How would you describe your communication and interpersonal skills?

INTERMEDIATE LEVEL
How would you describe your communication and interpersonal skills?
Sample answer to the question:
I would describe my communication and interpersonal skills as excellent. Throughout my career, I have had the opportunity to work with diverse groups of patients and healthcare professionals, allowing me to develop strong communication skills. I am able to effectively communicate with patients, ensuring they understand their care plans and addressing any concerns they may have. In addition, I am skilled at collaborating with a multidisciplinary team, working together to provide the best possible care for patients. My interpersonal skills allow me to build strong relationships with patients, making them feel comfortable and supported during their perioperative journey.
Here is a more solid answer:
I would describe my communication and interpersonal skills as exceptional. In my previous role as a perianesthesia nurse, I had the opportunity to work closely with patients and their families, as well as with surgeons, anesthesiologists, and other healthcare professionals. I consistently received positive feedback from patients for my ability to communicate effectively and compassionately. For example, I would explain the preoperative and postoperative care procedures in a clear and concise manner, ensuring that they understood what to expect. I also actively listened to their concerns, providing emotional support and addressing any issues that arose. Additionally, I collaborated seamlessly with the multidisciplinary team, sharing information and working cohesively to provide comprehensive care. My strong communication and interpersonal skills greatly contributed to the positive patient experiences and outcomes in the perianesthesia unit.
Why is this a more solid answer?
The answer provides specific examples from the candidate's previous role and demonstrates their ability to communicate effectively with patients and collaborate with a multidisciplinary team. However, it could be further improved by providing more details on the impact of their communication and interpersonal skills on patient care.
An example of a exceptional answer:
I would describe my communication and interpersonal skills as exceptional. Throughout my career as a perianesthesia nurse, I have consistently demonstrated my ability to communicate with clarity, empathy, and effectiveness. When working with patients, I take the time to establish a rapport, actively listening to their concerns and addressing them in a compassionate manner. By providing clear explanations of the preoperative and postoperative care procedures, I ensure that patients feel informed, empowered, and confident in their healthcare journey. In numerous instances, I have received heartfelt appreciation from patients and their families for my ability to alleviate their anxiety and make them feel comfortable throughout the perioperative process. In addition to my interactions with patients, I excel in collaborating with a multidisciplinary team. I recognize the importance of effective communication in ensuring seamless and comprehensive care. Through clear and timely information sharing, I facilitate smooth transitions and address potential challenges. As a result, the team I work with consistently achieves excellent patient outcomes and high patient satisfaction ratings. In summary, my exceptional communication and interpersonal skills enable me to establish strong connections with patients, deliver exceptional care, and contribute to a positive and collaborative work environment.
Why is this an exceptional answer?
The answer provides detailed examples of the candidate's communication and interpersonal skills, highlighting their ability to establish rapport with patients, alleviate anxiety, and collaborate effectively with a multidisciplinary team. It also emphasizes the impact of these skills on patient outcomes and satisfaction. The answer is comprehensive and goes beyond the basic and solid answers by providing a more detailed and impactful description of the candidate's communication and interpersonal skills.
How to prepare for this question:
  • Reflect on past experiences where you have effectively communicated with patients and healthcare professionals. Think about specific examples that highlight your strong communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Practice active listening and empathetic communication techniques to enhance your ability to connect with patients and address their concerns.
  • Stay updated with the latest practices and guidelines in perianesthesia care to be able to communicate effectively with the healthcare team and provide accurate information to patients.
  • Consider seeking feedback from colleagues or mentors on your communication and interpersonal skills to identify areas for improvement.
  • Develop a strong understanding of cultural competence and sensitivity to ensure effective communication with a diverse patient population.
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