Interview Anxiety as an IMG - Tips to help you ace that all important interview!
With job competition at its highest, you want to crush interview anxiety and make sure you're ready to smash that interview. Having been on both sides of the interview table, here are some tips!
Interview anxiety is real, especially for IMGs (International Medical Graduates). It’s natural to feel nervous before a big event like a job interview—particularly when you’ve been waiting for the opportunity for so long.
Many IMGs ask how to best prepare for an interview, especially when aiming for a role in the NHS. These interviews can feel overwhelming, especially if you’ve never faced something like this before. The stakes are high; often, IMGs get one interview after applying to hundreds of jobs.
You want to ace it, make the most of this chance, and secure that elusive offer. Below are my top 12 tips to help you succeed.
1. Research the Trust, Department, Specialty, and Role
Understanding the values and mission of the healthcare organisation you’re interviewing for is crucial.
It shows you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested in the position. Knowing the patient population and type of care the Trust provides gives you an edge and helps demonstrate you're a good fit.
2. Review Common Interview Questions
Expect questions about your clinical experience, patient interactions, and medical knowledge.
Preparing thoughtful responses in advance will not only show off your expertise but also help you feel more confident and less anxious on the day.
3. Practice Your Responses
Rehearse answers to common questions with a friend or family member.
This isn’t just about having the right answer; it’s about delivering it fluently and confidently. The more you practice, the more natural you’ll sound in the interview.
4. Dress Professionally
First impressions matter.
Whether your interview is in person or online, dressing professionally shows that you take the opportunity seriously. For virtual interviews, you only need to focus on your upper half—but ensure you still come across as polished.
5. Be Punctual
Punctuality is key, especially in medicine.
It reflects reliability and respect for your interviewer’s time. Make sure to test your internet connection and run through your audio and video settings beforehand if it’s a virtual interview. You don’t want technical issues to mess up your big moment.
6. Show Enthusiasm
A little enthusiasm goes a long way.
Even if this role is just your foot in the door, express genuine interest in the specialty and how it fits with your career goals. Passion and excitement about the role could set you apart from other candidates.
7. Be Ready to Discuss Your Qualifications
When they ask you to "walk us through your CV," it’s your moment to shine.
Align your skills with the job description and use their language to show how you fit the role perfectly. It’s a great way to position yourself as the ideal candidate.
8. Be Honest
Honesty is non-negotiable, especially in medicine.
Never exaggerate your qualifications or experience. Being truthful builds trust, not just with the interviewers but eventually with your colleagues and patients.
9. Exude Confidence
Confidence doesn’t mean having all the answers.
It’s about engaging in a smooth conversation, admitting when you don’t know something, and being willing to learn. A confident but humble approach can make a strong impression.
10. Be a Good Listener
Good communication is one of the most essential qualities for a doctor, and listening is a big part of that.
Show your interviewers that you’re engaged, thoughtful, and taking the conversation seriously.
11. Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, when they ask if you have questions, don’t shy away.
Have a couple of well-prepared questions ready—whether about the role, support for non-training doctors, or educational opportunities. It shows you’re invested and curious.
12. Follow Up
A follow-up email thanking the interview panel goes a long way.
It shows professionalism, reinforces your enthusiasm, and keeps you memorable in their minds.
Bonus Tip: Brush Up on Common Emergencies
If you're interviewing for acute roles like emergency medicine, acute medicine, or surgery, revisit key emergencies using resources like the OHCM and OHEM. These quick refreshers could be helpful if specific clinical scenarios come up.
By following these tips, you can significantly boost your chances of acing the interview and landing the job. Remember, preparation is key, and confidence will follow.
Here’s my recent post on how Australia has become easier to get into for UK doctors since 21 Oct 2024.
🇦🇺 Australia is about to become even easier for UK doctors!
New Fast-Track Pathway for UK Doctors: A Potential Game Changer for Australia and the NHS
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