No one is perfect! However, an organization wants to contract with the physiatrist who is the best person they meet during the interview process. The best person has many qualities to include someone who interacts well with other doctors, staff and referral physicians, particularly in difficult or uncomfortable situations. Here are some suggestions to help you show the best side of yourself during your interview:
1. Interview Preparation Eliminates Stress
The best way to impress the hiring organization is to know as much as possible about them and their culture and about the work responsibilities. It’s best to know how the interview will be conducted, e.g. one-on-one or as a group. Identify interview mistakes such as a typo on your cv, getting stumped by a question, running late, etc. Then identify how you will act in each situation.
2. “Fess up or Hush Up If You Can’t Speak Up”
No one wants to seem like they don’t know the answer to a question, so they guess or mumble an answer. It’s OK to say “I don’t know, but I’d be happy to learn” or “I’m really not sure but I will think about it and get back to you.” It is not only OK but often very effective to politely ask for clarification on a question/scenario you don’t understand. When you ask for clarification, it may make the question clearer and enable you to provide a great response.
3. Play down mistakes
If and when you become flustered, don’t let it affect the rest of your time spent with the organization. A thank-you note is always in order after an interview and you can use it to reemphasize any points you think are appropriate. This action and other professional dialogue after an interview can change an organization’s average thoughts about you into positive thoughts. Any mistake during an interview should be addressed and then you can move on. Use your insight to determine whether a mistake requires further attention or not.
The job search process is time-consuming, requires patience, and can be stressful. Mistakes happen. Stay confident. Be yourself. Have a sense of humor.