History and Physical Examination (H & E)

Interviewing Skills For Hiring or for Getting Hired

Interviewing is yet another form of communication that the medical professional may have to do from time to time. For instance, you may have to interview for employment in a multi-practitioner clinic. There are a number of things to keep in mind which can help make a positive impression when interviewing.

1. Dress & personal grooming

Dress for an interview depends on regional norms in terms of business dress. In large cities, business dress tends to be more formal, while in rural areas, it tends to be more relaxed. However, dress and personal grooming should be neat and clean, and it is always better to overdress for an interview than underdress. An interview is not the place to make trendy fashion statements, so avoid trendy outfits.

2. Punctuality

Be on time for your interview. If you do not know exactly where you are going, leave some extra time. The longer you wait in the office, the more you will get to see how the organization operates.

3. Arrival

Identify yourself to the receptionist and state your business. “Hi, I’m Penelope Purehope and I’m here to see Dr. Smith at 5 P.M. about a job.” Be cheerful and polite.

4. Waiting

If you have to wait before seeing the interviewer, sit quietly and observe the office routines and personalities. This may provide you with additional questions to ask later in the interview.

5. Introductions

When introduced, repeat the person’s name. “How do you do, Dr. Smith,” or, “It’s nice to meet you, Ms. Jones.” Appear enthusiastic but not gushy.

6. Posture

When sitting, do not sprawl, but also do not sit rigidly as if you are waiting for something bad to happen. Try to relax.

7. Behavior

Do not smoke or chew gum. If offered refreshment, such as a cup of coffee or tea, decline the offer unless you have steady hand and a place to put the cup and saucer or mug.

8. Questions to ask

Prepare certain questions beforehand. It is better to have too many questions than too few. For instance,

• What do other employees in the clinic like the best about working there?

• What do other employees dislike about working there?

• Do the employees tend to get along and work as a team?

• Does the practice provide time off for continuing education?

• How does the practice keep up with complex issues, such as OSHA regulations?

9. Questions to answer

There are certain questions you should be prepared to answer in a job interview. Such as,

• Why are you interested in working here?

• What attracted you to our position?

• What do you like best about your current job?

• What do you dislike most about your current job?

• What do you like best about your current employer?

• What attributes of our position do you like best?

• What attributes of our position do you like least?

• Where do you plan to be in your career five years from now?

10. Termination of the interview

Let the interviewer terminate the interview. When he or she stands up, you may do the same. Shake hands, thank the interviewer for the time they have spent with you, and say that it has been an interesting or enjoyable experience. Whatever is most appropriate given the interview itself. Then say good-bye. Also, do no forget to say good-bye to the receptionist on the way out.

11. Follow-up letter

When you get home, immediately write a letter thanking the interviewer for the time spent. It is most effective to use statements such as, “The interview confirmed my interest in working with you. I certainly hope to hear from you soon.” See the CD section on letters for an example of an interview follow-up letter.