes in NAFTA. It became apparent that I needed to find a new supplier for carious finishings. To pivot, I quickly sourced similar products from within the country and had them express shipped. I negotiated good deals, so it only impacted our overall budget by 2%. I made up for the additional material costs by finding savings in labor. All in all, the project was completed on time and within budget. My team stuck with me through the entire process, and I showed my gratitude for their hard work and dedication."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
Behavioral
9. A healthcare project manager must be an agile problem solver. In your opinion, what does it take to be a great problem solver?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
In the life of a healthcare project manager, problem-solving is a critical factor for success. The hiring company wants to know that you have a systematic approach to problem-solving. Consider the skills and qualities that help you successfully face problems in the workplace. 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 develop innovative solutions, highlighting those that guide you the most.
Remember that strong problem-solvers are:
- Systematic thinkers
- Open-minded
- Okay with being wrong, sometimes
- Always researching and exploring
- Adept in identifying the core problem
- Ready to reverse engineer a challenge to avoid future issues
- Able to come up with multiple avenues that work well for all stakeholders
- Are do-ers and not worriers
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
What to Avoid
You want to avoid not having a systematic approach to problem-solving and that you 'wing it' when a problem occurs. The interviewer wants to know that you can successfully handle any problem you may face and do it with ease. When healthcare project managers have the ability to solve problems, it shows the interviewer that you have strong leadership and problem-solving skills, both essential for project managers to possess.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
Entry Level Example
"I have a well-honed ability to research, read, and explore for answers. I believe these are critical factors for problem-solving, especially in the ever-changing and highly-regulated healthcare industry. When I base my recommendations on facts rather than by guessing, I develop my knowledge base, get to the core of the issue faster, and build the respect of my team members. This approach will be essential as I begin my career as a healthcare project manager."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
Answer Example
"My current reports tell me that I am an excellent problem solver, and I believe this is because I have a natural organizational mind, further developed as I earned my bachelor's in healthcare management. I can take an issue, reverse engineer to solve it, and then use that resolution as a basis for avoiding future issues. I am also a big-picture thinker, which allows me to come up with various resolutions per problem."
Written by Rachelle Enns on February 16th, 2020
Behavioral
10. When change occurs in the workplace, it can create new problems. Do you see these as inconvenient problems or opportunities to learn?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
As a project manager, you already know that problems often arise due to new implementations and procedures or unforeseen kinks that need smoothing when a change occurs in the workplace. The interviewer wants to see if you positively approach these problems or resist the change. Talk to the interviewer about how you adapt to issues that cause change. If you have work experience, try answering this question using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result).
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
What to Avoid
Healthcare project managers must be flexible and willing to approach change positively. You want to avoid saying that you do not adapt to change well or view change as an inconvenient problem. It is your job to use change as an opportunity for you and your team to learn and grow together.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
Entry Level Example
"Being new to my PM career, I plan to approach every day and situation as an opportunity to learn and grow, even if it's uncomfortable. I believe there's something valuable to take away from any situation that involves change, so I remain adaptable. I am capable of pivoting when needed and maintain focus through unexpected challenges."
Written by Rachelle Enns on February 16th, 2020
Answer Example
"Change is inevitable when you work in the healthcare industry, as there are multiple moving parts and ever-changing regulations. Also, with a blend of permanent employees, temporary staff, and subcontractors, even the most skilled PM cannot control everyone's actions in a day. Recently I had a major shift in my team and, overnight, went from being completely staffed to reassessing our temporary staffing strategy due to multiple no-shows. I saw this as an opportunity to stretch outside of my comfort zone. I found a new temporary staffing agency that could provide a greater number of reliable service workers at an even lower rate than I was previously budgeting. In the end, I saw this situation as a blessing because it caused me to revisit my temp labor spend, saving me nearly $15K by the end of the project. I embrace unexpected changes and certainly view them as learning opportunities."
Written by Rachelle Enns on February 16th, 2020
Communication
11. How do you explain complicated PM concepts to someone who may not understand?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The hiring authority wants to know that you can explain complex project ideas without being condescending to your team, clients, or key stakeholders. Give the interviewer an example of how you dissect complicated information to make it more easily digestible for the layperson.
Think of a complex topic in your industry and a time when you needed to give a presentation on that topic, train someone new, or base a proposal on this complex information. When you can define key terms and concepts to make them more relevant to your audience, you have skill! Not everyone can do this. Prepare an example that demonstrates your communication skills and ability to convey complex information in easy-to-understand terms.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
What to Avoid
You want to avoid saying that you have difficulty explaining complicated concepts to others who do not understand. If you do not have excellent communication skills and cannot convey these concepts in a way that is easier to understand, the hiring authority may pass you over for another candidate.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
Entry Level Example
"While attending university, I also worked part-time as a tutor for other healthcare management students. I found the best way to explain a complex topic was by using a multi-step approach. First, I would send a quick email summarizing what we'd be reviewing in our upcoming tutoring session. This approach helped the student come to our session with the right mindset and prepared to learn. Then, I provided a basic overview of the topic in person, checking for understanding all along the way. By the end of our session, I would recap and summarize. Lastly, I would give out collateral for the student to review a few hours later. This process allowed for various types of learners to be engaged while taking in bits of information at a time, rather than feeling forced to absorb too much information at once."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
Answer Example
"I find that budgeting and cost control, although easy concepts for me to understand, are often misunderstood by others. When there is a complicated concept to teach, I find that visual aids are often helpful. Studies show that 65% of people are visual learners and that presentations with visual components are 43% more persuasive. For that reason, I taught myself to create effective presentations with visuals. I use these visuals when meeting with project stakeholders."
Written by Rachelle Enns on February 16th, 2020
Competency
12. What do you understand to be the primary responsibilities of a healthcare project manager?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Depending on the size of the healthcare organization to which you are applying, your responsibilities as a healthcare project manager may vary. The interviewer wants to ensure that you have a proper understanding of the expectations in this role. When crafting your response, be sure to include many details from the original job description.
Written by Rachelle Enns on February 16th, 2020
What to Avoid
When answering this question, you want to avoid describing the primary responsibilities of a healthcare project manager that are not consistent with the job description. While those responsibilities may be applicable for another organization, the interviewer wants to see that you understand your role and responsibilities with their company if hired.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
Entry Level Example
"I have carefully studied the job description for this role, ensuring that I compete for this job with a full understanding of what it will take to succeed. From my understanding, the core duties of this role are to ensure the meeting of critical deadlines. I am to keep frequent communication with project stakeholders and handle any issues or risks during the project span. I will also spend a great deal of time ensuring quality standards and that we achieve project milestones on time."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
Answer Example
"I have been working as a healthcare project manager for over 15 years now and, although the tasks I perform can have a wide range, there are a few responsibilities which are at the core of what I do. These tasks include overseeing clinic expansion projects from beginning to end while estimating costs and managing the budget. As a project manager for healthcare, I carefully track the progress of each project stage. I regularly craft and submit reports on the projects' status while communicating with key stakeholders, including medical boards. Another large part of my role is to ensure compliance with safety regulations and healthcare codes. I provide clear communication with subcontractors and key team members while also negotiating with vendors to gain the best possible pricing on supplies and materials. Much of what I do is around communicating expectations and progress."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
Diligence
13. During the initiation phase of a project, how do you perform cost estimation and anticipate challenges and solutions to solve them?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
As a healthcare project manager, cost estimation is the process of estimating the costs associated with the project. This is where a budget will be calculated, and it must be accurate for the project to succeed. There are several ways to estimate the costs of a project, including analogous, parametric, bottom-up, and three-point estimating. The interviewer wants to hear your process for evaluating costs to see if you will be a good fit for their team. Describe how you estimate costs and anticipate challenges and solutions to solve them based on your past experiences.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
What to Avoid
When you respond to this question, you want to avoid not having a process in place for estimating costs and anticipating challenges. If you sound unsure, the interviewer will determine you may need more budgeting skills to keep a project within budget.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
Entry Level Example
"I perform cost estimation using the three-point estimating technique, which originated from the Program Analysis and Review Technique. Using this method, I will gather three separate estimates to find an average and use those numbers in my budget. I estimate the construction and soft costs, such as overhead and project delays. I anticipate challenges based on challenges I have had in past projects and solve them as needed. For example, if I have an issue with a vendor, I will contact the vendor to find a solution or contact another vendor to keep the project on track."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
Answer Example
"I prefer to use the bottom-up estimating method to estimate project costs. I break down large projects into smaller components and estimate costs specifically for each component using cost estimation software. Once all of the smaller components have been estimated, I add up all of the costs for the project as a whole. I have found this method to be the most accurate and precise. I anticipate challenges based on my ten years of experience and solve these challenges using my critical-thinking and problem-solving skills."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
Diligence
14. If hired, your first project would be an expansion of the emergency department. What outside agencies would you need to contact to facilitate this expansion?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
As a healthcare project manager, you must know what goes into expanding an emergency department and what outside agencies would need to be involved. The interviewer wants to gain insight into your critical-thinking skills and see that you think about all outside agencies that would be affected by this expansion. They want to hear that you consider the planning and building departments, environmental health, EMS agencies, air ambulance services, law enforcement, and the local fire department. Explain to the interviewer who you would contact before facilitating the emergency department expansion.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
What to Avoid
To be considered for the position, you must know how many agencies will be affected by this expansion. Emergency departments have a high volume of patients, EMS agencies, law enforcement, air ambulance, and fire department personnel that use the emergency department facilities. The interviewer would like to hear that you consider these agencies in addition to contacting the planning and building departments.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
Entry Level Example
"This would be my first time as a healthcare project manager overseeing an emergency department expansion. However, I have overseen a large expansion of a children's hospital and have a good idea of who would need to be contacted. As with any expansion, I would go through the building, planning, and environmental health departments to obtain the necessary permits to begin the expansion. Once the project is approved, I will see how the expansion will affect the patients and emergency personnel that use the facility. I would contact the local EMS agency and medical director, fire departments, law enforcement agencies, and air ambulance providers to describe our expansion and how it will affect their operations. I would also contact the local news agencies so they could notify the public of the expansion and how it will affect their visit to the emergency department."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
Answer Example
"I have been the project manager for several emergency department expansions, and many agencies need to be contacted. First, I will contact the planning and building departments to submit plans and receive the necessary permits. Once the expansion is approved, I would contact the local fire departments, EMS agencies, law enforcement agencies, and the local air ambulance provider to notify them of the expansion and how it will affect their operations. If it were required by the planning or building department, I would also contact the environmental health agency."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
Discovery
15. If you were responsible for hiring new employees for our hospital's project, what qualities would you look for in a candidate, and do you think you possess those qualities?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
There is more than one reason for asking this question. First, the interviewer wants to know what qualities you think are essential to perform jobs within healthcare. Second, and most importantly, your answer will tell the interviewer if you hold yourself to the same standard as you do to those you hire.
If you want to see specific characteristics in your colleagues, you should be able to tell the interviewer with confidence that you possess those traits, as well. This question is one that interviewers often use to distinguish sincerity on the part of the candidate.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
What to Avoid
The interviewer wants to hear that you look for and possess the same qualities in an employee as the organization is looking for. If you review the job announcement, you can determine what qualities they are looking for in their ideal candidates. You want to avoid describing qualities you look for in a new employee as ones that do not align with the organization. Suppose the job announcement describes they are looking for employees who are dependable, organized, and work well on a team. You would then want to use those keywords in your response and avoid using qualities that contradict what the organization seeks.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
Entry Level Example
"If I were hiring someone to work on my project management team, I would look for someone dependable, organized, and passionate about the job and patient care. Also, I feel that being approachable and willing to learn is very important. Lastly, honesty is essential no matter what job title a person holds. I have found that being honest with people creates an atmosphere of mutual trust and respect. Those qualities are essential when building rapport with patient care coordinators and healthcare executives."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
Answer Example
"We all possess different strengths, and that is what makes a great team. Being willing to grow together makes us a better team and helps future patients who will benefit from our careful work. If I were responsible for interviewing and hiring new employees, I would look for someone who has a genuine interest in the healthcare field and a desire to grow and learn. In this healthcare PM role, you will quickly see my passion for the healthcare industry shine through, as well as my desire for continued learning."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
Discovery
16. In your position now, knowing what you do, what would you say to someone who is just beginning a career in the healthcare field?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The old saying 'Hindsight is 20/20' is something many people say is true. This question allows you to show how you have insight and wisdom when it comes to an understanding of how this career has, or will, impact your life. Give a genuine response that is reflective of the journey you have experienced so far in the healthcare industry.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
What to Avoid
You want to avoid saying that you have no advice for someone just beginning a career in the healthcare field. Over time, you must have faced challenges and learned how to overcome obstacles. The interviewer wants to hear what challenges you have faced and advice you would give others entering this profession.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
Entry Level Example
"I would encourage anyone who is beginning a career in the busy healthcare field to remember to care for themselves as much as they do their work. It is easy to get caught up in day-to-day tasks and deadlines and forget that while we are making a living, we need to enjoy life."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
Answer Example
"I would say to someone entering this field to be open to changes and unexpected discoveries. I started my career in project management, believing that I would work within the insurance field. However, like many other things in life, things took a positive turn, and I have had exciting opportunities to work in specialty areas within healthcare."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
Discovery
17. Why did you choose a career as a healthcare project manager?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
As of September 2022, there are over 6,438 healthcare project managers employed in the United States. The interviewer is interested in what inspired you to pursue a career as a healthcare project manager to determine what type of employee you will be. They want to see that you are passionate about your job and are in this field for the right reasons. It might be that you were involved in healthcare in another capacity, have a friend or family member in the field, or have a mentor who encouraged you to pursue this profession because of your leadership and organizational skills. Describe your motivation to enter this field.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
What to Avoid
The wrong reasons to choose a career as a Healthcare Project Manager would be for the money, prestige, or because you like to boss others around. Most people would not answer that way, but you want to avoid any reason that might sound to the interviewer that you are not passionate about your career but are motivated by other reasons.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
Entry Level Example
"I chose to pursue a career as a healthcare project manager after working as a project manager for three years at a construction firm. I decided that a career in the healthcare industry was more exciting than the construction field and felt that a healthcare project manager position would be a natural fit. After researching what it would take to change careers, I decided to pursue this profession and went back to school to receive my master's degree in healthcare management."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
Answer Example
"I chose a career as a healthcare project manager after working as a registered nurse for ten years. I worked in the emergency department at a small hospital and performed administrative duties other than nursing. The head of the department approached me one day and said they were promoting from within and were hiring a healthcare project manager for an expansion of the hospital. She said she thought I would be perfect for the job and asked if I was interested in a promotion. The department head told me that she would hire me and pay for my advanced education if I wanted the job. After looking at the job description and what my duties would be, I decided the position was an excellent fit for my skills."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
Discovery
18. What stage of project management do you feel you are the strongest?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The hiring authority would like to see where your strengths are in different stages of project management. In a typical project, the steps may include:
- Project scope/definition
- Project initiation
- Planning
- Execution
- Monitoring/control
- Closure
Of course, as a healthcare project manager, especially if you are an experienced one, you will have strengths in each area. However, you may find that you have stand-out advantages in one or two specific areas of project management. Speak about your most considerable skills, closing off your answer by mentioning exactly how your most significant strengths will be an asset to the company, should you be the successful candidate.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
What to Avoid
When responding to this question, you want to avoid not having a ready answer. You should know where you feel the strongest and convince the interviewer that you are more than qualified for the healthcare project manager position. It is best to describe the stages you feel most comfortable with, highlighting one stage in particular.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
Entry Level Example
"Between my bachelor's degree in healthcare management and my recently obtained PMP certification, I feel confident in my knowledge base of all project stages. With that said, where I excelled the most in school and during my internship was project monitoring and control. I received top marks in project delivery systems and project organization and supervision in school. I understand the importance of regularly reporting issues, continually assessing risks, and closely monitoring progress. Rest assured, should I be hired as your next healthcare PM, I will make sure that projects are delivered as expected."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
Answer Example
"Although I have vast experience in all stages of a hospital expansion project, I believe my greatest skills are in the project definition stage. I am strong in setting reasonable project goals, outlining objectives, the scope of work, identifying potential risks, and budgeting around that information. I understand that your organization takes extra care in the definition stage, ensuring that projects go off the rails less frequently. As an avid planner, it seems that my strengths and the organizations' approach would be a strong match."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
Discovery
19. What project management methodology do you most prefer; Waterfall, Agile, or Scrum? Explain your reasoning.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
When answering this question, you will want to show that you have a solid understanding of the differences between Waterfall, Agile, and Scrum. The more directly you can explain these project management methodologies, the better your expertise will shine. Show your knowledge and demonstrate your preference, explaining your reason for why you prefer this particular methodology.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
What to Avoid
You must show a balance in your response by respecting all approaches, not speaking negatively about any other PM methodologies. If the hiring authority primarily uses the Scrum method and you speak poorly of that method, they might be put off by your response. It is best to describe your preference and reasoning while respecting all methodologies.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
Entry Level Example
"While earning my degree in healthcare administration and project management, I learned a good deal about many methodologies, including Waterfall and Agile. I did not touch on Scrum too much because, although it is agile, it's also best for teams of 10 or less. I will develop a stronger preference as I build my experience as a healthcare PM; however, I believe Waterfall is more commonly used in the healthcare industry. Healthcare executives highly prefer it as it's most structured and systematic. I look forward to learning this organizations' preferred approach to running projects."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
Answer Example
"My clear preference in methodologies, when it comes to project management would be Waterfall. Waterfall project management is commonly used in healthcare since healthcare executives prefer to see a sequence of tasks from beginning to end. I find Waterfall to be best for projects that are highly sequential by nature. Agile is great for breaking down project tasks that may not fit so stringently into Waterfall. Agile also opens the door to conversations around continual improvement. With Scrum being ideal for very small teams, I have not had much exposure to its use. It's a 'short sprint' approach, making it generally unsuitable for long-term or larger-scale projects in the healthcare industry. Could you share with me the project management methodology preferred within this organization?"
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
Discovery
20. What healthcare project management software do you prefer to use?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
A 2022 healthcare blog lists the top project management software for healthcare, including Nifty, MocDoc, Upland PSA (previously Tenrox), Redbooth, ClearPoint, and Survana HIMS. The right project management software can help you track financials and budgets, manage your team, and safely store critical documents and confidential patient information. Many resources, tools, and software options are available to you as a healthcare project management. Take the time to explain to the interviewer which ones you have used and which features you appreciate the most. If you do not already know, ask the hiring authority which PM tools they utilize. This way, you can better personalize your response.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
What to Avoid
If you are new to the industry and do not have experience with using healthcare project management software, you want to avoid simply saying that you are unfamiliar with the different software out there. If you have not used project management software, show the interviewer that you have done your research and describe which software you think you would prefer. Or, you can ask what software the organization uses to educate yourself about the one they prefer.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
Entry Level Example
"Being new to my career, I have had limited exposure to long-term use of any project management software. With that said, I am highly tech-savvy and very confident in my ability to learn new software and tools. Could you share with me the PM software used by this organization? I would be happy to get a head start on my learning by finding online tutorials."
Written by Rachelle Enns on February 16th, 2020
Answer Example
"I understand from the job description that your organization uses only HIPAA compliant software. Since I care a great deal about data privacy and industry compliance, I was happy to see that. For the past few years, I have worked with KeyedIn and find it very helpful for clinical analysis, cost transparency, deadline management, and maximizing teams."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
Discovery
21. What do you like to do in your free time?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Working as a healthcare project manager is a stressful job, and the interviewer wants to see that you can find a work/life balance and have a way to stay healthy. The interviewer asks this personal question to learn more about your interests, hobbies, and personality. They also want to see that you take time for yourself with activities outside of work and know how to decompress from the job stressors. Describe three or four activities you enjoy outside of work, showing that you have found a healthy work/life balance.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
What to Avoid
You want to avoid saying that you do not have free time because you always work. While it may seem impressive to the interviewer that you are a workaholic, they also can view it as a red flag. If you are always working and do not allow time to decompress, the interviewer will think you might become ill or burn out quickly. It is important to balance your personal and professional life, and you need to assure the interviewer that you do so.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
Entry Level Example
"When I have free time, I enjoy many activities. I like doing yoga, taking my dogs for a run on the beach, and getting together with my family. My sister lives close by and we spend a lot of time together cooking, shopping, and playing with my nieces and nephews."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
Answer Example
"In my free time, I enjoy being outdoors as much as possible. Working inside most of the time makes me want to be in nature, enjoying the sun and fresh air. My favorite activities are playing tennis, riding my mountain bike, and trail running. I am fortunate to live in a community with public tennis courts and trails right out my back door."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
Discovery
22. How many team members do you have experience managing? Include their job titles and the extent of your leadership involvement.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer would like to know more about the level of responsibility you are accustomed to having. If you are unsure of the responsibility level in this new role, ask the interviewer how many people you would be handling. Start with the largest group you have managed, even if it is not from your most recent position. If there is a significant uptick in this role, from what you are used to, then you should be prepared to overcome the potential objection of not having enough leadership experience.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
What to Avoid
Since this question has two parts, you want to avoid not answering the team members' job titles and the extent of your leadership involvement. Some might answer only with the number of team members you have experience managing and leave out the part where the interviewer asks for their job titles and how involved you were with the project. You want to make sure you answer the question completely with any two-part question.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
Entry Level Example
"As a recent graduate ready to kick-off my career, my management experience comes from leading group projects in school. The largest group project I have led was related to an operations research assignment called 'Tools for Quantitative Health Care Decision Making.' Our group consisted of twelve students, and the final project was worth 30% of our grade. The project was a big success in the end, and I believe it's because it was well-tracked and organized from the start. The stakes were high, and I managed a variety of personalities with varying levels of interest when it came to cooperation. With that said, I am eager to gain more knowledge in team leadership within a workplace environment. Could you share with me the team size in this particular role?"
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
Answer Example
"In previous roles, I have managed up to 40 direct reports. In my current role, I have a team of 29, which includes junior project managers, healthcare admins, patient care coordinators, and more. The job description mentions that this project management role includes up to 40 direct reports. I am more than capable of managing that volume successfully. Could you share more detail with me in regards to the team I would be leading in this role?"
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
Discovery
23. Have you ever worked on a project that spanned the course of a few years?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The hiring authority wants to gauge the types of projects you are accustomed to working. If the bulk of your career has been in small clinical work, your experiences may be shorter-term than working on long-term projects, such as the development or revamp of a new hospital. Regardless of your experience, background, and specialty, be sure to provide an answer that gives an accurate representation of your unwavering commitment and enthusiasm for long-term projects, as well as the ongoing provision of high-quality work.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
What to Avoid
As with any interview answer, you want to avoid being dishonest and saying you have worked on a project that spanned the course of a few years if you have not. Even if you have not worked on a long-term project, that will not cause the interviewer to seek another candidate. However, if they find out you were untruthful in your interview, that could cause a problem. If you have not worked on a long-term project, explain that you do not have experience working on a long-term project, but you are capable and excited to do so.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
Entry Level Example
"The longest project I have dedicated myself to, at this point, was obtaining my four-year degree in healthcare management. I kept excellent grades and gave this career milestone my absolute best every single day. Rest assured, I will bring this same dedication and commitment to work for your organization on any project, long or short-term."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
Answer Example
"With my current organization, I am responsible for the management of all related duties on a hospital project that spanned three years. I thoroughly enjoyed working on this long-term project as it enabled me to immerse myself completely and become an expert in a variety of healthcare project management matters. I enjoyed the strong relationship established with the hospital board of directors and the local health authority."
Written by Rachelle Enns on February 16th, 2020
Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback
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Discovery
24. What gives you the most satisfaction working as a project manager in the healthcare industry?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Job satisfaction is a significant factor in making the right hiring decisions. For this reason, the interviewer would like to unpack the details on where you derive your motivation and satisfaction in your career as a healthcare project manager. Talk to the interviewer about what satisfies you in your work and keeps you moving on the most challenging days. Be sure to show enthusiasm for your career path and this new job opportunity.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
What to Avoid
The interviewer wants to see the passion for your job in your voice and facial expressions. If you do not show enthusiasm in your response, the interviewer might feel that you lack motivation and satisfaction in your profession. They want to hire a healthcare project manager who is energetic, enthusiastic and satisfied working in this role. When the project manager is happy, employee morale is higher, and productivity increases.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
Entry Level Example
"I am very excited to utilize my education and carve out a lucrative career in healthcare project management. I believe I will gain the most satisfaction from seeing a project begin as just a vision and then being an integral part of bringing it to fruition. I can only imagine how satisfying and motivating that scenario would be."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
Answer Example
"As a healthcare PM, I gain the bulk of my satisfaction from being able to exercise both my analytical mindset and creativity. I have a lot of energy, so when I fill my days with problem-solving and creative thinking, that satisfies me very much. The fact that this particular role will allow me to grow my knowledge base in private healthcare excites me further. I am eager to learn new skills while applying my current knowledge to benefit your organization."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
Discovery
25. Why are you interested in working for a public company rather than a private company?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Studies have shown that healthcare project managers are 52% more likely to work for public companies than private ones. Public companies are publicly traded, meaning the company has shares that can be bought and sold on the stock market, whereas private companies do not. Many healthcare project managers prefer working for public companies for job security, benefits, and giving back to the community. However, private companies offer greater career progression and better pay. The interviewer wants to hear your reasons for preferring a public company over a private one to see what motivates you in your profession.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
What to Avoid
While you may prefer working for a public company to a private one for the benefits or stock options, you want to avoid mentioning money during your interview unless it is a salary-based question. It is better to describe your reasons as giving back to the community or job stability.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
Entry Level Example
"I have worked for public and private companies, and prefer public companies because of the job stability. I believe there are more job opportunities in the public sector because there is government backing and less chance that a company will close its doors."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
Answer Example
"I prefer working for public companies because I can give back to my community. Public sector employees have a sense of responsibility to the community instilled in them, which are the types of people I enjoy working with."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
Discovery
26. Which resources do you lean on to stay in the know on the rules, regulations, and quality standards of the healthcare industry?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
A healthcare project manager should put considerable effort into ensuring they are up to date on regulatory changes and quality standards in the healthcare industry. This knowledge is vital for a PM to plan accordingly while also providing best practices. Show the interviewer that you lean on reputable resources, being sure to express your enthusiasm for being in the know. You might consider asking the interviewer which resources they recommend, as it shows you are constantly searching for reputable information.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
What to Avoid
You want to avoid saying you do not have any resources you use to stay up to date on the healthcare industry's rules, regulations, and quality standards. There are many ways to stay informed and educated, and the interviewer wants to hear what resources you find the best. Some examples include joining a professional organization, reading online blogs, journals, and professional news outlets, and networking at healthcare meetings and conferences.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
Entry Level Example
"Right now, my favorite resource is the Health Sciences Authority, which I believe to be a reputable national authority. They also provide great coursework for healthcare project management education. I plan to subscribe to updates from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration and keep in the know with resources from the Department of Health. Do you have any recommendations to help me continually grow my knowledge base as a PM in the healthcare industry?"
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
Answer Example
"I lean on a few strong resources, including the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services as well as the website HealthIT.gov. These sources provide me with a wealth of information, giving me an edge and ensuring I stay on top of the latest trends and news."
Written by Rachelle Enns on February 16th, 2020
Education
27. We seek to hire a healthcare project manager with formal education in health administration, health management, nursing, public health administration, or business administration. Do you have a related advanced degree?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
To work as a healthcare project manager, you need a minimum of a bachelor's degree in a health-related subject. Bring your education to life by discussing the degree you obtained, your top coursework, what studies you believe will be most relevant to the job, and any awards, accolades, or scholarships you may have earned along the way. It will be imperative that you show how your educational background and strengths will ensure your success in this healthcare project management role.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
What to Avoid
You want to avoid telling the interviewer that you have a degree or formal education in one of these categories if you do not. The interviewer may ask for transcripts or copies of any degrees or certificates you possess, and you do not want to appear dishonest. For example, suppose you say you have formal education in health management, and they hire you based on those accolades. But, if you do not have education in health management, it will be quickly apparent when you start the job that you were not truthful in your interview.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
Entry Level Example
"I recently graduated with a Bachelor of Health Administration, where my studies focused on the American healthcare system, leadership, organizational change, and efficiencies in healthcare. I graduated in the top 5% and am eager to take this newfound knowledge and bring it to work for your organization."
Written by Rachelle Enns on February 16th, 2020
Answer Example
"In addition to my degree in business administration, I have recently obtained a master's certificate in healthcare management. I wanted to niche down to further my opportunities in the healthcare industry. While earning my master's certificate, I learned a great deal about the role of the leader in healthcare, system integration, best practices for implementing change in healthcare, and how to build horizontal and vertical partnerships for seamless patient care. Where I shine and know that my expertise will be the most valuable is in Lean Management for Healthcare, including the implementation of improvement strategies and delivering consistent outcomes that are high quality and meet a healthcare organizations' immense need for efficiencies."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback
Anonymous Answer
Stephanie's Feedback
Education
28. Do you have formal Six Sigma or Lean Six Sigma training? If not, are you open to exploring options towards Six Sigma Certification?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Six Sigma first came on the scene in the 1980s to improve the quality of a project by identifying what is not working. Lean Six Sigma is another methodology that adds lean thinking/waste elimination to a project approach. Depending on your educational background, you may have obtained a Six Sigma Belt, with the Belt levels being White, Yellow, Green, Black, and Master Black. The primary goal of your answer is to show your enthusiasm and openness to continual education and growth in your project management career.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
What to Avoid
If you are not certified or have training in Six Sigma, you want to avoid saying you do not have the training and have no desire to explore those options. Suppose you have no desire to advance your training and pursue professional growth. In that case, the interviewer will think you do not set goals and have the motivation to be a successful healthcare project manager.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
Entry Level Example
"I have obtained my Yellow Belt in Six Sigma and plan to work my way to a Master Black Belt in the coming years. With my Yellow Belt, I have built a solid foundation regarding the basics of Lean Six Sigma. I am eager to grow my project management skills."
Written by Rachelle Enns on February 16th, 2020
Answer Example
"I have a masters' Degree in healthcare management as well as the internationally recognized PMP certification. I have put a lot of consideration into pursuing a Six Sigma certification; however, I have not worked for a company that found the certification to be necessary since they have all focused on other resources such as PMBOK. If you see value in Six Sigma or Lean Six Sigma training, I am certainly willing to add this to my credentials. As far as I see it, there is no harm in continued education."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
Education
29. Are you PMP certified? If not, are you interested in gaining this designation?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Project Management Professional (PMP) certification is an internationally recognized professional designation, which is why many companies will ask for this certification from their Project Management candidates. Although it may not be a formal requirement, having your PMP designation will make you a more competitive candidate. If you are PMP certified, explain when you achieved the designation, keeping your answer straightforward and to the point. If you do not have your PMP certification be sure to express openness to obtaining this designation.
Written by Rachelle Enns on February 16th, 2020
What to Avoid
You want to avoid answering with a simple yes or no answer. The interviewer wants you to elaborate on your certification if you have it and describe how you are willing to achieve it if you do not. You also want to steer away from saying you are not interested in gaining this designation since you will not appear motivated to the interviewer. Even if you are not interested in becoming PMP certified, you want to show the interviewer that you keep your options open.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
Entry Level Example
"I have a strong interest in obtaining my PMP certification and certainly see the value this designation will bring. I plan to commit to a PMI membership and take the PMP exam within the next 12 months."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
Answer Example
"I have been a member of the Project Management Institute for eight years now and obtained my PMP certification through PMI when I initially joined. I have found this certification to be valuable over the years and am happy that I achieved it, in addition to my bachelor's degree in healthcare administration."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
Leadership
30. As a healthcare project manager, what do you find to be the most challenging aspect of leading your current team?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
A 2022 healthcare blog reports the top five challenges of managing healthcare projects include, heavy regulatory requirements, data backups and privacy, dependency on external professional services, inconsistent change control, and lack of proper change methodology. The interviewer is trying to learn more about the challenges you currently face as a healthcare project manager and leader. If hired, this information will help the hiring company know where you could use additional support. Every leader has an aspect of responsibility that is challenging for them. Share your most challenging aspect of leadership and highlight the steps you take to alleviate or overcome that challenge.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
What to Avoid
You want to avoid saying that you do not find any aspect of leading a team challenging. The interviewer will know you are not being truthful because all project managers find something that is challenging when managing a project and leading a team. Be sure that you name an aspect you find challenging and how you work through that challenge, making you a stronger leader.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
Entry Level Example
"I believe that the most challenging aspect of being a leader in the healthcare industry will be effectively managing the large variety of personalities and vision of the internal and external stakeholders and healthcare executives. It takes time to get to know everyone, but I am confident that I can do it by being present, engaged, and taking the time to get to know my team and what their individual needs may be."
Written by Rachelle Enns on February 16th, 2020
Answer Example
"Currently, around half of my team consists of union employees, and the other half are non-union contracted workers. I find this staffing ratio a challenge because I spend a lot of time re-training new people or creating an air of enthusiasm and buy-in from people who are not a part of the union. To overcome this challenge, I have started building a library of resources that I refer to as the 'Online Learning Portal' where team members, both union and non-union, can familiarize themselves with our most common processes and best practices. This initiative has decreased the time I spend training new hires and has also increased everyone's understanding of the job, thus reducing human error and boosting team spirit."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
Leadership
31. Highlight your top leadership qualities for me and how they benefit you as a healthcare project manager.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
A great leader is someone who people naturally want to follow. They have exceptional interpersonal skills and the ability to build relationships with nearly any personality type. A respected leader will take ownership of their mistakes and always lead their team by example. True leaders see the importance of motivating others and recognizing even the smallest achievements. As you know, these are all essential qualities for a healthcare project manager.
The interviewer wants to know what you consider strong leadership qualities for a Healthcare PM. Be sure to discuss how these qualities will help you succeed in this role and benefit the organization if hired.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
What to Avoid
When describing your leadership qualities, avoid general terms, and give specific examples of these qualities you possess. Instead of saying a healthcare project manager needs to have excellent communication, you should back it up with examples of your excellent communication skills in action.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
Entry Level Example
"I possess many leadership qualities that will help me grow my career in the healthcare industry and as a project manager. These skills include diligence, tenacity, and open communication. With diligence and tenacity, I will always be available and on the ball when it comes to the needs of your critical projects. With open communication, I will guide my team with enthusiasm and clarity at all project stages."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
Answer Example
"I sum up my leadership qualities as dedicated, attentive to detail, and accountable. As a healthcare project manager, I must lead by example and show my team what it means to be dedicated to a job and deliver the best work. This approach is beneficial because it teaches my team to own up to their mistakes and work hard to reverse any errors we may encounter during a project."
Written by Rachelle Enns on February 16th, 2020
Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback
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Leadership
32. How do you go about assessing your team members' strengths and delegating work to each member of your project team?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Accurately assessing your team's strengths will help you properly delegate project tasks, better ensuring that your project runs smoothly, on time, and remains on budget. Assure the interviewer that you have the strength in leadership and delegation required to succeed in this role.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
What to Avoid
You want to avoid saying that you do not have steps in place to assess your team members' strengths and assign members based on the project needs. If you do not understand what each member is capable of, you may assign the wrong team member for the job. If a team member is assigned to a task they are not comfortable with; the project will not run as smoothly as it could.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
Entry Level Example
"While obtaining my PM degree, I took courses such as Society & The Workplace, Critical Thinking, and Group Productivity. This coursework helped me develop a strong knowledge base when managing teams and playing to their strengths. To delegate successfully, I will first clearly articulate the desired outcome. I believe it helps to think about the desired results and then think of who could deliver those results. It's also essential that I include my people in the delegation process so they can chime in on which tasks are within their wheelhouse. I should also match the responsibility with the amount of authority the person currently has. Delegating away too much authority would put the project at risk. I would be sure to always establish and maintain control as the project manager."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
Answer Example
"I have taken coursework in team management, which has been very helpful over the years as a healthcare project manager. Everyone is put through the same benchmarks to ensure fairness and clarity in my decisions. When assessing a team members' strengths and then delegating the work to them, I have a series of questions that I go through. First, I ask what knowledge, skills, and attitude the person brings to the job? Next, how independent is the person on a scale of 1-10? I also ask if the person can take on more work and if delegating new tasks will mean reshuffling other responsibilities and workloads. I believe it's critical to assess all of these facets before making delegation decisions."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
Leadership
33. Our facility recently experienced a merger and subsequent downsizing. Since then, our employee morale has been at an all-time low. How would you improve employee morale if offered the position?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Mergers and subsequent layoffs can severely affect employee morale and cause excessive stress. It is challenging to enter a new job, especially if the workforce is unhappy. How you respond will give the interviewer insight into your communication, problem-solving, and leadership skills. The interviewer would like to hear how you plan on improving morale if you are hired for the healthcare project manager position.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
What to Avoid
The interviewer does not want to hear that you will go in heavy-handed and bring employee morale even lower. They want to hear that you will take time to get to know your team, ask about their concerns, and address them, making it a more enjoyable workplace.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
Entry Level Example
"First, I need to build trust with my team before morale can improve. They will probably look at me as an outsider and may even identify me as an enemy of the merger. I would introduce myself, explain how I value my team and their work and ask them for suggestions on improving employee morale. Once I allow them to voice their concerns and show them I want to help improve the company culture; they will start trusting me as an ally. I will follow through on any promises I make and reward them for their achievements. I find everyone enjoys being praised for a job well done."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
Answer Example
"I understand how employee morale could be at an all-time low. I would help improve employee morale by getting to know my team. I would listen to their concerns and involve my team in achieving the organization's vision, making them feel included in the decision-making process. I would lead by example and support my team to help them grow professionally and enhance their confidence and self-esteem. Finally, I would praise my team for their achievements, helping to improve the work center morale."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
Operational
34. For our next project, travel will be required 75% of the time. If hired, are you available to travel that often?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
If travel is part of the job requirement, it will typically be posted in the job announcement, so you are aware of that before you apply for the job. The interviewer wants to make sure you understand the requirement and see that travel will not be an issue for you if hired. Ensure the interviewer that you will be available for travel and that you look forward to the opportunity to do so. It shows the interviewer you read the job description in full and are a flexible team member.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
What to Avoid
You want to avoid saying that you cannot travel if hired. If the interviewer is looking for a healthcare project manager to travel 75% of the time, you responding that you cannot will be a deal-breaker. If you have an outside obligation that prohibits you from traveling, describe why traveling would be difficult. If you are honest with the interviewer and suggest ways to rearrange your other obligations so you can travel, the interviewer will be more understanding and decide if they can be more flexible with your schedule if hired.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
Entry Level Example
"Yes, I would be able to travel if hired, but I would need a little bit of advance notice if possible. I am a single mother and need to arrange childcare for my son. My mother is retired, and lives close by, and she can usually watch my son for extended periods. If she is not available, I have a friend who can step in to help. I can assure you that traveling will not be an issue if you choose me for the position."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
Answer Example
"Yes, I would be available to travel that often if hired. I saw that requirement in the job description, and it was one of the biggest reasons I applied to this position. I worked as a traveling nurse before changing careers and loved that aspect of the job. I enjoy traveling and experiencing different places and meeting new people."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
Operational
35. Will working overtime be an issue for you if hired?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Working as a healthcare project manager will require you to work overtime to meet deadlines, the stakeholders, or address issues that may arise in a project. The interviewer wants to see that working later than your normal schedule or working on weekends will not be an issue for you if hired. The schedule and possible overtime will often be mentioned in the job description, so you should be aware this is a requirement. Describe to the interviewer that you are a team player and can work whatever hours are needed to meet the company's goals.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
What to Avoid
You want to avoid saying that working overtime will be an issue for you if hired. The interviewer is looking for a healthcare PM willing to put in the time and energy to meet the organization's deadlines. If you are not flexible with your schedule and willing to work long hours, the interviewer may choose another candidate that has more flexibility with their schedule.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
Entry Level Example
"No, working overtime will not be a problem for me. I am new to the industry but put in long hours while obtaining my bachelor's and master's degrees. I believe the last five years of schooling have prepared me quite well for the role of healthcare project manager, and I would be happy to put in whatever hours I need to meet the company's deadlines."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
Answer Example
"No, working overtime will not be an issue for me. I am used to working long hours to meet deadlines at my previous job and understand it is part of working as a project manager. I do not have any outside obligations that will keep me from staying focused on my job."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
Operational
36. How do you ensure the budgetary health of a project?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
As a healthcare project manager, it is up to you to ensure that your project remains on a budget at all stages. Planning a budget is a significant undertaking that requires precision and attention to detail. The interviewer wants to know which factors you use to determine whether or not a project is financially healthy and the steps you take to ensure its health. Be sure to show that you set proper expectations and plan for unforeseen circumstances.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
What to Avoid
You want to avoid giving the interviewer a reason to believe that you are not confident in your budgetary skills. Since the budget is one of the most important aspects of a project, they want to see that you are organized and budget-conscious. If you answer that you hope for the best on a project and determine if you were within budget at the end of the project, the interviewer will think you do not have the skills they are looking for in a healthcare project manager.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
Entry Level Example
"Although my experience is limited, as a recent project management graduate, I do have a solid understanding of the relationship between scope changes and budget overruns. Once there is agreement on a vision and budget, I would meet with all stakeholders to discuss the project and assess any potential issues. This clear communication would reduce the risk of budgetary issues, keeping the plan firmly on track from the start."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
Answer Example
"First and foremost, I must analyze the goals of the project, ensuring that the estimates and overall budget are on par from the start. I regularly assess resources and make room for circumstances that inevitably come up. I regularly visit my budget and timeline, ensuring that we are on track at the start and finish of every day. I reassess every week to keep a broader view of the projects' progress. Lastly, careful use of my project management software allows me to evaluate even the most minute details of my budget, alerting me of any potential roadblocks."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
Operational
37. Suppose a cardiology department head approached you about funding a clinical trial for myocarditis. What is your process before approving funding a clinical trial?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
As a healthcare project manager, one of your duties may be to approve funding for different departments. The interviewer asks this question to see your process of evaluating and monitoring organizational spending habits and supporting funding for specific departments. Describe your budgeting style and how you determine if the funds are available to provide funding for clinical trials or anything else a department head will need.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
What to Avoid
The interviewer does not want to hear that you automatically disapprove funding for clinical trials or that you immediately approve funding. They want to see that you analyze the department's current spending and determine where the funds will be allocated before approving a release of funds.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
Entry Level Example
"At my previous employer, we had a grant writing team that handled funding for clinical trials. So, if I were approached by a department head asking for funding for a clinical trial, I would gather information about the trial and present it to the grant writers. If your organization does not work with grant writers, I would sit down with the cardiology head and have them give me a detailed plan of how much the trial would cost. I would review the department's budgeting and spending habits and submit my findings to the administration's leaders for review and approval."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
Answer Example
"When I am approached to approve funding for a clinical trial or any other project, I always determine the amount of money needed and review the organizational spending in the department. I will ask for a business plan or cost estimation of the trial and send my strategies and cost breakdown to organizational leaders for approval."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
Operational
38. Describe your project management style and how you feel it will benefit our organization.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
There are many healthcare project management styles, such as waterfall, agile, and hybrid. Project management approaches can vary based on the project, the personalities on your current team, the resources you have on hand, and your most stand-out skills. Discuss the details of your go-to project management style with the hiring authority and how you believe your approach will be a harmonious fit with the hiring company.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
What to Avoid
Before your interview, it is best to do your research and determine what type of management style the company is looking for in a healthcare project manager. You want to avoid describing your project management style as completely different from what the interviewer seeks in their ideal candidate. Even if your style is somewhat different, try to include the qualities the company is looking for in a project manager in your response. If you review the job announcement before your interview, you can determine what traits the company is looking for.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
Entry Level Example
"I am sure that my project management style will shift and pivot as I continue to build my career; however, as it stands now, I would describe myself as a 'servant leader.' I believe in putting people first because project execution is at its best when the team is healthy. This approach will benefit your organization as I know that employee turnover has been a significant pain point for you over the past couple of years. My servant leader approach will produce results and help your teams to see that their organization genuinely cares about their progress and well-being. Of course, I will ensure an appropriate balance between caring for my team and ensuring that we meet project markers."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
Answer Example
"I would describe my project management style as democratic. I put a lot of effort into empowering my teams and recognizing the individual strengths of my team members. From my research and understanding, this company promotes a vibe of health, safety, and trust, which seems to be an excellent fit for my collaborative approach. I trust the judgment of other decision-makers on my team and believe in offering freedom and autonomy to my team members when it comes to letting their specific strengths shine."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
Situational
39. Have you ever experienced conflict on the job? If so, how was it handled?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The hiring company wants to see that you bring self-awareness, maturity, and professionalism as a highly visible leader in their organization. While you do not always have to agree with everyone, the interviewer wants to see that you respond appropriately in the face of conflict. The key to successfully answering this question is to impress upon the interviewer that you are a respectful professional who treats others fairly. If you are newer to your career, you can draw from a post-secondary example (perhaps you had a conflict with a professor or on a team project).
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
What to Avoid
The interviewer is looking to see your conflict resolution, leadership, and problem-solving skills in the workplace. It is essential that healthcare project managers can resolve conflict and keep a peaceful work environment. You want to avoid saying that you avoid conflict and hope it resolves on its own. If you avoid conflict and do not help resolve the situation, it shows the interviewer that you do not have these essential skills.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
Entry Level Example
"I have disagreed with fellow students during various group projects, but there have only been a couple of times where it has become a true conflict. One instance that comes to mind was the distribution of work when a new group project was assigned. The group leader created a meeting schedule that conflicted with most team members' other commitments. This schedule was a problem because it was obvious the group would struggle with keeping in timely communication. I laid out the reasons why this schedule would not work. Although the group leader had little empathy for anyone else's commitments, in the end, we identified other times that we could meet, keeping everyone's project schedule's more achievable."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
Answer Example
"My first manager was a challenging person. His expectations were often unreasonable and would come with little explanation. I worked with him for two years and left when I knew I was no longer benefitting from his leadership. I was pretty green and did not feel I had the years behind me to openly challenge his working style. I did keep my head down for the most part, but the benefit came to me at a later time when I took on my first leadership role. I knew what I did not want to be like; thus, the experience helped shape my communication style as a healthcare project manager."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
Situational
40. How comfortable are you performing duties related to negotiation and conflict resolution? Give an example of a time when you resolved an issue in the workplace.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Much of your role as a healthcare PM will be to negotiate rates, timelines, project vision, and contracts. When deadlines and budgets are tight, with many opinions involved and many moving parts, conflict can arise. Show the interviewer that you are not one to back down from a critical negotiation or potentially damaging conflict. Use an example from your recent work history. If you are new to your career, you can discuss a time from your post-secondary experience.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
What to Avoid
You want to avoid saying that you are uncomfortable negotiating or resolving conflict. Since a major role of your position is negotiations and conflict-resolution, the interviewer wants to hire a healthcare project manager who is comfortable in these situations and will be an excellent team member if hired.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
Entry Level Example
"I understand that a successful project comes from teamwork, clear communication, and a shared vision. For this reason, I need to be strong in conflict resolution and leading workable negotiations. In university, we had many successful group projects and the odd group project that was not as team-oriented as I would have liked. Our group didn't work efficiently during a health services marketing project due to personality differences. Some chose to be independent and not act as team players, which made the work a lot harder than it needed to be. Overall, this slowed down the flow of the project. I decided to address the communication problems and differences in personality. I stated that we needed to overcome our differences to benefit the project and our overall grade. Once I framed the situation in a way that benefitted everyone, they all agreed to set aside their differences, finishing the project faster and more efficiently than it started."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022
Answer Example
"I have been involved in numerous negotiations and conflicts and am very comfortable in my skills within this area. I am sure to listen more than I talk and frame the conversation positively. One example of my resolution skills in action was when I came across a significant difference in project vision between the client and the engineering and architecture firm. Everyone was working towards the same goal of making the client happy; however, some of the clients' desires could not occur in a way that worked within their budget. I carefully communicated the disconnect between vision and budget, leading the client to increase their budget by $200K. In the end, we all landed on the same page, and we were able to deliver the clients' vision to a tee."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 6th, 2022