Career Guide
OT Job Interview
OT Job Interview
Your job interview is a valuable opportunity for you to really stand out from other candidates and secure the job you want. Here are some essential job interview strategies you need to know before, during and after your interview so that you can feel confident and fully equipped. Be sure to also check out my sample Thank You Letter and OT Job Interview Questions and Sample Responses.
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Before the Interview
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Review some of the most commonly asked OT Job Interview Questions and Sample Responses.
Prepare Your Own List of Questions to Ask:
- What are some of the most common diagnoses you see?
- What are the productivity requirements and how are they measured?
- What are the most common assessments used?
- What is the length of stay (LOS)?
- How long does a patient session typically last?
- If hired, what will the onboarding process look like? Will there be training?
- Is there a department budget for continuing education?
- Does the company offer loan forgiveness or repayment programs?
Employer-Funded Loan Repayment or Forgiveness Programs: While some employers may publicize their loan repayment or forgiveness programs, not all companies openly display this information. So be sure to ask about any type of loan forgiveness assistance they offer and the details/terms you have to meet in order to qualify.
If you are going into Home Health, be sure to also check out Questions to Ask During a Home Health Job Interview.
Conduct company research and learn everything you can about the company.
Review your resume and be prepared to discuss your key accomplishments.
Check your online presence/photos: Does it align with the person and character you want to portray?
Prepare extra copies of your resume, list of references, business cards or other samples of work that would enhance your candidacy.
- Did you create any brochures, flyers or educational materials to promote the profession?
- Did you create any educational materials or pamphlets to educate or inform the staff or the community?
- Did you conduct or participate in any notable research or literature review that has implications and relevance to the facility for which you are applying? If so, consider including it as a part of your portfolio to demonstrate your knowledge and growing expertise.
- Do you have a certificate for any Continuing Education Courses, workshops or conferences you attended? This demonstrates your commitment to increase your knowledge base and will be especially helpful if your training is directly related to the setting and job description for which you are applying.
For my own personal portfolio, I included the USC Chan Magazine, which dedicated a page to my doctorate research. Although my research did not tie into clinical practice directly, this project and accomplishment exemplified my commitment to the profession and showcased how the philosophy of occupational therapy can be incorporated into the broader framework to address societal concerns that arise from reduced social and occupational engagement. By including this work into my portfolio, I was able to open the door to a conversation that went beyond my clinical experience and knowledge. I was able to express and highlight my passion and dedication to the discipline of occupational therapy and articulate the distinct value that occupational therapy practitioners bring to the individuals and society as a whole. I made certain to let every prospective employer know that the driving force behind my pursuit of clinical excellence is always rooted in my passion and love for occupational therapy. And who can stand in the way of an individual driven by her natural love for what she does? This was my unique selling proposition.
MedBridge Promo Code:
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Interview Day
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Dress professionally and keep your accessories and perfume to a minimum.
Arrive 10-15 minutes early.
Reflect on everything that has made you into the valuable and unique person that you are and take confidence in knowing your worth. If you can’t be convinced of your own value, how will you convince the interviewer to hire you?
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During the Interview
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Greet with a firm handshake, eye contact and smile. Practice if you must – this is important.
Ask about next steps to get an idea of how and when you need to follow up.
- What is the next step in your process?
- When can I expect to hear from someone about this position?
Thank the interviewer and reiterate your interest in the position.
A job interview serves as a two-way street for the exchange of information. Asking questions will not only demonstrate your interest, but also give you a chance to gain additional insight regarding the expectations of the job. But, be sure to do thorough research to avoid asking questions about things that can be easily found on the internet or company website.
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After the Interview
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- An expression of appreciation for the opportunity.
- A statement that confirms your continued interest.
- A reminder of why you’re the ideal candidate for the position.
- Contact details.
