NHS interview tips please

cazzzie987

I have an interview for a clerical assistant position at my local hospital next week, full time. It mentions in the person specification about qualifications and skills, which I have. 
The problem is I am terrible at interviews I think I get too nervous and talk too much. I also go blank at times. I have read about the department, although previously they have never asked me about this (in other NHS interviews)

The time slot is just 15 minutes, so surely they can't ask too much? It mentions in the personal specification about a test at interview, but nothing was mentioned when booking the time slot and no emails about that either. 

Darkslider

My girlfriend has had a few of these (and I've had one) and is now a pro! First thing is not to worry, in our experience the interviewers are very friendly and will quite often steer you towards the right response if they feel you're close to the right answer but perhaps haven't used the exact word or phrase they're looking for. They're simple points scoring exercises really, make sure you study the job and person spec in detail, and try and think of ways you can demonstrate your skills, qualifications and experience to reflect the required attributes they're looking for.

In terms of the test I believe it's something relatively simple like typing out a dictated letter accurately and within a time limit but this could vary between health boards also.

Best of luck!

cazzzie987

Darkslider said:

My girlfriend has had a few of these (and I've had one) and is now a pro! First thing is not to worry, in our experience the interviewers are very friendly and will quite often steer you towards the right response if they feel you're close to the right answer but perhaps haven't used the exact word or phrase they're looking for. They're simple points scoring exercises really, make sure you study the job and person spec in detail, and try and think of ways you can demonstrate your skills, qualifications and experience to reflect the required attributes they're looking for.

In terms of the test I believe it's something relatively simple like typing out a dictated letter accurately and within a time limit but this could vary between health boards also.

Best of luck!

It said it next to the filing system part, however usually when I have had tests they specify this in an email (there is no mention of this and my 15 minute time slot seems to tight).

[Deleted User]

Ive just been offered an interview with the NHS (second one, unsuccessful at last one). 

I was speaking with the lead interviewer through email as she was discussing what reasonable adjustments I needed. 

She told me their interviews are based around the five trusts values and I should use the STAR technique when giving specific examples.