In a recent editorial I discussed the value of medical employers having a formal Recruitment and Retention Strategy, and the influence it can have on the long-term retention of a physician recruit and his or her family. I also made the point that the retention plan must start with the very first in-person or telephone interview.
In this edition I go to the other side of the ‘table’ and look at the employment interview from the perspective of the physician candidate. Since the CV generally addresses the clinical suitability of the candidate, the typical professional physician interview tends to be a fairly informal event that focuses on a comparison of the candidate’s current medical practice and the employer’s practice to make sure that there is a good ‘fit’. This is generally followed by a discussion about the benefits and culture of the employer’s community to gauge whether it will be a good fit for the physician’s family. This is followed by that standard closing question that generally prompts the participants to start gathering their papers together and think about their next appointment.
However, when the physician candidate finally hears the potential employer say, “So, what questions do you have for us?” – now, is the time for the candidate to ‘take control’ of the interview – and possibly close the deal.
Unfortunately, we all know it’s the inevitable question, yet it’s the one question that most candidates rarely are properly prepared to answer. Further, when people do think to prepare for this part of the interview, they often ask wishy-washy questions that aren’t truly important to their job search. Physicians need to realize that this can be a very powerful point in the interview process that they can use to ask thoughtful, insightful questions that will make the interviewer take renewed notice, and give you answers you need to make a better informed choice about whether or not to accept a job offer that really is best for you and your family.
So, before entering your next job interview, consider these responses:
Which of my skills do you see that could bring the most value to your medical team? Their response should confirm whether they truly do understand your core strengths and specific clinical competencies. Make sure that the challenges they see for the role you are applying for match your expectations.
How will your organization help me develop, and become a better physician? Make sure that there is support for you to continue to attend all relevant CME sessions to improve your clinical skills. This question also shows that you are a professional and that you’re interested in self-improvement and growing with their organization.
Can you elaborate a bit more on my role in relation to my physician colleagues and my interaction with our support staff team? This question should get the employer to discuss the ‘culture’ of the team, without specifically using the term ‘culture’. Their response will help you to truly understand how well you fit in with the group. If they waiver in their response it may be an indication that there is not a strong culture, or worse, that the culture is dysfunctional – a true ‘red flag’ issue!
Do you see any limitations in my clinical qualifications or experience that I should consider? Note: Since this can be seen as a bold question to put on the table, do not use it unless you are certain that your interview performance was sub-standard, but you are convinced that this is the right job for you.The interviewer’s response will either be a short summary of minor or key points that are of concern for them, or – – – no response – – – which should indicate that you probably have the job.
What are the next steps in the process? Yes it is a ‘bland’ question, but, at least you walk away knowing when and what to expect next so you can prioritize your next steps in your career search plan.
Many interviewers consider this part of the interview the end of the formal meeting process. For the applicant, it should be seen as an excellent opportunity to tactfully interview the interviewers, to get important answers you need to know to ensure that a career with this employer is the right move for you and your family.
However, always keep these questions rehearsed and in the back of your mind during the interview, and don’t hesitate to ask them during the interview if the ‘right’ moment presents itself during the earlier interview conversation.
Finally, always remember that you are a highly educated professional having a ‘conversation’ among your peers – simply relax, enjoy the conversation, but, stay alert so in the end you will make the right decision for you and your family.
By: Phil A. Jost, MBA – CanAm – @CanAm_Phil
