30 NHS Band 7 Physiotherapy Interview Questions & Answers
Below is a list of our NHS Band 7 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. Accomplishment Questions
- 2. Ask The Interviewer Questions
- 3. Behavioral Questions
- 4. Capability Questions
- 5. Communication Questions
- 6. Compatibility Questions
- 7. Conflict Questions
- 8. Diligence Questions
- 9. Direct Questions
- 10. Discovery Questions
- 11. Leadership Questions
- 12. Performance Based Questions
- 13. Role-Specific Questions
- 14. Situational Questions
- 15. Tough Questions
Accomplishment
1. Tell us about your greatest personal accomplishment.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Describing your greatest personal accomplishment shows the interviewers a glimpse into your personality and what you value and cherish. Even though your most significant personal accomplishment does not directly tie into your role as a physiotherapist, it shows the interviewers that you are proud of yourself for certain achievements and worked hard for them. Describe your greatest personal accomplishment and why it is important to you.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 11th, 2023
Answer Example
"My greatest personal accomplishment was being the first person in my family to graduate from college. My family immigrated to the UK with hardly anything when I was two years old, but they did everything they could to ensure my older brother and I had everything we needed. My parents hoped my brother would attend college, but he decided to be an entrepreneur instead. It was a great accomplishment for me when I graduated from college with my degree and at the top of my class. It was the first time I ever saw my father cry with tears of joy."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 12th, 2023
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Ask The Interviewer
2. What questions do you have for us?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
When interviewers ask if you have questions, it is an excellent opportunity to ask at least one or two questions about the organization or job role. As an interviewer, I am always impressed when candidates ask thought-provoking questions about the company culture, what I like most or least about the company, what the onboarding process consists of, or if anything needs clarification from their interview or CV. However, you want to be sure to ask questions that could not be answered during your research of the NHS, or it will make you look as if you were not diligent in your research.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 14th, 2023
Answer Example
"Thank you for asking, as I do have a few questions. Could you please describe the company culture? Also, after the interview so far, do you have any hesitancy in offering me the position?"
Written by Krista Wenz on April 14th, 2023
Behavioral
3. What would you do if a colleague asked you to do something unethical?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Working as a physiotherapist in the healthcare industry, you are held to a high standard and are expected to be honest, ethical, and trustworthy. The interviewers ask this behavioural/situational type question to see how you would respond if asked to do something unethical in the workplace to gauge your sense of right and wrong. Also, they will observe your body language to see if you look appalled, as if you would never think of doing something unethical, or seem uncomfortable, as if you have something to hide. Describe what you would do in this situation, using a real-life example if you have one.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 14th, 2023
Answer Example
"Fortunately, I have not been put in this situation during my career. My colleagues understand I do everything by the book and have high morals and values, which is probably why they would not think of asking me to do something unethical. If a colleague asked me to do something unethical, I would tell them they were asking the wrong person and ask them to tell our manager what they asked me to do. If they refused to talk with our manager, I would speak with my manager privately and explain what had been asked of me. I do not tolerate unethical behaviour and would tell my colleague they are in the wrong profession if they want to do immoral or dishonest things."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 14th, 2023
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Capability
4. Would you describe yourself as a detail-oriented physiotherapist?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewers want to know if you see yourself as a detail-oriented physiotherapist, an essential skill to possess in your profession. You must keep detailed notes on your patients' conditions, the treatment you are administering, and the patient's progress during each therapy session. Being detail-oriented also means other multidisciplinary team members can look at the patient's chart and understand their status and progress quickly and easily. If you do not describe yourself as a detail-oriented physiotherapist, the interviewers will pass you over for a candidate who is. When explaining how you pride yourself on paying attention to detail, give a few examples to support your claim.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 13th, 2023
Answer Example
"Yes, I most certainly would. I pride myself on providing detailed, error-free documentation in all of my patient's charts, which previous supervisors and managers have commended. I take notes throughout my sessions and immediately input them into my patient's charts afterward so no detail is overlooked. Some colleagues have jokingly said I am obsessive about my work, but I like to be thorough and complete in everything I do. I would much rather be detailed and obsessive than sloppy and incomplete."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 13th, 2023
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Capability
5. On the job announcement, we requested three professional references. What three references did you provide, and how would they describe you?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The NHS has an online PDF document 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 know what three references you provided and how they will describe you to see if you have the characteristics they seek in a Band 7 physiotherapist. They can then decide if they want to continue moving forward in the interview process.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 10th, 2023
Answer Example
"My three professional references are my two most recent employers and a professor. My references describe me as honest, dependable, energetic, hard-working, and compassionate. My professor described my inquisitive nature and willingness to mentor other students who needed assistance with their studies. My former employers mentioned that I had not missed a day of work the entire time I worked for them and that I demonstrated strong leadership skills even when not in a leadership position. All three references said I was a pleasure to be around, and they were happy to recommend me for whatever position I applied for."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 10th, 2023
Capability
6. Would your former manager describe you as an empathetic and compassionate individual?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewers ask this question as compassion and empathy are essential traits to possess as a physiotherapist. They want to see if your former manager, someone working closest to you, would describe you as an empathetic and compassionate healthcare provider. As with any interview question, you want to be completely honest, especially with the same questions that can be asked of your previous employer or manager when checking references.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 10th, 2023
Answer Example
"Yes, my former manager wrote me an exceptional letter of recommendation highlighting what a patient and compassionate team member I am. She described how she frequently sees me actively listening to my patients and their loved ones, providing valuable feedback and words of encouragement, educating them on their condition and care plan, and comforting them when needed. I have also received a Compassionate Care award for the care that I provide to my patients. I was honoured to have been nominated by my previous manager, which she can attest to during my reference check."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 10th, 2023
Communication
7. How do you communicate challenging information to a patient, carer, or family members?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewers understand that 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, carers, and their loved ones can understand. Describe your process for communicating challenging information.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 10th, 2023
Answer Example
"When relaying information to patients, carers, and family members, I look for clues to determine if they 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 10th, 2023
Compatibility
8. What is your most favorite part of working as a physiotherapist?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewers ask this question to see what aspect of your job you enjoy the most. When you respond, they can gain insight into what drives and motivates you in your profession and determine if your passion aligns with the NHS's mission, vision, and culture.
Focus your answer on showing the interviewers you genuinely care about helping the community or working with like-minded individuals in the healthcare industry. You might enjoy helping patients lead a meaningful and fulfilling life, educating patients, carers, and loved ones, or training and supervising junior staff. Describe your favourite part of working as a physiotherapist and why.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 13th, 2023
Answer Example
"What I like most about my job is helping patients understand their medical condition or injury and developing treatment plans to improve their condition. It brings me great joy to see my patients' health improve and see them enjoy their lives to the fullest."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 13th, 2023
Compatibility
9. What is your greatest strength as a physiotherapist?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewers want to hear about your greatest strength as a physiotherapist to determine if you have the qualities they are looking for. Review the job description before your interview and look for keywords the NHS used to describe its ideal candidate. Then, choose one of those keywords you have identified as your greatest strength, showing the interviewers that you have the characteristics they seek. Commonly found keywords in job descriptions for this role on the UK Indeed website include excellent communication, leadership, and teamwork skills, along with the ability to be self-motivated in a high-pressure environment.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 13th, 2023
Answer Example
"My greatest strength as a physiotherapist is my communication skills. I excel in verbal, non-verbal, and written communication. I can take complex medical terminology and explain it to my patients, carers, and family members in a way they can understand. I pick up on non-verbal cues from patients and colleagues and know how to proceed based on these clues. My written documentation skills were developed in a medical documentation course, and supervisors have complimented me on how well my patient files were recorded. While I believe physiotherapists must possess many different strengths, communication would have to be the most important in my mind."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 13th, 2023
Conflict
10. How would you respond if a patient, family member, or carer yelled at you?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
As a healthcare provider, there will be times when you will have a patient, family member, or carer yell at you. Generally, it will not be because of something you did but because they are uninformed, scared, frustrated, 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, family member, or carer if they yelled at you.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 10th, 2023
Answer Example
"I have found it is common for patients, family members, or carers to lash out at those trying to help when they are frustrated, scared, or in pain. When a patient, family member, or carer 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 concerns and make them happy. If a patient lashes 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 those I am working with happy."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 10th, 2023
Conflict
11. Think about a difficult manager, professor, or colleague. What made them difficult? How did you successfully interact with this person?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Throughout life, you will encounter certain people that may be challenging to be around. The interviewers understand you will encounter many different personalities and want to see how you manage difficult people. How you respond should let the interviewers know you are easy to get along with and possess patience and conflict-resolution skills.
Think about that one person at work or school who is seen as hard to please. Perhaps they bully or intimidate others, gossip behind people's backs, or constantly criticize others. Talk to the interviewers about what made this person challenging and their relationship with you. Avoid speaking poorly of anyone, and focus on ending your response on a positive note.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 11th, 2023
Answer Example
"At my previous job, I had a manager who was going through a nasty divorce. He took his anger and frustration on my colleagues and me and criticized everything we did. Over the course of three weeks, five of my colleagues quit because the work environment was so toxic. I kept my head down and did my job, knowing he was going through a tough time and figuring it would soon pass. But after losing five colleagues because of the work environment, I decided to talk with my manager. I invited him to lunch and asked how he was doing. He broke down and said he was not doing good. He explained how his wife gained custody of his children and would not allow him to have supervised visits. He described how angry he was and how helpless he felt. After he was done talking, I explained how his anger and frustration affected the team and employee morale and that maybe he needed to talk with someone or take some time off. He was unaware of how he had been acting and said he was so consumed with his divorce and the custody battle that he was not acting himself. He thanked me for bringing attention to his behaviour and said he would seek help through the Employee Assistance Program. After our lunch, he was much easier to work with and apologized to the team for his behaviour."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 11th, 2023
Diligence
12. In your research, what did you find the most fascinating about the NHS?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Before applying to the NHS, you most likely researched the organization to ensure it is where you want to work. The interviewers want to see that you were diligent and did your homework before applying, or at least before your interview. They want to see what you found the most fascinating about the NHS and what made you pursue a career with the UK's largest employer. In your response, it is always good to highlight any accolades the NHS has received in the news, awards they have won, expansions they have made, or the NHS's core values, mission, and vision. Let the interviewers know what stood out to you the most after learning what you did in your research.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 9th, 2023
Answer Example
"During my research, what I found most fascinating about the NHS is that they are the largest employer in the UK and the fifth largest in the world, employing over 1.5 million people across Wales, England, Scotland, and Northern Ireland. Currently, the NHS sees over 1 million patients every 36 hours, which I also find extremely astonishing and impressive."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 9th, 2023
Diligence
13. How do you stay up-to-date on the latest trends and advancements in your profession?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewers ask this question to see how you stay up-to-date on the latest trends and advancements available to physiotherapists. There are publications, webinars, conferences, podcasts, in-person training, and continuing education courses to offer training in the latest trends. The interviewers want to see that you take your profession seriously by staying current on what's happening in your industry. When responding to this question, describe all the different ways you stay current. The more methods you have, the better. This is also an excellent opportunity to ask the interviewers how they like to stay current, if you wish.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 13th, 2023
Answer Example
"I am an avid reader and like to stay current on changes in the industry by reading industry briefs and peer-reviewed articles. I also subscribe to the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy, which informs readers of timely and pertinent topics affecting the industry. Additionally, I listen to a physio podcast while driving or doing chores around the house. If I may ask, what resources do you prefer to stay on top of industry trends and changes? I am always looking for fresh ideas."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 13th, 2023
Diligence
14. What is the mission of the NHS?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
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 mission is 'to provide care and services that we and our families would want to use.' Focus on memorizing the vision so you can easily respond to this question.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 10th, 2023
Answer Example
"The mission of the NHS is to provide the care and services that our families and we would want to use. I love that the NHS's mission statement is clear, concise, and will resonate with most people. I don't know anyone who would not want quality care and service for themselves and their families when dealing with an illness or injury."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 10th, 2023
Direct
15. How do you expect to make a difference at the NHS?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewers only want to hire individuals who will positively benefit the NHS. They want to see that you will bring experience, knowledge, and an excellent attitude to the organization while being a positive role model for those you work with. Explain how you will make a difference at the NHS by offering compassionate care to your patients, following the NHS's policies and procedures, mentoring junior physiotherapists, or adding value in another manner.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 14th, 2023
Answer Example
"I expect to make a difference at the NHS by bringing my five years of physiotherapy knowledge and expertise to the organization while providing junior physiotherapists with training and mentorship opportunities. I have a strong work ethic, solid communication skills, and provide compassionate care to all patients. I always come to work with a smile and a positive attitude, which rubs off on those around me. I love what I do, and I look forward to this opportunity to finish out my career with the NHS."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 14th, 2023
Direct
16. Why did you leave your last job?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
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 at the NHS.
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 interviewers how you are excited to have the opportunity to interview for the position with their organization.
Avoid saying anything negative about your previous employer, manager, patients, or colleagues. When you speak poorly of others, it shows the interviewers that you may be challenging to work with and talk about others behind their backs.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 13th, 2023
Answer Example
"I left my last job because I moved out of the area to be closer to my sister and her family. I worked for a private clinic, and they do not have a clinic in the area I could transfer to. Plus, even if they did, I would still be here interviewing for this position as you offer more room for advancement within your organization and encourage and support your employees in doing so. I want to work for an organization with which I can spend the rest of my career, and I see that happening with the NHS."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 13th, 2023
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Direct
17. Can you give us one reason why we shouldn't hire you?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewers hope to hear that there is no reason not to hire you! They want to hear that you would be a great employee and are confident in your skills and abilities. Share how you are patient-focused, have a proven employment record, and have excellent references. Describe the attributes that make you a great employee and how they will benefit the NHS if hired. Most of all, you want to assure the interviewers there is no reason they shouldn't hire you.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 12th, 2023
Answer Example
"No, there is not one reason why you should not hire me. I meet and exceed your requirements and have the knowledge and experience you are looking for. I am energetic, dependable, compassionate, and have a strong work ethic. If you choose to hire me for the position, you will not be disappointed in my performance."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 12th, 2023
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Direct
18. What skill or characteristic would you like to improve as a physiotherapist?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewers want to hear what you would like to improve as a physiotherapist to see that you are self-aware and can identify an area that needs improvement. When you admit you have a deficiency in a particular aspect of your profession and take steps to enhance it, it shows the interviewer that you are motivated and inspired to grow professionally. When responding, be sure to talk about a skill or characteristic you would like to improve that is related to your profession but not one that will be a deal-breaker for the role. For example, if you say you would like to improve your bedside manner as you are a little curt with your patients, the interviewers may pass you over for another candidate.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 14th, 2023
Answer Example
"It hasn't been essential for my profession to date, but I want to become fluent in Polish. My grandfather is from Poland, and I grew up speaking some Polish. However, as an adult, I have not used it much. I see that you have more Polish patients than where I previously worked. It would be incredible to speak directly to my Polish-speaking patients without an interpreter, so I have signed up with an online tutor who has been meeting with me twice a week. At the rate I am going, he said I should be fluent by next month."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 14th, 2023
Direct
19. We have an unusual number of qualified applicants for this position. Why should we choose you?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewers mention that 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. However, 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 an employee. Then, focus on using those keywords in your response while highlighting unique attributes that make you a better candidate than others.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 10th, 2023
Answer Example
"I understand there are many qualified applicants for this position, who I am sure would all do well. However, you should choose me as I have more experience and credentials than the job requires. I am passionate about my job as a physiotherapist and have been certified as a neurological and pain management physiotherapist. With these subspecialties, I can make a more accurate clinical diagnosis to treat my patients more effectively. My knowledge and experience also allows me to better educate patients and carers on how to improve the patient's condition and enjoy a better quality of life. I am excited to bring my skills and expertise to the NHS and be a positive role model for the new generation of physiotherapists."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 10th, 2023
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Discovery
20. What do you like to do in your free time?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Working in healthcare can be a stressful and emotionally taxing career. The interviewers ask this question to see what interests you and if you have healthy avenues to decompress. They want to hear what hobbies and activities you enjoy and know that you spend time away from work destressing from the pressures of the job.
Focus on describing three or four activities you enjoy. The interviewers want to see what interests you and determine how well you will get along with other team members based on your interests.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 13th, 2023
Answer Example
"I have three children between the ages of eight and thirteen, so my free time is usually spent running them to sports practices, games, and music lessons. Since they are all in school, I take the mornings to do things for myself, like running, going to the gym, or meeting up with friends for coffee. Taking care of myself first is important so I am better equipped to care for my family and patients. In the evenings, after the kids go to bed, I enjoy curling up with a good book and a cup of tea, which is also calming and helps to reduce stress."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 13th, 2023
Discovery
21. How did you hear about this position?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The NHS invests a lot of money in advertising its job openings. The interviewers are curious to hear what methods are effective and which are not. They also want to hear if an employee of the NHS referred you. Some NHS trusts offer their employees a referral fee when referring a candidate, while others hire recruiters to seek qualified candidates. Describe how you heard about the position, and be sure to give the name of the employee or recruiter who referred you if applicable. If you saw the job advertised on a job website like Glassdoor or Indeed or on the NHS career page on their website, be sure to let the interviewers know.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 13th, 2023
Answer Example
"I found out about the position by searching your website. I knew I wanted to work for your organization after one of my friends named Rebecca Hollingsworth described why she enjoys working for the NHS. I was looking for a change, searched your careers page, and saw an opening in my field."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 13th, 2023
Discovery
22. Can you please explain your two-year employment gap?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Sometimes, candidates have a gap in their employment history for various reasons. Perhaps you took time off to raise a family, care for ageing parents, pursue higher education, or volunteer overseas. The interviewers are curious why you took time off to see if that will be a continuing habit if hired for the physiotherapy position. Unless the gap was due to a personal issue, such as a mental health crisis, share why there is a gap on your resume or CV and assure the interviewers that you will be a long-term employee if hired.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 13th, 2023
Answer Example
"Yes, I would be happy to. I have a two-year employment gap because my father was diagnosed with ALS. I took time off to care for him in his last years, as he was given less than two years to live. I would not allow him to go into a facility and wanted to care for him in his home. I am an only child, and my mum died the year prior, so there was no one else to care for him. I do not regret spending time with him before he passed, but I do not foresee needing to take an extended period of time off work again."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 13th, 2023
Discovery
23. At what point in your life did you decide you wanted to work as a physiotherapist?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewers ask this question to see when and why you decided to pursue a career as a physiotherapist. When you respond, they will learn more about your personal reasons for choosing this profession and what motivates and inspires you in life. The best answer is one from the heart. The interviewers want to hear that you are passionate about your job and genuinely care about helping others.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 9th, 2023
Answer Example
"I was nine years old when I decided I wanted to become a physiotherapist. At that age, I didn't even know what one was until I had an accident. I was hit by a car when I was crossing the street to play with my neighbour. I had a head injury, femur fracture, broken arm, herniated disc, and a broken scapula. I was in the hospital for three months and in therapy for nine months. During that time, I became very close with my physiotherapist, who was like a big sister to me. It was then that I decided I wanted to grow up to be just like her, and here I am! We stayed in contact after I recovered from my injuries, and she mentored me to become a physiotherapist. We are still friends, and she has been an excellent friend and mentor."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 9th, 2023
Discovery
24. Why do you want to work for the NHS instead of another organization?
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 why you want to work for the NHS over other organizations.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 9th, 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 take online classes towards my Master's degree and am amazed by the NHS's support to working students."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 9th, 2023
Discovery
25. If you were writing your memoir, what would it be about?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The Brittanica Dictionary describes the difference between an autobiography and a memoir. An autobiography is an account of a person's entire life, while a memoir is generally a description of only a part of a person's life. In a sense, this question is similar to asking you to tell the interviewers about yourself. The interviewers want to briefly learn something interesting and unique about you. Describe what you would like the world to know if you decided to write a memoir.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 9th, 2023
Answer Example
"Wow, that is an interesting question! If I were to write a memoir, it would be about my being adopted as an infant and my journey to find my biological parents. I was left outside a hospital when I was three days old and later adopted by the nurse who found me. I always knew I was adopted and considered my adoptive parents my parents. However, when I was 16 years old, I became intrigued with finding my biological parents, and my parents encouraged and assisted me in doing so. After searching for six years, we found my biological mum. It was heartwarming and heartbreaking at the same time. That is the story I would write about if I wrote a memoir."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 9th, 2023
Leadership
26. As a physiotherapist, what experience do you have training and supervising others?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewers will ask this question if one of the job duties is to train and supervise others. Most NHS Band 7 physiotherapist job openings on the UK Indeed website have training and supervising junior physiotherapists and other support staff as a job duty. The interviewers want to determine your experience and qualifications in a teaching capacity to see if you will be a good fit for their organization.
Focus on describing your years of experience training others and in what capacity. Explain if you have taught and mentored new physiotherapists, provided continuing education training, or trained other healthcare team members.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 14th, 2023
Answer Example
"As a physiotherapist, I have taught physiotherapy students at the college level for the past two years. I have also mentored new physiotherapy graduates and support staff at my previous job. While that position did not allow me to supervise a team, I have gained leadership experience during college and my teaching job. I am confident in my training and leadership abilities and look forward to this opportunity to bring my skills and experience to the NHS."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 14th, 2023
Performance Based
27. The position you are interviewing for is known for being extremely busy. If hired, how will you handle the daily pressures of the job?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewers want to see that you understand the position you are interviewing for is extremely busy and hear how you will handle the daily stress and pressures of the job. Many in healthcare positions thrive on working in a fast-paced environment and can easily handle the pressures the work entails. Let the interviewers know you are one of those types of people while explaining how you handle working in stressful environments. Also, be sure to mention how you take care of your physical and mental health on your days off to ensure you are ready to handle whatever work may throw at you.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 9th, 2023
Answer Example
"I have a friend who works on the ward, and he told me how busy they are. That is one of the reasons I applied to this position. I enjoy working in a fast-paced and busy environment and handle the pressure of the job very well. I feel I work best under pressure, like many of my colleagues. To help keep the work stressors from negatively affecting me, I am sure to take good care of my mental and physical health. I work out or practice deep breathing exercises every morning, eat healthy, spend quality time with my family, and get plenty of rest. Taking care of myself allows me to take care of others without letting the pressures of the job get in the way."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 9th, 2023
Role-Specific
28. After reading the job description, what do you like most about this position?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewers ask this question to see that you have read the job description in its entirety and determine what aspect of the role you like the most. Most NHS Band 7 physiotherapist job postings have many job duties you will be asked to perform. The interviewers want to know what you like the most to see where your strengths and interests lie.
Describe what you like most about the job and provide your reason why. For example, you might like that you will be responsible for training and supervising junior physiotherapists. Tell the interviewers why this particular job duty excites you.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 13th, 2023
Answer Example
"There are many aspects of the job description that are appealing. What I like most about this position is being in charge of training and mentoring junior physiotherapists. I have worked in a teaching capacity for the past five years and love sharing my knowledge and experience with others."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 13th, 2023
Situational
29. Have you ever made a mistake when treating a patient? If so, what did you do?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
While not ideal, it is not uncommon for physiotherapists and other healthcare professionals to make mistakes when treating patients. The interviewers understand everyone is human and things will happen. They want to hear that you are honest and can own up to your mistakes and that you 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. If you have been fortunate enough to have never made a mistake, let the interviewers know how cautious you are with your patients and what you would do if you ever made a mistake.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 10th, 2023
Answer Example
"I am diligent and detail-oriented when working with my patients, so mistakes hardly ever occur. However, I made a mistake when I started working as a physiotherapist. For some reason, I thought my patient's name was Kerry, but I misread the chart, and it was Kelly. I kept calling my patient Kerry, and she did not correct me for the two weeks I worked with her. It wasn't until one of her nurses corrected me that I realized I was always calling her the wrong name. I apologized to my patient, who thought it was funny, and I made more effort to ensure I saw the name correctly before greeting my patients. Since then, I have never made that mistake again."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 10th, 2023
Tough
30. Will you have an issue undertaking an enhanced DBS check before employment with the NHS?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
To work as a physiotherapist for the NHS, you must undertake a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. Since your job entails working with children and vulnerable adults, you will be required to have an enhanced DBS check. This check allows employers to check your criminal record to decide if you are suitable for their organization. Let the interviewers know you do not have an issue taking an enhanced DBS check since you have nothing to hide.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 10th, 2023
Answer Example
"No, I do not have an issue undertaking an enhanced DBS check. I had one two years ago and had no issues come up. I am honest and have never been charged with any criminal behaviour, so I am sure an enhanced check will also show I am a suitable candidate for your organization."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 10th, 2023