The main parties involved in the IR system are:  i.) Employers – They are the ones who possess the rights to hire the employees and remove them. They also possess the rights to relocate, close or merge the business. They can opt for technological changes as and when they see it in the interest of business.  ii.) Employees – They are actually the ones who keep the business moving. They possess the rights to voice their opinions and feelings while striving for betterment. They usually form the unions to negotiate with the employers. iii.) Government – Government is the one who influences the IR system with laws, rules, agreements, awards of court etc. They also include third parties & labour and tribunal courts to manage the IR system.

The functions performed by trade unions can be classified into two groups:  i.) Militant Functions ii.) Fraternal Functions   Militant functions : These activities include strike, lock outs, gherao etc which means putting up a fight with the management. Hence, they are called militant functions. They are carried out for following purposes:  a.) Rise in wages b.) Rise in the status of workers c.) Protection against injustice   Fraternal functions : These functions are carried out by the trade unions for the welfare of their employees which includes:  a.) Measures to boost up the workers’ morale b.) Foster self confidence c.) Develop sincerity and discipline d.) Protection to women workers against discrimination

CBA – Collective Bargaining Agreement is the result of collective bargaining procedure.  These agreements can be in one of the two forms:  i.) Procedural agreement ii.) Substantive agreement Procedural agreements – They usually deal with the relationship between employees and employers to resolve individual and group issues. These are usually filed in the company’s rule book.  Substantive agreements – This kind of an agreement deals with specific issues like basic pay, leave policy, bonus payment etc.

The main objectives of an Industrial relations system are:  - To protect the interest of employees and employers by building up a congenial relationship.  - To avoid the human conflicts which can harm the business, the employees and the economic growth of the country. - To increase the productivity.  - To improve the economic conditions of the workers - To reduce the number of industrial disputes like strikes, lock outs etc.

Even if you are a fresh graduate, you likely have some experience as an extern. Prepare for this question in advance by thinking of all procedures in which you have assisted. When answering the question, give a detailed but succinct account of your experience and your contribution to the experience.

This is a question that cannot be properly answered without preparation. Have a story ready about an experience you have had. Do not make up a story, but be sure to play up the most positive aspects of the experience to show that you know how difficult some patients can be but that you are more than capable of handling any situation with professionalism, compassion, and efficiency.

This is the perfect opportunity to impart your knowledge of HIPAA. Your answer should show that you are very knowledgeable regarding regulations and that you place patient rights and confidentiality at the top of your priority list as a medical assistant. If you are at all unclear about HIPAA regulations, be sure to study the material thoroughly before rehearsing your response.

Do you regularly read professional journals? Are you a member of a professional organization?  If so, detail all of your efforts and explain how you feel the efforts will improve your skills and allow you to contribute more fully to your profession.