We spoke to Kelly Ong, team lead for mass and project recruitment at Adecco Singapore, about current hiring trends and industry-specific interview questions. She shares her insights here.
Can you share on the current hiring trends for your particular industry of expertise? What are employers looking for, what’s the industry outlook, and what are the skills they are prizing?
Kelly: As Singapore continues to experience a rapidly ageing population, the demand for healthcare services is expected to rise significantly. The Ministry of Health (MOH) projects that by 2030, approximately one in four Singaporeans will be aged 65 or above, a steep increase from one in ten in 2010.
This demographic shift will necessitate a larger workforce of frontline healthcare staff to meet the growing needs of elderly care and medical support.
To address these challenges, employers are seeking candidates who possess a combination of medical expertise and technological proficiency. As healthcare facilities increasingly integrate digital innovations to enhance accessibility and service efficiency, individuals who can navigate traditional patient care and modern healthcare technology will be highly valued.
Employers also prioritise candidates with strong communication skills, resilience, and a passion for patient care. These qualities are essential in an industry that requires technical expertise and emotional intelligence.
What are some of the industry-specific questions that tend to be asked during interviews in your industry, and how are they best answered?
Given the fast-paced and dynamic nature of the healthcare industry, one of the most frequently asked interview questions is, “How do you handle stress?” This question assesses a candidate’s ability to manage pressure while maintaining efficiency and professionalism. To answer effectively, applicants should provide examples of past experiences successfully navigating high-pressure situations.
They should highlight strategies such as time management, seeking colleague support, and employing problem-solving techniques to ensure smooth operations under challenging circumstances.
Another critical question is, “Why do you want to join the healthcare industry?” This is particularly important for patient-facing roles, where passion and a commitment to service are essential.
Candidates should articulate their motivation for choosing a healthcare career, whether it stems from a personal experience, a desire to make a meaningful impact or an interest in medical advancements. A sincere and well-thought-out response that conveys dedication and compassion will leave a strong impression on potential employers.
Are there any situational questions that tend to be asked for your industry, and how are they best answered?
Employers in the healthcare industry frequently pose situational questions to assess how candidates handle challenges in real-world settings. These questions often relate to problem-solving, adaptability, and patient care. A typical interview scenario is, “Describe a time when you had to manage a difficult situation with a patient or colleague.”
To answer effectively, candidates should share a specific example, outlining the challenge, the steps to address the issue, and the outcome. They should emphasise their ability to remain calm, apply critical thinking skills, and communicate effectively to resolve conflicts.
Relating the response to the role and demonstrating an understanding of patient-centred care will further strengthen their answer.
Are there any technical or skill tests (written, hands-on or project) that could be accompanied with an interview has part of the hiring process for any roles in your industry? What are they usually like, and what is the best way to approach them?
Many healthcare roles require candidates to have specific certifications before they can practice. For example, pharmacy, medical technology, and nursing professionals must obtain relevant credentials to qualify for employment.
In addition to these prerequisites, some positions may require written tests to assess technical knowledge. For instance, pharmacy technicians may need to complete a written exam as part of the selection process.
Candidates should be well-versed in the required knowledge and industry best practices to succeed in technical assessments.
Reviewing key concepts, practising problem-solving scenarios, and staying updated on industry regulations can help candidates feel more confident during the evaluation process.
A thriving healthcare career requires technical expertise, practical skills, and a strong commitment to patient care. Employers seek qualified individuals passionate about making a difference in people’s lives.
Candidates can increase their chances of securing a role in this rewarding profession by demonstrating a deep understanding of the industry, preparing thoroughly for interviews, and showcasing a genuine dedication to the field.
This article was done in collaboration with Adecco.
