What the Employer is Looking For
by Danise A. Cooper, Senior Consultant, Cejka Search
When searching for a pediatric practice opportunity, it is helpful to put yourself in the employer’s position and examine qualities they likely desire in hiring a new candidate. By understanding what the employer is looking for and balancing those expectations with your needs, you will increase the probability of landing your dream job.
Remember the employer is looking for candidates they can retain in order to combat high turnover rates. In the recent Cejka Search and AMGA 2006 Physician Retention Survey, physicians were reported to have a turnover rate of 6.7%.* The following tips provide perspective as to what an employer considers during the interview process.
- Employers look for candidates that know exactly what they want. While preparing for an interview, identify the qualities you are looking for in a new position or workplace. Know what you want in terms of practice, location, compensation, patient load, call duties and co-workers.
- Written questions will signal to the employer that you took the time to adequately prepare for your interview. Ask about the staffing, orientation and training, opportunities for promotion, part-time and full-time options. It may even be useful to ask about a locum tenens, to experience the job in a typical daily setting.
- Employers look for physicians who dress for success. Doctors will draw conclusions on your clinical abilities and organizational fit by your attire. Dress nicely to show respect for the organization. Even if the dress code is casual, it is always best to be conservatively dressed in business attire.
- Positive feedback during the interview will let the employer know you are interested in the position. Both time and money is invested in the interview process; avoid a straight face that may unintentionally seem ungrateful to the prospective employer. Be sure to say "thank you," compliment the workplace, and send a "thank you" note to the employer at the end of the process.
In any interview, if you are feeling positive about the opportunity, be prepared to say "yes." Following these suggestions will help you and the recruiter identify similarities that may lead to landing the right pediatric job for you.
*Source: The Cejka Search and AMGA 2006 Physician Retention Survey was completed by 92 members of the American Medical Group Association, and collectively employs more than 16,833 physicians.