Dermatologist Interview Questions

This question tests the dermatologist’s knowledge of suspicious skin conditions, and it also assures you that the candidate knows the appropriate steps for handling the types of skin complaints you see frequently in your office. You’ll learn whether the dermatologist is skilled in the latest exam techniques and technologies, and you’ll understand more about whether he or she follows a conservative or a more aggressive approach to diagnosis and treatment. What to look for in an answer:

• Applicant’s knowledge of diverse skin conditions
• An approach to treatment that matches yours
• Experience with newer technologies for exams and treatment

The full-body skin exam is one of the most common screenings that people receive from a dermatologist. Since the candidate would be performing many of these exams, this question lets you know whether they could be a good fit for your practice overall. You’ll discover how the candidate might adapt the exam for different ages/skin concerns and whether they can work well with a diverse patient population. What to look for in an answer:

• Applicant’s knowledge of varied exam methods
• Ability to adapt exam for specific ages/health concerns
• Candidate’s approach to establishing patient rapport

While the exact products that the candidate uses aren’t necessarily relevant to a hiring decision, this question gives you insight into their communication style and how they might talk to patients when they’re recommending products. You can get a sense of whether their approach to skincare matches the overall philosophy of your practice. What to look for in an answer:

• Applicant’s personal skincare approach fits with your practice
• Ability to explain skincare in a conversational manner
• High-level understanding of skincare needs

This question gives you a window into whether the candidate’s views on anti-aging products align with the values of your practice. You’ll learn what type of approach the candidate takes to dermal fillers so that you can consider if it matches the needs of your patients. Their response provides an opportunity to get a sense of how they’d communicate with colleagues and clients. What to look for in an answer:

• Candidate’s philosophy aligns with yours
• Ability to know when fillers are/aren’t needed
• Explains treatment options effectively

This question establishes whether the candidate has a compassionate, professional bedside manner. You’ll learn if the applicant is able to explain complex conditions in a way that the patient can understand and that suits the patient’s age and emotional state. Observing their demeanor when they talk about a time when they had to deliver a potentially frightening diagnosis can give you insight into their ability to manage their emotions and act appropriately. What to look for in an answer:

• Ability to explain complex, difficult information
• Knows how to reassure the patient and discuss next steps
• Experience with diverse patient populations

This question is effective because it can help you gauge a candidate's depth of knowledge, their ability to empathize with patients and their values in patient care. An ideal candidate will reveal that communicating with patients and understanding their concerns is primary to an effective diagnosis. Additionally, an applicant should show a need to be understanding of the patient experience and provide some insight into the needs of the patient beyond a diagnosis or treatment.

The candidate's response should focus on:

• Good listening skills
• Depth of knowledge
• Confidence in practice

An answer to this question may look something like this: