You've made it: you've been invited to an interview. Now it's time to prepare well. Good preparation does not seem to be learned by heart, but well thought-out. In this guide, you'll find recommendations for such a conversation.
“Success is where preparation and opportunity meet.”
Preparation
Prepare thoroughly for the interview by researching the clinic or department and finding out about its specialisations and special services. This knowledge will show your initiative and interest in your potential employer. Plan your journey so that you have enough time to familiarise yourself with the surroundings and arrive on time.
Practise answers to common questions, such as your strengths, weaknesses and why you are applying for the position. Be aware that the interviewer will often ask for specific examples from your previous professional life on these topics and will want to know how you acted and solved problems in these situations, so be prepared for this too.
Make sure you are dressed appropriately and have a friendly and confident demeanour. First impressions often count a lot. However, be authentic – don‘t wear clothes you don‘t feel comfortable in, as this could hinder you during the interview. Stay focussed and don‘t lose the thread, as your ability to communicate precisely and attentively will also be assessed.
During the interview
Answer clearly and precisely, maintain friendly and attentive eye contact and listen actively. Ask relevant questions that emphasise your interest and preparation. Give specific examples from your professional experience that emphasise your suitability for the position. This will make your statements more credible and tangible. Take the opportunity to accept support resources that can help you during the interview. For example, if you are offered a glass of water, accept it. If you get nervous about a question, you can take a sip of water before you answer.
Demonstrate professional competence
Master technical issues. Explain principles such as ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable), radiation protection, image quality, patient protection. (Example: „I use ALARA by optimizing exposure, distance, shielding, and reducing repetition.“)
Explain workflow – from patient identification to positioning to image inspection – and highlight your care.
Communication skills & soft skills
Show your communication skills by using modern, patient-centred communication when asking to demonstrate patient-interaction. Speak in clear, understandable language, show empathy, and explain procedures calmly and step by step. This helps patients feel safe and builds trust.
Emphasise your ability to work as part of a team. Radiographers collaborate closely with radiologists, nurses, and other healthcare professionals every day. Explain how you communicate important information clearly, coordinate tasks, and solve problems together.
STAR Method for Responses
Questions about pressure or error situations are also common. We recommend the STAR method here:
- Situation – Context – Situation: CT failure during an emergency room
- Task: Ensuring care for an accident victim
- Action: Coordination with doctors, redirection to another device, info to physics
- Result: Care ensured, patient stable, positive feedback from the team
Tip : Name specific cases, no theories.
Questions
Ask your own questions. Show that you are thinking along. At the end, ask smart, interested questions. At the end of the interview, bring prepared questions with you that relate specifically to the position you are applying for and the department or clinic and that have come to mind during your advance research. These self-prepared questions should particularly signal your great interest in the position for which you are applying. E.g.:
- How is induction organized?
- What devices are used in radiation therapy?
- Are there opportunities for further education?
- How is the exchange between the MTR and the medical team organized?
Follow up
After the interview, send an additional email to thank the interviewer for the opportunity and emphasise your interest in the position once again. This shows your professionalism and commitment.
Perseverance
The job search can be time-consuming and sometimes frustrating. Remain patient and persistent. Every application brings you closer to a possible job.