How to Answer: How do you like to encourage ideas in others, and why is this important as a future physician?
Advice and answer examples written specifically for a Medical School job interview.
45. How do you like to encourage ideas in others, and why is this important as a future physician?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Physicians are often viewed as the creative leaders of their care teams, including APPs, nursing staff, and administrators. As you look to enter medical school, your interviewers would like to know how you have encouraged others to think creatively and that you are willing and ready to bring this trait to work in their medical school program.
Written by Ryan Brown on December 11th, 2022
How to Answer
Talk to the interviewer about your ability to promote creative ideas in your team members. Some great things to discuss are your ability to get to know your team and their strengths, encouraging others' ideas, publicly praising the efforts of those you work with, and making sure everyone has a voice. No matter how you answer, make sure you reiterate that you are well aware of the team effort required to care for patients and that your role as a future physician will require you to be the leader of these efforts.
Written by Ryan Brunner on August 29th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I look forward to the opportunity to work hand in hand with other providers and nursing staff in providing the best care possible to my patients. For me, encouraging others means that I let every voice be heard because new ideas can stem from anyone. I would always be willing and open to new ideas from any member of my team as a physician leader."
Written by Ryan Brunner on August 29th, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"I encourage and foster ideas in others by active listening and by asking questions. Active listening demonstrates that I care about and appreciate other people's opinions. Asking questions indicates that I want to know more about a particular topic. These actions could spark novel thoughts about an idea while encouraging teamwork. Physicians often function as team leaders, and it is important that they understand how to generate and encourage novel ideas. After all, new ideas lead to innovation and ultimately improved patient care."
Written by Dr. Rodman on December 11th, 2022