Common Pitfalls in a Consultant Interview (Summary)

by | Jan 30, 2024 | Interview Preparation, Pre-Interview Visits, Public

As many of you know we cover a lot of the common pitfalls in our Consultant Interviews Programme along with advice individually tailored to you in the coaching sessions. However, we understand that having a few quick reminders for you to browse and refresh the mind before an interview is always good. Therefore, we present a summary of some of the most common pitfalls in consultant interviews. This is all covered in more detail in our membership zone.

Ensure you prepare but don’t overdo it

Being underprepared for your consultant interview can lead to disorganised thoughts and overpreparing can lead to rigid answers where the real you does not shine through. Thus, like many things, balance is key for consultant interview preparation.

Cover all question areas

Ensure that you cover all key question topics areas. It is very easy to overconcentrate on the NHS and political topics and not spend time on example questions.

Make Each Response Tailored to You!

Your answers must be tailored to yourself, your skillset and your experience to showcase why you should have that consultant post. Use each question as an opportunity to give the panel more information about you.

Know Your CV/Application Form Inside Out

You must be able to easily explain and summarise all experiences, prizes & research papers on CV!

Ensure you have thought about key examples

Many questions require you to provide an example to help illustrate certain aspects of your experience, capability or approach. For instance, “Tell us about something you have led so that we can better understand you as a leader”.

Not all Panels & Panel Members are the same

Panel members are made up of people with varying requirements. Make sure you take time to learn about the panel members (e.g. when meeting them at Pre-Interview visit), the main things they’re looking for and ensure you cover those bases first.