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Wednesday, May 9, 2012

Preparing for an Interview

     Interviewing can be a stressful and trying experience. You will most likely be traveling to a new area you are not familiar with, meeting new people you do not know, attempting to make a good impression on the people you are meeting, all while trying to gather information so you can make an informed decision. It can be a daunting objective, even for an experienced interviewer. Here are some helpful tips to help you prepare for a successful interview:

     Be familiar with the practice and community – Do research on the practice and community prior to your site visit. If you are working with an experienced recruiter, they will be happy to review the practice details and community information with you prior to your interview. This can be especially helpful if you are interviewing in multiple locations.

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     Ask questions – One of the main purposes of an interview is to gather information in order to determine if a position is a good fit for you and your family. A great way to gather information is to ask questions. Do not leave the interview with lingering questions that will inhibit your ability to make a decision.

     Take notes – Make sure to document the information you are gathering. At the end of this process you will want to sit down and review everything you have learned, so it is helpful to have notes about specific details you might otherwise forget. You are going to be meeting with a lot of people and learning a lot of things – don’t expect to remember everything.

     Withhold negative comments – It is important not to pass judgment or offer advice on how to ‘fix’ things during your interview. You are being evaluated as well, so don’t volunteer feedback that can put you in a negative light in the interviewer’s mind.

     Dress and behave professionally – Wear a suit. Be early or at least on time to your meetings. It might seem old fashioned, but it is something that will be noticed and appreciated. Many interviews will include a dinner with other physicians or administrators. Feel free to enjoy a glass of wine, but don’t overindulge. Avoid conversation topics that could be perceived as divisive or inflammatory.

     Show interest – It is important to put yourself in a position to receive an offer after an interview. This gives you control over deciding whether to accept or decline the position. In order to receive an offer, your potential employer must get the impression that you are interested in the opportunity. Be engaged, ask questions, take notes, be professional, etc.

     Following these simple tips can not only alleviate some of the stress associated with interviewing, but can also help you gather the information you need.
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Dan Jones is a Senior Search Consultant at Fidelis Partners.
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