30 NHS Team Leader Interview Questions & Answers
Below is a list of our NHS Team Leader 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. Behavioral Questions
- 3. Communication Questions
- 4. Conflict Questions
- 5. Critical Thinking Questions
- 6. Diligence Questions
- 7. Direct Questions
- 8. Discovery Questions
- 9. EQ Questions
- 10. Experience Questions
- 11. Leadership Questions
- 12. Management Questions
- 13. Operational Questions
- 14. Organizational Questions
- 15. Performance Based Questions
- 16. Situational Questions
- 17. Stress Questions
- 18. Teamwork Questions
Ask The Interviewer
1. What questions do you have for us about the NHS or being a team leader here?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Leadership at the NHS is fully aware of the complexities of the programs they support and the overall lack of general public knowledge of their organisation. They allow you to ask questions you may have so you don't walk away from your interview with any questions unanswered.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2023
How to Answer
Before your interview, write down any questions you may have about the role and the organisation. Throughout your interview, it is okay to have your questions available and ready so you can take notes and keep track of questions that get answered. Most any question is fair game here, just as long as you don't ask selfish questions about your gain with the NHS.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2023
Answer Example
"Thank you so much for asking! You have been so informative during the interview and have answered most of my questions, but there are a few more things I would like to know. Who are the key leaders, and which other departments here at the NHS will my team work most closely with? What do those relationships look like now, and how can I help improve things if I'm fortunate enough to be offered this job?"
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2023
Behavioral
2. Have you ever had to de-escalate a situation with a patient or patient's family member who was upset at staff?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Your staff will have to handle agitated, frustrated, or downright angry patients. Issues like this will often get escalated to you as the team leader. Healthcare leaders at the forefront of patient care will be expected to handle these situations with compassion and professionalism. This question allows you to discuss how you've previously handled cases like this.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2023
Tips
Give an example of a time you dealt with a problematic family member of a patient and describe the situation and how you resolved the conflict. Some great things to discuss are how you actively listened, remained calm, empathized with the patient's feelings, and then took action to provide a mutually great result.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2023
Answer Example
"In my current role, a few months ago, a patient walked in and demanded to be seen. This person was not our patient, and our clinic was already overbooked that day. The front staff let the person know that we could not take walk-in patients and that he would have to call our main office to register as a new patient, and then they would schedule him for an appointment. He was agitated and yelled at our receptionist in front of a room full of patients. I came to the front desk and asked him to step out into the hallway with me. I first ensured he wasn't having a medical emergency, as even if he is not our patient, it's my duty to help someone facing a critical medical situation like chest pain. He had a toothache and wanted something for the pain. I reiterated what our front staff had told him and explained that we had an obligation to treat our current patient load and respect their time so they could provide adequate care to those already waiting. I provided him with a list of walk-in clinics in the area and an emergent care dentist's office. In this situation, it was important to remove him from the main office where he was causing a scene while also trying to provide him alternate solutions so he could get the care he needed."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2023
Behavioral
3. What do you consider your greatest professional achievement of your career to this point?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The NHS is looking for skilled team leaders who are highly motivated and demonstrate excellence and success in their careers. The accomplishment you discuss will indicate whether you will value the work you will do as an NHS team leader.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2023
How to Answer
Whether your accomplishment is related to your volunteer experience, training, or work experience, you can give an example that demonstrates your determination and ability to overcome obstacles and challenges. Describe an accomplishment you are proud of, be specific, and show the interviewer what you're capable of as you answer this question.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2023
Answer Example
"I consider my greatest professional achievement to be my career progression up to this point. Following my time in university, my experience as a technical officer gave me great hands-on experience in a clinical setting and initiated my path into leadership. In this role, I demonstrated my ability to lead others and be a positive influence. This led to promotion to my current position, where I've continued to develop and grow into a leader and manager."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2023
Behavioral
4. Have you ever faced an ethical dilemma in the workplace? If so, how did you handle it?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The NHS places a high value on integrity and a high ethical standard in its mission. As an NHS team leader, it will not be uncommon for ethical dilemmas in the workplace to occur from time to time. Knowing that healthcare leaders want their leadership teams to have a high degree of integrity, you can expect a question about ethical dilemmas you've faced to give your interviewer a sense of how you will handle them in this role.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2023
Tips
Before your interview, consider when your ethics were challenged on the job so you can speak openly about any relevant experiences you've had with this type of situation. You'll want to think carefully about your answer, as it will leave a strong impression. Your answer should highlight your ability to follow policies and do what is necessary to protect patients, staff members, and the organisation.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2023
Answer Example
"In my current position, a colleague asked me to withhold important information about an audit from our leadership team, and I immediately squashed that idea with my colleague. Knowing that some of the information in the audit would reflect poorly on our department, I reiterated to her that the audit was to help seek improvement and that I would be bringing forward all information that day. I also expressed my disappointment that she would even ask. Thankfully, she apologized to me the next day for making that request and assured me it wouldn't happen again."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2023
Behavioral
5. During your career, have you ever dealt with an aggressive or combative patient or client? How did you handle that situation?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Patients receiving care under the NHS can become frustrated with the services and coverage. As an NHS team leader, many patient issues may come your way for triage and resolution and having experience handling upset patients/clients is vital for success in the job. The NHS wants to know that you will remain client focused and professional in seeking results that benefit both the organisation and the patient.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2023
How to Answer
Talk about a situation that demonstrates that you do not take situations like this personally and that you understand that aggressive or combative behaviour likely stems from a legit service issue. Make sure that the example you share proves your ability to listen to the person, act respectfully and professionally and shows that you sought to find a great solution.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2023
Answer Example
"I have handled distraught patients throughout my career in frontline patient care. Last year, I worked with a patient who was very upset about waiting times to get an appointment and was taking their frustration out on me. I took the time to listen to their frustration and then explained why patient access was difficult in our clinic. I suggested seeking urgent care and explained the importance of quick scheduling when he knew he needed it in our clinic. He left the appointment in a much better mood."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2023
Communication
6. How would you describe the communication skills you would bring as an NHS team leader?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Effective communication can relate to all six of the NHS core values. To succeed as an NHS team leader and be a positive force for your team, excellent communication is a crucial skill for you to possess.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2023
How to Answer
Openly discuss your verbal and written communication skills and how they've benefited you in your current and past jobs. Knowing that your job duties as an NHS team leader include speaking to stakeholders, managers, colleagues, and team members, explain how your communication skills will benefit you and your team in this role. You will also be responsible for written communications when writing reports and communicating by email, so make sure not to forget to discuss your written communication skills.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2023
Answer Example
"I consider my communication skills excellent, and they will help me greatly as an NHS team leader. My current manager and team of colleagues appreciate my transparent, direct, and respectful communication. I know these values will be important as a team leader at the NHS. I also have a lot of experience preparing important written communications in my current role, from public addresses to staff email communications. My written communications are concise and clear at all times."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2023
Conflict
7. How do you plan to deal with conflicts between team members?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The deep passion for putting patients first and a commitment to quality of care can make emotions run high for staff at that NHS. As an NHS team leader, conflict among staff can happen from time to time, and you will need to have the ability to manage staff conflicts in a fair, professional and respectful manner.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2023
How to Answer
Have a plan to answer this question during your interview. It's a great idea to talk about things you will bring to the table in this role that will help prevent conflict, like making expectations clear and communicating clear goals. But when the inevitable conflict among your team does happen, it's important to reiterate that you would always involve all parties in discussions and be a great communicator during times of disagreement.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2023
Answer Example
"As an NHS team leader, I will do my best to never let problems explode and start impacting patient care before I get involved. I will always try to identify potential conflicts before they happen. When I've faced colleague conflicts in the past, my approach was to remain calm, communicate with both parties, suggest solutions, and encourage my team to respect each other. At the NHS, new ideas and ways of doing things should always be encouraged, fully knowing that disagreements will happen from time to time."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2023
Critical Thinking
8. Are there any challenges you expect to face if hired as an NHS team leader?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Stepping into the NHS as a team leader will come with many challenges, from meeting and working with a new team of individuals to learning the complexities of the government-funded system that the NHS operates within. If you emerge as a top candidate, the NHS wants to put your mind at ease about any challenges you foresee in the job in hopes you would accept a potential offer.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2023
How to Answer
First and foremost, be honest about anything you see as a potential challenge for yourself as a team leader. What is most important is that you point out that you have put some thought into how you will overcome this challenge. As you consider potential challenges in the role, focus on what you've already learned about the NHS through the application and interview process rather than any gossip you may have heard.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2023
Answer Example
"From my experience in past leadership roles, getting buy-in from staff right from the start can be difficult. Staff are often sceptical of new managers, making it difficult to implement changes and even communicate at times. If I'm fortunate enough to join your team as an NHS team leader, I would plan to be an open and honest communicator and take the time to get to know every person on this team on a 1:1 basis. Once I break through those barriers, I am confident I can improve patient outcomes for the team."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2023
Diligence
9. Can you please describe at least one NHS value?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The NHS Constitution outlines its six core values that outline the bond between the organisation and the people they serve. To be seriously considered as their next team leader, the NHS need to know that you've done your homework on their core values and see their value.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2023
How to Answer
Before your interview with the NHS as their next team leader, take the time to read the NHS Constitution and their six core values. As you do this, you'll quickly see that the values are people-centred. The six values include working together for patients, respect/dignity, commitment to quality of care, compassion, improving lives, and everyone counts; try to pick the value that speaks most to you and what you will bring to the NHS as a team leader.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2023
Answer Example
"The values of the NHS have driven me to apply as an NHS team leader because they all speak to me! They all blend and work together to improve lives, and I would love to be a part of that mission. The NHS is in place to help serve others in need and to provide the best care possible. The number of lives the NHS positively impacts is astounding."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2023
Direct
10. For this team, the NHS team leader will be required to travel out of town occasionally. Will traveling overnight be a problem for you if hired?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Because the NHS operates throughout the United Kingdom, some NHS team leaders must travel for their role. As you researched and applied for the position you are interviewing for, this should have been called in the description of the role. If the job requires travelling, your interviewer will want to hear about your availability for any required travel.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2023
How to Answer
Before your NHS team leader interview, do as much research as possible on the travel required for the job and come prepared to talk openly and honestly about your availability to travel both for the day and overnight trips. It is okay to discuss any family situations/obligations you have and bring up any notice you need for travelling on the job. If the details of the travel required are still unclear to you, you should ask your interviewer questions.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2023
Answer Example
"I saw that requirement in the job description, and travelling will not be a problem. I look forward to that aspect of the job as I am adventurous and enjoy meeting new people and going to new places."
Written by Krista Wenz on January 15th, 2023
Direct
11. What do you know about the NHS?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
For any healthcare-related organisation, hiring managers and leaders want to ensure that candidates have done their homework on the organisation and see it as an excellent fit for themselves. This is especially true for a publicly funded entity like the NHS. Your interviewer wants to know if you've taken the time to research the NHS and learn more about why they do what they do, its mission, and its core values.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2023
How to Answer
As you answer this question, demonstrate that you're being intentional about applying to the NHS and being considered for their opening for an NHS team leader. Take the time to speak about what you've read about the NHS, its leadership team, its mission, what they value, and the patients they serve. Perhaps you know someone who works there, or maybe you've been a patient of theirs in the past. If so, share that experience!
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2023
Answer Example
"I know that the NHS began in 1948 and is a government-funded healthcare provider that citizens can use without being asked to pay the full service cost. It was set up so that everyone shares the burden of the cost so that all citizens needing care can be treated, rich or poor. I would be honoured to be a part of this mission and lead a team of individuals carrying out this mission because I have witnessed the great care the NHS provides firsthand with my parents."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2023
Direct
12. What is your availability to work varying shifts if you were offered this position?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Depending on the organisation and department you are interviewing for with the NHS, the required work hours could vary greatly. If this job as an NHS team leader will require hours outside of the standard Monday through Friday dayshift hours, your interviewer must understand that you are readily available to be dedicated to the job.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2023
How to Answer
Hopefully, you did your due diligence and thoroughly read about the hours requirements before applying for this NHS team leader position. The job posting and descriptions for the NHS clearly outline the expectations of the job. As you answer, talk openly about your work availability and any constraints you may have to work certain days or shifts. It is best to be upfront about your availability during the interview, especially if you emerge as a top candidate. If you haven't gathered the information from the job posting or description, now is an excellent time to confirm what hours will be required if you join the NHS.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2023
Answer Example
"I can work varying shifts and days as needed, but I am excited that this is primarily a Monday through Friday role. I have self-sufficient older children and a spouse who works a consistent schedule, so I can be flexible for changes if I am fortunate enough to become an NHS team leader."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2023
Direct
13. Why are you seeking a new opportunity?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Whether the move to a leadership position is a lateral move or a promotion from your current role, hiring managers will always look to hear personal motivators for making a move to their job. The NHS wants to learn more about why you've decided to apply and pursue their opportunity for the right reasons.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2023
How to Answer
Openly discuss what motivates you about this opportunity, then explain what makes the role with the NHS appealing to you. Rather than go on about your current role and your desire to leave, focus on what it is about this role that appeals to you and why you feel you will succeed in it.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2023
Answer Example
"As you can see from my resume, I've been building and honing my leadership skills over the past five years, and a dear friend alerted me about this opportunity when I wasn't actively looking for a new role. Your mission here at the NHS is so exciting, and I would be honoured to be a part of it in leading a vibrant and impactful team. As I've read about the opportunity and learned more from you today, this has been even further confirmed for me."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2023
Discovery
14. What are the three greatest strengths that make you the top candidate for this position?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
At the NHS, team leaders are expected to be dynamic leaders who lead based on the organisation's core values. This question allows you to share your best sales pitch on what makes you the top candidate for the job by discussing your top three strengths. The interviewers ask this question to see if you have the characteristics and qualities they seek in a project manager.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2023
How to Answer
Prior to your interview with the NHS, reflect on your biggest strengths and how they will lead to your success. As you consider your top strengths, use the job description to tie your strengths to the job. Some great strengths to consider discussing are your communication skills, work ethic, attention to detail and forward vision.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2023
Answer Example
"As I was reading this job posting for an NHS team leader, I quickly realised that my greatest strengths made me a great fit for this role in the long term. I'm a forward-thinking visionary who always focuses on process improvement. I'm confident my forward vision will be beneficial to your organisation. I'm also a top-notch communicator and a respectful leader. The team I would lead and the patients we care for would take well to my work style and personality quickly."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2023
Discovery
15. What would be your greatest weakness as a team leader? What steps would you take to improve this area if hired?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Hiring managers know that any leader they hire will come with some weaknesses. A new employee may be unfamiliar with the systems and processes or lack certain leadership skills. The NHS wants to know that you are aware of any potential weakness and have a plan to address it.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2023
How to Answer
As you answer this question, focus on a weakness that is not an essential job duty. On the other hand, you do not want to tell your interviewer that you don't have any weaknesses because they will see right through that. Feel free to speak openly about any deficiency you would have on day one on the job and come to your interview with a plan to get up to speed in this area. Your interviewer will appreciate your honesty.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2023
Answer Example
"While I'm confident that I would come to the NHS with all of the skills and traits needed to be a great leader and colleague, my lack of intimate knowledge of the NHS and this department is certainly a deficiency that I'm aware of. While I've done a lot of reading and learning about the organisation and this program before the interview, I would continue to do that if I'm fortunate enough to be hired for this job. I would become a student of the program on my first day of work to become an expert not long after starting. I would also learn from my fellow team leaders and the team I oversee."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2023
Discovery
16. Tell me a little about yourself and the type of person we'd be hiring as our next team leader.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Personality and cultural fit is an essential piece of the candidate evaluation equation. While giving you the opportunity to talk about yourself, your interviewer would like to get to know more about you and what makes you a unique individual who would join the NHS as their next team leader.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2023
How to Answer
As you discuss yourself and who you are, you can and should focus on the career/educational path that got you to this point in your career and some great facts about yourself. Engage the interviewer by telling your story with enthusiasm! As you tell your story, explain what makes you a great candidate for the NHS team leader position you are interviewing for.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2023
Answer Example
"If I am fortunate enough to join your group as an NHS team leader, you would get a family-focused leader dedicated to improving lives. My family and I are a very close-knit group and do many things together. I am trying my best to raise my children to be great servant leaders and respectable people, as I hold these values near and dear to my heart. In our free time, we like sightseeing and exploring new places. We are all big football fans and have adopted teams to root for."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2023
EQ
17. According to our NHS Constitution, compassion is one of our core values. How will you ensure your team provides their patients with compassionate care?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
All healthcare organisations, the NHS included, value and promote compassionate patient care. According to the NHS constitution, staff responsibilities include maintaining the highest standards of care and service, treating every individual with compassion, dignity and respect and taking responsibility for the care they provide. As an NHS team leader, you will be expected to lead by example for your entire team on compassionate care.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2023
How to Answer
Compassion can be shown to patients in several ways, such as going the extra mile to ensure they are comfortable, building trusting relationships with them and their families, or showing genuine interest when interacting. Share how you demonstrate compassion to your patients in the workplace and how you will do this from a leadership standpoint with the NHS.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2023
Answer Example
"Throughout my career, I have related to my patients and their families by listening to their situation, empathizing, and striving to understand their emotions. Being in the hospital or home care setting can be very stressful, so I want to reduce their anxiety and demonstrate that I genuinely care about them and their well-being. As an NHS team leader, I would need to promote these same values with my staff and go the extra mile to ensure that my staff have adequate time with patients."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2023
Experience
18. What is your experience in training and managing team performance?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
NHS team leaders are expected to provide real-time performance management and coach their team in both face-to-face and virtual environments. It will be important that NHS understands your experience in these areas as they consider you for the role.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2023
How to Answer
While they have a good idea of your experience by looking at your resume, use this time to highlight any leadership or managerial roles that you have had, including performance management duties and training/coaching opportunities. This could include volunteer work and leadership positions that you may have held in your community. Be sure to give specific examples of how you have created and managed strong teams.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2023
Answer Example
"As you can see from my resume, I spent the last five years in a supervisory role where I was responsible for managing the overall performance metrics of our team. This included day-to-day coaching of staff and conducting quarterly performance reviews for staff. I love having a part in improving the performance of a team and helping people grow into their best as a leader and would love to bring these skills to the NHS as a team leader."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2023
Leadership
19. How would you describe your leadership style, and how do you feel that would benefit you in this position?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
In my years working with healthcare administration and leaders in hiring frontline leaders, they know that every leader comes with their own unique style. If they're going to seriously consider you, your interviewer needs to have a good understanding of your leadership style.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2023
How to Answer
Before your interview with the NHS, consider the qualities that make YOU a great leader. When a question like this, be sure to match your style with the culture and values of the NHS. Research the types of leadership styles out there to see where you best fit. Most importantly, be honest about who you are as a leader.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2023
Answer Example
"I would describe my leadership style as supportive, open, and honest. I know that my current colleagues and staff would stay the same. I believe strongly that a leader needs to lead by example and hold themselves to a very high standard. I walk this talk every day in my work. Here at the NHS, I will treat all my staff with respect and listen attentively to their concerns because these are core values here, and my transparency and respectfulness will carry over to the care they provide."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2023
Leadership
20. As an NHS team leader, how will you effectively lead your team during times of change?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
As new research and clinical evidence lead to new practices and technology transforms the industry, NHS staff need to be fluid and ready to adapt and change at a moment's notice. As an NHS team leader, you will be the agent of change for the team you are responsible for.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2023
How to Answer
To best answer a question regarding managing change during your interview, draw from your experience in managing change. This could be anything from your facility being acquired or merging with another, leadership changes, or even technical changes. The important things to discuss are the tactics you use to manage change and how these will benefit your entire team if you were fortunate enough to join the NHS.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2023
Answer Example
"Throughout my career, I have found that the most important thing about leading a team and myself during change is being educated on why the change is important. As an NHS team leader, I will always communicate the change to staff clearly and explain why we need to make it. I would always listen to my team's concerns before we begin making the change and check in with them frequently during the implementation to see how things are going. Once I know what the concerns are regarding the changes, I brainstorm with the staff on how to improve the changes."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2023
Management
21. Describe your ideal manager and how you like to be managed.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
For a leadership role like an NHS team leader, it is my experience that top levels of healthcare management also want to understand and get a feel for how leadership candidates like to be managed themselves. In the case of this interview, the person interviewing you could be your potential manager, and this question will help them determine if you would align well with them and their leadership style.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2023
How to Answer
Research the culture of the NHS and, if possible, the background and education of the person you're interviewing with before your interview. As you answer, consider past jobs and the best leader you had. Think about what traits or habits they demonstrated that made them someone you enjoyed working under and collaborating with. In your response, explain some of the qualities you're looking for in a leader but also demonstrate that you're flexible and work well under different management styles.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2023
Answer Example
"I have always valued a leader who keeps lines of communication open and who I feel comfortable approaching if I have a concern or need assistance. Additionally, I think it's important for a leader to be supportive and inclusive when it comes to listening to the feedback, ideas, and opinions of others. These are values I would bring here as an NHS team leader and values I would expect out of the person in charge of me in this role."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2023
Operational
22. AT NHS, our goal is to improve lives. As a team leader here, how will you advocate for the patients we care for?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
No matter the service line of the NHS you represent in this role, you will have an opportunity and expectation to advocate for your patients. The one common factor among any group is prioritizing the needs of the patients. As an NHS team leader, you will be expected to advocate for the best care possible to be provided by your team.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2023
How to Answer
Consider how you will advocate for the patients under the care of your team and come to your interview prepared to talk about this. Aspects like patient education, document integrity, protecting patient rights, giving patients a voice or being a voice for patients, ensuring safety, and connecting patients to community resources are all great examples to speak to. Be sure to talk about how you plan to promote this line of thinking with your team as a team leader.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2023
Answer Example
"Patient advocacy is a core competency of healthcare and a great responsibility of an NHS team leader. In this role, a major part of my responsibility would be to ensure my team is well-trained and well-equipped to provide the best care and service to our patients possible. I would encourage my team to prioritize the care of the patient. Last, I know that any patient-centric issues with my team will come to me. This will include patient complaints, and I will always be a proponent for doing what is right for their care."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2023
Operational
23. Here at the NHS, we focus on the overall patient experience. How would you promote a positive patient experience as an NHS team leader?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The overall patient experience entails the entire range of interactions patients have with their healthcare team, and the NHS takes it very seriously. If you are fortunate enough to be hired as their next team leader, the organisation will expect you to positively influence the excellent service and experience your team delivers daily.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2023
How to Answer
While many aspects of the patient experience are out of your control, you will be able to promote service excellence among your team in this role. To impress your interviewer, consider discussing training staff to have a compassionate bedside manner, being responsive to patients, promoting and allowing for follow-through, and being solid communicators.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2023
Answer Example
"From my years of experience, I know that many patients are nervous, anxious, or scared when they are under the care of others. As a new NHS team leader, promoting great service will always be a priority. I believe that providing a great patient experience comes down to doing the little things, like asking someone if they're comfortable or taking the time to listen to them. I would promote quarterly service training for my team on a variety of topics and recognize team members for their great service."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2023
Operational
24. How will you ensure smooth shift changes and hand-offs among your team?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Depending on the type of team you lead with the NHS, maintaining a solid continuity of patient care will be critical. Healthcare administration and leadership need to know that this continuity of care is strong for all patients, and your interviewer is looking to understand your organisational and communication skills in this area.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2023
How to Answer
Describe your process and communication as you manage the wrap-up of one shift and hand over responsibilities to the next shift on duty. While stressing that you are fully aware of the safety issues with new staff coming on shift, reiterate the importance of communication and explain how you will promote this with your team as an NHS team leader.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2023
Answer Example
"Having worked on the frontlines of healthcare for over eight years, I understand the importance of completing patient documentation before the end of a shift. As an NHS team leader, I will ensure that handoffs are communicated in a huddle at the beginning and end of each shift. Important things to cover are new admission, upcoming discharges, personnel issues and changes in the statuses of patients. I would make every effort to be present at shift handoffs with my team as long as I was onsite to troubleshoot any issues."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2023
Organizational
25. Would you describe yourself as a detail-oriented leader?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
I've worked closely with upper-level leaders on recruitment for leadership, managerial, and supervisory positions. Being detail-oriented is a quality that all healthcare organisations look for in their leaders. Given the complexities of the regulations your team will abide by and the large service area your team will cover, you must have excellent attention to detail to succeed in this role.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2023
How to Answer
As you answer this question, describe your attention to detail by using an example that shows you are detail-oriented. You'll want to highlight your ability to avoid distraction and stay focused on task, your organization skills, and your ability to strike a delicate balance between quality and quantity in your work.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2023
Answer Example
"Yes, I am extremely detail-oriented and have proven this ability in my current job for the past eight years. I pride myself on providing error-free work and ensuring my team meets or beats every deadline. My current role requires the ability to multitask, and I do so by keeping my work organised using the tools and resources available to me. As an NHS team leader, I would be very detail-oriented with the work of my entire team and ensure that my team is always on top of the fine details in their work."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2023
Performance Based
26. If you were to join the NHS as our next team leader, what would you hope to accomplish in the first 90 days on the job?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
New leaders with the NHS go through their leadership academy for orientation on all things related to the NHS. While this will typically last for around a month, they want to hear what you feel will be your biggest accomplishments to strive for in your first three months on the job.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2023
How to Answer
Since you will be a new team leader, you should listen and learn the culture and the company's operations during your initial months on the job rather than trying to make any big changes to processes. You could discuss mastering the program you will be overseeing at the NHS, orientating yourself with your team, or identifying and connecting with all key stakeholders you will be working with.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2023
Answer Example
"As a new NHS team leader, I would envision spending my initial weeks building relationships with the staff and listening to their concerns about the unit, along with gathering their ideas on ways to improve. I would also identify the highest priority issues regarding patient care and outcomes and begin root cause analysis. Ideally, I would have an action plan for the highest priority issue and have begun implementing it within my first 90 days of joining the NHS."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2023
Situational
27. If you become an NHS team leader, how will you respond if you are asked to perform a task that you were not trained to do or have little experience doing?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Given the complexities of the regulations they must comply with and the vast amount of services they provide, the NHS knows that all new staff members will be put into situations that they are unfamiliar with. This question is less about your actual skill set and more about your attitude and approach when faced with a situation like this.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2023
How to Answer
In your answer, demonstrate a positive attitude and a willingness to learn as a new NHS team leader. You'll want to project that you can acknowledge something you don't know and speak up when you need help or are uncertain about something. Explaining your ability to problem-solve is also vital for this role. It's also beneficial to reiterate that you would never attempt something you weren't trained to do that could jeopardize the safety of a patient or the NHS.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2023
Answer Example
"If I join the NHS as a team leader, I know that there will be an admin task or two that I'm unsure how to complete because of new technology I would be working with or a different process than I'm used to. In these cases, I would approach the trainer or a peer I knew to be strong in this area and ask if I could shadow them or if they could take a minute to talk me through the step. I'm a quick learner, so once I'm shown something once, I usually catch on quickly and won't need additional support."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2023
Stress
28. What strategies do you use to manage stress in the workplace?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
In their most recent surveys, 44% of NHS staff reported feeling unwell due to work-related stress. The organisation has many tools and resources to help staff manage stress. But given the high pressure and workload, the NHS needs to ensure that any new staff member can manage work stress healthily and productively.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2023
How to Answer
Perhaps you take regular breaks, do some deep breathing exercises, or ask for help from peers when you're behind and the work gets stressful. No matter your method, you'll want to demonstrate that you understand the importance of the topic and share how you mentally prepare for your workday and handle all of the twists and turns that get thrown your way each day.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2023
Answer Example
"Managing work stress starts with coming to work every day well-rested with a positive attitude and mindset, and I've found that makes an impact on my mood and stress during my shift. I know my limits, and if I'm so overwhelmed that I may make a mistake, I ask my manager for extra support or take a break and regroup. When things get hectic, communication is key, and being willing and ready to help others goes a long way. I'm always willing and ready to help my team. I won't shy away from seeking assistance as an NHS team leader if I need to."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2023
Teamwork
29. Describe a time you were particularly proud of a team effort you were a part of. What was your role in this situation?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The mission of the NHS to best serve the population of the United Kingdom is lived through teamwork, and this is best exemplified by their number one value - working together for the patients. The NHS wants to ensure that all of their team leaders will take great pride in the work their team accomplishes and that the team leader will be an integral part of that effort.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2023
How to Answer
Think of a great example of teamwork you are very proud of before your interview. Come to the interview prepared to describe the circumstances and actions step-by-step and describe what happened to make you feel proud. Tell the interviewer what your role was and who was involved. End your response by describing the result.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2023
Answer Example
"My current team makes me proud every day because of the collaboration and kindness we all exude! But working through the pandemic has made me the proudest. Every day, staff came to work not only knowing the dangerous situation they were putting themselves in. but also knowing that they could potentially be treating the sickest patients. Over the last few years, I learned the importance of being an informative and motivating leader because, at times, there was a lot of misinformation, and staff morale was at an all-time low. I strived to bring my team together and promote open communication."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2023
Teamwork
30. AT NHS, we're committed to working together for patients, which is part of our core value system. As an NHS team leader, how will you promote a culture of teamwork and collaboration with your staff?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
There are six values in the NHS Constitution, and working together for patients is the top value. This value is twofold as it takes into consideration that all work with the organisation is patient-centric and that all goals are accomplished in a team effort. As a team leader with the NHS, you will be expected to foster and promote a team-based atmosphere, and I know that the hiring team wants to ensure that you will bring an innate ability to promote leadership with your future team there.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2023
How to Answer
As you answer this question, describe how you can and will promote teamwork and collaboration with your team in this role. The NHS leadership academy trains leaders to promote teamwork and a feeling of pride by valuing the contributions of each individual, so highlight how you will bring this same approach to this role.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2023
Answer Example
"I'm so excited about the prospect of being an NSH team leader and positively impacting the lives of so many patients. Promoting a culture of teamwork starts with a cohesive staff that knows each other's strengths and weaknesses. I would be a leader that promotes open and honest dialogue and the freedom to bring forth any new ideas to the team regarding patient care. I would always encourage feedback from the team and promote them working together on their ideas."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2023