Inspire (Part 1) Mastering Healthcare Interviews: Strategies for Success with Sarah Geraghty

Whether you’re preparing for a specialty registrar or consultant post—or are part of the wider respiratory multidisciplinary team—excelling in healthcare interviews requires clarity, authenticity, and strategic storytelling. In this episode, career and communication expert Sarah Geraghty shares practical guidance on standout interview preparation, avoiding common pitfalls, and clearly demonstrating your value. Prioritise evidence-based answers over generic statements Use the STAR framework (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure responses Practice speaking answers out loud rather than memorising scripts Address gaps or perceived weaknesses honestly and positively Align your unique experiences with the specific needs of the role Stay composed when faced with unfamiliar or unexpected questions Understand interviewer priorities and tailor responses accordingly Deliver a strong closing statement to reinforce suitability Leverage informal meetings and networking strategically Build a consistent professional brand and story bank for long-term success Sarah Geraghty Head of Careers at The Communications Clinic, specialising in high-stakes interview preparation and career transitions. A communication trainer and coach with a background in journalism and editorial work (Irish Times, The Journal, Assistant Editor of Gloss Magazine), Sarah brings real-world insight into performing under pressure and articulating professional value. Marissa O’Callaghan Irish-trained respiratory fellow and postdoctoral researcher at Erasmus MC, Rotterdam. Completed Irish respiratory and internal medicine training and a PhD in 2025. Interests include interstitial and rare lung diseases, clinical research, medical education, and healthcare innovation. Co-founder of the ITS Podcast Series (2024). Sandra Green Irish-trained respiratory doctor and climate advocate; co-founder of Irish Doctors for the Environment. Holds an MSc in Leadership and Innovation in Healthcare (RCSI, 2023–2025). Co-founder of Irish Thoracic Society Podcast Productions (2024). 00:00 – Introduction and episode overview 02:25 – Why speaking answers out loud matters 04:20 – Evidence over experience: thinking like an interviewer 06:15 – Building a targeted story bank 08:35 – Avoiding scripts and improving fluency 10:22 – Answering “Tell me about yourself” 13:09 – Structuring competency and scenario responses 18:03 – Addressing gaps and unfamiliar topics 24:23 – What to do when you don’t know an answer 27:49 – Demonstrating leadership and management skills 32:45 – Closing with impact 36:14 – Interview prep realities in busy clinical roles 56:55 – Differences in prep for SpR vs consultant roles 61:08 – Networking and informal meetings 63:43 – Crafting your professional brand Sarah Geraghty (LinkedIn): https://ie.linkedin.com/in/sarah-geraghty-comms The Communications Clinic: https://www.communicationsclinic.ie/ STAR Method: https://nationalcareers.service.gov.uk/careers-advice/interview-advice/the-star-method