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You’ve chosen your specialty. You’ve put in the years of training. Now you’re facing the final hurdle on the journey to becoming a consultant: the Higher Specialist Training (HST) interview.
These interviews are highly competitive, tightly timed, and designed to test far more than clinical knowledge. So how do you stand out — and make sure your answers land with real impact?
With over 30 years’ experience working closely with the Irish healthcare system and the HSE, and having coached hundreds of doctors to success at HST interviews, here are my five top tips to help you perform at your best.
1. Time Is Your Enemy — Edit Before You Enter the Room
HST interviews typically last 20–30 minutes, and time passes quickly.
This is not the place to think out loud. You need to do all of your editing before the interview.
Sharp, well-structured, and tightly tailored answers are critical.
Clarity beats complexity every time.
Know your key messages, stick to the question, and deliver your answers with confidence and precision.
2. Explain the Why — Passion Lands the Punch
Panels don’t just want to know what you’ve done — they want to understand why this specialty matters to you.
If you can clearly articulate:
Why this area excites you
Why it aligns with your values
Why you see yourself thriving in it long-term
…you create a powerful emotional connection.
Passion signals commitment. And committed trainees are the ones who excel.
3. How You Show Up Matters More Than You Think
Communication goes far beyond words. In fact, words account for only a small fraction of how we connect.
Your body language, tone, eye contact, and presence all matter.
Don’t talk at the interview panel — engage with them.
Show warmth as well as competence. You’re aiming for a head and heart connection.
Panels want colleagues they can trust, not just impressive CVs.
4. Preparation Wins — Know the Common Themes
There are clear, recurring themes in HST interviews. Preparation here is non-negotiable.
Be ready to speak confidently about:
Leadership
Communication
Research
Audit
Teaching
Clinical governance
Have structured examples prepared and practice articulating them succinctly. Confidence comes from preparation.
5. Own Your Role — Use “I”, Not Just “We”
Medicine is a team sport — and panels know that.
But when discussing projects or initiatives, be clear about your personal contribution.
Use “I” statements to highlight:
What you led
What you influenced
What you learned
Owning your role shows insight, accountability, and leadership maturity.
Final Thought
HST interviews aren’t about perfection — they’re about clarity, confidence, and connection. With the right preparation and mindset, you can walk into the room knowing you’re ready to perform at your best.
If you prepare well, show up authentically, and communicate with purpose, you give yourself the strongest possible chance of success.
About the Author
Laura McGrath is a qualified executive coach, EMCC Certified with over 20 years’ experience in executive search and recruitment. She’s the owner of Interview Techniques, a leading provider of interview and career coaching services and has been a guest lecturer with Trinity College Dublin and TU Dublin. She’s worked with many disciplines in the HSE including neonatology, public health, paediatrics, anaesthesia, radiology and specialist registrar training. For a consultation, please call 087 669 1192 or go to https://interviewtechniques.ie/contact/
To arrange a consultation, call Laura on 087 669 1192
