As a locum clinician working with Hallam Medical, we want you to feel fully prepared and confident when stepping into any clinical interview. Whether you’re interviewing online or in person, preparation is key to showcasing your skills and cultural fit with our clients.

As Chief Nurse at Hallam Medical, I have put together interview guidance and top tips to help you succeed.

Interview Preparation

Taking time to prepare ahead of your interview is essential:

1. Arrange a call with your recruitment consultant the day before the interview to go through preparation together. This ensures no detail is overlooked.
2. Have you received confirmation of your interview details, including time, location (or online link), and tech setup requirements?
3. Set aside enough time, ensuring you know how long the interview is expected to take.
4. Familiarise yourself with the interviewer’s name, title, and position within the organisation.
5. Review the company information and job specification shared with you.
6. Understand the company’s values and goals by exploring their website and additional materials.
7. Don’t just say “yes” when asked if you’ve reviewed the materials, walk through your knowledge of the job, company, and interviewer to confirm your understanding.
8. Have a printed or digital copy of your CV, the job specification, and any notes you’ve prepared to reference during the interview.
9. The interview isn’t just about your qualifications, it’s also about how well you’ll integrate into their team. Be mindful of your communication style and interpersonal skills during the conversation.

Interview Tips

Whether it’s an in-person or virtual interview, these general tips will help you make a great impression:

1. Always present yourself as a polished professional, even if the interview is conducted online. First impressions matter!
2. Be punctual—arrive on-site or log in at least 5 minutes before your interview starts to demonstrate reliability and respect for the interviewer’s time.
3. For virtual interviews, ensure your environment is quiet, free from distractions, and has a clean, tidy background.
4. Test your tech in advance – check your internet connection, camera, and microphone. Avoid last-minute hiccups by having everything ready to go.
5. Maintain good eye contact, listen actively, and respond thoughtfully. Show your enthusiasm for the role while demonstrating your ability to stay composed under pressure.

During the Interview

Knowing what to expect can help calm nerves and ensure you’re prepared. Here’s how most interviews will run:

• The interviewer will often begin by explaining the company, the role, and their expectations for the position.
• Be ready to discuss: What you know about the company and your understanding of the role and its responsibilities.
• Prepare to talk through your recent, relevant work experience. Focus on key skills they are seeking and point to specific examples in your CV that demonstrate your capabilities.
• Expect scenario-based questions that test your clinical knowledge and problem-solving skills.
• Review common clinical scenarios and ensure you can articulate your thought process clearly.
• Some interviews include a short multiple-choice test covering clinical scenarios.
• Strengths and Weaknesses – Relate these to the job description to highlight your suitability and choose areas for improvement that don’t directly conflict with key job responsibilities.
• At the end of the interview, you’ll have a chance to ask questions. Thoughtful, relevant queries show your interest in the role and organization.
• Avoid asking about compensation or rates at this stage but focus on the company’s goals, team dynamics, or opportunities for professional growth.

By following this guidance, you’ll be well-prepared to make a positive impression in your clinical interview. Remember, preparation is more than knowing the answers, it’s about presenting yourself as confident, competent, and aligned with the values of the organisation.

If you have any questions, please contact Chief Nurse Lisa Locker on 0333 800 0395 or email LisaLocker@hallammedical.com