30 NHS Band 7 Radiographer Interview Questions & Answers
Below is a list of our NHS Band 7 Radiographer interview questions. Click on any interview question to view our answer advice and answer examples. You may view six 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. Critical Thinking Questions
- 7. Diligence Questions
- 8. Direct Questions
- 9. Discovery Questions
- 10. Experience Questions
- 11. Job Satisfaction Questions
- 12. Leadership Questions
- 13. Performance Based Questions
- 14. Role-Specific Questions
- 15. Stress 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 make sure 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. Of course, you want to review the job announcement and research the organization beforehand so you are not asking questions that could be found during your research. Additionally, now is an excellent time to thank the interviewers for their time and for letting you ask questions, showing you have manners and respect.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 4th, 2023
Answer Example
"Thank you for asking and for your time today. Yes, I do have a couple of questions. First, when would you like to have this position filled? And second, are there any required qualifications you do not see on my resume?"
Written by Krista Wenz on April 4th, 2023
Career Goals
2. What are your professional goals for the next five years?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewers ask this question for two reasons. They want to see if you have 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 NHS. Companies invest a lot of money and time to hire and train employees, and the interviewers want to know that you will be a long-term employee and a wise investment if hired.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 4th, 2023
Answer Example
"I am fascinated by sonography and plan on completing a sonography degree apprenticeship in the next three years. I see there is a high need for sonographers within the NHS, and I hope to do a lateral transfer once I complete the apprenticeship. From there, I want to focus on working in obstetrics and gynaecology and gaining experience before setting new longer-term career goals."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 4th, 2023
Communication
3. How would you describe your communication skills?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewers ask this question to see that you have the solid verbal and written communication skills required for the NHS Band 7 position. Your job duties will include speaking to your patients, managers, colleagues, and the public. You will also be responsible for written communications when writing reports and communicating by email. The interviewers want to hear that you have the necessary communication skills for the role.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 1st, 2023
Answer Example
"I would describe my communication skills as above average. I work very hard to ensure I speak to my patients 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."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 1st, 2023
Communication
4. How do you communicate challenging information to a patient, carer, or family member?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
As a radiographer, you must communicate information to patients, carers, and their family members that may be challenging for them to understand if they are not in the medical field. 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 to those not in the healthcare industry.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 1st, 2023
Answer Example
"When relaying complex information to a patient, carers, and 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. If the information that needs to be delivered is outside my scope of practice as a radiographer, I will ask the physician to speak with the patient and family."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 1st, 2023
Compatibility
5. What makes you the best candidate for this position?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
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. Review the job announcement before your interview and highlight the qualities, experience, and education the NHS seeks in its Band 7 radiographer. Then, focus on using those keywords in your response. When describing how you meet their job requirements, the interviewers will see that you are a highly qualified candidate and place you high on the list.
However, 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.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 31st, 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 seven years of volunteer and paid experience as a radiographer working with the local community and overseas in developing countries. 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 and role model to the NHS."
Written by Krista Wenz on March 31st, 2023
Compatibility
6. Other than English, do you speak any other languages fluently?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Generally, the NHS does not require staff members to speak a foreign language fluently. However, there are some NHS Band 7 radiographer jobs on the Indeed UK website that prefer their candidates to speak a foreign language based on the geographical location of the job. The interviewers ask this question to see if you speak any foreign languages fluently to determine if you meet their preferred requirements. Describe what languages you speak and your fluency level. If you are taking language courses and are not quite yet fluent, explain how close you are to speaking fluently.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 4th, 2023
Answer Example
"Yes, I was raised in a German-Irish household and speak both fluently. I am also taking Spanish courses as I want to travel to South America, and I feel I am at a 75% fluency level. I am also open to taking other language courses if you have a high demographic of patients who speak a language I do not speak."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 4th, 2023
Compatibility
7. How do you expect to make a difference at the NHS?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewers want to understand what benefits you would bring to the company if hired. You want to avoid being humble when answering this question, as now is the time to sell yourself and let the interviewers know why they should hire you for the position. Think about what kind of impact you could make. Possible things that come to mind are:
- Creating a favourable environment for patients and family members by smiling, asking them how their day is going, and providing them with compassionate care
- Building business relationships with your colleagues so everyone looks forward to coming to work each day
- Mentoring and leading the junior radiographers while sharing your expertise
- Being a positive steward and role model for the NHS
Describe the unique qualities and traits you will bring to the organization if hired. You can tell the interviewers about your excellent bedside manner, positive attitude, and willingness to help patients and colleagues alike.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 4th, 2023
Answer Example
"I expect to make a difference at the NHS by bringing my six years of radiology knowledge and expertise to your company and providing the leadership and mentoring you expect from a senior radiographer. I always come to work with a smile and a positive attitude, which rubs off on those around me. I have a strong work ethic, solid communication skills, and an excellent work history with few excused absences. 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 4th, 2023
Compatibility
8. Name three of your greatest strengths related to your profession.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewers want to hear about three of your greatest strengths as a radiographer 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 three of those keywords that you have identified as your greatest strengths, showing the interviewers that you have the characteristics they are looking for.
Suppose the job description says the NHS seeks an experienced, compassionate radiographer with solid communication and interpersonal skills to work in a leadership position. In that case, describe your greatest strengths as either your experience, compassion, communication, interpersonal, or leadership skills. Focus on using three keywords from the job description so the interviewers can see you have the qualities they seek in their ideal candidate.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 1st, 2023
Answer Example
"My three greatest strengths as a radiographer are my communication, leadership, and interpersonal skills. I have excellent verbal and written communication skills and can explain complex terms in easy-to-understand terms. I have led many diverse groups at work and in a volunteer capacity and I have exceptional listening and teamwork skills. Additionally, I have over five years of experience honing these skills in my profession, and I look forward to bringing these strengths to this position with the NHS."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 1st, 2023
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Conflict
9. How do you handle a dispute with a colleague or manager?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
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 explaining how you handled a past disagreement with a person you worked 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 4th, 2023
Answer Example
"Over the years, I have found the involved parties can fix most disputes 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 conflicts are simply a misunderstanding or lack of communication. When I have a dispute with someone I work with, 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 4th, 2023
Conflict
10. How would you respond if a patient or their family member yelled at you or called you a derogatory name?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
As a radiographer, there will be times when you will have a patient or family member yell at you or even call you a derogatory name. Generally, it will not be because of something you did but because they are uninformed, scared, under the influence, 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 or said something rude and uncalled for.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 31st, 2023
Answer Example
"If I had a patient or family member yell at me or call me a name, I would want to see why they were upset and resolve the issue. I would calmly ask them why they were yelling at me and explain that if they want respect, they must be respectful towards me and not call me names. Once I understand why they are yelling at me, I can decide how to address their concern and make them happy. If they were yelling at me because of a medical condition or mental health issue, I would get a nurse or doctor to address their physical or mental health concerns. In my time as a radiographer, 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. I understand I cannot take anything personally, and do not let it negatively affect me."
Written by Krista Wenz on March 31st, 2023
Critical Thinking
11. Have you ever encountered an emergency in your role as a radiographer? If so, what did you do?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewers ask if you have ever encountered an emergency as a radiographer to gain insight into your critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving skills. Since you have experience as a radiographer, chances are you may have encountered an emergency and can explain how you responded. If you have not had to deal with an emergency, explain how you would react if faced with that situation.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 31st, 2023
Answer Example
"Yes, I have encountered many emergencies in my career as a radiographer. I worked in accident and emergency for five years, so every day was an emergency. I work extremely well under pressure and can stay calm and level-headed no matter what is thrown my way. That is why I applied specifically for this position in accident and emergency with the NHS, as I enjoy the environment and know every day will bring something different."
Written by Krista Wenz on March 31st, 2023
Diligence
12. Tell us what you have learned about the NHS during your research.
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 interesting 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 why you are excited to work for their organization after learning what you did in your research.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 31st, 2023
Answer Example
"During my research, I discovered the NHS is 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. The NHS was launched on July 5th, 1948, by former Health Secretary Aneurin Bevan, who believed society could not be civilized if a sick person were denied medical care because of a lack of means. Currently, the NHS sees over 1 million patients every 36 hours, which I find astonishing and impressive. I was also impressed by the fact that the NHS employs the majority of radiographers in the UK."
Written by Krista Wenz on March 31st, 2023
Diligence
13. What is the vision 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 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.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 1st, 2023
Answer Example
"The vision of the NHS is to enable people to live healthier and more independent lives through high-quality seamless care. I love that your vision is short and to the point. People remember a company's mission and vision statement when it is clear and resonates with them."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 1st, 2023
Diligence
14. Can you please describe at least one of the NHS values?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Suppose you're applying for a radiographer job in the NHS or an organization that provides NHS services. In that case, you'll be asked to demonstrate the values of the NHS Constitution and how they would apply to your everyday work. The NHS has six values that all staff are expected to demonstrate, listed on the NHS health careers website. The interviewers ask this question to see that you have researched the NHS before your interview and that you can name at least one of the six values. However, you may be asked to name all six, so be prepared to answer all of them before your interview. 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
Written by Krista Wenz on April 4th, 2023
Answer Example
"I noticed on the NHS website there are six values that all staff are expected to demonstrate. Every value resonates with me, and that is what made me excited to apply to the NHS. The first value is the patients come first. All staff members work together for the patients while offering dignity and respect. These are a few of the values of the NHS, which I will demonstrate if chosen for the position."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 4th, 2023
Diligence
15. How do you stay up-to-date on the latest trends 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, technology, and techniques radiographers use. There are publications, webinars, conferences, podcasts, in-person training, and continuing education courses to offer radiographers training in the latest trends in the medical field. The interviewers want to see that you take your profession seriously by staying current on the latest industry issues. When responding to this question, describe all the different ways you stay current. The more methods you have to keep up-to-date, the better.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 3rd, 2023
Answer Example
"I stay current with the ongoing advancements in my profession in many ways. I subscribe to several industry blogs, such as the British Institute of Radiology and Remote Radiology Reporting, that deliver a message to my email when a new blog outlines the latest trends. I also read scholarly articles and listen to the RadCast Podcast every morning on my way to work. I have also attended five radiology conferences in the past five years that always has the latest on advancements and technology in my field."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 4th, 2023
Direct
16. 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, its high number of patients, or its use of cutting-edge technology.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 31st, 2023
Answer Example
"There are many reasons I want to work for the NHS. Your reputation and opportunities for professional growth are unmatched. 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 for working parents. Additionally, the NHS is known for having top-of-the-line and cutting-edge technology, which is exciting as a radiographer who uses many diagnostic tools."
Written by Krista Wenz on March 31st, 2023
Direct
17. Why are you looking for new employment?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewers want to know why you are looking for new employment 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 seek new 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 1st, 2023
Answer Example
"I am looking for new employment because I recently moved closer to my ageing parents. I worked for a private agency, and they do not have a facility in the area I could transfer to. However, I am excited for this opportunity to work for the NHS in a leadership role, which was not attainable at my previous employment due to the management structure."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 3rd, 2023
Discovery
18. How would your references describe you?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
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 7 radiographer and if they want to continue moving forward in the interview process.
If you have past performance reviews or letters of recommendation from your references, review them before your interview. You will be better prepared to answer the question if what they wrote is fresh in your mind. It is also good to have copies for the interviewers if they would like a copy for their files.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 1st, 2023
Answer Example
"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 above-average communication and leadership skills. I have three copies of performance reviews and letters of recommendation from former employers if you would like to have them."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 1st, 2023
Discovery
19. Tell us a bit about yourself.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Interviewers often ask this question first to break the ice and start the conversation. Take a few minutes to tell the interviewers about yourself, demonstrating essential skills and characteristics that are valuable in your role as a radiographer.
Taking the past, present, and future approach in your response is recommended. You want to mention how you started down your career path, what steps you have taken to get to where you are now, and your future goals. Be sure to highlight any promotions or achievements you are proud of and any other work-related accomplishments. You can mention extracurricular activities you are interested in, family life, or volunteer work if it ties in with the qualities needed for the job, showing you are a responsible and dedicated individual.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 31st, 2023
Answer Example
"Yes, of course. I am an only child of parents working in healthcare, so it has always seemed a natural fit for me to do the same. I started with the NHS as a volunteer patient companion and discovered my fascination with imaging tools. I started working as a radiography assistant while attending Bangor University to obtain my degree in radiography, then immediately started working as a radiographer for the same company. I enjoyed my time at Bangor and continued with the master's program in neuroimaging. I have three years of experience as a radiographer and have decided I want to finish my career with the NHS. I am excited to have worked my way up through the bands and look forward to working in a leadership position training new radiographers."
Written by Krista Wenz on March 31st, 2023
Discovery
20. Why did you pursue a career as a radiographer?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewers want to hear your reasons for choosing this profession to understand what inspired and motivated you to pursue a career as a radiographer. They want to hear if another radiographer mentored you, if you have family or friends who work in healthcare, or if you had an excellent experience with a radiographer.
Focus on giving your personal 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 their organization.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 31st, 2023
Answer Example
"I knew I wanted a career working in healthcare but was not sure in what capacity. I chose to pursue a career as a radiographer after researching the roles most involved with technology and direct patient care. The radiographer position utilizes my hard and soft skills and seemed like the best fit for me. I love that I have direct patient care and that my work helps diagnose and monitor diseases and injuries so patients can receive high-quality care to address their condition."
Written by Krista Wenz on March 31st, 2023
Experience
21. What is your experience working as a radiographer?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The job announcement should say how many years of experience the NHS requires for the Band 7 radiographer role, but it will generally be at least three to four years. The interviewers want to hear about your experience to ensure you are qualified for the position, as they may not be aware. Studies have shown that interviewers, recruiters, and hiring managers generally spend six to eight seconds glancing over a candidate's resume or CV. Give examples of how many years of experience you have and who you have worked with previously. Be sure to include volunteer experience in your field, as well.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 1st, 2023
Answer Example
"I have worked for the past five years as a radiographer performing mammograms at the Bupa Health Centre in Bristol. I worked in a hectic and fast-paced environment where I provided all imaging procedures on patients, maintained quality assurance of tests conducted, and ensured confidential data collection. I enjoyed working as part of a multidisciplinary team where I could provide the best quality service to my patients. I am excited about this opportunity with the NHS, and look forward to bringing my skills and experience to your amazing team."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 1st, 2023
Job Satisfaction
22. What do you like the most about working as a radiographer?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewers ask this question to see what aspect of the 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 vision and culture.
Focus your answer on showing the interviewers you genuinely care about helping patients and enjoy working with like-minded individuals. You might like working with patients to help them find a diagnosis of their concerns, mentoring new radiographers, or working with technology while providing direct patient care. Whatever you enjoy the most, the interviewers want to hear!
Written by Krista Wenz on April 3rd, 2023
Answer Example
"What I like most about my job is helping patients receive a diagnosis of their medical condition or injury. Although the imaging results may not be good news, I can see the look of relief when patients finally have an answer to what is bothering them and can work to become better. I really enjoy technology and direct patient care, and this job allows me to have the best of both worlds."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 3rd, 2023
Leadership
23. Tell us about your experience supervising and training others.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
As a senior radiographer, your duties may include training junior radiographers and support staff and supervising a radiography team. The interviewers want to hear if you have prior experience leading and teaching others, how many years of experience, and in what capacity. If you are inexperienced with these job responsibilities, assure the interviewers that you learn quickly and are excited to train and supervise new and current team members.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 1st, 2023
Answer Example
"Near the end of my radiographer training, I was assigned to help train and mentor junior radiography students. While doing so, I found I enjoy teaching and using my leadership skills. In my previous role, I supervised and led a small team of radiographers, radiography assistants, and imaging support workers at the community clinic. I have also assisted with the clinic's onboarding and training process and have volunteered for the past three years to train the community on First-Aid, CPR, and AED use. I applied to this position as it will allow me to continue training and supervising others while passing on my knowledge and expertise."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 1st, 2023
Performance Based
24. What is your greatest weakness, and what are you doing to improve?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewers want to hear about your greatest weakness as a radiographer 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 improve, it shows the interviewers that you are motivated and inspired to grow professionally.
You want to mention a weakness related to your profession, but not one that is an essential job duty. For example, suppose you say your weakness is your verbal communication skills. In that case, the interviewers may pass you over for another candidate since that skill is essential to being an excellent radiographer in a senior radiographer position.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 4th, 2023
Answer Example
"My greatest weakness is difficulty saying 'no' to working overtime or being on-call. While it might not seem like a weakness, it has been interfering with my work/life balance and is starting to affect my relationship with my fiance. I spoke with my fiance, and we developed a plan to make it easier to say no. I started writing my schedule in a Google calendar and adding time to spend with my fiance and family. If I am asked to work overtime or on-call, I check my calendar and will decline the offer if I have something personal scheduled. Of course, I will make exceptions if it's an emergency shift coverage, as long as I reschedule the time lost with my family and fiance. So far, it has been working well, and I see it becoming easier to say no."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 4th, 2023
Role-Specific
25. 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 and determine what aspect of the role you like the most. Most NHS Band 7 radiographer 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 lie.
Focus on describing what you like most about the job and why. For example, you might like that you will be responsible for training all junior radiographers and providing regular performance evaluations. Tell the interviewers why this particular job duty excites you.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 4th, 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 radiographers and conducting annual performance evaluations. I have worked in a teaching capacity for the past five years and love sharing my knowledge and experience with others. I also enjoy the annual reviews because it lets me show my staff how well they are doing and how much I appreciate their work."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 4th, 2023
Role-Specific
26. What is your favorite diagnostic tool and why?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
As a radiographer, you are taught to use various types of diagnostic imaging tools, such as X-ray machines, CT scanners, digital fluoroscopy, angiograms, cardiac catheterization, and mammograms, to name a few. The interviewers want to gain insight into what excites you in your field by understanding your preferred tool and why. When you respond, be sure to let the interviewers know that you understand each tool has a specific purpose, but all have the same reason for being used, which is to diagnose illness, injury, and disease.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 4th, 2023
Answer Example
"I am fascinated by all of the diagnostic tools out there since they all have a specific function and are what allow me to have a job. If I had to choose my favourite, it would have to be what I was first introduced to and which has been around for a long time, the X-ray machine. I like how they are noninvasive, painless, and help diagnose disease and injury. They are also my favourite because they help support medical and surgical treatment planning and guide medical professionals when performing invasive procedures."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 4th, 2023
Role-Specific
27. Would you describe yourself as an empathetic and compassionate person?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewers ask this question as compassion and empathy are essential traits to possess as a radiographer. Focus on ensuring the interviewers understand you are a compassionate person. You can say you are compassionate and empathetic, 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, helped your neighbours, or comforted a grieving family member. Give your personal example that shows you have compassion for others.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 1st, 2023
Answer Example
"Yes, I most certainly consider myself a compassionate and empathetic person. I take the opportunity to understand and help others whenever possible. While attending University, I spent a lot of time volunteering at a local shelter to give back to others. I would talk with the residents, bring them books and magazines to read, distribute donations, and help in the kitchen. I got into healthcare because of my compassionate nature and desire to help others, and I look forward to continuing this level of compassionate care with your organization."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 1st, 2023
Stress
28. What part of your career brings you the most stress? What do you do to relieve stress?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Stress in the healthcare industry can often be a regular part of the day-to-day work experience. Talk to the interviewers about the most stressful aspect of your career. Ensure that your answer does not include a factor that would make you appear unfit for the position, such as a radiographer should not find working with sick people the most stressful part of the job.
While you want to mention what part of your career brings you the most stress, you don't want to dwell on it. Instead, mention the stressful part and then talk about how you minimize the stress so it does not consume you. If healthcare professionals do not have healthy ways to destress, it can lead to illness, injury, and job burnout.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 31st, 2023
Answer Example
"What brings me the most stress in my career is when I am called to accident and emergency for a pediatric trauma patient. I am always able to be professional, remain calm, and perform my job well, but pediatric trauma patients always make me feel more stressed than other patients. After becoming a mother, pediatric patients hit harder than they did before. To relieve the stress at work, I will speak with a colleague after seeing the patient if I need to talk with someone and debrief. To reduce my stress levels on my days off, I spend time with my husband and kids, go to the gym, get a massage once a week, and listen to relaxing music while trying new recipes in the kitchen."
Written by Krista Wenz on March 31st, 2023
Tough
29. What would you do if a colleague asked you to help steal?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Situational and behavioural questions are often asked in interviews to gain insight into your personality, ethics, and honesty. The interviewers would like to know how you would react if put in an awkward or potentially harmful situation, like being asked by a colleague to steal with them. Theft can occur in many ways in the workplace and is not necessarily reserved for blatantly taking an item. Ensure that you are aware of the different ways a colleague may try to pass stealing off as 'no big deal.' Some examples include:
- Timecard fabrication, also known as 'buddy punching,' where you punch in for a colleague who is not present
- 'Borrowing' money from the cash register or petty cash
- Falsifying vendor or expense accounts
- Taking items from the lost and found
- Stealing data or documents containing confidential data
- Taking expensive office supplies like ink or adding personal items to supply orders
- Billing patients for items/services not used
Of course, you already know how to answer this question! Express that you would never engage in this behaviour and discuss how you would report this type of situation. If this has happened to you in the past, you can talk about the case without providing the colleague's name. Assure the interviewers know that you are an honest person with morals and ethics. Ensure they understand that you would never condone or participate in this behaviour and would report it to your supervisor immediately.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 4th, 2023
Answer Example
"If a colleague asked me to help steal, I would be appalled. I do not condone theft of any kind, and I would let them know that. The people I have worked with in the past know where I stand on this issue, and I have never had a colleague ask me to do anything unethical. If this happened in the future, I would report the incident to my immediate supervisor and document the encounter."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 4th, 2023
Tough
30. Describe your least favorite part of your job.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Most radiographers find more pros than cons to working in their chosen profession. However, there are some, such as long hours, being on call, rules, regulations, rude patients, and working with injured or ill children. The interviewers want to hear what you like the least about being a radiographer to learn more about your personality. Be sure to briefly say what you like least, then end on a positive note by explaining how the other aspects of being a radiographer outweigh the bad.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 3rd, 2023
Answer Example
"My least favourite part of working as a radiographer is the sacrifices my family has to make when I am working long hours or on holidays. However, I discussed the challenges we would face as a family before going to university, and they understood and supported me. We have developed a plan to celebrate holidays and birthdays on my day off before the event so we don't miss out on spending quality time together as a family."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 3rd, 2023