30 NHS Band 6 Physiotherapy Interview Questions & Answers
Below is a list of our NHS Band 6 Physiotherapy 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.
Table of Contents
- 1. Ask The Interviewer Questions
- 2. Career Goals Questions
- 3. Communication Questions
- 4. Compatibility Questions
- 5. Conflict Questions
- 6. Customer Service Questions
- 7. Diligence Questions
- 8. Direct Questions
- 9. Discovery Questions
- 10. Diversity Questions
- 11. Organizational Questions
- 12. Role-Specific Questions
- 13. Scenario Based Questions
- 14. Stress Questions
- 15. Teamwork Questions
- 16. Tough Questions
Ask The Interviewer
1. This concludes our interview. Do you have any questions for us?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewers want to ensure that all of your questions about the NHS or job role are answered during the interview. It is best to ask at least a question or two, showing the interviewers your eagerness to learn all you can about the position, company culture, and expectations. Of course, you want to review the job announcement and research the NHS beforehand so you are not asking questions that could be found during your research. Before asking your questions, it is recommended to thank the interviewers for allowing you to ask questions, showing you have excellent manners and are considerate.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2023
Answer Example
"Yes, I do have a few questions. Thank you for asking. Could you please describe the company culture? Also, do you have any hesitancy in offering me the position?"
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2023
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Career Goals
2. Where do you see yourself in ten years?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewers ask this question for two reasons. They want to see if you have long-term professional goals and a plan to achieve them. Setting goals to improve and grow professionally shows that you are motivated and dedicated to your profession. The interviewers also want to see if your plans include working for the organization. The NHS invests a lot of money and time in hiring and training employees, and the interviewers want to know that you will be a long-term employee and a good investment if hired.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 7th, 2023
Answer Example
"My ten-year goal is to progress to a senior physiotherapist position within the NHS. In ten years, I will have the experience to oversee junior physiotherapists and assist in the onboarding process. I am also interested in working in a teaching capacity and see myself training and mentoring physiotherapy students and interns."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 7th, 2023
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Communication
3. How do you communicate challenging information to a patient or their family members?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
As a physiotherapist, you must 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 information.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2023
Answer Example
"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."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2023
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Compatibility
4. What qualities make an excellent physiotherapist?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewers want to hear what you think makes an excellent physiotherapist, as you will most likely name traits you possess yourself. Excellent physiotherapists are patient, compassionate, curious, empathetic, and dedicated. They are committed to their profession and have exceptional analytical thinking and communication skills. Describe what you believe are the top qualities that make excellent physiotherapists.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 7th, 2023
Answer Example
"To be an excellent physiotherapist, you must possess many hard, soft, technical, and interpersonal skills to be successful and effective at your job. You must be compassionate, patient, and dedicated to working in this field. It takes time to complete many years of training, and when done, physiotherapists must take the time to listen to their patients while providing compassionate care. Excellent physiotherapists must also have exceptional communication and interpersonal skills to work with multidisciplinary teams, patients, carers, and family members to provide the best care possible."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 7th, 2023
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Compatibility
5. What are your strengths?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewers ask this question to determine if your strengths will complement and benefit the NHS if hired. Think of the personal strengths that make you excellent at your job. Advantages can be skills or qualities that help you overcome difficult circumstances or accomplish challenging tasks. In a work context, your strengths will help you complete your to-do list, understand patient needs, and help you to apply what you have learned in your training. Talk to the interviewers about a couple of your strengths and why those will help you to be successful in this role.
Before the interview, review the job announcement and see what strengths the NHS seeks in a Band 6 physiotherapist. Then, focus on using those qualities to describe your strengths. For example, suppose the organization is looking for a physiotherapist with at least 18 months of experience and with strong interpersonal, communication, and teamwork skills who places patient care as a top priority. In that case, you can describe your strengths as mentioned in the job description.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2023
Answer Example
"My greatest strengths as a physiotherapist are my communication, teamwork, and interpersonal skills. I have excellent verbal and written communication skills and can explain complex terms in easy-to-understand terms. I have worked with many diverse groups at work and in a volunteer capacity, and I have exceptional listening skills. I have over three years of experience honing these skills in my profession, and I look forward to bringing my skills and experience to the NHS."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2023
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Conflict
6. How do you handle a dispute with a colleague or manager?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
While not an ideal situation, it is not uncommon for colleagues or managers to have a dispute or disagreement with someone they work with. The interviewers know this and want to see how you have handled disputes in the past. How you respond gives the interviewers insight into your problem-solving, communication, and conflict-resolution skills, which are essential skills to possess in any profession.
Focus on giving a detailed explanation of how you handled a past disagreement with someone you work with. You do not necessarily need to describe the reason for the dispute, just how you dealt with it. The interviewers want to hear that you dealt with the conflict privately, calmly, and professionally and that there was a resolution.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2023
Answer Example
"Over the years, I have found the involved parties can fix all conflicts with honest, open communication. When both parties can explain why they are bothered by something and decide how to handle the situation maturely, less conflict will likely happen in the future. Most disputes are simply a misunderstanding or lack of communication. When I have a dispute with a coworker or supervisor, I ask to speak to them privately to discuss the matter. It is never professional to have a disagreement or conflict in front of others. Then, we discuss the issue until we can come to a mutually agreeable solution."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2023
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Conflict
7. How would you respond if a patient or their family member yelled at you?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
As a physiotherapist, there will be times when you will have a patient or family member yell at you. Generally, it will not be because of something you did but because they are frustrated, 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 speak to a patient or family member if they yelled at you.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 7th, 2023
Answer Example
"I have found it is common for patients or family members to lash out at those trying to help when they are frustrated, scared, or in pain. When a patient or family member yells at me, I want to see why they are upset and resolve the issue. I calmly ask them why they are yelling at me. Once I understand why they are yelling at me, I can decide how to address their concern and make them happy. If they lash out at me because of a medical condition or mental health issue, I will address their health or mental health concerns by notifying a nurse or doctor. In my experience, 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 making the patient or family member happy."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 7th, 2023
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Customer Service
8. Tell us about a time when you went above and beyond for a patient or their loved ones.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Going above and beyond your normal duties to help a patient or their loved ones shows your selflessness and compassionate and empathetic nature, which are essential qualities to possess in the health and care profession. Perhaps you visited a patient on your day off to check on their progress, brought a hot meal or cold drink to a loved one waiting beside the patient for hours, or brought the patient flowers on their birthday. Describe when you went above and beyond for a patient or their loved ones.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2023
Answer Example
"Last year, I was working with a patient that had lost his leg in a vehicle accident. He was young, had just started a family, and was the sole provider for his family. While I was working with him, he told me his insurance company was not covering his therapy visits anymore, and he would have to stop seeing me as he could not afford the visits. He had just received a prosthetic and was learning to walk again, and I knew he would not progress as quickly if he discontinued physiotherapy. I offered to provide three weekly visits to his home free of charge until he could walk again. After six months, he was walking and had returned to work in construction. It made me so happy to help a young couple in need."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2023
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Diligence
9. Tell us what you have learned about the NHS.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The NHS has an extensive website that tells people everything they would want to know about the organization. Their 'Working in the NHS' page talks about how the National Health Service (NHS) is one of the largest employers in the world, and the biggest in Europe, with over 1.3 million staff. They talk about a typical day in the NHS, the different types of careers offered, the mission and vision of the NHS, the purpose of the NHS, and the NHS Constitution and core values, to name a few. The interviewers want to see that you have done your homework and can tell them a little about the NHS. Describe what you find fascinating about the NHS.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2023
Answer Example
"When researching the NHS, I learned that your organization is the largest employer in Europe and one of the largest in the world. You employ over 1.3 million staff and expect all employees to follow the NHS Constitution, which includes the NHS values and principles. The NHS was established in 1948 when the government created the concept of an integrated, state-funded hospital service. They wanted the NHS to guarantee basic levels of personal and social security, which has continued to this day."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2023
Diligence
10. How do you stay current with the ongoing advancements in your field?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
As a physiotherapist, staying current with the ongoing advancements in your industry is essential. You can stay up-to-date with changes in your profession in many ways, such as continuing education, talking with colleagues, attending conferences, reading articles, listening to podcasts, and reading medical journals. The interviewers want to hear you are proactive and diligent in staying current with ongoing advancements. Describe your methods of staying up-to-date on the latest industry news.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 6th, 2023
Answer Example
"I stay current with the ongoing advancements in physiotherapy in many ways. I subscribe to several physio blogs, such as Physiotalk and Complete Physio, that deliver a message to my email when there is a new blog outlining the latest trends and advancements. I also read scholarly articles and listen to the Physio Edge Podcast every morning on my way to work. I have also attended three physiotherapy conferences and seminars in the past three years that always have the latest advancements in the field."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 6th, 2023
Diligence
11. What are the six core values of the NHS?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewers want to see that you have researched the NHS and understand the values you will be asked to uphold if hired. Here is what you will learn when you research the NHS's core values.
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 counts
Show the interviewers that you are diligent and have done your homework by reciting the six values. They do not have to be repeated verbatim, but enough that the interviewers see you understand the values of the NHS.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2023
Answer Example
"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 and who puts their patients first."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2023
Direct
12. What makes you the best candidate for this position?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Many qualified candidates are interviewing for the same position. You want to avoid speaking negatively of the other candidates or sounding arrogant when responding to this question. You want to sell yourself in the interview, but not while making the interviewers think you will be a challenging person to work with. Review the job announcement before your interview and highlight the qualities, experience, and education the NHS seeks in a Band 6 physiotherapist. Then, use those keywords in your response while describing how you will benefit the NHS if hired.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2023
Answer Example
"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 three years of volunteer experience as a patient befriender and active responder with the NHS. I also have the same amount of time working as a physiotherapist, predominantly with the pediatric population. I have exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, which all my references will attest to. I am excellent at problem-solving, being empathetic, 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."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2023
Direct
13. In your opinion, what is the greatest challenge the NHS will face in the next few years?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
According to the British Medical Association, the NHS faces many challenges that they expect to continue for years. They have identified medical staffing shortages, funding, waiting lists for tests, and intensive care capacity, to name a few. The interviewers want to see that you are aware of the current challenges facing the NHS and have used your critical thinking skills to determine what challenges face the NHS in the next few years. Describe what you see as the greatest challenge for the NHS in the next few years. Then, give a possible solution to the problem if you have one.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 7th, 2023
Answer Example
"After researching the NHS and speaking with friends who work for the NHS, I see the most significant challenge as what it is now, staffing shortages. With so many health and care professionals retiring and fewer healthcare students entering the workforce, I do not see how there cannot be continued staffing shortages in the next few years. The only solution I see is to offer retention packages to current employees to entice them to stay and a marketing plan to encourage students to pursue health and care careers."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 7th, 2023
Discovery
14. How do you deal with constructive criticism, even when delivered in a manner you do not prefer?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Senior physiotherapists or managers will undoubtedly give you constructive criticism at some point in your career. Sometimes the feedback will not be delivered respectfully, while other times, it will. The interviewers want to see that you can handle any feedback and realize that no matter how constructive criticism is delivered, it is an opportunity for you to grow professionally. Describe how you deal with constructive criticism and use it as a learning opportunity.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 6th, 2023
Answer Example
"I value constructive criticism. Generally, the person giving me feedback has more experience and knowledge than I do, so I see it as a learning opportunity to grow professionally. I understand everyone has different communication styles, so I do not take it personally if the feedback is delivered in a manner differently than I would give."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 6th, 2023
Discovery
15. Why do you want to work for the NHS?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewers want to hear that you have thoroughly researched the NHS before your interview. When responding to this question, highlight unique aspects of their organization that stand out from others. For example, you may want to work for the NHS because of its reputation as the largest employer in the UK, its opportunity for professional growth and advancement, or its high number of patients and call volume. Describe your main reasons for wanting to work for the NHS.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2023
Answer Example
"I want to work for the NHS because of its reputation and opportunities for professional growth. As the largest employer in the UK, the NHS is known for treating employees like family and encouraging and supporting career advancements. I am interested in moving up the ladder to a managerial position in the next five to seven years, and I see myself doing so with the NHS. I also want to start a family one day and am amazed by the NHS's support to working parents."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2023
Discovery
16. Tell us about your volunteer experience.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Volunteer experience is all unpaid activities and committees you have been involved in. The interviewers ask this question to gain insight into your personality traits and hobbies that are important to you, such as working with NGOs, helping with free medical clinics, or spending time visiting with older adults. Volunteerism also shows the interviewers that you like to give back to the community and are selfless with your time. The more volunteer experience you have, the better your chance to stand out to the interviewers. Volunteer experience is all unpaid activities and committees you have been involved in. The interviewers ask this question to gain insight into your personality traits and hobbies that are important to you, such as being on a leadership council or debate committee. Volunteerism also shows the interviewers that you like to give back to the community and are selfless with your time. Tell the interviewers about your volunteer experience, no matter how small it may seem.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 5th, 2023
Answer Example
"My family introduced me to volunteering at ten years old, and I still continue to volunteer. During my physiology training, I had the opportunity to volunteer with Doctors Without Borders, International Medical Corps, and Africa Health Placements, providing medical services to communities in developing countries. Currently, I volunteer one day a week reading and visiting with older adults at an assisted living facility for patients with early onset dementia."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 5th, 2023
Discovery
17. In your opinion, what was the greatest medical invention in the last 50 years that is particularly helpful in your industry?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
In the last 50 years, there have been game-changing advancements in the medical and physiotherapy industry, such as gait scanners, virtual reality, electromyography biofeedback machines, orthotics, and bionic prosthetics, to name a few. The interviewers ask this question to learn more about your personality by seeing what interests you in your industry. There is no incorrect answer as this asks for your opinion. When responding, describe what you believe to be the most significant medical invention and why.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 7th, 2023
Answer Example
"This is a tough question because many breakthrough advancements and inventions have occurred in the past 50 years. However, I am most fascinated with 3D printing. I find it amazing that orthotics and prosthetics are created using 3D printers, and now researchers are looking for ways to print whole organs. What's exciting about 3D printing is that custom-tailored implants and personalized prostheses can be made for patients undergoing rehabilitative therapy. I'm excited to see what the next 50 years have in store for the medical industry!"
Written by Krista Wenz on April 7th, 2023
Discovery
18. Tell us something about yourself that is not found on your CV.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewers would like to learn more about you as a person. While you cannot share everything about your personal life and accomplishments on your CV, there must be something you are proud of that you would like to share. If possible, share something about yourself that shows the interviewers you would be a good fit for the NHS physiotherapist position. For example, if you share that you compete in triathlons, the interviewers will see that you are dedicated and diligent, both essential qualities for health and care professionals to possess.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 7th, 2023
Answer Example
"Something I am very skilled at that is not found on my CV is that I love playing the violin. I have played since I was three and picked it up quite easily. I would spend hours a day perfecting solo pieces, highlighting my dedication to a craft. I also enjoy the violin because it helps me clear my head and focus strictly on the piece I am playing. It enhances my dexterity, coordination, hand strength, and fine motor skills. I feel all these skills transfer nicely into my profession as a physiotherapist."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 7th, 2023
Discovery
19. Are you currently registered with the Health and Care Professions Council?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
To be eligible to work as a physiotherapist in the UK, you must be registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). The HCPC regulates health and care professionals, sets standards for health and care professionals, approves professional programs, and takes action when a health and care professional does not meet their standards. Your registration must be renewed every two years to remain valid and registered with the HCPC. To work for the NHS, they require you to be currently registered with the HCPC. Explain if you are registered and if you are in good standing.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 6th, 2023
Answer Example
"Yes, I am currently registered with the HCPC. I just completed my renewal last month and am good for another two years. I have a copy of my registration if you would like it for your files."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 6th, 2023
Discovery
20. How did you choose physiotherapy over other healthcare professions?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
In 2021, there were approximately 57,000 employed physiotherapists in the United Kingdom, which is a significant increase since 2010 when statistics were kept. The interviewers want to hear your reasons for choosing this profession to understand what inspired and motivated you to pursue a career in physiotherapy over other healthcare professions. They want to hear if another physiotherapist mentored you, if you have family or friends who work in the field, or if you received excellent care from a physiotherapist in your lifetime.
Focus on giving your reason for choosing this career, responding with enthusiasm and passion. There is no right or wrong answer. The interviewers want to gain insight into what made you pursue this career path to see if you will be a good fit for the NHS.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 6th, 2023
Answer Example
"I chose to become a physiotherapist over other healthcare professions because I received excellent care from a physiotherapist after a skydiving accident. It took over a year to recover from my injuries, and I spent the most time in physio. My therapist and I became friends since we spent so much time together, and she encouraged me to pursue this career since I showed such an interest in it. I originally was working towards becoming a diesel mechanic, but I shifted my focus to work in healthcare after my accident. I am excited that I found a career where I can help improve the lives of others like my physiotherapist was able to do for me."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 6th, 2023
Diversity
21. The NHS prides itself on offering inclusive, non-discriminatory care. Do you agree with our approach?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
As with many organizations, the NHS makes a difference by offering diversion and inclusivity within the organization and the country's people. The NHS's website describes how they provide care and compassion for those in need regardless of status, religion, wealth, sexual orientation, ethnicity, or other characteristics. The interviewers want to ensure that your beliefs and values align with those of the NHS. The interviewers want to hire a physiotherapist who is open-minded and inclusive of all. Focus on assuring the interviewers that you accept all cultures and beliefs and are happy that the NHS does as well.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2023
Answer Example
"Yes, I completely agree with your approach. There is no room for discrimination anywhere, especially in healthcare. We care for patients at their most vulnerable moments, and it should not matter to anyone if they have different cultural or religious beliefs or come from different backgrounds. We are all human and must show each other empathy and compassion."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2023
Organizational
22. How would you describe your time management skills?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
When interviewers ask questions about time management, they want to see that you spend your time wisely and avoid distractions. They want to hear that you can effectively manage a workload and can prioritize between competing assignments while being flexible when change occurs. Describe your preferred method to stay on track and manage your time efficiently. You may like using software, a calendar app, or writing appointments and assignments in a notebook or day planner.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 6th, 2023
Answer Example
"I describe my time management skills as above average. I use a time management app, My Life Organized, which helps in my personal and professional life. This app allows me to target what I need to focus on to reach my objectives and automatically generates to-do lists with priority actions for immediate attention. If something else comes up in the workday that is a higher priority than what I am working on, I can input the task into my app, and it will automatically reprioritize my day. I feel like I have gained several extra hours in the day since I started using this app."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 6th, 2023
Role-Specific
23. What is your least favorite part about being a physiotherapist?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Most physiotherapists find more pros than cons to their profession. However, there are some, such as long hours, being on call, rules, regulations, physical demands, and rude patients. The interviewers want to hear what you like the least about being a physiotherapist to learn more about your personality. Be sure you briefly say what you like least, then end on a positive note by explaining how the other aspects of your profession outweigh the bad.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 7th, 2023
Answer Example
"My least favourite part of working as a physiotherapist is when I have patients that do not follow my treatment plan and do not understand why they are not getting better. When I have patients like this, I calmly explain that they need to do the exercises I prescribe in addition to meeting with me if they want to see improvement. Ultimately, I cannot take it personally as some individuals will not do what I or any other healthcare professional tells them to, even if it means improving their condition."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 7th, 2023
Role-Specific
24. How can we motivate you on the job?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Every employer should know how each staff member is best motivated. Talk to the interviewers about the variety of ways you are best motivated on the job. The interviewers want to see what motivates you and if you will be a good fit with the company culture if hired.
There is no right or wrong answer here. This is your personal observation of what drives you to do a good job and show up to work every day. You might be motivated by praise from your superiors, being recognized for a job well done, or being offered promotions or extra job duties based on your performance. Or, you may be the type of person who does not require motivation as you enjoy what you do and are motivated to go to work each day. Describe what best motivates you.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2023
Answer Example
"I am motivated knowing my work makes a difference. Taking care of others is at the heart of what I do, so knowing what I do matters is all the motivation I need. Sure, receiving praise for a job well done or being offered a promotion based on hard work and dedication is nice. However, I do not need that to be inspired and motivated to show up to work and do a good job."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2023
Role-Specific
25. How would you describe your bedside manner?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Bedside manner is a health and care professional's approach or attitude toward a patient. The interviewers ask this question to determine if you have the qualities they seek in a physiotherapist. They want to hear you are kind, patient, friendly, compassionate, and caring. Now is the time to describe how you treat all patients with respect, empathy, kindness, and compassion.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 7th, 2023
Answer Example
"I would describe my bedside manner as nurturing, comforting, patient, and caring. I approach all patients the same. I introduce myself, ask their name, and explain what I can do for them. I take the time to actively listen to their concerns, showing them I care about them and want to help them. I believe all healthcare professionals should treat patients how they want others to treat themselves or loved ones."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 7th, 2023
Scenario Based
26. You are working with a junior colleague who is consistently 20 minutes late. What would you do?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewers will ask situational questions like this one to see how you respond to issues in the workplace. How you answer gives the interviewers insight into your communication, leadership, conflict resolution, and problem-solving skills. Everyone is different, so there is no right or wrong way to answer this question. Let the interviewers know how you would handle this situation.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 6th, 2023
Answer Example
"What I would do depends on how my colleague's tardiness affects me and patient care. If their delay causes me more work because I have to take up their slack or it causes patient care to be compromised, I will address their tardiness the first time they are late. I would ask them in private why they were late, showing that I was genuinely concerned and wanted to help in any way that I could. If my colleague's consistent lateness didn't affect our patients or me, I would not say anything since that is my supervisor's job to address the issue."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 6th, 2023
Stress
27. What part of your physiotherapy schooling was the most stressful for you?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewers want to hear what part of your physiotherapy schooling was most stressful to determine how you managed your stress so they can understand your coping mechanisms. Describe what you found most stressful and what steps you took to reduce your stress. You could also break down the most stressful part of each year and how you coped, showing the interviewers that you successfully managed your stress as each year progressed.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 6th, 2023
Answer Example
"The hardest part of my physiotherapy schooling was the first year at uni. Although I knew it would be challenging, the most stressful part was the amount to learn, the time demands of the course, and the conflict with other activities. I had spoken with many physio students before starting my schooling, but even they could not describe how difficult the courses were. I took a step back, reevaluated my time management skills, and started prioritizing my days using a time management app. Once I started using the app, my days became less stressful as I managed my time more efficiently. I also hired a tutor and joined study groups, which helped decrease my stress immensely."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 6th, 2023
Teamwork
28. How will you earn the trust of your colleagues?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
It is essential to nurture workplace relationships, especially when working as a member of a multidisciplinary team. Talk to the interviewers about how you plan to earn the trust of your new colleagues should you be offered the position. The interviewers want to know how you can win your new coworkers over to determine if you will be a good fit for the team.
Focus on giving examples from your past. Describe how you earned the trust of your colleagues by getting to know them and their families, keeping your word when you say you are going to do something, lending a hand when others need help, or covering a coworker's shift when they have a family emergency.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2023
Answer Example
"I will earn the trust of my colleagues by being myself. I am a social person and always introduce myself to someone when meeting them for the first time. I shake their hand while smiling at them and looking them in the eyes. If they have not given it to me, I ask their name and tell them it is a pleasure to meet them. After that, I competently perform my job, ask my team members for their input, listen to what they say, and value their opinions. Another way to earn trust is by being honest, reliable, and dependable."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2023
Teamwork
29. What is your definition of teamwork?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The Cambridge Dictionary defines teamwork as 'the combined actions of a group of people working together effectively to achieve a goal.' As a physiotherapist, you understand the importance of teamwork while working with other healthcare professionals on multidisciplinary teams. The interviewers ask your definition of teamwork to know how you view your team and what it means to work together. Your definition does not need to match the Cambridge Dictionary version, but you want to relay the value of working together to achieve a common goal. Explain how you would describe teamwork to someone who did not understand the word.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 7th, 2023
Answer Example
"My definition of teamwork is working together with others to achieve a common goal. I enjoy working with a team because everyone has a common goal, with different experiences and ideas for achieving it. Working on a multidisciplinary team in healthcare allows me to use my knowledge and experience while learning from others with different opinions, backgrounds, and ideas."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 7th, 2023
Tough
30. Describe a time when your ethics were put to the test.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The Oxford Dictionary defines ethics as 'moral principles that govern a person's behaviour or the conducting of an activity.' The interviewers ask this question to see that you are honest and have integrity. They want to hear that you have morals and can be trusted in your position as a physiotherapist. Some examples could be witnessing someone cheat or steal something, having a patient that wants to pursue a relationship with you, or a friend or colleague asking you to do something you knew was morally wrong. Describe a time you had your ethics tested and how you responded.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2023
Answer Example
"I had my ethics tested at my last job. I was working at a community clinic as a fairly new physiotherapist. We were a very tight-knit team and were like family. One day, I saw one of the nurses take a few pills from a prescription she was taking to a patient and put them in her pocket. I immediately stopped what I was doing and intercepted her before she got to the patient. I asked her if she had taken pills from the prescription, which she denied. I told her I saw her put them in her pocket. She continued to deny taking the pills and said I did not see anything. I reminded her of the security cameras and told her I would call security to look at the footage. She started crying and said she took the pills for her mother, who couldn't afford them. She asked me not to tell anyone, or she would lose her job. Even though we were good friends, I told her she pushed the boundaries, did something illegal, and that I would not cover for her as we are all held to a higher standard. It was difficult for me to report her, but I cannot condone dishonesty and stealing. Ultimately, I was upset that she even put me in that position."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 8th, 2023