Tell us about a time when you had to adapt your approach to working with a different interdisciplinary team.

JUNIOR LEVEL
Tell us about a time when you had to adapt your approach to working with a different interdisciplinary team.
Sample answer to the question:
In my previous role as a healthcare technology consultant, I had the opportunity to work with a diverse interdisciplinary team consisting of doctors, nurses, IT professionals, and administrative staff. One specific instance that stands out to me is when we were implementing a new electronic health records (EHR) system at a large hospital. Initially, we faced resistance from some of the doctors who were not accustomed to using digital systems. To adapt my approach, I organized a series of training sessions tailored to the different specialties and work styles of the doctors. I also collaborated with the IT team to customize the EHR system, making it more intuitive and user-friendly. Through clear communication and ongoing support, I was able to address the concerns of the doctors and gain their trust. As a result, the implementation process proceeded smoothly, and the doctors eventually embraced the new EHR system, which significantly improved the efficiency and accuracy of patient documentation.
Here is a more solid answer:
In my previous role as a healthcare technology consultant, I faced a situation where I had to adapt my approach to working with a different interdisciplinary team. Our team was tasked with implementing a new electronic health records (EHR) system in a healthcare facility. The team consisted of doctors, nurses, IT professionals, and administrative staff, each with their own unique perspectives and needs. Initially, there was resistance from some of the doctors who were not accustomed to using digital systems. To address this challenge, I took a proactive approach by organizing a series of training sessions tailored to the different specialties and work styles of the doctors. I collaborated closely with the IT team to customize the EHR system, making it more intuitive and user-friendly for the doctors. Additionally, I held regular meetings with the doctors to address their concerns and provide ongoing support throughout the implementation process. By fostering open communication and building trust with the doctors, I was able to overcome their initial resistance. As a result, the implementation process proceeded smoothly, and the doctors eventually embraced the new EHR system, which significantly improved the efficiency and accuracy of patient documentation.
Why is this a more solid answer?
The solid answer provides more specific details and depth in the candidate's experience with adapting their approach to working with a different interdisciplinary team. It highlights their proactive approach, collaboration with the IT team, addressing concerns, and fostering open communication to overcome resistance.
An example of a exceptional answer:
In my previous role as a healthcare technology consultant, I encountered a challenging situation that required me to adapt my approach to working with a different interdisciplinary team. We were tasked with implementing a new electronic health records (EHR) system in a large hospital with diverse healthcare professionals, including doctors, nurses, IT professionals, and administrative staff. As we began the implementation, it became apparent that some doctors were skeptical about the benefits of the new system and were concerned about the potential disruptions to their workflows. To address these challenges, I took a proactive approach by conducting in-depth meetings with each specialty's physicians and key stakeholders. This allowed me to understand their specific concerns, workflow requirements, and preferences. Based on this feedback, I collaborated closely with the IT team to customize the EHR system, making it tailored to each specialty's needs and intuitive for the doctors. I also organized comprehensive training sessions that incorporated hands-on practice and simulations of real-life scenarios to ensure a smooth transition. Throughout the implementation process, I maintained open lines of communication with the doctors, providing timely updates and addressing any emerging issues. By actively involving the doctors in the decision-making process and providing personalized support, we were able to build trust and alleviate their concerns. As a result, the new EHR system was successfully adopted by the doctors, leading to improved efficiency, accuracy, and patient care.
Why is this an exceptional answer?
The exceptional answer goes above and beyond the solid answer by providing even more specific details and demonstrating the candidate's exceptional communication, problem-solving, and adaptability skills. It highlights their proactive approach of conducting in-depth meetings with each specialty's physicians, customization of the EHR system, comprehensive training sessions, and personalized support to build trust with the doctors.
How to prepare for this question:
  • Familiarize yourself with the different specialties and workflows in healthcare settings to better understand their unique needs and challenges.
  • Stay up-to-date with emerging healthcare technology trends and best practices to anticipate potential challenges and opportunities.
  • Develop strong communication and interpersonal skills to effectively collaborate with interdisciplinary teams and address concerns.
  • Practice problem-solving and adaptability through scenarios or role-playing exercises to prepare for real-world situations where you may need to adjust your approach.
  • Highlight any past experiences where you successfully collaborated with different teams and adapted your approach to showcase your skills during the interview.
What are interviewers evaluating with this question?
  • Adaptability
  • Collaboration
  • Problem-solving
  • Communication

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