Looking to start or continue a rewarding career in physical therapy? Finding a physical therapy provider that offers exceptional patient experiences is a great first step, and working for a provider that shares your values and commitment to care can have a major impact on your job satisfaction. Once you have narrowed your job search, you will likely begin to prepare for interviews. Job interviews are an important part of the search process in any field. In physical therapy, these interviews are especially crucial. They are opportunities to communicate your positive traits and skills to a potential employer. Whether you are a recent graduate or seasoned professional, acing an interview can be key to landing your dream job. When it comes to interview preparation, gathering information is important. It can help to research each prospective employer before interviewing. Learning about the kinds of interview questions asked by employers searching for a physical therapist can also be helpful. With insights into the interview process, you can speak with preparation and confidence.
Common types of interview questions for a physical therapist
- Background and qualifications — Your past experience will probably inform your future work. For this reason, providers will often ask questions about your qualifications when you interview for physical therapist positions. If you do not have any professional experience yet, don’t worry. You can still share any achievements you are proud of from your educational journey. Try highlighting any relevant certifications you may have as well as your degree. One common interview question for physical therapist positions is, “How many years of experience do you have in the field?” When this question comes up, it’s important to answer honestly. Try mentioning the number of years or months you have worked in physical therapy. Explain the responsibilities and roles you have held during your career. In addition to your past experience, one of the most important qualifications is having a physical therapy license. Potential employers will want to know if you are licensed to practice physical therapy in their specific state. Before searching for physical therapy jobs, it is important to ensure you have a license. This should be a current and valid state license for physical therapy practice.
- Clinical experience — Clinical experience is more complex than just the amount of time you have spent working in clinics. Interview questions for physical therapists often focus on specific kinds of experience. For example, how much time have you spent working with pediatric patients? Discussing your work with various demographics can help show your versatility. You may be asked to share a specific challenging patient case and how you handled the situation. By explaining how you made a real impact on a patient’s recovery, you can provide a concrete example that reveals your strengths.
- Therapeutic skills — “What therapeutic techniques and skills do you specialize in?” This is an interview question often asked by providers searching for a physical therapist. Physical therapy is a complex field with many specialized types of treatment. As a physical therapist, it is important to hone your skills and stay up to date on the latest advancements. When explaining your specialties, it can help to share an example of a comprehensive treatment plan you developed. This can illustrate your problem-solving skills and knowledge of various techniques.
- Personal communication — Communication is a key skill for most workers. As a physical therapist, knowing how to communicate effectively can be highly beneficial. Good communication can play a role in how you interact with patients as well as fellow health care professionals. This is why it is important for potential employers to gain a better understanding of your communication style. An interviewer for a physical therapy position may ask questions that test these skills. For example, “How do you show compassion and empathy when speaking with a patient?” It is important to understand the emotional component of your patients’ physical challenges. Explaining how you maintain effective interdisciplinary collaboration can also be helpful. You can highlight instances where you have worked with physicians or other physical therapists to help a patient.
Find fulfilling work at SOL Physical Therapy
Ready to take the next step in your physical therapy career? SOL Physical Therapy is often looking for skilled and highly motivated individuals to join our team. Working with our team, you can have the opportunity to be a part of something bigger. We are part of a nationwide network of physical therapy providers. When you join our team, you enter an environment of world-class health care professionals. With a position at SOL Physical Therapy, you can get rewarded as you help your patients achieve optimal results.
Visit our careers page today for more information about physical therapy career opportunities.