What characteristics do you think are required to be a great OT?
Occupational Therapists often work with a lot of critical cases. Their responsibilities can be demanding, performing therapies, managing patient loads, and fulfilling their EMR requirements. Show the interviewer you know what qualities are needed to succeed in the profession. Stick to 2-3 important qualities and give examples from things you observed while shadowing.
"I think that two characteristics a great OT should have are fortitude and cross-cultural understanding. OTs do essential work, but results are not always instantaneous. It can be a slow process that frustrates patients. An OT with the fortitude to push through that and help motivate patients to keep going is very important. OTs need cross-cultural communication skills because they will talk to patients from every walk of life, not just the one they have experienced."
Community answers are written by other candidates practicing this set. Reading how others frame the same question is one of the fastest ways to sharpen your own.
Anonymous Answer
Patience and compassion are two characteristics that I find are vital in a great OT. Even now as I work as a PT tech I come across patients with varying capabilities and challenges that at times get frustrated with the slow process of recovery. As an OT is it important for us to remain patient and demonstrate compassion in order to continue to find ways to ease and motivate our patients.
Amanda's Feedback
Terrific! Compassion and patience are vital to your field. Now, take it a step further and share a specific example of a time when these qualities enabled you to help a patient overcome an obstacle or achieve a specific goal. This makes your response more specific and memorable to you.
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