Here we explore the best way to answer NHS interview questions requiring detailed answers.
The main thing to remember is that it is important to answer any NHS interview question honestly, providing details from your own clinical perspective and experiences.
One useful approach to structuring your answers is called the STAR technique.
The technique is designed to help you to formulate clear, concise and relevant answers to competency-based or behavioural questions (questions that require you to give specific examples demonstrating particular skills, attributes or behaviours). During your NHS job interview you will be asked to provide details or descriptions of a time when you have faced a problem or challenge, what steps you took to deal with it and what the outcome or results were.
In answering competency-based or behavioural NHS interview questions, you should consider how to provide information for the panel to evaluate your mindset and your skill set. NHS employers will analyse your behaviours, values and approach to situations defined against the skills and qualities that high-level doctors have exhibited in the role you are applying for.
In your answers to NHS interview questions, employers are looking for evidence of your clinical skills, problem-solving skills, analytical ability, perseverance, team work and collaboration, quantitative skills, or expertise.
STAR can be used to answer such questions; each letter stands for a part of your answer.
Describe the context of the job, task or challenge that you were facing. Be specific.
Describe your duty or responsibility in this particular situation.
Describe how you completed the task or met the challenge. Focus on what you did, not what anyone else did. Say “I”.
Finally, explain the outcome or results that came about as a direct result of your actions. Emphasize what was achieved and what you learned.
We can’t predict what questions you will be asked during an NHS interview, but you’ll benefit from preparing several scenarios from the jobs you’ve held and what you anticipate will be required in the job you are applying for.
We advise that you make a list of the skills and/or experiences that are required for the job. Take a look at the job description or personal specification to find the skills/qualities required in the role and match these to your qualifications or experience. Then, consider specific examples of occasions when you displayed those skills. For each example, name the situation, task, action, and result.
We also suggest that IMGs take a look at our series of articles on preparation for NHS interviews, giving you the best chance of securing the doctor role that you want in the UK.
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An NHS cancer centre in Northern Ireland is seeking a Consultant Clinical Oncologist with a specialist interest in Upper GI and Breast cancers. The department includes 11 oncology consultants and is supported by a team of middle grade doctors and specialty trainees. This position is open to both UK-based and international doctors, particularly those with FRCR or European Specialist Registration.
Anyone requiring portfolio support (formally known as CESR) can have their required support discussed on a case-by-case basis.
Applicants should have full GMC registration and at least 6 years of postgraduate experience in Clinical Oncology. The salary for this role is between £88,799 and £119,723, dependent on experience.
Manage patients with Upper GI and Breast cancers across inpatient and outpatient settings.
Engage in tumour site-specific MDTs and contribute to treatment planning and decision-making.
Support the training and mentoring of oncology registrars and junior doctors.
Contribute to service development, teaching, and clinical governance.
Based in the north-west region of Northern Ireland, this location offers both city and rural living, with access to scenic countryside, the coast, and neighbouring towns. The area features well-rated schools, convenient transport infrastructure, and rich opportunities for cultural, historical, and recreational pursuits. It’s a growing destination for healthcare professionals seeking balance between professional development and quality of life.
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 the south coast region is looking for a Specialist in Haematology with an interest in haemato?oncology. The Haematology department comprises a team of two consultants supported by a large team of middle grade doctors. This Haematology job is open to both international applicants and UK?based doctors, though those with European Specialist or Royal College of Physicians/CCT 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 registration and GMC licence with entry on the Specialist Register in Haematology (or eligible within six months). UK?trained applicants should have a CCT or be within six months of award; international applicants must show equivalence. Anyone with an interest in haemato?oncology should apply. The salary will be between £96,990 - £107,155 dependent on experience or grade.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
Provide comprehensive clinical haematology care (in?patient, out?patient and day?case) within an MDT structure.
Provide liaison and expert clinical advice on haematology test results, anticoagulation and blood transfusion to hospital and primary care.
Review and authorise blood films referred by biomedical scientists for second opinions.
Participate in clinical governance, audit, training (undergraduate and postgraduate), research, and maintain on?call haematology rota.
LIFE IN THE REGION
The hospital is based centrally in the area with nearby coastal towns offering urban living and villages providing rural tranquillity.
Excellent schools of all levels, reliable public transport and ferry/hovercraft links; a wide range of leisure for families and adults alike.
The region is steeped in British history, with heritage sites and an iconic annual music festival drawing national attention.
HOW WILL IMG CONNECT SUPPORT YOU?
An NHS district general hospital in the South West of England is looking for a Consultant in Medical Oncology with an interest in NET and HPB cancers. The Medical Oncology department comprises a team of 11 consultants and is supported by a large team of middle grade doctors and specialist nurses.
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 oncology job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist Registration or MRCP are most encouraged to apply.
Anyone with an interest in NET and HPB cancer should apply. The salary will be between £105,504 and £139,882 dependent on experience or grade.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
Take ownership of site-specific oncology services, primarily in NET and HPB cancer.
Participate in outpatient clinics, support patients undergoing day case treatments, and assist the Acute Oncology Service.
Contribute to education and training of junior medical staff and engage in multidisciplinary team working.
Participate in clinical governance, audits, and contribute to ongoing research and service development.
LIFE IN THE SOUTH WEST
This role is based in a beautiful coastal region in the South West, with access to popular towns and seaside resorts perfect for both urban and rural living. The area features excellent schools, well-connected transport options, and a wide range of outdoor activities from beach days to countryside walks. With its blend of natural beauty and cultural history, the region is a top choice for medical professionals relocating to the UK.
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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
An NHS district general hospital in the North of Scotland is looking for a Consultant Medical Oncologist with an interest in breast and upper GI cancers. The oncology department comprises a team of 7 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 or MRCP (or equivalent) 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
MRCP, full GMC registration with specialist registration or within 6 months of CCT, along with broad experience in prescribing SACT, are required for this role, and anyone with an interest in breast and upper GI cancers should apply. The salary will be between £107,144 and £142,369 dependent on experience or grade.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
Manage a subspecialty caseload in breast and upper GI, delivering high-quality care and treatment planning.
Participate in MDT meetings, clinical governance, research and teaching activities.
Contribute to acute oncology on-call cover and peripheral clinics across the region.
Lead or support the development of new services or innovations in clinical delivery within the department.
LIFE IN THE SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS
This job is based in the Scottish Highlands, a region known for both its bustling city of Inverness and rural escapes like Beauly or Fort Augustus.
The Highlands offer excellent schools, strong transport links including rail and air connections, and year-round recreational options from hiking to arts festivals. The city also has a vibrant cultural and social scene for families and professionals alike.
Rich in heritage, the Highlands are home to some of Scotland’s most renowned history—from clan culture to castles—making this region both a scenic and significant 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 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