Helpful Hints

Questions for "The Interview"
Francis Bacon said, "A prudent question is one half of wisdom".

Points to Remember:

• Project a Positive Self- Image. First Impressions are Very Important. Dress Accordingly. Conservative business attire is always appropriate.
• Be on time to the interview. Make sure you have clear directions and allow extra time to get to your interview. It is best to arrive a few minutes early. This will enable you to relax and familiarize yourself with the surroundings.
• Remember the interview is a mutual process of gathering and sharing information. Ask plenty of questions, but be prepared to answer just as many if not more. Be a good speaker and listener. Obtain as much information as you can. Ultimately, your goal is to leave the interview with an offer.

• Please describe the practice opportunity to me.
• What will my role and responsibilities be?
• What expectations do you have for the new physician regarding: number of patients needed to be seen per day hours of work per day (or week)-broken down into clinical vs. administrative on call schedule- practice and hospital/clinic
• What particular skills/talents are you in need of to enhance this practice?
• Aside from technical/clinical skills, what other qualities do you think a physician needs to fit into this practice setting?
• Based on your experiences with the practice/group, what words best characterize the values of the practice/group?
• Where do you see the practice/group in three years? Ten years?
• What would I expect to earn in my 1st, 2nd, and 3rd year?

• Why are you interested in our practice opportunity?
• What motivated you to interview with us?
• What has been the most challenging part of your training thus far? What has been the most rewarding/satisfying? What has been the most disappointing?
• Upon completion of your program, what are your expectations?
• What would you do if ... (be prepared to answer hypothetical or real life questions relating to a specific set of circumstances or patient situation)
• How do you think you could improve yourself as a physician? (This relates to the question, "what do you feel are your weaknesses".)
• Under what circumstances do you find yourself going that extra mile or putting forth that extra effort?
• Do you enjoy teaching? Research?
• How do you feel about administrative responsibilities?
• What are your impressions regarding:
  1. Our town/area
  2. Our practice.
  3. Our facilities/hospital
• In your opinion, what would your Program Director and/or colleagues have to say about your clinical skills/abilities, follow-through, attitude, work ethic, and character?
• What do you think the ancillary staff (nurses, lab technicians, etc.) would have to say about you as a physician?
• What outside interests (aside from medicine) do you have?
• What is (are) your long-term ambition(s) or goal(s) in life?
• What level of compensation are you seeking?
• What do you feel you have to offer the practice/group that would make us glad we hired you?