Are online mock interviews an effective method of preparing for medical specialty applications?

Abstract

Medical specialty applications typically include a structured interview or series of interviews. Since 2021, due to restrictions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, these interviews have been conducted online, using a range of platforms. This has necessitated changes to the format of some of the interviews and may require interviewees to develop a new skill set compared to what they require for traditional face-to-face interviews. Studies looking at the USA residency matching programme demonstrate that interviewees prefer face-to-face interviews and feel they are more likely to be able to present themselves to their satisfaction [1]. Online interviews have several intrinsic disadvantages: transmission of non-verbal cues are limited; the possibility of poor audio-visual coordination can disrupt the natural flow of conversation; and the combination of these issues can negatively impact application impression and interviewer rating [2]. With this in mind, we developed a programme of online mock interviews, aimed at foundation doctors and clinical fellows applying for CT/ST1 level training posts. The programme was offered in January 2021, just before the core interview period. All foundation doctors and clinical fellows in the Trust were given the opportunity to sign up for an online mock interview. The interviews were conducted via Teams, followed the format specified by the relevant Royal College, and were conducted by consultants or registrars from that specialty. Following the interview, the interviewers gave feedback and advice on performance. Interviewees were invited to give feedback via an online survey. Thirty-two mock interviews were conducted, and twenty participants gave feedback. 100% of respondents stated they were ‘Very likely’ to recommend the mock interviews to a colleague; 100% felt the mock interview and feedback were ‘Quite helpful’ or ‘Very helpful’ in preparing for their interview. Qualitative comments from interviewees included: that they valued the mock interview following the same format as the actual interview; that the feedback was beneficial; and that it was useful to have two interviewers. Suggestions for improvements included: allowing more time for feedback; and providing two mock interviews to allow interviewees to implement suggested changes. Overall, this mock online interview programme was a valued and beneficial method for potential applicants to practise for their interviews. We hope to continue this programme in the future and will incorporate the above suggestions. 1. Seifi A, Mirahmadizadeh A, Eslami V. Perception of medical students and residents about virtual interviews for residency applications in the United States. PLoS One. 2020;15(8):e0238239 2. McCain C, Kemp B, Baier MB, Zea AH, Sabottke C, Schachner ER, Pirtle C, McLean A, Maupin R, Detiege P, Spieler B. A Framework for the Virtual Medical Interview Process: Considerations for the Applicant and the Interviewer. Ochsner J. 2022;22(1):61–70.