What are some of the first things you'd like to accomplish if you are offered this position?
"I am new to this profession and think it would be beneficial for me to get to know the surgical team I will be working with and learn from them. I would like to set some goals with my supervisor regarding things that he feels I should accomplish by a certain time."
The way you answer this question could be potentially hazardous if you aren't careful. Of course, you don't want to be a slacker and say that you want to know where the break room is and check what your days off are going to be. Also, going in the completely opposite direction by stating changes you intend to make within the department could be a bad move, too. This is a time to focus on how you will fit into the company and department you are joining. So, the answer to this question should start with taking some time to learn culture and practices.
"At first, I'd really like to get to know the team I will be working with and find out how I can become an asset to them. I am very interested to learn about the company, as a whole, and see if any of my past experience would be something that management would like to utilize as we work together to make this company the first choice for patients."
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
I would be in on as many cases as possible and practice to obtain a skill level commensurate with what one would expect from a first assist. I want to get to know the staff and the OR team and see how they work. In my training, I found them invaluable; they always had tips for me, which helped me produce clear questions. Finally, I would like to have some benchmarks or goals set forth by the surgeons and myself.
Rachelle's Feedback
You have some nice targets in mind, and your response shows that you are looking ahead into this role and the wonderful goals you can accomplish. What will your approach be for getting to know the team and OR staff and how they work? Regarding the benchmarks and goals you mention, are you able to be more specific?
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