Interview Tips
Even if you are a seasoned physician, interviewing for a new practice can be a situation you have not encountered recently. The interview process may have changed over the years, and today, with the fierce competition for good positions, it is important for you to be well prepared for your interview. With that in mind, these tips will assist you with your interview visit.
- Before your visit, make a list of criteria important to you in a practice situation and community. This will help you objectively assess the position on whether or not it meets the criteria you have established.
- Know the exact time and location of your interview; know how long it takes to get there, park, find a rest room to freshen up, etc. Arrive early; 10 minutes prior to the interview start time.
- Turn off your cell phone or put it on mute during the interview.
- It is a good idea to freshen your breath with a mint. Do not chew gum, smoke, use toothpicks or drink alcohol (even if offered at lunch or dinner).
- Brush up on your table manners if your itinerary includes a meal. If in doubt, refer to this website: www.askandyaboutclothes.com/Lifestyle/proper_table_manners.htm.
- Offer a firm handshake, make eye contact, and have a friendly expression when you are greeted by your interviewer.
- Respond to questions and back up your statements about yourself with specific examples whenever possible. Be thorough in your responses, while being concise in your wording.
- Ask for clarification if you don't understand a question.
- Have your own questions prepared to ask the interviewers. Within reason, try to learn all you can about the organization you may possibly join.
- Make sure you understand the next step in the hiring process; know when and from whom you should expect to hear next. Know what action you are expected to take next, if any.
- After the interview, make notes right away so you don't forget critical details.
- Never make negative comments about previous employers or practices.
- Do not give the impression that you are only interested in an organization because of its geographic location.
- It is very important that you do not initiate discussions about the financial issues. Don't give the impression you are only interested in money. You may not receive an offer until you return home and only after the interviewers have had time to review comments from all involved in your interview.
- Toward the end of the interview process, let the key decision makers know if you are interested in the position before you leave. If you know you want to practice there, tell them so. It can be as much your responsibility as theirs to initiate an offer.
- Be certain to write a thank-you letter to your interviewer promptly upon your return home.
- Above all, be yourself but also remain professional during the interview. Let your interviewers get to know you and you to know them.
- When you return home, if the hiring authority contacts you, promptly contact them by phone, email or mail, (within 24 hours) even if you do not intend to work there. Your courtesy will be remembered and will go a long way to establishing your reputation. You never know when you may see those who have interviewed you at a professional meeting or somewhere else in your career.
Interview Attire Guidelines
Your personal demeanor and attire are very important in an interview. Appropriate attire supports your image as a person who takes the interview process seriously and understands the importance of the practice opportunity.
Review the itinerary beforehand to ensure you have the proper attire for any social activities that may be planned. If a casual social activity is planned, wear only freshly pressed clothing, and leave the jeans and athletic wear at home.
Men:
- A two piece matched suit is always the best and safest choice. Navy, black and dark gray are safe and are the most conservative for men. Wool, wool blends, or very high quality blends with natural fiber, are the only acceptable fabrics for a conservative men's suit. Everything should be clean and well pressed.
- Select good quality silk ties. Avoid fashion extremes, like character ties, etc.
- Long-sleeved shirts are the only ones appropriate, even in summer. Choose solid shirts or conservative stripes only.
- Wear dark socks, mid-calf length so no skin is visible when you sit down.
- Wear leather, lace-up or slip-on business shoes, preferably black or cordovan.
- For a belt, buy black or cordovan leather, to match your shoes.
- Facial hair should be well-groomed.
- Wear only a conservative watch. If you choose to wear other jewelry, be conservative. Removing earrings is safest.
- Cologne should be used sparingly or not at all.
Women:
- Wear a two-piece matched suit. Tailored pants suits are appropriate – the pants should be creased and tailored, not tight or flowing.
- If wearing a skirt, one that ends at the knee when you're standing looks chic and professional. Longer skirts are professional too; just make sure they are not too wide or so narrow that you can't climb stairs comfortably.
- Navy, dark gray, brown and black colors with a tailored blouse in a color or small print that coordinates nicely with your suit makes a professional impression. A fine quality knit shell is also appropriate but make certain you do not show cleavage.
- Wear a conservative watch and if desired, conservative jewelry and scarf. Avoid extremes of style and color. Keep makeup conservative.
- Shoes should be leather or fabric/micro fiber. Choose closed-toe pumps. Avoid extreme styles; make certain you can walk comfortably in your shoes since you will likely tour the hospital or clinic.
- Hosiery should be sheer (not opaque), and in a neutral color to complement your suit.
- If you carry a purse, keep it small and the color should coordinate with your shoes. If you choose to carry a small briefcase in place of a purse, leather is the best choice, but micro fiber is also acceptable.
- Perfume should be used sparingly or not at all.
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