POTENTIAL TYPES OF QUESTIONS TO ASK YOUR INTERVIEWER:
REQUESTING LETTERS OF RECOMMENDATION
THE IDEAL CANDIDATE...
i TIPS FOR RESIDENCY INTERVIEWS:
Your letters of recommendation can be different depending on the program for which you are applying. Always check your program requirements before reaching out to people to write them. Letters from attending physicians carry more weight in this process than letters from senior residents. However, you should always choose individuals who know you well enough that they can write about your specific qualities and experiences instead of generalities as they pertain to the program. When asking someone to write a recommendation, include supporting materials so the writer can reference them for specific accomplishments. This should include your most recent CV and personal statement. The number of recommendations you need varies by the program. It is standard for you to get at least one letter from a faculty member on an advanced rotation in the specialty that you are applying. If you have experience outside of the clinical field, you can seek out professionals from research positions, societies, volunteer, or international work to submit a letter as well. ERAS will control which letters go to which programs. INTERVIEWING FOR RESIDENCY First impressions are important during your residency interview. Your interview begins themoment youmake contact with the program. From the receptionist to the program coordinator that meets you in the lobby, everyone who you come in contact with can affect your interview outcome, so it is important to treat everyone with patience and respect.
Types of required rotations
LISTENS, CARES, AND COMMUNICATES.
• Wear formal business attire
Amount and type of elective rotations
PLAYS NICE WITH OTHERS. Hospitals not only want doctors who can communicate well with patients, but who can get along with each other and who are willing to be part of the team. COMES HIGHLY RECOMMENDED. Make sure to give some thought to the professional recommendation you list on your job application. Hospitals are looking for doctors who listen to patients, who are invested in their health, and who know how to clearly communicate about their care.
• Remember to smile and maintain eye contact
Amount and type of supervision on rotations
Call schedule
• Being nervous is normal - take deep breaths to calm your nerves • Be familiar with your application packet and prepared for background questions • Practice answering common residency interview questions • If asked about a weakness, use the opportunity to discuss a weakness that developed into a strength
Board pass rate and job placement for previous residents in the program
Resident responsibilities for patient management
Amount of turnover in program directors and faculty
Balance of inpatient and outpatient responsibilities on various rotations
Structure and topics of formal educational curriculum
Leave policies for vacation, maternity/paternity leave and participation in education conferences
IS EHR READY.
Topics of particular interest to you
Facilities will train new physicians on their EHRs, and that is easier if the doctor is already familiar with the particular software, or is at least willing to learn without complaining.
RESEARCH RESIDENCY PROGRAMS
You must research each program thoroughly before you interview. Research should include the institution, the program itself, and staff in order to identify trends and issues to discuss in the interview. Are there trends or specific qualities this program tends to seek out? This information can help you pick which of your experiences and qualities to highlight in order to be chosen. Current residents in the program are a great resource for additional insight into the program as well.
IS HIGHLY ADAPTABLE.
IS WILLING TO SHARE IDEAS. Every hospital wants a doctor who will come in and make positive change — but not necessarily on the first day. Sharing new ideas is a good idea, but generally only after there has been time for the existing team and the new doctor to get to know each other. Recruiters love candidates who are open to change and who will adapt to new systems, policies, patient volumes, or anything else that may pop up.
YOUR SOCIAL MEDIA PRESENCE
Your social media presence can affect your interview. Interviewers often review your various sites in order to learn more about potential residents. Medical boards monitor these sites as well. Make sure your account is private or only post content that you would be comfortable for all to view.
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Visit physicianspractice.com/blog/six-characteristics.com to see more.
10 La State Med Soc NEW PHYSICIAN’S GUIDE
La State Med Soc NEW PHYSICIAN’S GUIDE 11
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