Describe a situation where you had to communicate complex laboratory findings to a non-technical audience


 Theme: Experience, Communication  Role: Medical Laboratory Scientist  Function: Medical

  Interview Question for Medical Laboratory Scientist:  See sample answers, motivations & red flags for this common interview question. About Medical Laboratory Scientist: Perform laboratory tests and analyze results This role falls within the Medical function of a firm. See other interview questions & further information for this role here

 Sample Answer 


  Example response for question delving into Experience, Communication with the key points that need to be covered in an effective response. Customize this to your own experience with concrete examples and evidence

  •  Situation: I was working as a Medical Laboratory Scientist and had to communicate complex laboratory findings to a non-technical audience
  •  Audience: The audience consisted of patients and their families who were seeking an explanation of their test results
  •  Preparation: Before the communication, I thoroughly reviewed the laboratory findings, ensuring I understood the technical details and their implications
  •  Simplification: I simplified the complex laboratory findings by breaking them down into layman's terms, avoiding technical jargon
  •  Visual aids: To enhance understanding, I used visual aids such as charts, graphs, and diagrams to illustrate the key findings
  •  Empathy: I approached the communication with empathy, understanding that the audience may be anxious or confused about their results
  •  Active listening: I actively listened to the audience's questions and concerns, ensuring I addressed them with clarity and patience
  •  Reiteration: To reinforce understanding, I summarized the key findings multiple times, emphasizing the most important aspects
  •  Follow-up: After the communication, I offered additional resources and contact information for any further questions or clarifications
  •  Outcome: The audience expressed gratitude for the clear and understandable explanation of their laboratory findings, alleviating their concerns

 Underlying Motivations 


  What the Interviewer is trying to find out about you and your experiences through this question

  •  Communication skills: Assessing your ability to effectively communicate complex information to non-technical individuals
  •  Adaptability: Evaluating your capacity to tailor your communication style to suit different audiences
  •  Problem-solving: Determining your capability to simplify and clarify complex laboratory findings for better understanding

 Potential Minefields 


  How to avoid some common minefields when answering this question in order to not raise any red flags

  •  Lack of clarity: Avoid using technical jargon or complex terminology that the non-technical audience may not understand
  •  Poor organization: Avoid providing information in a disorganized or confusing manner, making it difficult for the audience to follow
  •  Lack of context: Avoid omitting important background information that is necessary for the audience to fully comprehend the findings
  •  Inability to simplify: Avoid failing to simplify complex concepts or findings into easily understandable terms for the non-technical audience
  •  Lack of engagement: Avoid not actively involving the audience or failing to address their questions or concerns during the communication process