6 Characteristics of a Desirable Healthcare Worker

FineSkilz Canada shares with job seekers six qualities that healthcare employers and families with medical needs frequently look for. These characteristics may help you build the confidence to get a job in your field.

During your job search, you will be busy training, preparing your resume, researching potential employers, and practicing your interview skills. Preparing for your job interview will help you appear more confident and knowledgeable during your interview.

Going into your first job interview might be intimidating because you’re not sure what to expect. You might wonder how you can stand out from the other job candidates from across the world and impress potential employers. What qualities are healthcare employers looking for in their employees?

1. Communication skills

Communication skills are crucial to participate in any nursing or healthcare field. Strong communication will help you understand your patient’s values and needs. During your interview, healthcare employers will listen to your answers to see if you respond clearly and effectively.

Some communication skills you should show during your interview include:

·        Politeness

·        Clear sentences

·        Listening

·        Thoughtful answers

These skills will help employers see if you can easily communicate with others. Potential employers may even ask you to give them examples of ways you would respond to patients in certain situations. Remain calm and listen carefully to questions. Practicing interview questions will help prepare you for what to say.

2. Social skills

Employers also look for employees who are friendly and outgoing. They look for someone who can make polite conversation and seem kind. Ask interviewers simple questions like “How are you?” or “Thanks for meeting with me.”  You could also make a polite joke to break the ice.

Starting conversation notifies your employer that you understand basic social cues. Go into your interview with a smile and a positive attitude. Remember to look your interviewer in the eyes when talking to them to come across as confident and approachable.

3. Strong work ethic

Healthcare employers look for a strong work ethic in their candidates. Describe a time during your training when you worked hard to aid patients, solve problems, or took the initiative to go above-and-beyond to help. Showing you have a strong work ethic can go a long way with potential employers.

4. Flexibility

Adapting to different environments and situations is a beneficial trait for healthcare workers. Stay updated on current developments in your healthcare field so you come across as knowledgeable and prepared to accommodate improvements or changes in the healthcare world. Some employers might also look for candidates with flexible schedules or willingness to work night shifts.

5. Technical skills

Healthcare employers will look at your resume for education and job experience. They want to get a sense of the technical skills you performed during your training, along with your strengths and weaknesses. Make sure you review your coursework so you’re prepared for any technical questions interviewers may ask. Recommendations from teachers, internship supervisors, or other healthcare professionals on your technical skills may help you stand out from the other candidates.

6. Passion for your field

Allied health employers want driven employees who are passionate about their field. Mention any healthcare volunteer jobs, internships, or other experiences you’ve had that made you realize you wanted a career in your field. Mention an anecdote about the benefits you’ve experienced through your training program. It’s also helpful to research the healthcare facility’s mission statement beforehand so you can relate how your passion for the field is like the potential employer’s initiative. Volunteer work can demonstrate your passion for your community’s health and well-being.

Your training program with FineSkilz Canada will help you build upon these desirable qualities of a health professional. Remember to stay truthful so you and your potential employer are a right match. Practicing and demonstrating these traits during your interview could give you the confidence needed to become successful.