Leadership and management skills are key competencies for NHS Consultants. Here’s how to showcase them effectively during your interview.
Understanding Leadership vs. Management
Leadership involves inspiring and guiding a team, while management focuses on operational efficiency. Consultants are expected to excel in both areas.
Key Areas to Highlight
- Team Leadership: Describe instances where you led a team to improve patient outcomes.
- Decision-Making: Show how you make evidence-based decisions under pressure.
- Conflict Resolution: Explain how you mediate disputes within a multidisciplinary team.
- Quality Improvement Initiatives: Highlight projects where you implemented changes to enhance patient care.
- Training and Mentorship: Discuss your role in mentoring junior doctors or medical students.
Example Interview Question
“Can you describe a situation where you had to lead a team through a challenging period?”
Answer: “During a staffing shortage, I coordinated workload distribution, ensured patient care standards remained high, and implemented a rotating schedule to manage burnout. This resulted in sustained service delivery with minimal disruption.”
