Tell us about your most proud accomplishment as an occupational therapist.

"One of my accomplishments I am most proud of is being nominated for and winning an Outstanding OT of the Year award last year. There were 500 OTs nominated, and I was chosen and recognized for providing outstanding patient care. I was humbled when they called my name, and it still makes me smile every time I see that award and remember what an honor it was to receive it."

It is okay to brag a little bit when answering this question. Show that you are proud of yourself and your career accomplishments as an occupational therapist. Talking about your most significant achievement will give the interviewers an idea of where you place your values and how you define success. It will also show the interviewers more about your personality, how you like to be motivated, and how to coach you in the future.

The NHS promotes professional growth amongst our team members. What are your five-year professional growth goals?

"My five-year professional growth goals are to receive my specialization in paediatric occupational therapy while working for the NHS. With my specialization, I would like to utilize my skills working in the paediatric wing for the next three or four years before moving into a part-time clinical research position. I am interested in research but also want to continue providing patient care, so a combination of research and patient care position would be ideal."

When researching the NHS's website, you will see that training and career development are listed on the occupational therapist webpage. The NHS offers annual Continuing Professional Development (CPD) check-ins, where they will discuss your career aspirations and how they can help you achieve your goals to ensure you are always moving forward. Also mentioned is how you can pursue a speciality, move into education or research, or work overseas. The interviewers are curious about your five-year career goals to determine if you are a highly motivated occupational therapist who desires to advance in your career.

"When I did my RtoP I aimed to progress back to Band 6 which I achieved within 1 year and to learn on rotations eventually finding a specialty. I would love and be able to develop a specialism. That's why I'm here today. In 5 years I'd like to gain confidence and experience in the community and contribute to service development and patient improvement."

How would you describe your communication skills?

"I would describe my communication skills as above average. I work very hard to ensure I speak to my patients and their carers in terms they can understand. Medical terminology can be quite confusing for those not in the medical field. After explaining something to a patient or family member, I have them repeat what I said to ensure they understand what I told them. I ask them if they have questions, I actively listen, and I am great at reading body language. My written communication and documentation skills are exceptional, as well."

The interviewers ask this question to see that you have strong verbal and written communication skills, which are required for occupational therapist positions. Your job duties will include speaking with patients, carers, colleagues, and other multi-disciplinary team members. You may also be asked to testify in court if a negligible action caused the patient's injury or illness. You must also have excellent documentation skills, as what you document is part of the patient's legal medical record. The interviewers want to hear that you have the necessary communication skills for the role.

"This is an area that I believe I excel in. It is hugely important, indeed vital, with patients to get the tone right and be able to communicate information in a way they will take on board, to manage difficult conversations with relatives with clear but unwavering and not arrogant confidence. In documentation for records and sharing of information, communication is essential for wider team members."

Have you ever had to advocate for a patient? If so, what was the outcome?

"Yes, I advocate for my patients quite often. Most of the time, I am speaking with insurance companies who do not feel occupational therapy should be covered and do not want to pay. Many patients cannot afford an occupational therapist, so they will not get the treatment they need to improve their quality of life. Once I send a letter or speak with a representative on the phone, they generally will reverse their decision and cover occupational therapy services. I feel a large portion of an occupational therapist's job is advocating for our patients, and I genuinely enjoy doing so."

Advocacy is an integral part of occupational therapy. As an occupational therapist, you are trained to advocate for your patients in all areas of their lives and to teach them to advocate for themselves. However, there will be times when a patient cannot advocate for themselves or face obstacles when doing so. In a situation like that, you may need to step in to help patients receive the required services or to help reform healthcare policies. The interviewers want to hear if you have ever advocated for a patient to gain insight into your communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills. If you have not had to speak up for a patient during your career, describe what you would do if faced with a patient needing your help overcoming an obstacle.

"Regularly I make referrals onward, find care in emergencies, and allow them to speak when families are overbearing."

How do you communicate complex medical terms to your patients?

"When relaying information to patients and their family members, I look for clues to determine if they are confused or understand what I am saying. I speak in simple terms since medical terminology can confuse people outside the industry. After relaying the information, I ask if they have any questions or need clarification. I take the time to ensure they completely understand, and if they do not, I figure out another way to deliver the information."

As an occupational therapist, you will need to communicate information to patients and their family members that may be challenging for them to understand. It may be challenging because they do not understand complex medical terms or may not understand because of cognitive reasons. The interviewers want to learn more about your patience and communication skills and that you take the time to relay information in a way that your patients and their loved ones can understand. Describe your process for communicating challenging medical terms and information to your patients.

"I try to communicate in nonjargon speak or take time to explain terms. I also explain the process and pathway, and what to expect. If needed I use fewer words or am more tactile if needed for someone with sensory deprivation or to communicate understanding."

How do you describe to others what you do as an occupational therapist?

"As an occupational therapist, I get asked this question quite often. Many people confuse occupational therapy with physical therapy or think occupational therapists only work with people with workplace injuries. I explain that physical therapists work with patients after an injury to increase their range of motion, reduce pain, increase endurance, and help improve gross motor skills. I then explain that occupational therapists work with various patients with cognitive, developmental, or behavioural conditions to empower them to restore or become independent and live a high quality of life. I help patients improve their hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills, regulate and manage emotions, and learn basic tasks associated with daily living. People generally understand what I do after that explanation, but I am always happy to answer any follow-up questions they may have."

Occupational therapists often get confused with physical therapists by the general public. While the two are similar and have similar names (therapists), they are two completely different professions and require unique education and training. The interviewers want to ensure you can explain what you do as an occupational therapist to the community and your patients, carers, friends, and family. As an experienced OT, you understand the differences between the two professions. Physical therapists primarily help patients deal with pain, improve endurance, increase their range of motion, and develop gross motor skills. At the same time, occupational therapists focus more on how patients perform activities associated with activities of daily living (ADL), including assessing and treating physical, behavioural, psychosocial, cognitive, and sensory skills. Occupational therapy aims to enable the patient to restore independence and enhance their quality of life. Tell the interviewers how you explain what your job entails to others.

"I support patients to engage in the ADLs they want to be able to do by grading, adapting, being creative, advocating, educating, and providing equipment, and resources."

What part of your job brings you the most satisfaction?

"There are many parts of my job that bring me great satisfaction. However, if I had to choose one aspect of my career that brings me the most happiness, it would be working as part of a multi-disciplinary team that significantly improves and enhances the quality of patients' lives. When I start working with someone who is in pain and unable to do certain things and see them become pain-free and have increased mobility, that brings me great joy."

Working as an occupational therapist can be a rewarding career. You are able to be a part of your patient's recovery process, you get to meet many interesting people, you have the opportunity to pursue specializations, and it is an active job, among other things. The interviewers want to hear what part of your job brings you the most satisfaction to gain insight into your personality and motivation for choosing occupational therapy. Describe what part of your job you enjoy the most.

"Knowing I've helped make someone's life a little better, to enable someone to improve and remain independent, and even if they are dying to help them to die well and support family if they need reassurance. I love leaving and knowing they're better for the intervention I've provided."

Would you describe yourself as a compassionate person?

"Yes, I am a very compassionate person and have been since I was a young child. My compassionate nature is what drove me to pursue a career in healthcare. I show compassion to my patients by actively listening, acknowledging what they are saying, and helping to solve their problems. I treat all my patients with dignity, respect, and empathy, which is how I want to be treated. If they are frustrated, I let them vent. I bring them food or a beverage if they are hungry or thirsty. If they want to cry, I will hold their hand or give them a hug. I feel providing compassion is just listening to your patients and giving them what they need at the moment."

The interviewers ask this question as compassion and empathy are essential traits to possess as an occupational therapist. While you may not be able to put yourself in the patient's shoes, you must have compassion for whatever injuries or medical conditions they are working through. Focus on ensuring the interviewers understand you are a compassionate person. You can say you are compassionate, but giving an example where you have helped others is a better way to let the interview panel know. For example, you can describe your volunteer experience, how you cared for an elderly relative, held the hand of a dying patient, or comforted a grieving family member. Give your personal example that shows you have compassion for others.

"Very much so, sometimes to a fault, I strongly empathize. I will go the second mile, I will cover all areas I identify and advocate for them. I passionately treat others as I would want to be treated/family members to be treated."

After reading the job description, what do you like most about this position?

"After reading the job description, everything about the position interests me. The job duties are exactly why I chose a career in occupational therapy, as I can utilize my knowledge, experience, and hard and soft skills. If I had to choose, what I like the most about this position with the NHS is the opportunity to work with patients and their carers to develop specialized treatment plans to ensure the patient has a better quality of life. Many patients I work with suffer from depression because their quality of life is not what it once was after their illness or injury. What I enjoy the most about my profession is that I can work with my team to improve patients' lives and help them overcome their depression."

When reviewing several of the NHS Band 6 occupational therapist job openings on the UK Indeed website, many job duties and responsibilities are similar. The job duties include caring for patients while offering personalized treatment modalities, collaborating with a multi-disciplinary team (MDT), working with patients, carers/relatives, and other members of the community, and training and supervising junior OT staff and students. The specific job you are interviewing for may also have additional responsibilities. Review the job description before your interview and choose why this position interests you the most. The interviewers want to see what inspires and motivates you the most in your profession and where your strengths lie.

"Community work is meaningful in patient's environments. Use my health knowledge, variety of skills, and creativity. I use all areas of my training and knowledge, and every day is different."

In your opinion, what are the top three skills or characteristics needed to be an excellent occupational therapist?

"In my opinion, I believe the top three skills needed to be an excellent occupational therapist are the ability to make quick decisions, patience, and interpersonal skills. Often, I will have to think quickly if a particular treatment or exercise is not working for the patient and adjust my treatment plan accordingly. Also, patience is necessary as many of our patients struggle with physical, cognitive, or developmental issues that take time to treat. Interpersonal skills are essential as we work on a multi-disciplinary team and must get along with diverse people with differing ideas. Interpersonal skills are also required when communicating with patients, relatives, and carers. I pride myself on having these skills and feel they help me immensely as an occupational therapist."

When researching the NHS's website, you will see 'must-have skills' listed on the occupational therapist webpage. In addition to the academic qualifications needed for the job, they also say that you must be a natural 'people person' who can make everyone feel quickly at ease. They also say that creativity and the ability to balance patience with enthusiasm are required, along with the ability to think fast on your feet while enjoying working on a multi-disciplinary team. Knowing the NHS has these skills listed as 'must-have skills,' it is best to use three of them in your response while describing why these skills are essential for occupational therapists to possess.

"Excellent Therapeutic use of self. A blend of physical understanding with psychological knowledge. Coordination and communication with wider services."

What type of feedback have you received from your managers and mentors regarding your documentation skills?

"I have received positive feedback from my superiors regarding my documentation skills. My former professor said my writing was neater than anyone else he had seen and that I articulate what I am writing very well. I also had a manager compliment me on the depth of information I put into my patient's charts and how my documents never need editing or corrections applied."

Your documentation skills must be superb as an occupational therapist or anyone working on a multi-disciplinary healthcare team. What you document in the patient's chart will be seen by others treating the patient and will be the basis for how future treatment and tests are administered to the patient. Also, the patient's chart is considered a legal medical document. If anything ever happened to the patient and malpractice charges were brought against you and the team, everyone's documentation must be perfect for helping with the defence. The interviewers want to hear what feedback your managers and mentors have given you regarding your documentation. If you were told your documentation skills needed improvement, describe what you did to improve. If you were told your skills are excellent, be sure to let the interviewers know. This is not the time to be humble and downplay your incredible documentation skills.

"Not much feedback was given but colleagues have said my notes are comprehensive. I've worked on my analysis over the last couple of years. Tried to shorten time without compromising on detail."

Tell us about a time you managed a difficult relationship with a colleague.

"Fortunately, I have had only one difficult relationship with a colleague when I was first starting my career. I handled it by recognizing there was an issue and asking my colleague to speak in private. I calmly asked him if I had done something wrong because I felt like he was always trying to avoid me. It turns out there was a misunderstanding in our respective job duties, and my colleague thought I was trying to undermine his position by doing his work. I did not realize I was doing his work and thought it was one of my responsibilities. I apologized and thanked him for speaking with me. Once we cleared up who was responsible for each job duty, we never had an issue again."

You may have worked with someone loud and obnoxious, degrading, gossipy, or just plain mean. Unfortunately, not all colleagues will be easy to work with, and the interviewers understand this. This question is asked to see how well you tolerate challenging people, how you communicate, how patient you are, and how you use your problem-solving skills in the workplace. Describe how you have managed to work with a challenging colleague in the past.

Describe how you would manage a patient who is being aggressive or confrontational.

"If I had a patient become aggressive or confrontational with me, I would want to see why they were upset and resolve the issue while also maintaining my safety and the patient's safety. Once I understand the problem, I can decide how to proceed. If they were becoming aggressive because of a medical condition or mental health issue, I would address their health or mental health concerns. If I were in a situation where I felt unsafe, I would remove myself from the situation, if possible. If I could not leave the situation, I would call for security to respond. As an occupational therapist, I have found that people want to be heard and understood and have their concerns addressed. For me, it's about remaining calm and professional while diffusing the situation and helping the patient calm down."

As an occupational therapist, there will be times when you will have a patient become aggressive or confrontational. Generally, it will not be because of something you did but because they are uninformed, scared, or in pain. The interviewers would like to gain insight into your communication and problem-solving skills and see that you can handle this situation calmly and professionally. Describe how you would manage a patient who became aggressive or confrontational.

"If they have Cognitive deficits - I don't stay too long, and try different techniques and strategies to keep them calm but get the information I need to assess the situation. Physically stay at a distance and away from flailing arms. Utilise family members to buffer. Use SOLO PROTECT if in danger."

How do you stay up-to-date with the latest trends and advancements in occupational therapy?

"I stay up-to-date on advancements in occupational therapy in several ways. I am a member of the Royal College of Occupational Therapists and am notified when something significant happens in the industry. I also listen to their Incredible Everyday podcast to hear what other OTs have to say and attend their annual conferences to learn about the latest developments in home adaptations and equipment used by occupational therapists. I also have a lot of friends and mentors in the industry that I speak with often. We are sure to keep each other notified of the latest trends."

The interviewers ask this question to see how you stay up-to-date on the latest trends and techniques used as an occupational therapist. There are industry publications, webinars, conferences, podcasts, in-person training, and continuing education courses to offer occupational therapists training in the latest trends and advancements. The interviewers want to see that you take your profession seriously by staying current on the latest trends.When responding to this question, describe all the different ways you stay current in your industry. The more methods you have to keep up-to-date on the latest advancements in occupational therapy, the better.

"Podcasts, journals, OT news, reading, learning, courses, and webinars."

What is the vision of the NHS?

"The NHS's vision is to enable people to live healthier and more independent lives through high-quality seamless care. I love that your vision aligns with mine and is short and to the point. People remember a company's mission and vision statement when it is clear and resonates with them."

The interviewers ask this question to see if you have researched the NHS before your interview. You should be prepared to answer any questions the interviewers will have, such as the organization's mission and vision statements, its core values, the population they serve, the Chief Executive of the organization, and the year they were founded. It is always recommended to do your homework before any interview and learn all you can about the organization.The NHS's vision is 'enabling people to live healthier and more independent lives through high-quality seamless care.' Focus on memorizing the vision so you can easily respond to this question.

"To prevent long-term illness, use resources such as digital, age well, be more independent and engage in good activities, and seamless care."

What are the six core values of the NHS?

"The six core values that are part of the NHS Constitution and which all employees are bound to live by are working together for patients, treating everyone with respect and dignity, committing to quality care, having compassion, improving lives, and everyone counts. I love these values and want to work for an organization with a constitution everyone is expected to uphold."

The NHS belongs to the people and is founded on a common set of values and principles called the NHS Constitution. The six core values in the NHS Constitution are:1. Working together for patients 2. Respect and dignity 3. Commitment to quality of care 4. Compassion 5. Improving lives 6. Everyone countsThe interviewers want to see that you have researched the NHS and understand the values you will be asked to uphold if hired for the occupational therapy position. Show the interviewers that you are diligent and have done your homework by reciting the six values.

"Working together for patients, treating everyone with respect and dignity, committing to quality care, having compassion, improving lives, and everyone counts."

What makes you the best candidate for this position?

"While I am sure you have many qualified candidates applying for this position, I am the best candidate because I meet and exceed your qualifications. I have over five years of volunteer experience as a patient befriender and active responder with the NHS, and I am Health Professions Council registered with two years of clinical experience. I have exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, which all my references will attest to. I am excellent at problem-solving, am empathetic, have strong leadership skills, and work extremely well under pressure. I guarantee you will not regret hiring me for this position as I will be a valuable asset to the NHS."

The interviewers ask this question to hear what qualities you will bring to the NHS and how you will benefit them if hired. Now is your chance to highlight your best characteristics and experience, showing the interviewers you have all the qualifications they require. When researching the NHS's website, you will see 'must-have skills' listed on the occupational therapist webpage. In addition to the academic qualifications needed for the job, they also say that you must be a natural 'people person' who can make everyone feel quickly at ease. They also say that creativity and the ability to balance patience with enthusiasm are required, along with the ability to think fast on your feet while enjoying working on a multi-disciplinary team. It is also recommended to review the job announcement before your interview and highlight the qualities, experience, and education the NHS seeks in an occupational therapist. Then, focus on using those keywords in your response. When describing how you meet their job requirements, the interviewers will see that you are highly qualified and place you high on the candidate list.

"I am proving daily that I can do this challenging role, I work well in the team, people come to me for advice, and I have worked hard to develop good working relationships with ACS and HF colleagues. I've exceeded many of the areas you requested and want to do work on the other areas but have not been able to because I'm not static. I have a varied skill set."

Why do you want to work for the NHS?

"I want to work for the NHS because of your reputation for treating your employees very well. You are known for treating your team members like family, supporting and encouraging professional growth, offering childcare to working parents, and creating a diverse workforce. These are all important to me, and I want to spend the rest of my career with an organization that cares about my family and me."

The interviewers want to hear that you have researched the NHS and performed your due diligence before your interview. When responding to this question, highlight unique aspects of the organization that stand out from others. Perhaps you want to work for the NHS because it is the largest employer in the UK, the opportunity for professional growth and advancement, or because of their high number of patients. Describe your reasons for choosing to apply to the NHS.

Do you volunteer with any organizations?

"Yes, I volunteer with the NHS and the British Red Cross. I started volunteering with the NHS six years ago to see if a healthcare career was for me. After deciding to work in occupational therapy, I continued volunteering and still do because I enjoy it so much. I volunteer in different capacities, such as comforting and supporting patients, delivering prescriptions from the pharmacy, and providing companionship for patients who do not have other visitors. My volunteer experience with the Red Cross includes working in the refugee support centre and charity shops."

A study conducted by AmeriCorps found that volunteering is associated with a 27% higher chance of being hired. Many hiring managers will choose one candidate over another simply because of their volunteer experience. They feel that it shows strong character and selflessness - all qualities that make a great employee. Talk to the interviewers about your willingness to give back to your community through volunteerism. If you do not have formal volunteer experience, you can draw on things you do in your spare time to assist friends, family, or even your current employer.

"Yes, at my Church and previously with Home Start."

Why did you leave your last job?

"I left my last job because there was no room for professional growth or advancement. I want to work in a managerial position in the next five years, but that is not possible because of how the company was recently restructured. I gave my two weeks' notice and left on good terms. I have an excellent letter of recommendation from my manager if you would like a copy for your records."

The interviewers want to know why you left your last job to see if you were fired, gave notice, or were laid off. If you were fired, they want to know if you will admit why you were fired, if you take responsibility, and what you learned from the experience. If you gave notice, they want to understand what you did not like about your job to see if you would fit in with the company culture.Focus on being direct and honest, and explain why you left your last place of employment. If you gave notice, were laid off, or fired, describe the circumstances behind your leaving. Be sure to end your response on a positive note and tell the interviewer how you are excited to have the opportunity to interview for the NHS Band 6 occupational therapist position.

"The rotation post had lots of variety and experiences, but now want to settle and develop specialism."

How would your references describe you?

"I have an excellent list of references who will say that I am a hard worker who always brings a positive, compassionate attitude to the workplace. I have a strong work ethic and moral compass and always seek opportunities to help others. I have three copies of letters of recommendation for your file if you would like them."

The NHS has a PDF document online called 'Guidelines for Appropriate References.' This document outlines the types of preferred references, the number of references (at least two; three is preferred), how they will contact your references, and the availability of your references. The interviewers want to hear how your references will describe you to see if you have the characteristics they are looking for in a Band 6 occupational therapist and if they want to continue moving forward in the interview process.

"Conscientious, Hard working, caring, supportive, anxious, unconfident"

Are you interested in specializing in a particular area? If so, in what area are you interested in?

"Yes, I am interested in specializing in paediatrics. I love children and have found that the children I have worked with are so open to following my treatment plan and getting better. I am not saying that adults do not do the same; there is just an innocence and willingness in children that I adore. I am also the father of three children and feel that I have a great understanding of the pediatric population."

As a Band 6 occupational therapist, you have the training and experience to specialize in areas such as elderly care or paediatrics. The interviewers want to see if you're going to specialize in a particular area and why you chose that speciality. Once they hear your response, they can better understand what inspires and motivates you in your field and how they can best support you if offered the position with the NHS.

"I like the variety of the community but would like to specialize further. Possibly in CBT."

Do you belong to any professional organizations?

"Yes, I belong to the Royal College of Occupational Therapists. I joined their organization before starting the occupational therapy program, as they offer much guidance and support. I also enjoy that they offer professional indemnity coverage and a trade union membership. The Royal College of Occupational Therapists has been an invaluable resource, and they are why I chose to pursue occupational therapy over other healthcare careers."

As a healthcare professional, it is beneficial to belong to professional organizations for many reasons. These associations provide excellent networking opportunities, allowing healthcare professionals to connect with their peers and industry leaders. Professional organizations also offer mentoring opportunities and ways to stay current on the latest trends in your field. The British Association of Occupational Therapists and the Royal College of Occupational Therapists are two of the recognized professional organizations for all occupational therapy staff in the UK. On the NHS's occupational therapy webpage, they encourage their OTs to join the Royal College of Occupational Therapists to gain professional indemnity coverage and a trade union membership. Let the interviewers know of any professional organizations you belong to and how you benefit from being a member.

Why did you choose to pursue a career as an occupational therapist?

"I chose to pursue a career in occupational therapy after growing up with my brother with Down syndrome. He had an OT come to the house twice a week to help with activities of daily living, sensory processing challenges, and coordination and motor skills. I learned so much from watching the OT work with my brother and loved how patient he was. I asked him a lot of questions about his job and decided I wanted to work in the same field when I got older. I am so happy with my decision and cannot think of another career I would rather do."

There are currently over 43,000 occupational therapists in the UK. When polled, many chose to pursue a career as an occupational therapist to help people overcome challenges so they could live independent lives, assist patients in becoming pain-free, teach patients how to use assistive technology, and work with patients with developmental and cognitive conditions. Your reason may be one of the above, or you may have chosen to pursue this career for a different reason. The interviewers want to hear why you chose occupational therapy to see what motivates and inspires you in your career.

"It is a caring role benefitting others, using creativity as well as knowledge, and is a practical job."

What is your experience working as an occupational therapist?

"I have two years of experience working in a social services unit providing care to my community. I would visit people's homes who were referred by social workers or physicians to assess their need for occupational therapy services. If I recommended them for OT services, I would develop a treatment plan and work with them to help them become more independent. Before obtaining my degree in occupational therapy, I spent three years volunteering as an occupational therapy assistant at a local senior centre to gain experience. So, in essence, I have five years of experience working in occupational therapy."

To work as an NHS Band 6 occupational therapist, you must have a degree in occupational therapy, be registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC), have relevant experience in occupational therapy, be confident in the OT process, and be able to evidence transferrable skills. The interviewers ask about your experience to determine if you meet their qualifications before moving forward in the interview and hiring process. Describe how many years of experience you have working as an occupational therapist, where you have worked, and with what population.

"5 years in elderly, neuro, and medical wards 2.5 years in stroke and medical wards, in Community Assessment Beds, Social Services HF, and Community Health Team Discharge planning, and rehabilitation"

This position requires you to work two weekends per month and alternating holidays. Will this be an issue for you?

"No, this will not be an issue for me. I currently work every weekend, so having two weekends a month off will be a nice change. I also occasionally work holidays and understand there are sacrifices I must make working in the healthcare industry. My family understands if I have to work a holiday or another special occasion, and we move the day we celebrate to the day before the holiday or special event."

Working in the healthcare industry can be a 24-hour around the clock job (depending on your role), as people are constantly becoming sick and injured. If working weekends and holidays is part of the role you are applying to, the NHS should have mentioned that in the job description, so it should not come as a surprise. The interviewers want to ensure you understand these requirements and that it won't be an issue for you if hired. Show them you are flexible, a team player, and will work what schedule is best to fill the needs of the NHS.

"I can support you with weekend work on a Saturday, but due to my active participation in church, I would not be able to work on a Sunday. I am willing to share holidays with colleagues fairly."

What part of your job brings you the most stress?

"Luckily, this does not happen often. However, the part of my job that brings me the most stress is when a patient does not survive their injury or illness. I understand it is inevitable in the healthcare industry to have patients who will die, but it still does not make it easier. I pursued this career to help improve my patient's quality of life, so it is sad to see their life taken away. To make it easier, I think of the life they had lived and that friends and family surrounded them at the end. I also handle the stressors of my job by taking care of my mental and physical health with exercise, healthy food, and plenty of rest. When I take care of myself, I find the work stressors do not affect me as much."

A recent occupational therapy blog written by Sarah Stromsdorfer, an occupational therapist, states that although it is reported that occupational therapy is one of the least stressful healthcare careers, there are still stresses associated with the job. Sarah says the key factors are productivity targets, a high amount of paperwork, challenging patients, heartbreaking situations, workplace drama, and the job's physical demands. You may have something completely different that causes you the most stress, which is fine. The interviewers simply want to hear what you find the most stressful in your career and how you manage stressful situations to determine if you will be a good fit for the NHS team.

"Managing my own anxiety and imposter syndrome, etc. Long waiting list, pressure from acute service, lack of staff and resources/organizations, working at weekends when less support is available. I manage this with my faith, gratitude, deep breathing, and support from those around me"

Are you comfortable working as part of a multidisciplinary team?

"Yes, I am very comfortable working as part of a multidisciplinary team and have done so my entire career. I love working on a team that provides comprehensive care to patients and who all have the same goal of providing optimal care. I believe patients are treated better, and there is less chance of error, when a team provides care versus one individual. I look forward to being part of that team with the NHS."

The NHS describes a multidisciplinary team (MDT) as a group of health and care staff who are members of different professions and organizations who work together to make decisions regarding the treatment of patients and service users. MDTs provide comprehensive patient care, help prevent errors in the delivery of care, and use resources more efficiently. As an occupational therapist with the NHS, you will be required to be part of this team and must be comfortable doing so. Let the interviewers know you are a team player and look forward to working as part of an MDT with the NHS.

"Yes, no one person has all the ability or answers. MDT brings all of the expertise together for the benefit of the patient. I have lots of experience."

Have you ever made a mistake when treating a patient? What did you do?

"Yes, I made a mistake when treating a patient about six months ago. I was unaware my patient was seeing a physical therapist who was part of our multi-disciplinary team, as there was nothing written by a PT in the patient's chart. I developed an at-home training program to rehabilitate the patient's left side after a stroke. The training program I developed interfered with the PT's treatment plan. I received a phone call from the PT asking why I was interfering with and negating their treatment plan. I told them I was sorry, but I was unaware they were treating my patient as nothing was written in the patient's chart. Apparently, there was an electronic medical record the PT used that had not been merged with the patient's physical chart. Once we straightened out the issue, the PT decided to continue with their treatment plan while I developed a plan that only worked with the patient's gross motor skills. The patient was not harmed in any way by this error, and I learned to ask more specific questions when assessing my patients and to not only rely on information in the patient's chart."

It is not uncommon for occupational therapists to make mistakes when treating patients. Some common errors include performing an inaccurate on-site assessment, providing unsuitable adaptations to how a patient might achieve their goals, administering incorrect advice on training programs, and advising on incorrect equipment to use at home or the gym. The interviewers understand everyone is human and that honest mistakes can occur. They want to hear that you own up to your mistakes and take action to correct your error. Describe a time when you made a mistake and how you handled it. Additionally, describe what you learned from that lesson.

"Thankfully nothing serious. If I miss something or am unsure, I will reflect on it, speak to a colleague/Senior, and go back at the earliest possibility to rectify the situation. I will call ahead if I cannot visit immediately to advise the patient accordingly."

Have you ever had your ethics tested?

"I had my ethics tested while attending uni, but have not as an occupational therapist. While attending classes, a best friend asked me to help him cheat on a test because he had not had time to study. Even though we were friends, I told him I could not ethically help him cheat and that, as future occupational therapists, we are held to a higher standard. After that, I found it very hard to be friends with him since I do not condone that type of behaviour."

In the UK, the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) lists occupational therapists' proficiency standards on its website. They say that occupational therapists must practice within their scope of practice, be able to practice within their profession's legal and ethical boundaries, maintain fitness to practice, and exercise professional judgment, to name a few. You may sometimes be asked to do unethical things as an occupational therapist. The interviewers ask this question to see that you are honest, ethical, and have integrity. They want to hear that you have morals and can be trusted in your position. Some examples could be witnessing someone cheat or steal something or someone asking you to do something you knew was morally wrong. Describe a time you had your ethics tested and how you responded.

"Yes, people want me to turn a blind eye or to give them equipment that they are not eligible for. Senior staff who promote stopping the clock over getting the best clinician for patients."

NHS Band 6 Occupational Therapy Interview Questions

Go Back

1. Tell us about your most proud accomplishment as an occupational therapist.
2. The NHS promotes professional growth amongst our team members. What are your five-year professional growth goals?
3. How would you describe your communication skills?
4. Have you ever had to advocate for a patient? If so, what was the outcome?
5. How do you communicate complex medical terms to your patients?
6. How do you describe to others what you do as an occupational therapist?
7. What part of your job brings you the most satisfaction?
8. Would you describe yourself as a compassionate person?
9. After reading the job description, what do you like most about this position?
10. In your opinion, what are the top three skills or characteristics needed to be an excellent occupational therapist?
11. What type of feedback have you received from your managers and mentors regarding your documentation skills?
12. Tell us about a time you managed a difficult relationship with a colleague.
13. Describe how you would manage a patient who is being aggressive or confrontational.
14. How do you stay up-to-date with the latest trends and advancements in occupational therapy?
15. What is the vision of the NHS?
16. What are the six core values of the NHS?
17. What makes you the best candidate for this position?
18. Why do you want to work for the NHS?
19. Do you volunteer with any organizations?
20. Why did you leave your last job?
21. How would your references describe you?
22. Are you interested in specializing in a particular area? If so, in what area are you interested in?
23. Do you belong to any professional organizations?
24. Why did you choose to pursue a career as an occupational therapist?
25. What is your experience working as an occupational therapist?
26. This position requires you to work two weekends per month and alternating holidays. Will this be an issue for you?
27. What part of your job brings you the most stress?
28. Are you comfortable working as part of a multidisciplinary team?
29. Have you ever made a mistake when treating a patient? What did you do?
30. Have you ever had your ethics tested?

NHS Band 6 Occupational Therapy Interview Questions

1. Tell us about your most proud accomplishment as an occupational therapist.

2. The NHS promotes professional growth amongst our team members. What are your five-year professional growth goals?

3. How would you describe your communication skills?

4. Have you ever had to advocate for a patient? If so, what was the outcome?

5. How do you communicate complex medical terms to your patients?

6. How do you describe to others what you do as an occupational therapist?

7. What part of your job brings you the most satisfaction?

8. Would you describe yourself as a compassionate person?

9. After reading the job description, what do you like most about this position?

10. In your opinion, what are the top three skills or characteristics needed to be an excellent occupational therapist?

11. What type of feedback have you received from your managers and mentors regarding your documentation skills?

12. Tell us about a time you managed a difficult relationship with a colleague.

13. Describe how you would manage a patient who is being aggressive or confrontational.

14. How do you stay up-to-date with the latest trends and advancements in occupational therapy?

15. What is the vision of the NHS?

16. What are the six core values of the NHS?

17. What makes you the best candidate for this position?

18. Why do you want to work for the NHS?

19. Do you volunteer with any organizations?

20. Why did you leave your last job?

21. How would your references describe you?

22. Are you interested in specializing in a particular area? If so, in what area are you interested in?

23. Do you belong to any professional organizations?

24. Why did you choose to pursue a career as an occupational therapist?

25. What is your experience working as an occupational therapist?

26. This position requires you to work two weekends per month and alternating holidays. Will this be an issue for you?

27. What part of your job brings you the most stress?

28. Are you comfortable working as part of a multidisciplinary team?

29. Have you ever made a mistake when treating a patient? What did you do?

30. Have you ever had your ethics tested?