UPMC Interview Questions & Answers

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What candidates say about the interview process at UPMC

  • Easy process. There are a few bad apples and I declined their positions. There are good hiring managers mostly. But a few have serious issues and once you see it, don’t work for them. Your see all the…Shared on May 6, 2022
  • Managers then peers. If ONE person gives you a bad mark, you’re out of the running whether you’re qualified or not. Shared on February 16, 2022 – Operating Room Nurse Educator – York, PA
  • Slow to get an interview Shared on April 12, 2021 – Registered Nurse (RN) – New Castle, PA
  • Commonly asked questions, as reported by candidates

  • Why do you want to work here Shared on April 12, 2021 – Registered Nurse (RN) – New Castle, PA
  • Describe a time where you found a coworker doing something they weren’t supposed to do. How did you handle that situation? What jobs did you have previously and why did you leave those jobs? Why do …Shared on December 26, 2020 – Environmental Services Associate – York, PA
  • How do you do with working remotely from home? How do you do if you disagree with a supervisor?Shared on October 16, 2020 – Lower Level Department Job – Philadelphia, PA
  • What was your interview with UPMC like?Your insights will help other jobseekers.

  • Business casual (e.g. dress slacks)69 %
  • Formal (business suit)24 %
  • Casual (t-shirt and jeans)3 %
  • They didn’t have a dress code2 %
  • Special outfit (e.g. protective gear)2 %
  • List of 30 U P M C Shadyside Interview Questions & Answers

  • 1. What part of your healthcare career brings you the most stress?

      How to Answer

      Stress can often be a regular part of the day to day work experience. Talk to the interviewer about which areas of your career are the most stressful. Ensure that your answer does not include a factor that would make you appear unfit for the position. (Ie: a healthcare worker should not find facing illness to be the most stressful part of the job).

      Answer Example

      “When the schedule is running behind due to lack of hustle on mine or my teams part, I find it stressful. I like to be on time with my schedule to ensure that our patients and clients get the proper, timely help that they need.”

      Answer Example

      “To be completely transparent, I probably bring myself the most stress because of my innate desire to be the best. I strive for perfection too often, which causes undue stress on myself. I manage this by focusing my energy on productive activities that are good for my career.”

  • 2. Think about a difficult boss, professor or coworker. What made him or her difficult? How did you successfully interact with this person?

      How to Answer

      Show the interviewer that you work well with most personalities even though you recognize there are some folks out there who are quite difficult to please. Think about that one person at work who is hard to please. Perhaps there is someone at work who tries to intimidate others. Talk to the interviewer about what made this person challenging and what their relationship was with you. Avoid speaking poorly of anyone, and be sure to end your response on a positive note.

      Answer Example

      “I once worked at a small medical facility where the primary physician was very demanding. When he would walk into the facility, employees would quietly announce that he was in the building, so that everyone could prepare for his arrival. This physician had great intentions; however, his people skills were a little rough. I could see that he meant well, and I recognized that he wanted to do a lot of good things. When we interacted, I always took his feedback with the understanding that he didnt mean things as harshly as he might say them.”

      Answer Example

      “During my internship, I had a fellow student who didnt pull their weight. This unmotivated person created more work for the rest of the team by being slow and unresponsive. Our team started to complete most of the tasks when it came to group projects. It didnt take much time before our professor noticed this particular individual was slacking. I feel like, in most instances, the underachievers will weed themselves out over time, and its rarely worth making a fuss over.”

  • 3. With the ongoing changes in the healthcare services industry, how do you keep your knowledge current?

      How to Answer

      Employers expect employees to stay up-to-date in their respective fields, and todays technology makes this reasonably easy! List several ways that you receive your industry knowledge and stay on top of trends. Tell the interviewer about those daily update emails you receive from professional organizations, conferences you attend, and seminars you have taken. Lastly, its a great idea to ask the interviewer what resources they refer to for industry trends. That question can start up a great conversation, and you may learn a thing or two as well.

      Answer Example

      “Every morning I listen to X Podcast because I find the information to be fresh and valuable. In addition to this podcast, I also subscribe to a couple of industry blogs. One is ABC, and the other is XYZ. I greatly value the information shared between fellow professionals. What resources do you prefer to stay on top of industry trends and changes?”

      Answer Example

      “I am an avid fan of Google alerts! I will receive an email with the related information any time there is a major headline about the healthcare services industry. In addition to this, I also subscribe to a couple of medical-related journals, including A and B.”

  • 4. At U P M C Shadyside we seek to hire individuals who have ambitions of growing their career. Where do you see yourself in 3-5 years?

      How to Answer

      Every hiring manager would like to know that their investment in time and training will pay off. Assure the interviewer that you see this position as a long-term fit. How does this role with U P M C Shadyside fit into your longer-term plans?

      Answer Example

      “In 3-5 years I would like to see my career with U P M C Shadyside include a path towards a leadership role. I am very keen on paving a long-term career in the healthcare services realm and would love the opportunity to do that here.”

      Answer Example

      “One of the attractive points of working for U P M C Shadyside is that you care about the growth of your employees. Im motivated to learn and am looking for a long-term fit. In 3-5 years, Id like to be grounded in the clinic, learn about this site, your patient base, and earn certifications that would help the unit advance. I want to get involved in some of the local volunteer organizations. I speak Spanish, and I have an interest in urban outreach, so it would be nice to do something formal in that context, health-education, or fundraising.”

  • 5. At U P M C Shadyside we seek to hire individuals who display a keen interest in the healthcare arena. Would you consider yourself dedicated to a career in healthcare services?

      How to Answer

      Assure the interviewer of your dedication to a lucrative career in the healthcare services industry. The hiring manager would like to know that this position fits into your long-term plan and that, if hired, you would stay with U P M C Shadyside as long as possible.

      Answer Example

      “I dedicated my entire career to the healthcare services field. I find it incredibly rewarding and interesting because I get to help others, and every day brings new challenges! One of the reasons I applied for this role with U P M C Shadyside is because I can see a long-term fit here. I plan to work in the healthcare segment for my entire career.”

      Answer Example

      “I know this career can take a toll on personal life, and I understand that while it can be more-or-less sustainable, its more than just a job for me. So far, I have dedicated my entire adult life to this career. I have shadowed numerous professionals and have worked in multiple clinics. I know this is the right career for me.”

      Answer Example

      “This career is not just something I want to do 8-5 to get by; its something I want to BE. I want to be someone who dedicates themselves to a craft. I chose healthcare because the learning opportunities are endless. Its constantly evolving. I find the human body is fascinating, and I think that society is only healthy when it cares for its wounded.” View this question and answers

  • 6. What is your patient care philosophy?

      How to Answer

      Its always a great idea to research the company before your interview. You want to get to know their care philosophy so that your answer can reflect what is important to them. What is the core of your care philosophy? Keep your answer concise yet sincere.

      Answer Example

      “Every day at work, I remind myself that everyone I come across has their struggles. Every person we care for has a story. I make sure to get to know my patients whenever possible. Everyone has the right to compassionate care.”

      Answer Example

      “I have three philosophies when it comes to my work; One view for the clinic, one for me, and one for the patient. First, I work in a system, and I respect that. I follow the rules, I maintain my certifications, and I appreciate the policies and values of whatever site I work. Patient care is a privilege, and I respect the role I have in clinical care and the part other people have. Second, I want to be the best at what I do. Every day I learn something, and thats because I choose to get better. Last, I adapt to the individual. If Im meeting the requirements of my position, and evolving within my profession, then I am free to adjust to my patient and be the provider they need. Some patients need a lot of attention; some want less, and some need boundaries. I have trained myself to adapt my communication style, so a patient gets what they need.”

  • 7. Do you prefer to work in a team based position or individually?

      How to Answer

      In which situation are you the happiest and most productive? Talk to the interviewer about your preference when it comes to teamwork or working individually. Be sure to avoid pigeonholing yourself into one particular scenario (IE: I only like to work by myself). You may work well without the need for much management or direction, or perhaps you are better driven in a collaborative and team led environment. Either way, be honest with the interviewer about your preferences without leaning negatively, either way.

      Answer Example

      “Whether I am doing an independent project, or working in a team environment, I always give my best. I enjoy the camaraderie of working in a team, but I can be successful working autonomously as well.”

      Answer Example

      “I have found, in the past, that I work well in an individually driven environment; however, I can certainly be productive in a team-based setting as well.”

  • 8. If you could expand your knowledge and expertise in any healthcare service area, which would you choose?

      How to Answer

      There are many facets of health care. If you could choose any area of healthcare to specialize in, which would you choose? Be sure to tie your answer into some aspects of what U P M C Shadyside does.

      Answer Example

      “If I could choose any area of healthcare services to be a subject matter expert in, I would choose geriatric care. I do feel that this particular focus is not as popular as some, and become an expert in it would allow me to snowball in my career.”

      Answer Example

      “I have a variety of interests within the healthcare service, so that is a tough question for me! I suppose if I had to narrow it to just one area of expertise, I would say palliative care and the necessary family care that comes with it.”

  • 9. Why do you think you will be successful in this role with U P M C Shadyside?

      How to Answer

      Rather than share how you have gone beyond expectations in the past, focus on how your qualities will help you to exceed company expectations. Discuss the reasons why you will be great at this job. Talk about your qualifications and skills that will help you to do this job well. If you can, match your strengths to the requirements outlined in the job description.

      Answer Example

      “I know I will be successful in this role because I have been working in this industry for five years with great training and mentorship. I have a solid understanding of X, Y, and Z (skills listed in the job description). Also, I have all of my updated certifications as outlined in your job description. I am well-prepared for this next step in my career.”

      Answer Example

      “I believe my success with U P M C Shadyside will come from having all of the hard skills that you are looking for, whether learned in school or gained through my internship experience. I have a great deal of current knowledge in the healthcare services industry and stay informed of best practices.”

  • 10. Rate your problem solving skills from 1-10. How do you justify your rating?

      How to Answer

      The interviewer wants to know how you would rate your problem-solving skills. Of course, you want to give yourself a strong rating; however, you must remain realistic. Everyone has room to learn and improve! Be sure to justify your score as well.

      Answer Example

      “I rate my problem-solving skills as an 8/10. I will, on occasion, have times when I am not as efficient as I would like to be, but all in all, I do feel that my problem-solving skills are above average. My supervisor and co-workers will attest to my fast reflexes when a problem arises, and they would also say that I remain calm under pressure.”

      Answer Example

      “I would say I get a solid 8.3 on a scale of 10. It seems weird to give myself something like a .3, but I think of it as an 83%, which is a B- teetering on a solid B. Its a solid grade, with definite room for improvement, since Im certainly not perfect. The reason for the B-/B grade would be that Im quick to take action and figure out the solution as I go, but sometimes I could benefit from taking a moment to pause and reflect or gather other contributors before taking action. That said, I believe I generally get the best outcome possible when faced with a challenge.”

  • 11. What type of work environment do you dislike working in?

      How to Answer

      Are you pretty flexible in your ability to work in most environments? Have you experienced a position where the atmosphere wasnt conducive to your productivity? Be sure to know the type of situation offered in this position before the interview. If you arent completely clear on the workplace environment or culture, kindly ask the interviewer to expand on the work environment for you.

      Answer Example

      “I can be productive in most work environments, so long as the mentality is positive and teamwork is encouraged. I cannot work in an environment that feels negative or toxic.”

      Answer Example

      “I prefer to focus on the positive, so if its okay, I would like to share with you my ideal work environment. My ideal environment is organized, collaborative, positive, energetic, and encouraging. I love working with like-minded people who set challenging goals for themselves. I thrive when I work for supervisors who encourage curiosity and creativity in problem-solving.”

  • 12. If U P M C Shadyside hired you today, what would you accomplish first?

      How to Answer

      When you start a new position, it is essential to be clear on how you will make a positive impact after being hired. This question is a delicate one, and you need to show respect for the onboarding process, then give a moderately ambitious project that you could execute. This concept is often called your value proposition in marketing. Hire me because Ill do X. Remember, this is your campaign promise. If hired, it will likely be your first target to hit, and depending on the environment; it could make or break you. The best approach is to give a functional analysis of the employers needs and your skills. Tell the interviewer what your impact goal is, should you be the successful candidate. Be sure to refer to the immediate needs of the company, such as increasing budgets, or improving patient care, for instance.

      Answer Example

      “When we were speaking earlier, you mentioned that you were urgently seeking to improve the level of patient care and compassion at this facility. I want to offer my skills when it comes to building patient rapport and help to improve the satisfaction of everyone that uses the services of U P M C Shadyside. I plan to make a positive impact very quickly.”

      Answer Example

      “If hired today, I would commit to diving into every resource provided to me, speeding up the learning curve typical of a new hire who is also new to their career. I will soak in every learning opportunity that comes my way so that I can be a self-sufficient member of your healthcare service team within the first 30 days.”

  • 13. Tell me about yourself.

      How to Answer

      Take a few minutes to tell the interviewer a few things about yourself. You can begin with your recent education, family life, volunteer work, or talk about your travels. Bring up anything that is interesting and highlights your ability to be a responsible, reliable, and bright individual.

      Answer Example

      “A bit about me – I love to travel, read, and conduct research. I spent the past few months traveling the world with Doctors Without Borders. It was the best experience that I could have given myself as I was able to learn so much from seeing how the rest of the world lives. I returned to the US just last month and had been actively looking for new work for the past couple of weeks. I am eager to getting into the routine of a career again.”

      Answer Example

      “I am an avid marathon runner and have traveled to 10 countries in the last eight years to compete in a variety of races. I am a competitive individual and enjoy keeping fit. New to my career in healthcare services, my biggest goal is to take as many related courses as possible. I am eager to get a great start on my career.”

  • 14. U P M C Shadyside has a diverse workforce. When have you worked among a diverse group of people?

      How to Answer

      Are you accustomed to working with a very large or diverse team of individuals? Assure the interviewer that you can handle an environment that offers diversity. Even better, give an example of being able to embrace diversity in the workplace.

      Answer Example

      “I have worked with diverse groups of people most of my career, including my time in University. I am most comfortable and happy in this type of environment because it offers me unique learning opportunities.”

      Answer Example

      “I am so glad you pointed out your need for diversity at U P M C Shadyside. I greatly value diversity. I grew up in a fairly homogeneous town in Montana. When I hit my 20s, it was so important to me to learn about other cultures. I worked with community volunteer organizations in Peru, inner-city Chicago, and Russia.”

  • 15. When have you shown a willingness to learn a new method or new approach to solving a problem?

      How to Answer

      Being flexible and able to handle change is a skill that all employers desire to see. Discuss with the interviewer your ability to approach a problem using new methods. Give a recent example, but make sure to spend more time highlighting the resolution rather than the problem.

      Answer Example

      “When our facility came under new management last year, many new methods and policies came into place. I was able to learn some exciting new approaches to our challenges in patient care and customer management. I quite enjoyed the process.”

      Answer Example

      “They say people in healthcare are lifelong learners. Im now old enough to realize that its difficult to be always adapting. I think my 45-year-old aunt telling me how to use my iPhone helped me appreciate that its all about humility. Its not about who is teaching you, but if you are willing to learn. In the medical context, I just took an updated CPR course, and it went from the 2:15 compressions to continuous compressions, and I had to adapt to overcome my former way of thinking.”

  • 16. It is often said that a career in healthcare is a thankless job. How can we keep you motivated and engaged, even on the days when you feel your work goes unnoticed?

      How to Answer

      The interviewer would like to know how they could continue to motivate you – even on the hardest of days. Do you need to have verbal recognition? Are you motivated solely by the success of your team? Talk to the interviewer about how you have stayed motivated in the past.

      Answer Example

      “My chosen career was helping people at exactly the point they were least capable of censoring themselves or giving back. So, I stopped needing thanks from my patients. Its not like I dont need positive reinforcement. Everyone does. But I made a point to find it in other places instead of expecting it from my patients. Nowadays, I make an effort to expressly thank the people I work with when they do a good job. I focus on being grateful to be allowed to see private, raw, emotional parts of peoples lives.”

      Answer Example

      “I am an easily motivated individual, and it does not take much to keep me engaged. I am fully aware that healthcare-related positions can seem thankless. Honestly, the best thanks that I can get is a pat on the back now and then. The majority of my motivation comes from simply helping people.”

  • 17. Healthcare service companies require strong organizational skills and attention to detail. How do you ensure that your work is properly organized, and highly accurate?

      How to Answer

      The success of the healthcare industry thrives on the accuracy of information and organization. Talk to the interviewer about the ways that you ensure accuracy and organization in your day to day activities. Perhaps you use a particular app or software. Maybe you are a pen and paper person. Whatever your method, be sure to highlight that you are successful in organizing your day.

      Answer Example

      “I am a highly detailed person, and I thrive on having a high level of organization in my day. This organization includes my scheduling, paperwork, and more. If I am offered a position with U P M C Shadyside you will never find me to be disorganized! I utilize my Outlook calendar and set alerts for myself for deadlines and important activities. My documentation is strong, as well.”

      Answer Example

      “Im a bit of an organizational nerd. I carry around a notebook and write down important facts if I think there is a chance I will forget them. But this is usually just for transitions. Every clinic Ive ever worked in has its way of communicating and recording facts, so I put time and attention into using the system the people around me are using. That way, its easier to transition care, and the patient has all their info in the same place. My notebook saves me when Im swamped, but I try to be efficient and put info directly into the (group record/EMR/chart) when I can.”

  • 18. In the healthcare services industry there are many emotions in a day. Have your emotions ever been in the way of your productivity?

      How to Answer

      The interviewer wants to know if you consider yourself to be an emotionally driven person. Talk to the interviewer about your emotions and if they have ever affected your productivity at work. Keep in mind – almost everyone is an emotional creature to some degree, but there are other ways that you can describe yourself that have a more positive connotation. If you are passionate, you could choose to refer to yourself as: – Expressive – Communicative – Open – Unreserved

      Answer Example

      “Everyone is emotional to a certain degree, and I would consider myself kind-hearted and open. A career in healthcare can be emotional at times; however, I choose to focus on the positives. For instance, – if we are close to losing a patient, I will focus on positive memories rather than the illness. This mindset has consistently allowed me to continue with a productive shift, no matter the emotions that come my way. ”

      Answer Example

      “This is a great question. I think the right answer is, of course, but not for long! Weve all had those severe cases. A child dies, or you have to give someone a cancer diagnosis. Its professional to take a few minutes after an encounter like that and let those emotions come and go. I cope with these emotions by telling myself that its not my story, its the patients story. I think its okay to be moved by someone elses experience, but I dont need to make it mine.”

  • 19. Patient care requires a strong amount of compassion. Do you consider yourself a compassionate person?

      How to Answer

      To succeed in the healthcare services industry, you should have a substantial level of compassion for your patients or customers. Talk to the interviewer about the compassionate qualities that you possess. How would you rate your level of empathy for others? Some ways to describe yourself could be: – Understanding – Warm-hearted – Empathetic – Responsive – Charitable – Tender-hearted

      Answer Example

      “I understand that compassion is one of the top qualities that I need to bring to the workplace, being in the healthcare services profession. I consider myself a very compassionate individual. I am warm-hearted, responsive to my patients needs, and always empathetic.”

      Answer Example

      “Yes, I most certainly consider myself a compassionate person. I take the opportunity to understand and help others whenever possible. While attending university, I spent a lot of time volunteering at a local hospice – not only for the added experience but also to give back to others. I look forward to continuing this level of compassionate care with your organization.”

  • 20. Tell me about your healthcare related education and training.

      How to Answer

      Walk the interviewer through your formal post-secondary education as well as any on the job training. Talk about your most positive take-aways from your post-secondary experience and be sure to tie in how that experience will help you succeed in this position.

      Answer Example

      “I have a nursing degree as well as additional on the job training within clinical research. I feel that my nursing education opened up many potential industry-related avenues for me. I graduated top of my class and completed a valuable internship with XYZ Health Services. All of these experiences have helped prepare me for success in this role with U P M C Shadyside.”

      Answer Example

      “I did my undergraduate in chemistry and medical school at St. Georges University. I loved surgery, so my electives were in general surgery, trauma epidemiology, and orthopedics. Im happy to be moving on to more responsibility as a resident. I have had some amazing mentors, and I found that I could perform with some different teaching styles.”

  • 21. At U P M C Shadyside we take pride in our great relationships with clients, vendors, coworkers, and patients. Do you consider yourself to be a strong relationship builder?

      How to Answer

      Assure the interviewer that you would treat everyone at U P M C Shadyside with great respect and a positive attitude. Discuss the ways that you would build strong and healthy relationships if hired. Some ways to build strong relationships in the workplace: – Have strong follow-up habits – Offer sincere conversation – Get to know people on a personal level – Be trustworthy – Avoid gossip – Offer mutual respect – Be mindful of your actions – Compliment others – Be positive – Be a strong listener

      Answer Example

      “I have earned compliments on my relationship-building skills. I like to get to know people and ask them questions about themselves. Most people love to talk about themselves, and I find its a great and simple way to start building rapport with others. I consider myself to be a strong relationship builder and take pride in my people skills. Rest assured, I would be a great ambassador of positive relationships for U P M C Shadyside.”

      Answer Example

      “I am happy to hear that U P M C Shadyside values long-term relationships. This fact is a bonus for me, and its one of the reasons I chose to work in the medical field. I like working in an industry where genuine care is valued. Healthcare is not a place for gimmicks because health is precious and irreplaceable. Ive had success in university and my internships by focusing on building a reputation for consistency and followup. What you describe is a good fit for me, and Id like to represent a company that wants to create long-term sustainable partnerships.”

  • 22. In order to work for U P M C Shadyside, you must be able to pass a full criminal background check. Do you consent to a full background check?

      How to Answer

      Working in the healthcare services industry means that you are in contact with vulnerable people, children, pharmaceutical drugs, drug-related equipment, confidential information, and other areas of sensitivity. Assure the interviewer that you are able and willing to pass a complete background check. If you have a criminal record, you must disclose this.

      Answer Example

      “I have a clean criminal record and am happy to comply with any background check you require of me.”

      Answer Example

      “No problem. I understand that its part of the job. But I want to be up-front, I have done a full background check before, and there is a possibility you will see a charge for possession of marijuana in the check. It was several years ago, and its no longer an issue for me because Ive made significant changes in my life to pursue this career. But I dont want you to be surprised by the information. Im happy to answer any questions you have.”

      Answer Example

      “I have a misdemeanor on my record from 15 years ago. I am happy to continue in the interview process and comply with your background checks should you allow for some exceptions.” View this question and answers

  • 23. If you could expand your knowledge and expertise in any area of healthcare services, which would you choose?

      How to Answer

      The interviewer would like to dig deeper into your real areas of interest when it comes to healthcare services. They want to know that your passions align well with what U P M C Shadyside is offering. Talk to the interviewer about the areas of healthcare you would like to focus on most, and then tie that information in with what the position at U P M C Shadyside would be offering you.

      Answer Example

      “If I could expand my expertise in any healthcare service area, I would choose anything within primary care. This interest is one of the reasons I have applied to your company. I feel that your focus will be a great fit with my long-term career goals.”

      Answer Example

      “Im interested in research. One of the things that attracted me to working with your company is your ongoing community-based research collaborations. Id be curious to hear if the (clinic/hospital/program) had any needs in this area. Is this something junior staff can be involved in?”

  • 24. Have you ever been involved in ordering medical supplies, maintaining inventory, or other types of healthcare-related administrative duties?

      How to Answer

      The interviewer would like to know if you understand what it takes to keep on top of ordering medical supplies and inventory. Assure the interviewer that you are capable of foreseeing needs and making the appropriate action. Highlight your ability to be responsible when it comes to related administrative tasks.

      Answer Example

      “I have experience in ordering medical supplies and maintaining inventory. I fully understand that there is an art to being properly organized when it comes to the availability of supplies. For medical ordering and inventory, I have used a variety of software and programs such as ABC and XYZ.”

      Answer Example

      “I performed a few admin duties during my internship. I helped maintain supplies in the general surgery ward for five weeks. I was great at working behind the scenes, with the result being efficiency for others.”

  • 25. U P M C Shadyside seeks to hire those with strong problem solving skills. When were you able to successfully resolve a problem in the workplace?

      How to Answer

      Problem-solving and dispute resolution are critical skills to possess. Display to the interviewer that you are capable of problem-solving within the workplace. Talk about a time when you were creative, proactive, and displayed the leadership qualities required to resolve a workplace issue.

      Answer Example

      “I was working in a clinic where the primary population was low income. We had a lot of concerns with patients not showing up for appointments when expected. The staff wanted to start double-booking patient time slots. Instead, I got permission to spend a day in a highly-rated clinic serving the same population. Instead of scheduling, they had these drop-in mornings with a shared waiting room. I took these methods and incorporated them into our setting. We did that twice a week, and it completely solved our scheduling problem.”

      Answer Example

      “We had many group projects in university, and I noticed a consistent problem with team members showing up late for meetings or messaging in sick at the very last moment. As the team leader, rather than getting upset, I proposed that when a team member disrespectfully dropped the ball, they would be asked to leave the group and find a new group or commit to an independent project. I felt this encouraged accountability and showed teamwork as a privilege rather than a right. Team member commitments increased as did work ethic among the groups.”

  • 26. How would you describe your personality?

      How to Answer

      Personality and character are two very different things. The interviewer is looking for more information on your traits vs. your integrity. Your example could include buzzwords such as introverted, energetic, and confident.

      Answer Example

      “I would describe my personality as approachable, light-hearted, and positive. I believe that, if asked, my colleagues and supervisor would say the same about me.”

      Answer Example

      “Im genuinely easy-going, probably from all the international travel I experienced in my 20s. I like to do the right thing, and sometimes I get stressed trying to reach that goal, but I think its a worthwhile endeavor. I can be funny, but my sense of humor is pretty dry, so people dont always know that about me when they first meet me.”

  • 27. U P M C Shadyside supports a healthy work/life balance for all employees. How do you balance life and work?

      How to Answer

      It is essential to keep a healthy work/life balance to prevent burnout. Talk to the interviewer about how you can maintain that appropriate balance for yourself.

      Answer Example

      “I find that with the right company, its pretty simple to balance life and work. When I enjoy what I do, it doesnt feel like a chore. I am always sure that when at home, my family gets my attention first. I take time on the weekends to do things for myself and ensure that I regenerate before the work week begins.”

      Answer Example

      “I make a strong effort to keep a healthy balance by spending my free time away from my cell phone and having more face-to-face time with my friends and family. I indulge in the things that make me happy, on my time off. By consistently rejuvenating in this way, I can give even more energy when I am at work.”

  • 28. In your opinion, what makes you a great problem solver?

      How to Answer

      Employers want to know that you have a systematic approach to problem-solving. Consider the skills and qualities that help you successfully face problems. Perhaps you have a keen eye for detail. Maybe you can see opportunity when others can only focus on the issue. Share your strengths as a problem solver, and your ability to come up with innovative solutions.

      Answer Example

      “I am a great problem solver because I do not allow stress to cloud my judgment and mute my sound decision making. I am a keen observer with a great memory, which allows me to recall unique solutions or ideas.”

      Answer Example

      “I believe I am a great problem solver because I am sure to gather as many facts as possible. I look at the problem and its potential solutions from multiple angles, and I am not afraid to make a decision that might seem off the beaten path.”

  • 29. What is your greatest weakness?

      How to Answer

      Pick a weakness that is not a core skill for this position. You can be candid in your answer, recognizing that you arent great at something and acknowledging your need to improve. Be sure to have an action plan in place for improving on this weakness. Perhaps you are watching TED talks to gain skills in a particular area, reading the latest-and-greatest book on the subject, or maybe you are taking a seminar at a nearby community center. We are all human with our weaknesses, so dont be afraid to share yours!

      Answer Example

      “I know this will come off as cliche, but its truthful. My weakness is not delegating. I know what I want and how I want it done, so its often easier to do it myself. However, it can inhibit my ability to grow. I cannot take on every step of a project; I need to be able to give the task or a portion of it to another team member or direct report, let go of the control, and know it will be taken care of. Ive spoken with my current manager about it, and weve developed a system where he can call me out on the behavior since often Im not aware of it. By bringing awareness to it at the moment, I find my propensity to hold onto control has decreased, so Im certainly moving in the right direction.”

      Answer Example

      “At this point in my career within healthcare services, my newness is my greatest weakness. To overcome this, I have committed to ten extra hours per week of study. I dive into various medical journals and spend a great deal of time educating myself beyond what my degree and internship have offered.”

  • 30. U P M C Shadyside was initially looking for someone with 5 years experience in a similar role. Considering you have just 2 years experience, would you be willing to accept this position at a lower salary?

      How to Answer

      Are you willing to earn your way up if the interviewer does not want to offer you top compensation? Discuss with the interviewer what you would expect for compensation if offered this position.

      Answer Example

      “I would be happy to earn my way to the top compensation level if required. I do assure you that, despite my being shy of experience by a couple of years, I am a top performer and you would not be disappointed in my performance.”

      Answer Example

      “I understand I do not quite meet the qualifications of experience you are looking for and am willing to be compensated in adjustment to that fact. However, I do look forward to proving my worth to U P M C Shadyside in hopes of being considered for the median salary for the role.”

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