
NHS Executive Assistant Interview Questions
& Process
Real candidates share what happened, how many rounds they had,
and how the experience turned out.
Based on 120 interview experiences · FREE TO READ
Candidate interview experiences
First-hand accounts from people who interviewed at NHS.
Administrative Assistant
The NHS interview process is designed to be fair and value-based, focusing on your skills and experience. First, they shortlist applications based on the essential criteria outlined in the person specification. If you meet these, you'll get an interview invitation via email, letting you know if it's in person, online, or over the phone. Interviews typically involve a panel of 2–3 people, like a line manager, a senior staff member, or someone from HR. They'll ask competency-based questions related to your relevant experience and skills.
- Could you share how you embody NHS values in your professional activities, especially concerning communication, discretion, and teamwork?
- Please describe an instance where you assisted patients or coworkers, adhering to established policies and upholding professional conduct.
Executive Assistant
The interview started with a Teams call with the two hiring managers. It was a relaxed, conversational chat where they made me feel comfortable. They gave me info about the team and structure before asking competency-based questions.
- What motivates you to want to work for the NHS?
- Can you elaborate on your previous experience as an Executive Assistant?
Administrative
I sat down in a room with two heads of admin who asked me some questions. It was a pretty chill and comfortable interview, not stressful at all compared to others.
- If you could be an animal, which one would you choose?
NHS Executive Assistant Interview Questions
Quoted word for word from NHS interview reports.
“What would you do if a doctor needed your attention, but there was a patient at the desk and a phone call simultaneously?”
Read reports →“What would you do in a situation where a consultant called out sick just 30 minutes before their first appointment?”
Read reports →“How important is patient confidentiality, and what steps would you take to maintain it?”
Read reports →“What is your approach to handling phone calls when a patient is in front of you, specifically regarding call duration?”
Read reports →“What would you do if you received an unclear request from a senior staff member?”
Read report →“Imagine someone approaches you at a bus stop asking about a patient on a ward. How would you handle that situation?”
Read report →“Imagine you're at the reception desk. A patient arrives, the phone is ringing non-stop, and a consultant needs you to book a room for them. How would you handle this situation?”
Read report →“How do you take ownership when you make a mistake in a busy environment?”
Read report →“Can you tell me about the NHS trust values and give an example of how you've shown them in your personal life?”
Read report →Formats, difficulty and experience
Across all 120 NHS interview reports.