Preparing for an interview
Here is some essential information and guidance to help you effectively prepare for your interview. Learn what to expect, how to prepare thoroughly, and how to present yourself effectively to maximize your chances of success.
If you are shortlisted, you will receive a phone call or email inviting you to an interview.
Timelines between applying and being contacted for an interview can vary. Please check your email inbox and junk mail folder regularly to avoid missing any updates. In the meantime, we encourage you to continue exploring the VCH Careers site for new opportunities that match your qualifications.
Due to the high volume of applications, only candidates whose experience and skills best align with the position will be contacted.
We recommend applying only to positions for which you meet the qualifications.
Before your interview
During your interview, you will discuss your work experience, skills, and qualifications in relation to the position. You’ll also have the opportunity to learn more about the role and our organization. Interviews are typically conducted by a panel of interviewers.
To prepare, carefully review the job description, responsibilities, and required qualifications. Reflect on your skills, experiences, and accomplishments, and consider how they align with the job requirements.
Note: Some roles may require online skill testing before the interview to confirm minimum technical qualifications (for example, medical terminology knowledge or typing speed). We will contact you if this testing is required.
If you are unable to attend your interview, please let the person who booked your interview know as soon as possible.
Depending on the role, you may be invited to an interview in-person, virtually (typically on Microsoft Teams) or on the phone. Click on the + to learn how to prepare, depending on your interview type.
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Virtual interview:
- Test your computer or device ahead of time. If you’re unfamiliar with the platform, consider doing a test call with a friend to become comfortable.
- Choose a quiet, well-lit space with a strong and stable internet connection, free from interruptions.
- Position your camera/device on a steady surface, ensuring your face and shoulders are clearly visible on screen.
- Log in a few minutes early to confirm your connection and be ready when the interview begins.
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In-person interview:
- Familiarize yourself with the route and plan for transportation and parking accordingly.
- Provide extra time to get to the interview in case of traffic or other delays.
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Telephone interview:
- Before the call, find a quiet space with strong phone reception where you won’t be interrupted.
- A few minutes before your scheduled call, have your phone ready and ensure silent mode is turned off so you can promptly answer when the interviewer calls.
Interview preparation essentials
We recommend familiarizing yourself with VCH including who we serve, our strategic priorities and our vision and values.
During your interview, you may be asked about VCH’s four pillars listed below. Please review the information at these links:
- Indigenous Cultural Safety - Committing to reconciliation and learning informed by the culture of Indigenous peoples.
- Equity, Diversity and Inclusion - VCH promotes a sense of belonging
- Anti-Racism - Creating a community that dismantles race- and ethnicity-based biases.
- Planetary Health - Protecting and sustaining healthy ecosystems for future generations.
During the interview
When answering questions, feel free to ask for clarification or take a moment to gather your thoughts before responding. Reflect on your skills, experiences, and accomplishments and how they relate to the questions asked.
If you have any questions about the position, the department or Vancouver Coastal Health, you are encouraged to ask them during the interview.
At the end of the interview, the panel may outline the next steps in the application process.
After the interview
You will receive an update regarding the outcome of your interview. Please note that departments may be interviewing multiple candidates, so timelines for follow-up can vary.
We will let you know if the role requires more than one interview.
Providing references
If you are shortlisted to move forward, you will be contacted to provide references. Typically, at least two recent professional, supervisory references are required. You will receive an online link to submit your references. Please ensure your contacts are aware that you have listed them as references.
When providing references, please use their institutional, organizational or business email addresses. We discourage anonymous, generic or personal email addresses (such as Gmail, Hotmail, or Yahoo). A telephone number for each referee is also required.
Next steps
If you are successful following the interview and reference process, the hiring department will contact you directly with information about the next steps.
If you are not shortlisted, we encourage you to keep exploring job postings and apply for roles that match your qualifications. New opportunities are posted daily.
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