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:
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!
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.
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!
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An NHS district general hospital in the West Midlands is looking for a Specialist Grade Haematologist with an interest in haemato-oncology, laboratory haematology and blood transfusion. The Haematology department comprises a team of 3 consultants and is supported by a large team of middle grade doctors. This Haematology job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist or FRCPath (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
FRCPath (or equivalent) and broad experience in clinical and laboratory haematology are required for this role, and anyone with an interest in clinical trials, haemato-oncology, education, or blood transfusion should apply. The salary will be between £96,990 to £107,155 dependent on experience or grade.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
Provide clinical support in both inpatient and outpatient settings, working closely with consultants and the multidisciplinary team.
Participate in the delivery of chemotherapy and specialist care via the dedicated oncology/haematology unit.
Contribute to clinical governance, teaching of junior doctors and nurse practitioners, and development of service pathways.
Assist with laboratory haematology duties including blood film reporting, and advise on transfusion and diagnostic services.
LIFE IN THE WEST MIDLANDS
This hospital is located in a picturesque region of the West Midlands, with access to both rural retreats and small city living. Residents enjoy a mix of traditional market towns and vibrant city centres, with good schools, easy rail access to Birmingham, and plenty of green spaces for outdoor activities. The area has deep historical roots, from medieval cathedrals to Roman forts, offering a unique combination of heritage and modern living.
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 Clinical Oncology with an interest in Upper and Lower GI cancers. The Oncology department comprises a team of four Clinical Oncologists and a Consultant Radiographer, supported by a large team of middle-grade doctors. This Clinical Oncology job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist Registration, GMC 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.
GMC registration with a license to practice, CESR, or a GMC-recognised qualification such as FRCR is required for this role. Anyone with an interest in Upper and Lower GI cancer should apply. The salary will be between £105,504 – £139,882 dependent on experience.
Provide expert oncology care for patients diagnosed with Upper and Lower GI cancers, overseeing treatment plans and managing patient care.
Participate in multidisciplinary team (MDT) meetings across sites to coordinate treatment.
Contribute to research and clinical trials within the Oncology department, promoting innovation in GI cancer treatment.
Engage in teaching opportunities with medical students and junior doctors, especially in preparation for the launch of a new postgraduate medical programme.
This hospital is located in the South East of England, a region known for its mix of lively coastal cities and peaceful countryside towns. It offers great transport links to London, top-performing schools, and diverse leisure options, including historic landmarks, nature trails, and vibrant cultural scenes. The area is rich in maritime and military history, making it a unique and engaging place to live and work.
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
An NHS district general hospital in Yorkshire is looking for a Consultant Dermatologist with an interest in skin cancer and minor skin surgery. The Dermatology department comprises a team of locum consultants, an experienced Specialty Doctor, and a Biologic Nurse Consultant, supported by a large team of middle grade doctors. This Dermatology job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist or MRCP (UK) or SCE 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 and significant experience in general dermatology and minor surgery, are required for this role. Anyone with an interest in skin cancer management and dermatological surgery should apply. The salary will be between £109,725 and £145,478 dependent on experience or grade.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
LIFE IN THE NORTH OF ENGLAND
???????This hospital is situated in the north of England, with popular residential areas including vibrant cities and picturesque countryside locations. Urban dwellers may enjoy city life in places like Sheffield or Leeds, while rural enthusiasts might prefer the surrounding villages and national parks. The region offers great schools, excellent transport connections, and a wide variety of leisure activities for all lifestyles. Historically significant for its industrial roots, the area remains a vital and evolving part of British heritage and modern living.
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:
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:
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