How do you feel when a physician criticizes your work?

How to Answer
Entry Level Example
Answer Example
Experienced Example
Community Answers

Be authentic when answering this question, but avoid sounding cynical or begrudged. If you choose to give an example, be sure it allows you to demonstrate your ability to handle criticism with style. Do not use specific names, as the healthcare industry is tight-knit! In the end, make sure your interviewer walks away from your conversation knowing that you can handle constructive criticism in a healthy manner that helps you become better as a Nurse Practitioner.

"Looking to join my first practice as a new Nurse Practitioner, I fully understand that my work will sometimes come with additional critiques from the physicians I would be working with. I take every critique as a learning opportunity. I am thankful for any feedback that helps me become a better healthcare practitioner and would have this attitude as a part of your team."

"It is never easy to be criticized or to receive unfavorable feedback. However, I believe I can learn from each experience and constructively move forward. A physician recently mentioned that my notes in the EMR were not as detailed as she would prefer. I had to take a minute and breathe because I spent extra time on those notes and felt frustrated by the feedback. However, I knew this physician could be tough to please, so I asked her to show me exactly how she preferred the notes in the system so that next time, as a team, we could be more efficient."

"It depends on how the criticism is delivered. When someone gives me constructive feedback, I am thankful for the learning opportunity. If the feedback is rude or unforgiving, that can be tough to swallow. I am always prepared to defend my work because I know it's good, but I would never be unprofessional in that situation to save face."

Anonymous Answer

"As a new NP, I know I have lots of information and skills I need to develop. With good mentorship support from this organization, I hope to be as professional and efficient NP as possible. In this process, I know I will make mistakes. Good and bad feedbacks are important for me as this learning experience will help me be a better health care provider to our patients."

Rachelle's Feedback

Your willingness to accept feedback will be an excellent sign for the interviewer. Well said.

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Anonymous Answer

"As a new provider, I realize that each instance of constructive criticism is an opportunity for learning- something that never ends regardless of years of experience. I hope to look to physicians and other experienced providers as mentors and value their feedback, which ultimately helps me become a more well-rounded provider."

Rachelle's Feedback

It seems you are more than ready to learn and accept constructive feedback, which is excellent!

Anonymous Answer

"In my first position as a new grad NP, I had to work with ten MDs on my team. Every MD does things differently, and each one of them wanted me to do it their way. At first, it was a bitter pill to swallow, but I excepted those criticisms as a learning point, and I'm glad I did because it prepared me to be the NP I am. Today I am open to any critical feedback because it teaches new things."

Stephanie's Feedback

Wonderful response! You provide a specific example of how you've been given critical feedback, and you clearly illustrate that you are reflective and open. It is evident that you use critical feedback to improve your work.