How to Nail Behavioral Interview Questions

Preparing for an interview could become a full-time job if you let it.

At Concorde Career College, we don't think it should be that way. We are dedicated to helping you put your health care degree to use and land a quality job while taking some of the guesswork out of the process.

Our graduate employment specialists are trained to assist you with the process from start to finish with things like:

• Helping draft your resume and cover letter
• Interview preparation and practice
• Acting professional on the job
• Scoring the job interview

Behavioral Interview Questions During a Health Care Interview

One thing that is fairly common in health care interviews is behavioral interview questions. Sometimes called situational scenarios, they typically begin with "Tell me a time when...."

"These types of questions help the employer get to know the applicant on a deeper level," said Danielle Van der Knaap, Graduate Employment Specialist at our Concorde San Antonio campus. "They provide insight on the applicant's personality and the way they handle certain situations."

She adds, "Rather than just basing the interview around job performance, these type of questions reflect how the applicant responds in times of stress if they are the type of person the practice is looking for and whether they can get along with a team, etc."

Practice Makes Permanent

These type of questions require some practice. If you invest time in preparing, you limit the chances that you'll walk out of the interview thinking, "Oh man! I had a really great example of that question."

Also, practicing how to frame your health care degree beforehand will help you avoid the number one no-no of interviewing: lying. "It's never a good idea to lie," said Van der Knapp. "It's okay to say that you haven't experienced that particular situation or to discuss a similar scenario."

Similarly, rather than "winging it," practicing will allow you to iron out details around removing sensitive patient information or items that may violate HIPAA while you tell a story.

Confidence is Key

To approach each interview with full confidence, Van der Knapp suggests:

1.) Writing down common questions and how you would respond

2.) Having someone ask you random questions and answering them

3.) Practicing in the mirror to get a better sense of your non-verbals

4.) Recording yourself on your phone so you can go back and listen to what you need to correct

5.) Doing a mock interview with the Graduate Employment Department

Remember, interviewing is a learned skill. "Continue getting out there and view each interview as an opportunity," encourages Van der Knapp. "For more information on behavioral interview questions, or to perform a mock interview, see your Graduate Employment Specialist!"