Can you describe your communication and interpersonal skills?

JUNIOR LEVEL

Sample answer to the question:

I believe my communication and interpersonal skills are one of my strong suits. Throughout my career, I have had the opportunity to work in diverse healthcare settings where effective communication is crucial. I am able to communicate clearly and concisely with patients and their families, providing them with information and support during challenging times. Additionally, I have collaborated with multidisciplinary teams, including doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals, to ensure seamless patient care. My interpersonal skills have allowed me to establish strong working relationships, promoting a positive and collaborative work environment. Overall, I believe my communication and interpersonal skills are essential in providing exceptional care to vulnerable newborns and their families.

Here is a more solid answer:

My communication and interpersonal skills have been honed through my experience as a NICU nurse. In my previous role, I often had to deliver difficult news to parents and explain medical procedures in a clear and empathetic manner. I have a knack for putting people at ease and ensuring they understand the information provided. As for my interpersonal skills, I have consistently established strong working relationships with my colleagues, creating a supportive and collaborative environment. This has been instrumental in coordinating care plans and addressing the unique needs of each newborn. Through effective communication and strong interpersonal skills, I strive to create a positive and comforting experience for both patients and their families.

Why is this a more solid answer?

The solid answer expands on the basic answer by providing specific examples of the candidate's communication and interpersonal skills in action. It mentions the candidate delivering difficult news to parents and explaining medical procedures. It also highlights the candidate's ability to establish strong working relationships and create a supportive work environment. However, it could further emphasize the impact of these skills on patient outcomes.

An example of a exceptional answer:

Communication and interpersonal skills are paramount in my role as a NICU nurse. I have developed a comprehensive approach to communication, tailoring my delivery of information to the unique needs of each family. I prioritize active listening and empathetic communication, ensuring that parents feel heard and supported during challenging times. In terms of my interpersonal skills, I actively foster a collaborative work environment by promoting open communication and mutual respect among the healthcare team. This enables effective coordination of care plans and establishes a foundation of trust with both colleagues and families. By effectively utilizing my communication and interpersonal skills, I strive to enhance patient outcomes and provide the highest quality of care.

Why is this an exceptional answer?

The exceptional answer goes above and beyond by emphasizing the candidate's comprehensive approach to communication and giving specific examples of how they tailor their delivery of information to meet the unique needs of each family. It also highlights the candidate's commitment to promoting a collaborative work environment and building trust with both colleagues and families. This showcases the impact of their communication and interpersonal skills on patient outcomes. The answer is thorough and provides a well-rounded perspective of the candidate's abilities in this area.

How to prepare for this question:

Reflect on past experiences where effective communication and interpersonal skills were crucial. Consider specific instances where you had to deliver difficult news or establish rapport with patients and their families.

Educate yourself on best practices in communication and interpersonal skills in the healthcare industry. Familiarize yourself with techniques such as active listening, empathy, and establishing trust.

Practice your communication skills by engaging in role-play scenarios. This will help you refine your ability to explain complex medical information in a clear and empathetic manner.

Seek feedback from colleagues and supervisors regarding your communication and interpersonal skills. This can provide valuable insights into areas for improvement and areas where you excel.

Stay up-to-date with current research and literature on effective communication and interpersonal skills in neonatal care. This will demonstrate your commitment to continuous learning and improvement in this area.

What are interviewers evaluating with this question?