First impressions count
Preparation is essential. Check for online reviews from patients and fellow medical practitioners – read the positive, the negative, and the mediocre to get a good sense of what the practice/ hospital is like. Ask around and see what you can find out in terms of their reputation, preferability, standards of care, etc.
You also want to make sure that you’re suitably rested and well-groomed for the interview itself.
Have all of your references, both academic and professional, ready for presentation. While it’s possible you may not be asked for references, it’s better to have them and not need them than to need them and not have them.
· So tell us a bit more about yourself.
· What got you interested in this role and career?
· How did you find out about this role?
· What do you think makes you ideal for this practice?
Arrive ten minutes early. This is the golden rule and should be at top of your mind as you get ready and head out for your face-to-face interview. You’ve probably heard this tip dozens of times – it’s been around forever, and it’s not going anywhere. Showing up early shows that you respect the position and are eager for your interview.
During your interview, smile, speak clearly and loud enough for everyone to hear you, and show an interest in the work of your prospective employer and their practice. When appropriate, take small moments within the interview to check for understanding and cross-reference medical data but never argue or fight against your interviewer.
Keep the conversation easy flowing, and if you need to take a second before answering a question, do so. It will work much more in your favour to do that than to ramble on an answer that you’re not entirely confident or secure in.
Take opportunities to show where you think you could add value to the practice and if you have evidence to back up your claim, present it.
Questions to Ask in an Interview
Far too often, potential employees forget to ask questions during their interview. Preparing questions to ask in an interview before you ever get there can help keep you on track, give you more information about the position and the practice, and shows that you are engaged and excited about the position.
So, what are some common questions to ask in an interview?
· What is your favourite part about working here?
· What type of growth is the practice expecting in the next year? Five years?
· Who is your typical patient?
· What kind of community work does the practice provide?
In addition to these types of questions, make sure you check for understanding throughout the interview if you don’t understand something or need clarification. This shows that you are engaged in the conversation and paying attention.