Interview preparation tips – a guide for overseas doctors
- April 13, 2020
Your NHS interview is your chance to make a good impression to a potential employer, sell yourself and secure your dream job in the NHS.
Here we take a look at how to prepare for your NHS Skype interview.
We can’t stress enough how important preparation is to making sure that you have a successful interview. So, we have collected the best tips from our community of IMGs to help you to stand out during your interview and ensure that you always get your point across. In this article we cover the following topics:
Interview preparation tips:
1. Know who will be interviewing you.
As an overseas doctor it is of course tricky to visit the hospital before interview, so getting to know your interview panel prior to interview is important and will make you stand out - try connecting on LinkedIn or look at their profile. Panels will be made up of a range of senior staff, some will have developed their career within their specialisms, take a look at the Trust website to gather more information.
2. Be up to date.
Keep up to date with the Trust’s vision and strategy, try to convey how you will fit in with this – consider how you can contribute to help them achieve their vision. For example, if you know they are developing a new department you can talk about your interest in this area and what you could offer.
3. Reflect on the hospital values.
Your interview should demonstrate that your personal values and behaviours align with the NHS values. In a nutshell these are your motivation and commitment to the NHS and the role, your ability to work in multi-professional teams, the central importance of the patient's experience.
4. Be reflective.
Responses to questions can show that you have reflected on your experience, that you have learned from them, and that you have gained expertise you can bring to the role, benefiting the service and wider Trust.
5. Prepare concise answers.
When preparing answers for an interview, break these down into key points. It is important that your answers have an impact, so deliver them in 3 or 4 clear sentences. Remember, the interview panel are looking for you to be a clear communicator for the benefit of future patients and colleagues.
6. Practice your answers, but don’t sound robotic.
We suggest that you rehearse your interview with a colleague, who can ask you follow-up questions. This is a valuable way to gain feedback and to find out how you perform under pressure.
7. Prepare for direct questions.
Whilst most questions will be broad, be prepared for direct questions, such as “what specifically qualifies you for this position?” or “why do you want this job?”. Take a second to compose your answer and avoid a jumbled response.
8. Be structured.
Make your point, provide evidence and explain.
Have a strong structure to your answers, such as the above. Make 2 or 3 key points at most and give personal or clinical examples, with explanations.
9. Prepare for behavioural skills questions.
Be prepared for behavioural skills questions, such as “describe a situation where you disagreed with a colleague and how you reacted?” or “describe a difficult problem you have faced at work, how did you contribute to the solution?”. In your answers, set the context, describe what was required, what you actually did, and how well the situation played out.
10. Use active wording.
When referring to skills, action words are specific, clarify your contributions, and bring a confident tone to your answers (i.e. championed, supervised, expanded, increased, improved, collaborated, gained, achieved, confident, responsible for…)
When you speak with the active voice, it adds impact. You can even combine your selection of action verbs with quantifiable results. This shows both what you did and the impact it had. For example, “Expanded use of patient feedback, resulting in 20% increase in patient satisfaction.”
11. Prepare to respond to all aspects of your CV.
Remember, an interview will not be solely based on clinical experience. Panel members will be interested in different parts of your CV, such as your management experience, working with others, leadership or ability to improve the quality of services.
12. Prepare questions to ask the panel.
You can treat the interview like a conversation. Prepare detailed questions to ask at the end of your interview, you will always be given this chance. Don’t be afraid to ask questions throughout the whole interview, it can have a positive impact!
Tips for setting up your Skype interview on the day:
Now that you have prepared your questions well in advance, don’t let all of your preparation go out of the window by rushing on the day. If you are flustered, you won’t be composed.
We strongly advise making sure that you are set up and ready in advance, consider carefully the following tips to make a success out of your Skype interview:
1. Add the hospital Skype ID 24 hrs prior to your interview.
Your IMG Consultant will provide you with this in advance.
2. Send a message to the hospital Skype ID, stating your name and the post you are interviewing for.
This helps check that the ID is correct and is active for the start of your interview.
3. Run a test call with an IMG Connect consultant.
Just to be sure everything is working; we will run a dummy call with you well in advance of your interview. If there are any issues, we can address them together.
4. Be ready 30 mins prior to the call.
It is best to be prepared, with your CV, notes and a glass of water at the ready.
Don’t forget to relax.
During the Skype interview:
First impressions are important when wanting to create a lasting good impression. Apply these tips right from the beginning of the interview to make sure you potraying yourself in the manner you want to, from start to finish.
1. Be on time.
Despite the fact that your interview will be held over Skype, it is vital that you set up in plenty time and allow time for things to go wrong. If you do get delayed, make sure you notify your IMG Consultant and the contact within the organisation as soon as possible.
2. Dress appropriately.
You may be on screen, but that includes trousers too! Dress as you would for any interview, it will also help you to feel confident.
3. Don’t forget to smile!
When you answer the call, don’t forget to smile. Greet the panel as you would for any interview (minus the shaking of hands of course).
From start to finish, relax, be yourself and smile. The panel want to know that you cope under pressure, and can be a good member of their team, ultimately improving patient care. Your personality is key to this success!
4. Make eye contact and engage with all members of the interview panel.
Just like an ordinary interview, try to engage with all members of the panel. You will know in advance who they are, so greet them and address them directly throughout your interview. Oh, and don’t forget to use address the panel using their correct titles!
5. Sell yourself.
Give real examples of 'how' you have achieved positive outcomes, specify what these were and the benefits. Be clear about what your personal contribution was. So, don’t be too modest - it can be hard at times, but you are there to highlight your attributes and achievements.
6. Remember to use 'I' rather than 'we'.
This adds impact to your achievements, and lets the panel know the contributions YOU have made in your career as a doctor so far.
7. Be aware of your body language.
You want to convey that you're enthusiastic, positive and energetic, yet focused… don’t fidget!
8. Be positive at all times.
It can be hard, especially when you have faced some challenging questions, but keep calm, stay positive and remember to relax!
IMG Jobs
Search and find live NHS doctor jobs in the UK
IMG Resources
Read more useful articles on finding an NHS trust doctor job, pay scales & doctor’s salary in the UK, relocation and much more!
Get in Touch
Don’t hesitate to get in touch using the buttons above (and below) to discuss doctor job options in the NHS, including discussions regarding a typical doctor salary in the UK and the most suitable hospital locations for you.
Follow us on social media for news and updates on GMC registration, the Royal College and NHS through the links below:
Relevant Jobs
An NHS teaching hospital in the North of England is looking for a Consultant in Medical Oncology with all interests considered. The oncology department comprises a team of consultants and is supported by a large team of middle grade doctors. This Medical Oncology job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist Registration or MRCP (UK) are most encouraged to apply.
Anyone requiring portfolio support (formally known as CESR) can have their required support discussed on a case-by-case basis.
JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS
Full GMC registration with a licence to practise and inclusion (or eligibility within 6 months) on the Specialist Register in Medical Oncology are required for this role. The salary will be between £105,504 and £139,882 dependent on experience or grade.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
-
Manage and treat patients with cancers as part of the site-specific MDTs.
-
Provide on-call and acute cover for oncology inpatients and new inpatient referrals on a rotational basis (1 week out of 8).
-
Attend weekly multi-disciplinary meetings.
-
Hold an honorary lecturer position at a local medical school and participate in undergraduate teaching.
-
Participate in clinical research as appropriate.
-
Train and teach specialty trainees in medical oncology.
LIFE IN THE NORTH OF ENGLAND
This role is based in the North of England, a region that offers the perfect balance of urban convenience and rural charm. Residents can enjoy city living in York or find quieter settings in the nearby countryside and villages. The area boasts outstanding schools, excellent transport links, and a wide variety of cultural, sporting, and outdoor activities. With its strong ties to Britain’s industrial heritage and the beautiful countryside on its doorstep, the North of England is a popular choice for healthcare professionals relocating to the UK.
HOW WILL IMG CONNECT SUPPORT YOU?
-
CV Preparation with a bespoke session with one of our specialists
-
Application support with expert knowledge of NHS specialisms & recruitment practice
-
At least two video calling interview preparation sessions
-
Contract and offer negotiations for salary, relocation packages, tenure and more
Once you have accepted your new role, you’ll then be supported and led throughout by one of our dedicated relocation executives who will guide you through all the way to starting to your new role including:
-
Document gathering and checking
-
COS and Visa Application support if applicable
-
Support sourcing short- and long-term accommodation
-
Travel Arrangements
-
Family support for finding schools and any other aspects of pastoral care
Would you like this version saved as a text document?
An NHS teaching hospital in the East Midlands of England is looking for a Consultant Clinical Oncologist with an interest in Upper Gi, HPB, and Breast cancers. The Oncology department comprises of a large team of Medical Oncology Consultants and Clinical Oncology Consultants, supported by prescribing Clinical Nurse Specialists (CNS) and rotational specialist registrars (SPRs).
Anyone requiring portfolio support (formally known as CESR) can have their required support discussed on a case-by-case basis.
JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS
This Clinical Oncology job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist registration or FRCR qualifications are most encouraged to apply.
Full GMC registration and FRCR (or equivalent) are required for this role, and anyone with an interest in Upper Gi, HPB, and Breast cancers should apply. The salary will be between £105,504 and £139,882 per annum, dependent on experience or grade.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
- Provide outpatient and inpatient care for patients with Upper Gi, HPB, and Breast cancers
- Participate in multidisciplinary team (MDT) meetings for skin and urology.
- Supervise and support Clinical Nurse Specialists (CNS), specialist registrars (SPRs), and ward resident doctors.
- Prescribe and manage radiotherapy and systemic treatments.
LIFE IN THE EAST MIDLANDS
The hospital is based in a vibrant city offering both urban living in the city center and rural living in surrounding villages like West Bridgford. The area boasts excellent schools, efficient public transport links, and a variety of leisure activities, including theaters, sports venues, and parks. Nottingham holds historical significance as the legendary home of Robin Hood and played a pivotal role in the UK\'s industrial history.
HOW WILL IMG CONNECT SUPPORT YOU?
When applying with IMG Connect, you’ll have the full support of an expert recruitment team who will be your recruitment and relocation partners throughout the process. We\'ll support you with:
- CV preparation with a bespoke session with one of our specialists.
- Application support with expert knowledge of NHS specialisms & recruitment practice.
- At least two video-calling interview preparation sessions.
- Contract and offer negotiations for salary, relocation packages, tenure, and more.
Once you have accepted your new role, you’ll then be supported and led throughout by one of our dedicated relocation executives who will guide you all the way to starting your new role, including:
- Document gathering and checking.
- COS and Visa Application support if applicable.
- Support sourcing short- and long-term accommodation.
- Travel arrangements.
- Family support for finding schools and any other aspects of pastoral care.
A Yorkshire based general hospital is looking for a Locum Consultant in Gastroenterology with an interest in inflammatory bowel disease, hepatology or advanced therapeutic endoscopy. The gastroenterology department is staffed by a team of consultants and supported by middle grade doctors. This opportunity welcomes applications from both UK-based and international doctors, especially those holding European Specialist or MRCP(UK) qualifications.
Anyone requiring portfolio support (formally known as CESR) can have their required support discussed on a case by case basis.
JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS
MRCP (or equivalent), extensive experience in gastroenterology, and ideally some NHS experience will be required for this role, and anyone with an interest in inflammatory bowel disease, hepatology or therapeutic endoscopy should apply. The salary will be between £105,504 and £139,882 dependent on experience or grade.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
-
Deliver consultant-level care for inpatients and outpatients in gastroenterology.
-
Participate in a shared on-call rota and cover gastroenterology services on a rotational basis.
-
Conduct at least two endoscopy sessions and two outpatient clinics each week.
-
Support departmental audit, teaching, research, and development initiatives.
LIFE IN YORKSHIRE
Located in South Yorkshire, the hospital is near vibrant city living in Sheffield or quieter countryside communities such as Wickersley. The area offers good schools, strong public transport links, and leisure activities suitable for families and professionals alike. Yorkshire has a rich industrial past and plays a notable role in British history, contributing to its unique character and charm.
HOW WILL IMG CONNECT SUPPORT YOU?
When applying with IMG Connect you’ll have the full support of an expert recruitment team who will be your recruitment and relocation partners throughout the process. We\'ll support you with:
- CV Preparation with a bespoke session with one of our specialists
- Application support with expert knowledge of NHS specialisms & recruitment practice
- At least two video calling interview preparation sessions
- Contract and offer negotiations for salary, relocation packages, tenure and more
Once you have accepted your new role, you’ll then be supported and led throughout by one of our dedicated relocation executives who will guide you through all the way to starting to your new role including:
- Document gathering and checking
- COS and Visa Application support if applicable
- Support sourcing short- and long-term accommodation
- Travel Arrangements
- Family support for finding schools and any other aspects of pastoral care
An NHS acute hospital trust in the West Midlands is looking for a Specialty Doctor in Emergency Medicine with an interest in Paediatric Emergency Medicine, Major Trauma or Ultrasound. The Emergency Medicine department comprises a team of 16.7 consultants and is supported by a large team of middle grade doctors. This Emergency Medicine job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist or MRCEM qualifications are most encouraged to apply.
Anyone requiring portfolio support (formally known as CESR) can have their required support discussed on a case by case basis.
JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS
Full GMC registration, MBBS or equivalent and at least four years of postgraduate training (including at least two years in Emergency Medicine) are required for this role, and anyone with an interest in Paediatric Emergency Medicine, Major Trauma or Ultrasound should apply. The salary will be between £59175 and £95400 dependent on experience or grade.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
-
Provide timely clinical care across all areas of the Emergency Department, including resuscitation, majors, minors, and paediatrics.
-
Support junior doctors and participate in departmental teaching, training, and induction programmes.
-
Collaborate with multi-disciplinary teams to ensure safe and effective patient flow and management.
-
Participate in the middle grade rota covering 24/7 Emergency Department services, including cross-site working.
LIFE IN WEST MIDLANDS
This post is based in Worcestershire, offering access to both Worcester and Redditch, with the choice of vibrant city living in Worcester or rural tranquility in the surrounding countryside such as Malvern Hills. The region boasts excellent transport links via rail and road, a strong selection of schools, and a wide range of leisure options including countryside walks, sports clubs, and cultural attractions. Historically, Worcestershire is steeped in British heritage, known for the Battle of Worcester and as the home of composer Edward Elgar, offering rich cultural and historical experiences.
HOW WILL IMG CONNECT SUPPORT YOU?
When applying with IMG Connect you’ll have the full support of an expert recruitment team who will be your recruitment and relocation partners throughout the process. We\'ll support you with:
CV Preparation with a bespoke session with one of our specialists
Application support with expert knowledge of NHS specialisms & recruitment practice
At least two video calling interview preparation sessions
Contract and offer negotiations for salary, relocation packages, tenure and more
Once you have accepted your new role, you’ll then be supported and led throughout by one of our dedicated relocation executives who will guide you through all the way to starting to your new role including:
Document gathering and checking COS and Visa Application support if applicable
Support sourcing short- and long-term accommodation
Travel Arrangements Family support for finding schools and any other aspects of pastoral care
An NHS hospital in South East England is looking for a Consultant in Medical Oncology with an interest in Lung Cancer. The Oncology department comprises a team of four Clinical Oncologists and a Consultant Radiographer, supported by a large team of middle-grade doctors. This Medical Oncology job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist or GMC Medical Oncology Specialist Register, CCT, or CESR are most encouraged to apply.
Anyone requiring portfolio support (formally known as CESR) can have their required support discussed on a case-by-case basis.
JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS
Full GMC registration with a license to practice and entry on the GMC Medical Oncology Specialist Register (or within six months at the time of interview), CESR, or a GMC-recognised equivalent training are required for this role. Anyone with an interest in Lung Cancer should apply. The salary will be between , dependent on experience or grade.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
- Provide expert oncology care for patients diagnosed with Lung Cancer, including overseeing treatment plans and managing patient care.
- Participate in multidisciplinary team (MDT) meetings across hospital sites to discuss patient cases and coordinate treatment.
- Contribute to research and clinical trials within the Oncology department, encouraging innovation in lung cancer and melanoma treatment.
- Engage in teaching opportunities with medical students and junior doctors, particularly as Portsmouth prepares to launch its postgraduate medical school.
LIFE IN PORTSMOUTH
A vibrant coastal city in South East England, with popular residential areas including Southsea for urban living and nearby countryside towns such as Petersfield for a more rural lifestyle. The area is well connected, with direct train links to London, excellent schools, and a wide range of leisure activities, from watersports to historic naval attractions. As one of Britain’s most historically significant naval cities, Portsmouth is home to the famous HMS Victory and the historic dockyard, making it a fascinating place to live and work.
HOW WILL IMG CONNECT SUPPORT YOU?
When applying with IMG Connect, you’ll have the full support of an expert recruitment team who will be your recruitment and relocation partners throughout the process. We\'ll support you with:
- CV Preparation with a bespoke session with one of our specialists
- Application support with expert knowledge of NHS specialisms & recruitment practice
- At least two video calling interview preparation sessions
- Contract and offer negotiations for salary, relocation packages, tenure, and more
Once you have accepted your new role, you’ll then be supported and led throughout by one of our dedicated relocation executives who will guide you through all the way to starting your new role, including:
- Document gathering and checking
- COS and Visa Application support if applicable
- Support sourcing short- and long-term accommodation
- Travel arrangements
- Family support for finding schools and any other aspects of pastoral care