Interviewing Part I: Preparation

After you submit you cover letter and CV to a specific employer, you need to begin interview preparation. The interview can be broken down into two parts. First is the traditional part of the interview where you are asked questions and have the opportunity to ask your own questions. An equally important part of the interview process is the follow up inspection and financial analysis, which will be addressed in the next blog.

The most important thing a resident can do before an interview is to prepare. Chapter 6 of Dr. Shaw’s book provides numerous examples of interview questions. Not only do you need to be prepared for the questions that you will be asked, but you should have questions for your interviewer prepared and written down. This shows potential employers that you know what you are looking for and take the interview process seriously. Most of your questions will be objective, but a subjective question such as, “what do you like best about working here?” can also be revealing. Another general rule is that questions regarding compensation should come toward the end of the interview.You should end part I of the interview by offering positive feedback. You might mention that you are impressed by the environment and know that you would enjoy working with the people you met. If you are interested in further suggestions, Medical Economics Magazine also offers advice about the interview process from start to finish.