Interview Questions - Danylle
Give an example of a time when you helped a coworker and it wasn't your responsibility.
*Train interns *Stay after or over to help
What are your qualifications/skills/strengths?
I have good people skills, I communicate well with my supervisor and coworkers, I learn quickly and I am very passionate and dedicated.
Give an example of how you set goals and achieve them.
(1.) Assess or make a list of tasks/assignments (2.) Prioritize (3.) Continually track progress/review deadlines (4.) Assess my work when complete to see how I can improve process or procedure for the future
What role did you play in your companys latest success?
??? any contribution
How do you adapt to change?
Change is inevitable in life whether at work or in your personal life. Thankfully, I have learned a lot of ways to effectively deal with it but mostly by staying positive and trying to grow through change and not let it prevent me from growing. It's really all about your outlook and attitude. I consider myself a positive person so I look at change objectively.
What is the most difficult or challenging experience you have encountered on the job?
Describe some life/death/intense situation at work. Resolution: (1.) I listened and got all of the information I could (2.) I remained calm (3.) I communicated clearly with the doctor and patient (4.) I understood my role/duties (5.) Explain the resolution **importance is that you listened, communicated and did your job ~ get that across in your answer
What contributions can you make to this position?
Disciplined; improve; save time Example & Skill
Describe a time when you faced a problem/obstacle on the job and how you overcame it.
Explain how you developed ideas on how to capture vital signs and perform procedures for (9) providers at one time (in your resume) (1.) Found root of the problem (2.) Brainstormed solution (3.) Had discussion/input from others (4.) Picked the most valuable solution
Tell me about a time when you encountered a problem and the steps you took to solve it.
Explain story of breaking the sterile field and how you resolved it to do the right thing (if they ask an ethical question use this example too - you believe in ethics so you wouldn't allow for surgery in that dangerous non-sterile environment)
Deadlines cannot always be met, tell me about a time when you missed a deadline on a project and the results.
From my experience, the most important lesson learned was remembering to communicate. As a deadline approaches on a project and you realize you aren't going to be able to meet the deadline, you need to make sure all parties involved are aware so that help can be requested or modifications made. Sometimes this cannot be avoided but if you communicate it clearly then perhaps the effect will not be disastrous. Additionally, I have learned skills to help predict deadlines better based on experience and have found new tools, like calendar reminders to help in this area.
Describe to me you ideal manager.
GEM QR One who supports growth, leads by example, motivates, has an open door for questions, and gives recognition when due. I think it's important that in the relationship between a manager and employee that each understand their roles. As a support person my job is to make my mangers job easier.
Tell me about a time when a coworker was not following policy.
Give an example - a doctor or nurse didn't do something to code. (1.) I talked with them first to make sure I understood the full action and that my observation of the situation was correct (2.) While it was uncomfortable for me, due to the severity of the situation I had to report it to my manager. (3.) Because we deal in patient care, I have a responsibility to ensure the health of the patient is always protected. I am very passionate about this area and believe that you have to care about people and do things correctly to ensure you don't put people at risk.
What do you like/dislike about your current manager?
I LIKE the fact that I feel I have an open door to communicate my feelings and suggestions for improvement. I DISKLIKE that they don't support educational growth. I used to be allowed to attend seminars for organ donation and now I cannot. ?? I'm not sure what applies for you here but think of something minor; don't ever bring up big issues
Describe the technology or tools you use to stay organized.
I am familiar with Microsoft Outlook and I use the calendar to keep track of due dates and appointments. There is also a task list feature that helps me create lists and check them off when completed. While I don't use Google docs at work, I do use it to keep my personal duties and lists organized. For example, I keep my grocery list on google sheets and share it with my husband so that we can access it remotely from our cell phones when shopping. When working in an office, I use a filing system that makes sense to me so that I can quickly search and find necessary items.
Tell us about yourself. Why are you leaving your current role? Why do you want to work here?
I currently work in a fast-paced operating room. I am responsible for setting up the room for surgery and communicating with the other doctors and staff for the surgeries of the day. While what I do today is mostly medical based, I have many years of experience working in a medical office where I performed common clerical duties. I am also sure that some things I do can translate to this position, like setting up for a surgery might be similar to setting up or preparing for conferences or events here. My main reason for this career switch is finding a career that is better for my family. Currently, I work all holidays and a lot of weekends. I have a daughter and don't want to miss out on seeing her open her presents Christmas morning. I also have been working in the operating room for 14 years and have seen a lot of death and experienced a lot of gut wrenching situations. And while I feel blessed to help others, it is also a very draining profession. I enjoyed the work I did early in my career in the medical office and I want to pursue that. I also like the fact that this position has a pension, which is not offered through most employers today.
Describe a time when you did not get along with a coworker.
I had a former coworker who I found it difficult to work with because she was lazy and last minute. I had to rely on her because we worked together to set up rooms. To solve the issue had to talk to her directly and let her know and keep reminding her that we needed to stay focused and get the job done.
CLOSING STATEMENT
I just wanted to say that I am elated to be sitting here and having this opportunity to interview. I only hear great things about this organization and I am very eager to be a part of your team! If given this opportunity, I want to assure you that I will work extremely hard to make this a smooth transition. I have been loyal to Beaumont for 14 years and will give that same loyalty and dedication here. I very much appreciate your time and consideration of me.
Describe what you have done in the past to monitor the progress of projects and assignments. Please provide specific examples.
I start by taking a moment to analyze what I have to accomplish for the day and then prioritize them according to importance. If I'm working in group on an assignment, I make sure and meet regularly to ensure that we are on task. Many times I use outlook or cell phone reminders to keep my duties on schedule. Using a check off list is also very helpful for me to get a sense of accomplishment from what I have done and also to help me remember what I have to do next.
What would you consdier an ideal work environment?
I think an ideal work environment would be one where people are treated as fairly as possible, recognition is given when its due and people really care about their work and the opportunities for advancement are there.
What do you do when someone doesn't agree with your ideas?
I try to put myself in their shoes and see where they are coming from. I try to determine where the real disagreement is stemming from. Ego? Unclear? Clarify? Then determine how I can reach a compromise. ??EXAMPLE They wanted to do THIS but I recommended THAT, initially I was told no until I explained my reasoning which then made sense.
Describe a time when you had difficulty working with your supervisor.
I usually get along with everyone but in the event a conflict or disagreement arises I try to stay focused on the issue and not allow emotions to get involved. Usually if someone is upset or a situation is made difficult there is a reason behind it. Resolution - having a discussion with them; not sweeping it under the rug
How do you like working for your current supervisor?
I work well with my supervisor. I understand my role and follow directions well. We have open communication and we each perform our job duties to the best of our ability.
Describe a time when you went beyond your job requirements to achieve an objective.
I'm a team player and always willing to help out my fellow coworkers. * I have worked shifts for other coworkers when they couldn't * I volunteered to teach training sessions on how to use neutralizers and inhalers * I volunteer to train interns and help educate them on how to be a successful surgical tech ???Did you come up with some process or improvement? If so, talk about it
What is your greatest weakness; your greatest strength?
I've never been comfortable with public speaking. Certain times I would conduct training on equipment. I realized a key to public speaking is preparation. When I took time to thoroughly prepare my documents and practiced relaying the information I was presenting I found that public speaking became much easier. Strength would be my ability to adapt and learn quickly. I enjoy learning these new things and finding ways to do things more efficiently.
We all make decisions that turn out to be a mistake please describe a work decision that you regret making?
In error, I set up the wrong operating room for surgery. The room was switched at the last minute and I didn't know. Its an extremely meticulous process to set up a room. I happened to be at work early that day so it ended up working out and not delaying surgery because I had plenty to time to prep the correct room. Through this, I learned that although its good to complete things early, its good to practice double check the schedule right before prepping because things can change last minute. Once again, communication is key to success.
How do you handle diversity in the workplace?
In today's society diversity is the norm. I work with many different personalities and cultures and I have found simply having respect for one another and being a good listener works. At the end of the day we are all people working towards a common goal. If anything, diversity adds flavor ~ and who doesn't like flavor, right?
How do you deal with job interruptions?
Interruptions are part of any job. (1) Be diligent (2) stay focused (3) Hold yourself accountable
What is the hardest decision you've had to make?
Leaving Beaumont ~ I've been there 14 years and have made a lot of relationships. Work places many times become family. I don't disklike my job but I need change to grow myself and chose something thats better for my family. This is a career change for me but I am extremely excited about it! I truly can't tell you how excited I would be if given this opportunity to work here and be a part of this team. I have a lot to offer and would work so hard.
What did you like least about your last job?
Lifting heavy equipment - very stressful on body
When were you most satisfied in your job?
Made a significant contribution that improved something
What do you think of your previous boss?
My last boss taught me the importance of patient care and being dedicated. Under her tutelage, I have really learned the value of providing excellent care to people who are hurting and need help in their most vulnerable moments.
What are your long-term career objectives?
Short-term - excel in my job and feel good about my accomplishments after the work day. Long range: retiring from a stable organization that provides retirement options.
What do you do if you disagree with someone at work?
Situations will always arise in the work environment when there are disagreements. Sometimes they are procedural and sometimes just mere personality differences. I think the main key is to keep focus on being productive and always keeping the big picture at hand. You cannot allow your differences to effect your productivity. If you disagree you have to resolve the difference, sometimes that requires stepping back and accepting the other individuals opinion and sometimes it requires a bit of agressive but friendly persuasion. It really depends on what the issue is but the key again is to remain producitve and professional. FOR EXAMPLE: I work with someone who has, lets say, a "challenging" personality. She likes to continually argue and gossip and nitpick. I simply smile politely and avoid getting into long conversations with her. I stay professional but at my age, I'm interested in my family, being happy and simply doing my job so truthfully, I just avoid being a part of the gossip.
Describe a time when you had to deal with a difficult situation and how you resolved it?
Talk about when your glove broke and it broke the sterile field and you couldn't allow it to proceed any further because you knew it wasn't right.
How do you handle a challenge? Give me an example.
There are always challenges on the job and they come in various forms. Sometimes they are technical and sometimes they are relational issue, like differences with a coworker. I handle challenge with an open mind. I take my time to be objective and consider the possible solutions then work towards what I feel would be the best resolution with the best outcome. Think of a minor example - Our patient computers were down and I couldn't see the schedule. While some techs were in the back room complaining and panicking, I stayed calm and remained with the front desk clerk, trying to help retrieve the back log information until the problem was resolved.
What would your last boss say about you?
Valued team member. The most important would be that she could rely on me to follow through and do what I said I was going to do.
Do you prefer to work on a team or alone?
Well I certainly can work independently and stay motivated with little supervision and direction. The position I am in is relatively singular but requires self-motivation and diligence to stay on task, if I wasn't keeping up with my workload you could quickly tell. I also enjoy working with others, it allows me to bounce ideas off them and gain comradely.
Give an example of a goal you reached and tell me how you achieved it.
When I was a medical assistant, I had to maintain the inventory for supplies. I wanted to improve the process because when I started it, it required physically counting the inventory every week which took a lot of time. I developed an excel spreadsheet to track the inventory and a check off list next to each equipment item for the nurses to check when they used it so that I would quickly know the amount in stock. ???? think of something along those lines - basically you had a goal and then the results were that it improved some kind of process or improved the work environment
Give an example of how you worked on a team.
Worked on the orphanage team to gather donations and stuff stockings
Tell me about how you worked effectively under pressure?
Working in a operating room, I face stress and pressure daily. When I worked in a medical office there were other pressures - like deadlines and resolving patient complaints/problems. I've learned over the years how to effectively deal with stress by responding to it and not reacting to it. Rather than getting stressed out, I try to stay focused and prioritize my tasks. My motto is "Don't sweat the small stuff", everything can be done in a calm and organized manner so why allow myself to get frazzled so easily?
Describe a time when you used logic to solve a problem.
take time to think about what I'm doing, rationalize it, and make sure it balances and is accounted for correctly. ??think of an example
