How would you describe your communication and interpersonal skills?

SENIOR LEVEL
How would you describe your communication and interpersonal skills?
Sample answer to the question:
I would describe my communication and interpersonal skills as strong. In my previous roles, I have interacted with a diverse range of patients and colleagues, and I have always been able to build rapport and establish effective relationships. I am empathetic and attentive to others' needs, which helps me to understand and address their concerns. I am also a good listener and able to communicate information clearly and concisely. Overall, my communication and interpersonal skills have been key in providing quality care and collaborating with others.
Here is a more solid answer:
Throughout my career, I have consistently demonstrated exceptional communication and interpersonal skills. I have successfully built rapport and established strong relationships with my patients, earning their trust and creating a safe environment for open dialogue. As a result, I have been able to effectively assess their needs, develop personalized treatment plans, and provide the necessary support and guidance. Additionally, I have collaborated seamlessly with other healthcare professionals, engaging in interdisciplinary discussions and fostering a cohesive multidisciplinary team approach. My strong communication skills have also translated into effective leadership and mentorship, as I have been responsible for supervising and training junior psychologists. Overall, my communication and interpersonal skills have been instrumental in my ability to deliver quality care and maintain strong professional relationships.
Why is this a more solid answer?
The solid answer expands on the basic answer by providing specific examples and demonstrating how the candidate's communication and interpersonal skills have been applied in their previous roles. It highlights their ability to build rapport with patients, collaborate with other healthcare professionals, and provide effective leadership. However, it could benefit from additional details or examples to further emphasize the candidate's strengths.
An example of a exceptional answer:
My communication and interpersonal skills are without a doubt one of my greatest assets as a Clinical Psychologist. I have honed my skills through years of experience and continuous professional development. One notable example of my exceptional communication skills is when I worked with a patient struggling with social anxiety. Through active listening, non-verbal cues, and empathy, I was able to create a safe space where they felt comfortable expressing their fears and concerns. I then used my strong interpersonal skills to develop a customized treatment plan that incorporated exposure therapy and cognitive restructuring techniques. Over time, our sessions became a transformative experience for them, leading to a significant reduction in anxiety symptoms and an improvement in their overall quality of life. Furthermore, my ability to communicate and collaborate effectively with colleagues from different disciplines has been critical in achieving holistic care for our patients. I actively engage in interdisciplinary meetings, offering insights and expertise while also valuing the perspectives of others. I am also highly skilled in providing leadership and mentorship to junior psychologists, guiding them in their professional development and fostering a supportive learning environment. In summary, my communication and interpersonal skills are exemplified by my ability to establish trust, create a therapeutic alliance, and work collaboratively with others to provide the highest standard of care.
Why is this an exceptional answer?
The exceptional answer goes above and beyond the solid answer by providing a compelling example that highlights the candidate's exceptional communication and interpersonal skills in action. It showcases their ability to create a safe and supportive environment for a patient struggling with social anxiety and their expertise in implementing effective therapy techniques. Additionally, the answer emphasizes the candidate's strong collaborative abilities and exceptional leadership and mentorship skills. It effectively demonstrates how the candidate's communication and interpersonal skills align with the requirements of the job description.
How to prepare for this question:
  • Reflect on specific instances where your communication and interpersonal skills have made a significant impact on patients' lives or the outcomes of collaborative efforts.
  • Consider how your communication skills can be applied across different situations, such as patient assessments, treatment planning, interdisciplinary meetings, and mentorship.
  • Stay up-to-date with the latest research and best practices in communication and interpersonal skills within the field of clinical psychology.
  • Practice active listening, empathy, and effective verbal and non-verbal communication techniques in your daily interactions to enhance your skills.
  • Seek feedback from colleagues and supervisors to continuously improve and refine your communication and interpersonal skills.
What are interviewers evaluating with this question?
  • Communication Skills
  • Interpersonal Skills

Want content like this in your inbox?
Sign Up for our Newsletter

By clicking "Sign up" you consent and agree to Jobya's Terms & Privacy policies

Related Interview Questions