Interview Tips from the Experts
by Patricia Borrowdale, Pediatric Health Associates
Here are some job hunting tips that will help make your search more efficient:
- Be sure to read job descriptions and skill requirements carefully before submitting your CV. Make sure that your skills match what is the recruiter is seeking.
- Take note if a job description specifies whether the position is locum tenens or permanent. Only apply if it meets your desires.
- Be prepared to answer delicate questions regarding your employment history. For example, more than 3 positions in a ten-year period may raise concerns about whether you get along well with peers and "go with the flow." If you have been out of residency for a while and are not board certified, it can also raise a red flag.
- If a job description denotes "bilingual required" for a specific language, apply only if you really do have that skill set. Otherwise, you'll waste your time as well as the employer's.
- Decide how far you are willing to commute. If it takes an hour and you're not planning on moving, is it worth it? Employers generally look for a long-term commitment due to the expense of recruitment.
- Refrain from discussing salary until after your initial interview. While salary is important, the initial interview is for the recruiter and for you to evaluate whether you would be a good fit for the position and the organization's culture.
- Before signing a contract, make sure all of your questions have been answered. Feel free to write them out and bring them with you to the interview.
- If you have a desired schedule, make sure you ask about hours before accepting the position. If the practice has set hours they are looking to cover, schedule changes most likely will not be accommodated.
- If partnership is available, it's ok to ask if it requires a buy-in and how long it takes before it's offered. However, financial specifics should not be discussed during the initial interview.
- Remember that the employer is looking at you as a potential representative of the practice. Your attitude makes a statement. Make sure you leave a good impression.