6 Questions You Should NEVER Ask in a Healthcare Job Interview

Interviews in the healthcare sector are as much about assessing your fit with the organisation as they are about your technical skills. Your questions during the interview can reveal a lot about your priorities and preparedness. We know that interviews can be nerve-wracking, and knowing what to say (and what not to say) is crucial when trying to land your next role as a registered manager, nurse, support worker or any other position in the sector.

While asking thoughtful questions can impress your interviewer, asking the wrong ones can have the opposite effect. Here are six questions to avoid in an interview, and better ways to approach them.

1. “When will I get a pay rise or bonus?”

Why You Shouldn’t Ask:
While compensation is undeniably important, asking about future pay increases or bonuses too early in the process can give the impression that you’re more focussed on the money than the role itself. Employers in the healthcare sector are looking for individuals who are genuinely passionate about patient care and committed to long-term success rather than immediate financial gains.

What to Ask Instead:

• • “Can you explain the performance review process?” 
  • “Can you tell me about opportunities for career development within the organisation?”

These examples show that you are ambitious, interested in growing with the organisation and understand that progression is tied to performance over time.

2. “What does your company do?” OR “What does the job entail?”

Why You Shouldn’t Ask:
There’s no beating round the bush, this question is a HUGE red flag for employers. These questions suggest a lack of research on your part. Employers expect candidates to have a clear understanding of the establishment and the role they’re applying for. A question that sounds generic might imply that you haven’t done your homework and aren’t truly invested in the opportunity.

What to Ask Instead:

• • “I was really impressed by your recent initiative on [specific program or achievement]. Can you tell me more about how this role contributes to those efforts?” 
  • “I saw on your website that your home focuses on [specific service]. Could you tell me more about how this team supports that mission?
  • “What do you see as the biggest challenge facing your team right now?”

These types of questions not only show that you’ve done your research but also highlights your enthusiasm and willingness to contribute meaningfully to the employer’s goals.

3. “When can I start taking time off or sick days?”

Why You Shouldn’t Ask:
Discussing holidays or sick leave before fully understanding the responsibilities of the role can suggest that you’re already thinking about how to work around the job, rather than committing fully to it. While work-life balance is crucial, especially in healthcare, but timing is everything.

What to Ask Instead:

• • “Could you describe how the team manages work-life balance, particularly during peak times or emergencies?” 
  • “Could you tell me more about staff wellbeing and support in this role?”

These questions demonstrate your awareness of the demands of a healthcare role while also showing that you’re considering how to maintain both professional excellence and personal well-being. Both equally important to anyone in a helping role.

4. “Do you do background checks or check references?”

Why You Shouldn’t Ask:
Even if you have nothing to hide, this question can raise unnecessary concerns. In a sector where trust is paramount, questioning the organisation’s vetting processes might inadvertently cast doubts on your integrity or give the impression that you expect a lack of scrutiny. If you have questions about the hiring process, most recruiters should have this information.

What to Ask Instead:

• • “What does the onboarding process look like?”
  • “Can you walk me through the next steps in the hiring process?”

These keep things neutral and professional while still getting the information you need.

5. “What happens if I’m late to work?”

Why You Shouldn’t Ask:
Punctuality is critical in healthcare settings. Asking about the consequences of lateness may lead the interviewer to question your reliability, even if you’re normally punctual. It’s best to focus on demonstrating your commitment rather than discussing potential pitfalls.

What to Ask Instead:

• • “Can you tell me about the team’s approach to scheduling and managing unexpected delays, especially in high-pressure situations?” 
  • “How does the team typically handle shift scheduling and handovers?”
  • “How do you ensure smooth handovers between shifts?”

These questions show that you understand the importance of timing and teamwork in care-based settings.

6. “Do you want to get a coffee with me?”

Why You Shouldn’t Ask:
Yes, this has actually happens. While building rapport is important, mixing personal social invitations with professional interview etiquette can be seen as unprofessional. Interviews are for assessing mutual fit, and casual coffee meetings are best reserved for networking once you’ve secured the role.

What to Ask Instead:

• • “What are some of the team’s favourite ways to build camaraderie and celebrate successes here?”

This question allows you to learn about the company culture in a professional context and demonstrates your interest in becoming a part of the team.

Additional Interview Tips for Healthcare Job Seekers

• Research Thoroughly:
  Before the interview, take time to understand the organisation’s mission, recent initiatives, and the specific challenges it faces in today’s healthcare landscape. This research not only helps you ask better questions but also positions you as a thoughtful candidate who is genuinely interested in contributing to their success.
• Focus on Patient-Centred Questions:
  Remember, healthcare is about delivering excellent patient care. Frame your questions around how you can support patient outcomes and contribute to the overall goals of the organisation. For example, asking, “How does this role directly impact patient care?” can provide valuable insights and showcase your dedication.
• Be Prepared to Share Your Experience:
  While questions are important, be ready to discuss your own experiences and how they align with the company’s needs. Share stories that highlight your problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and commitment to ethical standards.
• Demonstrate Professional Enthusiasm:
  Your tone and body language are just as important as the words you choose. Convey genuine enthusiasm for the role and confidence in your ability to contribute to a high-performing team, all while maintaining a professional demeanour.

Navigating a healthcare job interview can be challenging, but knowing which questions to avoid and what to ask instead can set you apart as a well-prepared, thoughtful candidate. By focusing on questions that highlight your commitment to patient care, teamwork, and professional growth, you can make a strong impression on your future employer.

This approach not only steers the conversation in a more professional direction but also ensures that you leave the interview with a strong, positive impression.

Good luck with your next interview!