7 common physiotherapy interview questions
Job interviews are a chance to confidently show prospective employers why they should hire you, so it is important to go prepared. Here are a few questions that commonly crop up, along with our tips for dealing with them effectively:
1. Why did you become a physiotherapist?
This is a real favourite with interviewers. Try to avoid generalisations. It's fine to say something like 'Because I have a passion for helping people'. However, you should support this statement with specific examples which show how you have made a real difference to people's lives.
2. Why do you think you're good at your job?
You need to strike the right balance here. You shouldn't undersell yourself, but equally you don't want to come across as over-confident. Key attributes include strong communication and time management skills, good health and physical fitness, empathy, tolerance and patience. Refer to one or two examples from your work experience where these skills were particularly relevant. For guidance on providing comprehensive examples in an interview, visit our dedicated blogpost.
3. How do you manage your time effectively?
Good time management as a physiotherapist is not just about being super-organised. It's also about using the available time productively and not over-stretching yourself, which means setting realistic and achievable goals. Key things to mention are forward-planning, time allocation and reviewing how you have performed to aid future development.
4. How do you go about devising a treatment plan?
This is a very important part of any allied health role. Person-centred care is at the heart of the NHS strategy, so you should show how you make sure each treatment plan is tailored to the patient's needs. Talk about questioning and assessing the patient, taking into account their overall health and lifestyle. Also mention how important it is to review their progress and make any necessary adjustments to the plan.
5. Are you familiar with the NHS Employers Knowledge and Skills Framework (KSF)?
The KSF is commonly used as a benchmark in staff appraisals, so you should make sure you understand it and what it means for you in your job as a physiotherapist. The new simplified KSF can be adapted by NHS trusts to meet local needs, so try to find out how your prospective employer uses it in physiotherapy roles. Find out more about the KSF here.
6. How do you stay informed about new techniques and technology?
This is an opportunity to show you are committed to continuing professional development (CPD). You should talk about any courses you have taken or are taking, and how you stay up-to-date with physiotherapy news and views, this could be through professional forums and networking sites.
7. What's the role of a physiotherapist in a multi-disciplinary team (MDT)?
Obviously, your professional expertise is important. However, this is also about showing you're a real team player and can work effectively with doctors, nurses and other allied health professionals. Give one or two examples of collaborative working, showing you understand the dynamics of the MDT approach and the various roles that all participants play in providing joined-up care.
If you have any queries regarding your interview, get in touch with your Sanctuary consultant or to find your next physiotherapy role, view our latest jobs.
