Top Phlebotomist Interview Questions with Example Answers [2022]

Prepare for your Phlebotomist interview by going through these most asked Phlebotomist interview questions. Additionally, get access to sample answers and interviewer's expectations.

Interview Practice

Search Phlebotomist Questions:


  • Question: Tell me about a time when you were in a difficult situation and how did you handle it.
  • Question Overview: Phlebotomists are often in situations where they must be flexible and adapt to changing circumstances. For instance, they might be asked to draw blood from a patient who is in a wheelchair, or they might be asked to draw blood from a newborn. Candidates should be able to explain how they handled these situations and what they learned from them.

    Sample Answer: I was asked to draw blood from a patient who was in a wheelchair. I had never done that before, but I listened carefully during training and was able to get the job done.

      What the interviewer is looking for:
    • - A desire to help patients
    • - A willingness to work with patients of all ages and backgrounds
    • - A desire to learn from mistakes

  • Question: What are your strengths and weaknesses?
  • Question Overview: Phlebotomists are responsible for a lot of tasks, so it's important to know what your candidate's strengths and weaknesses are. For instance, if they're not great at handling stress, you might want to consider hiring someone else. Candidates should be able to explain their strengths and weaknesses in a way that makes sense for the job.

    Sample Answer: I'm a hard worker, but I'm not very good at handling stress. I've been working on improving my time management skills so that I can better handle stressful situations.

      What the interviewer is looking for:
    • - A candidate should be able to explain their strengths and weaknesses in a way that makes sense for the job
    • - A candidate should be able to explain how they handle stress
    • - A candidate should be able to explain how they improve their weaknesses

  • Question: How would you handle two donors that finish up at the same time?
  • Question Overview: It's important for phlebotomists to be able to handle multiple donors at once. They need to know how to prioritize and handle different situations. For instance, if one donor is in a lot of pain, the phlebotomist should know how to handle the situation. They should also be able to handle a situation where two donors finish up at the same time.

    Sample Answer: I've been a phlebotomist at donation centers and hospitals, working with a range of ages. At a plasma center, I worked with centrifuge machines, too.

      What the interviewer is looking for:
    • - Knowledge of your equipment
    • - Ability to prioritize
    • - Ability to handle different situations

  • Question: When are you available?
  • Question Overview: Phlebotomists may have different availability requirements, depending on the type of job they're applying for. For instance, a phlebotomist working in a hospital may have to work weekends and holidays, while a phlebotomist working in a donation center may only need to work during business hours. A candidate should be able to tell you when they're available and what their availability requirements are.

    Sample Answer: I'm available during the week from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. I'm also available on weekends.

      What the interviewer is looking for:
    • - Availability during your hours of operation
    • - Availability during holidays
    • - Availability on weekends

  • Question: Why did you choose phlebotomy?
  • Question Overview: Phlebotomy is a growing field, and there are many reasons that people choose to pursue it as a career. Candidates should be able to explain their motivation for entering the field. For instance, some people may have a family member who is a phlebotomist, and they may have had positive experiences with them. Others may have been drawn to the job because of the variety of work environments or the opportunity to work with a diverse range of people.

    Sample Answer: I've been a phlebotomist at donation centers and hospitals, working with a range of ages. At a plasma center, I worked with centrifuge machines, too.

      What the interviewer is looking for:
    • - Candidate's personal experience with phlebotomy
    • - Candidate's desire to help others
    • - Candidate's interest in the field

  • Question: What do you expect from your manager?
  • Question Overview: A phlebotomist is an entry-level position, so they should have a strong desire to learn and grow. They should also have a good attitude and be willing to work hard. A candidate should be able to work well with other people, and they should be able to follow instructions.

    Sample Answer: I want my manager to be available when I have questions, and I want them to help me develop my skills.

      What the interviewer is looking for:
    • - Desire to learn
    • - Desire to do a good job
    • - Willingness to work hard

  • Question: What’s a big mistake you made at your last job?
  • Question Overview: This question is designed to see how your candidate handles mistakes. They should be able to talk about a mistake they made and how they learned from it. It's important that they don't make excuses or blame others. They should also be able to explain what they did to correct the mistake.

    Sample Answer: I had a patient who was very upset about a hematoma that formed after a blood draw. I didn't realize that the cuff was still on, and I didn't remove it before removing the needle. I apologized and explained what I did wrong, and I made sure to follow up with the patient to make sure they were okay.

      What the interviewer is looking for:
    • - A willingness to take responsibility for mistakes
    • - A desire to learn from mistakes
    • - A desire to improve

  • Question: Tell me about a time when you had to work with someone who was difficult.
  • Question Overview: Phlebotomists have to work with a variety of people, and they may encounter difficult situations. They should be able to explain how they handled a difficult situation, and they should be able to explain how they would handle it in the future.

    Sample Answer: I've had patients who were very nervous about having their blood drawn, but I was able to talk them through it. I've also had patients who were angry about having to wait for their blood draw. I try to be patient and listen to what they have to say.

      What the interviewer is looking for:
    • - Candidate should have a calm demeanor
    • - Strategies for handling difficult patients

  • Question: Tell me about a time you had to deal with an unexpected situation.
  • Question Overview: Phlebotomists are responsible for dealing with a variety of situations, and they should be prepared for anything. They should be able to handle a situation in which a patient has an adverse reaction to the blood draw. They should also be able to handle a situation in which a patient is uncooperative or disruptive. Candidates should be able to describe how they handled the situation and what they learned from it.

    Sample Answer: I had a patient who was very upset about having blood drawn. I was able to calm her down by explaining what I was doing and why.

      What the interviewer is looking for:
    • - Candidates should have a calm demeanor
    • - Candidates should be able to handle stressful situations
    • - Candidates should have good communication skills

  • Question: Why should we hire you?
  • Question Overview: This is a great question to ask a phlebotomist candidate because it gives them the opportunity to sell themselves. They should be able to explain why they're the best candidate for the job. This is also a good opportunity for them to explain any gaps in their resume or employment history.

    Sample Answer: I'm a hard worker who has experience with patients of all ages. I'm looking for a long-term position where I can grow and learn.

      What the interviewer is looking for:
    • - Knowledge of your company
    • - Experience with similar patients or donors
    • - A desire to work for your company

  • Question: Tell me about a time when you had to bend or break the rules.
  • Question Overview: Phlebotomists are expected to follow the rules and regulations of their workplace. However, there are times when a situation may arise that requires a phlebotomist to bend or break the rules. For example, if a patient is in need of blood and there is no time to wait for approval, a phlebotomist might draw blood without permission. Candidates should be able to explain how they handled the situation and what the outcome was.

    Sample Answer: I had a patient who needed blood right away, so I drew it without permission. The patient was in critical condition, so I knew it was the right thing to do.

      What the interviewer is looking for:
    • - Ability to think quickly
    • - Knowledge of policies and procedures
    • - Ability to communicate with others

  • Question: What makes you want to work at CSL?
  • Question Overview: This is a great opportunity to learn about your company and to show that you're interested in the position. Candidates should be able to explain why they're interested in the position and what they hope to gain from it.

    Sample Answer: I'm very interested in working for CSL because I've heard that you have a great reputation for training and promoting from within. I'd like to learn more about your company and how I can grow with you.

      What the interviewer is looking for:
    • - Knowledge of the company
    • - Interest in the position
    • - Desire to work for the company

  • Question: How long do you want to work for our company?
  • Question Overview: A candidate's answer to this question can tell you a lot about their goals and motivations. If they want to stay with your company for a long time, they'll likely be a good fit. If they're looking for a short-term job, they might not be as invested in the position.

    Sample Answer: I'm looking for a long-term job with a stable company. I have a lot of experience in this field and I'm ready to settle down.

      What the interviewer is looking for:
    • - Length of time desired
    • - Reasons for wanting to stay
    • - Desired salary

  • Question: Why do you want to work with us?
  • Question Overview: This question is a great way to find out if your candidate is interested in your organization. It's important to know if they are excited about the work you do and if they have any ideas for improving the services you offer.

    Sample Answer: I've heard that you're a great place to work, and I'm excited to join the team.

      What the interviewer is looking for:
    • - A desire to work for your organization
    • - Knowledge of your mission
    • - A desire to learn more about your organization

  • Question: How have you handled a crisis situation?
  • Question Overview: Phlebotomists are often the first to respond to a crisis situation. They are responsible for keeping patients calm and following emergency protocols. It's important for candidates to be able to demonstrate that they have experience in handling emergency situations and that they can think clearly and act quickly.

    Sample Answer: I've been a phlebotomist at donation centers and hospitals, working with a range of ages. At a plasma center, I worked with centrifuge machines, too.

      What the interviewer is looking for:
    • - Experience with similar situations
    • - Knowledge of emergency protocols
    • - Ability to remain calm under pressure

  • Question: How do you handle conflicts in the workplace?
  • Question Overview: Phlebotomists are in a position of trust with patients and donors, and they must be able to handle conflicts in a professional manner. They should be able to resolve conflicts with coworkers, patients, and donors. They should also be able to communicate their ideas and concerns to their supervisors.

    Sample Answer: I always take a deep breath when I'm feeling frustrated or angry. I try to talk to the person who is causing the conflict and explain my point of view. If that doesn't work, I go to my supervisor and explain the situation.

      What the interviewer is looking for:
    • - Ability to remain calm in stressful situations
    • - Ability to communicate with coworkers
    • - Ability to communicate with supervisors

  • Question: What is your definition of accountability?
  • Question Overview: Phlebotomists are accountable for the blood and plasma they collect. They must follow procedures and be aware of the consequences of a mistake. This question can help you determine if your candidate will be able to handle the responsibility of the job.

    Sample Answer: I take my job very seriously, and I'm always aware of my responsibilities. I make sure to follow all policies and procedures, and I'm careful to avoid mistakes.

      What the interviewer is looking for:
    • - Understanding of the importance of accuracy
    • - Knowledge of consequences of mistakes
    • - Awareness of policies and procedures

  • Question: Why did you choose to study at NGHS?
  • Question Overview: A candidate's answer to this question can give you a sense of their values and goals. They should be able to explain why they chose to study at your school, and they should be able to tell you about their experience.

    Sample Answer: I chose NGHS because it's a great school with a lot of opportunities. I've learned a lot about phlebotomy and I've made some great friends, too.

      What the interviewer is looking for:
    • - Knowledge of your school
    • - Respect for your school
    • - A desire to learn

  • Question: What do you like about being a phlebotomist?
  • Question Overview: Phlebotomists have a variety of reasons for choosing their profession. Some enjoy the variety of patients and donors they work with, while others enjoy the technical aspects of the job. A candidate should be able to explain why they enjoy their profession, and they should be able to explain how their personality fits with the job.

    Sample Answer: I like being able to work with different people every day. I'm interested in the science behind blood and plasma, and I like being able to help people.

      What the interviewer is looking for:
    • - Candidate's personality
    • - Candidate's interest in the job
    • - Candidate's understanding of their role

  • Question: What is your opinion on working with blood?
  • Question Overview: Phlebotomists are exposed to blood on a regular basis, so they must have a certain level of comfort with it. It's important to find out how your candidate feels about working with blood, and whether they have any reservations about it.

    Sample Answer: I've been a phlebotomist at donation centers and hospitals, working with a range of ages. At a plasma center, I worked with centrifuge machines, too.

      What the interviewer is looking for:
    • - A desire to work with blood
    • - A willingness to work with blood
    • - Concern for safety of patients