Consultant Interview Question:

Tell me what makes you a good doctor?

Submitted by: Muhammad

This is a common opener, which is intended to allow the candidate to relax and start talking. Don't ramble. Follow the personal, academic, clinical, and external (PACE) format.

A good answer would be: "I feel I am a good doctor because, personally, I am affable and polite. I am not judgmental, and I get on well with my colleagues. This can be supported by evidence from my multi-source feedback, comments made by colleagues and consultants, and from my references. Academically, I have passed all my exams well and have prizes in [. . . ]. I have published X number of articles in peer reviewed journals and presented X times nationally and X times internationally. I enjoy teaching by the bedside in small group tutorials and in larger lectures. Clinically, I have been told by my colleagues and supervisors that my clinical acumen is good and my operative skill is appropriate for a consultant. My logbook shows that I have been involved in X index cases, having been primary surgeon in X cases. Externally, I enjoy sport and can play the piano to grade seven."
Submitted by: Muhammad