Landing a job at Ascension, one of the leading non-profit health systems in the U.S., is a goal for many talented professionals. With facilities spanning 19 states and over 150,000 associates, Ascension is constantly seeking exceptional individuals to join its mission of delivering compassionate, personalized care.
As you embark on your Ascension career journey, nailing the interview is crucial. To help you prepare, we’ve gathered insights on five commonly asked questions during Ascension interviews. By understanding the intent behind these questions and crafting thoughtful responses, you’ll be one step closer to securing your dream role.
1. “Tell me about yourself.”
This open-ended question is a classic ice-breaker that allows the interviewer to gauge your communication skills, confidence, and ability to articulate your background concisely. While it may seem simple, crafting an engaging and relevant response is essential.
When answering this question, strike a balance between your professional and personal life. Begin with a brief overview of your current or most recent role, highlighting your key responsibilities and accomplishments. Then, provide a high-level summary of your educational background and any relevant certifications or training.
Consider including a personal anecdote or interest that showcases your personality and values, as Ascension seeks well-rounded individuals who align with its mission and culture.
Example response:
“I am a seasoned registered nurse with over 8 years of experience in critical care settings. Currently, I serve as a charge nurse in the ICU at Mercy Hospital, where I oversee a team of 12 nurses and ensure the delivery of high-quality patient care. My passion for healthcare stems from witnessing the profound impact that compassionate caregivers can have on individuals and families during their most vulnerable moments.
Outside of work, I’m an avid hiker and nature enthusiast. Spending time outdoors rejuvenates me and reminds me of the importance of maintaining a balanced, healthy lifestyle – a value that aligns with Ascension’s commitment to holistic well-being.”
2. “Why are you interested in working for Ascension?”
This question evaluates your understanding of Ascension’s mission, values, and culture, as well as your motivation for seeking a role within the organization. Interviewers want to gauge your level of research, enthusiasm, and alignment with the company’s goals.
In your response, highlight specific aspects of Ascension that resonate with you, such as its commitment to compassionate care, its faith-based mission, or its focus on innovation and excellence. Reference specific programs, initiatives, or values that align with your personal and professional aspirations.
Example response:
“Ascension’s mission of delivering compassionate, personalized care aligns with my core values as a healthcare professional. I’m drawn to the organization’s commitment to treating each patient as a whole person – mind, body, and spirit – and its emphasis on providing spiritual care alongside medical treatment.
Furthermore, Ascension’s dedication to innovation and leveraging cutting-edge technology to enhance patient outcomes resonates with my passion for staying at the forefront of healthcare advancements. I’m excited by the opportunity to contribute to an organization that continuously strives for excellence while upholding its faith-based heritage.”
3. “Describe a time when you faced a challenging situation and how you overcame it.”
This behavioral question allows the interviewer to assess your problem-solving abilities, resilience, and decision-making skills in real-life scenarios. It’s an opportunity to showcase your critical thinking, adaptability, and ability to learn from experiences.
When answering this question, provide a specific example that is relevant to the role you’re interviewing for. Clearly describe the situation, the obstacles you faced, the steps you took to overcome the challenge, and the ultimate outcome or lesson learned.
Example response:
“During my time as a nurse in the emergency department, I encountered a particularly challenging situation involving a patient who was combative and refused treatment. As the primary nurse assigned to this case, I recognized the need to prioritize the patient’s safety while also respecting their autonomy.
I took a step back, engaged in active listening, and tried to understand the root cause of the patient’s agitation. Through empathetic communication and a calm demeanor, I was able to establish a rapport and eventually convince the patient to receive the necessary medical attention.
This experience taught me the importance of remaining composed under pressure, employing effective communication strategies, and finding creative solutions that prioritize both patient care and their rights. It reinforced my commitment to providing compassionate, patient-centered care, even in the most challenging circumstances.”
4. “What is your experience working in a team environment?”
Ascension values collaboration and teamwork among its associates, as delivering exceptional patient care requires a coordinated effort across various disciplines and departments. This question assesses your ability to work effectively within a team, communicate with diverse individuals, and contribute to a positive, supportive environment.
In your response, provide specific examples that demonstrate your teamwork skills, such as successful group projects, initiatives, or cross-functional collaborations. Highlight your ability to actively listen, compromise, and offer constructive feedback while respecting others’ perspectives.
Example response:
“Throughout my nursing career, I’ve had the opportunity to work within various multidisciplinary teams, collaborating closely with physicians, therapists, social workers, and ancillary staff to provide comprehensive patient care.
One notable experience was during my time in the labor and delivery unit, where effective teamwork was essential to ensuring positive outcomes for both mothers and newborns. We held regular team huddles to discuss patient cases, anticipate potential challenges, and coordinate our efforts seamlessly.
I took pride in my ability to foster open communication, actively listen to my colleagues’ perspectives, and offer insights and recommendations based on my expertise. This collaborative approach not only strengthened our team dynamics but also ensured that our patients received the highest quality, well-coordinated care throughout their journey.”
5. “How do you handle stress and prioritize tasks in a fast-paced environment?”
Healthcare settings can be highly dynamic and demanding, requiring professionals to effectively manage stress and prioritize tasks to ensure efficient, high-quality care. This question evaluates your ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment, juggle multiple priorities, and maintain composure under pressure.
In your response, provide examples of how you’ve successfully navigated demanding situations, prioritized tasks based on urgency and importance, and implemented strategies to manage stress effectively. Highlight your time-management skills, ability to multitask, and commitment to maintaining a positive, solutions-oriented mindset.
Example response:
“Working in the emergency department has equipped me with the skills and resilience necessary to excel in fast-paced, high-stress environments. I’ve learned to prioritize tasks based on the criticality of each patient’s condition, ensuring that those in need of immediate attention are addressed first.
One strategy I’ve found effective is conducting regular huddles with my team to triage incoming cases, delegate responsibilities, and ensure a seamless flow of patient care. I also make a conscious effort to practice mindfulness techniques, such as deep breathing exercises, to remain centered and focused, even during the most chaotic moments.
Additionally, I’ve honed my time-management skills by streamlining processes, leveraging technology to improve efficiency, and collaborating closely with colleagues to distribute workloads effectively. Maintaining open lines of communication and a solutions-oriented mindset has been crucial in navigating challenges and ensuring the delivery of high-quality care, even in the most demanding circumstances.”
By thoughtfully preparing for these common Ascension interview questions, you’ll be well-equipped to demonstrate your qualifications, alignment with the organization’s values, and readiness to contribute to its mission of delivering compassionate, personalized care.
Remember, interviews are a two-way street – they’re an opportunity for you to showcase your skills and experience while also assessing if Ascension is the right fit for your career aspirations. Approach the interview with confidence, authenticity, and a genuine enthusiasm for the role and the organization.
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