Physician Interview Tips

Once you have scheduled an interview with a physician recruiting firm or a potential employer, it’s important to be as prepared as possible to discuss your education, experience and background. Whether you facing a panel interview or a telephone interview, there are several things you can do to make the best impression possible and land the physician job of your dreams. Here are a few tried and true tips for excelling at your next interview.

• Preparation is the key to completing a successful interview. If it’s been sometime since you searched for a new physician career opportunity, chances are your interview skills are a bit rusty. Practice interview questions with yourself and be sure to develop answers to commonly asked questions, such as your best skills or greatest accomplishments. Most employers and physician recruiters believe that prepared candidates make prepared employees.

• Familiarize yourself with the job description provided by your physician recruiter. Employers want to know that you understand the position and can handle the responsibilities associated with it.

• Ensure that you have examples of academic or professional experience you have that matches your physician recruiter’s or potential employer’s list of skills. While you may not have every criterion they are looking for, you should have most. If you lack experience in a particular category, make sure you research the skill and express interest in learning more.

• If you’re a new graduate, it’s always a good idea to familiarize yourself with significant details from your area of study. Since you have less professional experience to draw from, employers will want to discuss your course knowledge. Freshen up on important information, and review study guides or exams you have taken.

• A good way to make a great first impression is to know as much as possible about a physician recruiting firm or company prior to your initial phone or person-to-person interview. Most physician recruiters will be able to provide you with company or organizational Web sites that can help you research the history and current state of the employer. If you’re interviewing for a physician job with a private practice or small firm that does not have a Web site, ask your physician recruiter for more information.

• Being on time for an interview is key to making the best first impression possible. But, unfortunately, there are times when you may be late. Whether the interstate has been closed due to an accident or your train or flight has been cancelled, the best way to handle a late arrival is with communication. If you will be late to an interview, its vital that you contact your physician recruiter and/or the interviewer so that you can alert them to the situation. Most physician recruiting firms and employers will understand.

• Ask questions! A great way to express interest in a physician job as well as show off your knowledge of the organization and job description is to ask questions about the company and the position. Prepare several questions beforehand and make notes if a new question arises during the interview process. Physician recruiters and employers will feel more at ease with candidates that actively engage in a conversation.