Evaluation of Teamwork in Consultant Interviews (Summary)

As you prepare for your consultant interview, it’s important to understand that you’ll be evaluated extensively on both your clinical acumen and your ability to integrate effectively within a team. This dual focus stems from the undeniable connection between teamwork, the quality of care you provide, and the harmony within the healthcare team. Given the intricate nature of healthcare delivery today, which demands a collaborative multidisciplinary approach, your capacity to work well with others, communicate effectively and empathetically, and cultivate a supportive and respectful environment is paramount.

The reason you’ll be asked about your teamwork and interpersonal behaviours is twofold. First, it highlights the direct impact of effective teamwork on patient safety, outcomes, and satisfaction. Good teamwork is known to lower medical errors and elevate the standard of patient care. Second, it places a premium on the well-being of the healthcare team itself, a very hot topic in today’s NHS. A united team not only boosts job satisfaction, general happiness and thus retention, it minimises burnout and fosters a culture of ongoing learning and excellence. It’s all good and the best team players frequently become the preferred candidates.

During your interview, be prepared to delve into your past experiences, showcase your approach to teamwork, and explain how you contribute to positive team dynamics. This approach is designed to ensure that you, as a prospective consultant, are not just skilled in your medical field but are also deeply committed to the principles of collaboration and outstanding patient care.

Questions frequently take the form of asking for experiences and examples, and increasingly delve below the surface of just the simple “give me an example of your good teamwork”. The following are examples of more searching questions into various aspects of collaboration and teamwork…log in to your Consultant Interviews account to view the full article

Not a member? Sign-up to view the full article in addition to a host of resources, guidance and support for your Consultant Interview, whether you’re pre-application, shortlisted or prepping for your pre-interview visit!