Interview to win!

Relax, relax -- Sure-- Easy for me to say, not for you to do.

Of course it's only your livelihood at stake in a position you will hopefully spend several years. (Just kidding!)

Admittedly, interviewing can be one of the most anxiety producing experiences of your career, but only if you let that happen. Keep in mind that the people you meet will more than likely have some of the same anxieties you do. Remember the old saying: Imagine the other person in their underwear. Well, keep in mind your interviewer could be doing the same! (Got you to lighten up didn't I?) Have a sense of humor about it too.

Obviously during the interview you will want to convey your competency, flexibility, work ethic, attitude and ability to be a team player - plus good bedside manner, and a host of other common sense elements that we make sure you are equipped with to get you an offer.

Walking away from the interview thinking you will get the offer (You have a gut feeling telling you so) means you have accomplished your goal(s). Do you have to accept the position? No, but it's nice to know if you wanted to it is there, which puts you in a good position to negotiate. We will discuss negotiating at a later time.

Lets first touch on some important points:

Usually before the interview, you will have a phone conversation with someone from the facility. Remember, this is your in. This conversation will invariably set the tone for your interview. Certainly getting a job description beforehand is a plus, but at this point it's best not discuss salary, and potential bonuses. The most important aspect of any position (present or future) is to feel comfortable with the people you are, or will be working with, and to make sure that you fit in as a whole. Remember if this is your first foray into the medical workforce or if you are on a new career path: The position you take will hopefully be the last position you will ever have to take.

The financial talk can always come later. Put yourself in the best light possible. Dress appropriately! You are a physician so have a business mindset. Your dress code can and most often does exemplify your attitude. A nice crisp orange (Just kidding: please don't wear orange!) business suit along with polished dress shoes will suffice. We recommend having a second suit available in case you will be dining in the evening. (You would not believe of some of the horror stories we hear from our clients concerning clothing) One of our clients told us of a female physician that came dressed in a tight leather mini skirt and vest with high heels and a Harley Davidson Cap. To her credit, she was a good fit for the position, but she did not get the offer and the staff still goes on about her.

Take note of your own body language: Leaning forward expresses your attentiveness. Look straight into the eyes of the person speaking (however try not to stare).

A nice firm handshake upon the interview opening or closing does wonders. (Firm -- but not painful)

Try and do a little homework on the job opening/opportunity before you go to the interview. This is also where we come into play:

We pride ourselves on getting as much information as we can about your potential employer before you sit down to be interviewed. We take a look at your likes/dislikes, personality, qualifications, hobbies etc. Be yourself, but it never hurts to schmooze a little bit.

If the interview went well, you will walk away feeling good about yourself and if you get the offer it will be on good terms.

Remember: Interview to win!

Employment for Physicians.com is a free service to qualified candidates and employers.

Questions?

Give Mr. Ron Soifer a call at: 877-545-8199 (toll free)

You can also get in touch by emailing us through the contact form on our website.