You want a job as a Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) and you have scheduled an interview. What now? How can you prepare yourself so you can project yourself ahead of other candidates? In today’s job market, there is likely to be many people vying for the same position. Some candidates will be disqualified early, but there will be others who will become your competition. A well- planned and rehearsed question and answer session prior to the interview will allow you to showcase your best attributes without stumbling for words.
Of course, by now, the interviewer will have your well-written resume. That is priority number one. Priority number two is to be on-time, dressed appropriately. Plan to arrive fifteen to twenty minutes early, so you can just relax and get it together after your commute. When ushered into the interview room, greet your host with a smile and a handshake. Wait until offered to be seated. These are no-brainers. The interviewer will be making the first assessment upon first meeting you. Questions will be asked that will allow the interviewer to gauge your job knowledge, people skills and how quickly you can articulate your thoughts. Be prepared with answers for questions, such as:
“Tell me about yourself. “
Here, you want to be prepared with a short synopsis of why you chose this profession and your education leading up to this point, and not an autobiography.
“What do you like best about being a Physical Therapist Assistant?”
This should be easy. Helping people feel better emotionally and physically and witnessing improvement firsthand are good answers.
“What do you like least?”
Here, you might say something like, “Physical therapy takes time and I would prefer that my patients progress faster than usual.”
Do you consider yourself a ‘people person’?
You had better or you are in the wrong profession!
“How would you handle a patient who is unfriendly?”
Point out that you realize how your positive, upbeat attitude may be just what this patient needs to endure the repetition and discomfort of physical therapy.
“What are your career goals?” might really mean, “How long do you plan to work here?”
Be careful with your answer. No employer wants to take the time and expense to train someone who is only going to around for a short time.
“Do you have any questions of me?”
Please don’t ask about the length of breaks, vacations, or how often the employees get raises. If you are offered the position, you will get these questions answered. It is ok to ask about hours of work, benefits and dress codes.
Once you are prepared, relax, be alert, speak in an animated but moderate tone, make eye contact, and smile! Show your confidence in yourself and your interviewer will have confidence in your ability to handle the job.
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