The bar is high for advanced healthcare professionals to prove themselves in medical job interviews. Hospitals and medical practices are seeking providers who not only possess medical expertise but also have strong people skills, compassion and a desire to collaborate with fellow team members.  

By showcasing their leadership, problem-solving and communication skills, advanced practice providers can demonstrate how they will contribute beyond technical expertise and show they are a good fit with the work culture. 

Based on decades of experience in healthcare recruiting, TinkBird Healthcare Staffing suggests these guidelines to set yourself apart from other candidates. Follow this sound advice to ace your medical job interview:

Learn about the facility

Research the hospital or practice as well as the individuals who will be interviewing you. Visit the organization’s website. Look at their online reviews and ask around in the medical community to learn about their reputation. Be ready with talking points that show your knowledge of their organization. 

Understand the position

Connect your expertise to the specific job description. Identify the core competencies and skills the facility is seeking. Then, prepare specific examples of how your experience makes you a highly qualified candidate. 

Reframe your academic experience

Doctors, physician assistants and nurse practitioners – especially recent graduates – often focus too much on their degree and credentials. While these are important, they are really just a point of entry. Hiring managers in the healthcare industry are impressed by job candidates who can point to real-life experience and how it relates to the medical position they are seeking.

For new healthcare providers, be prepared to articulate how you are transitioning from medical school or residency to being a practicing healthcare professional. 

Know how to sell yourself

Prepare for the interview with a 60-second introduction. Touch on your background, long-term career vision and why you are right for this specific role. Delivering this statement – with confidence and without ego – will set the stage for your successful medical job interview.

As the interview progresses, take advantage of opportunities to answer questions in a manner that demonstrates your strengths. Apply the STAR method when appropriate, describing a Situation, Task, Action and Result that is applicable to the question asked. 

Bring copies of your documents

Have your thoroughly edited CV and cover letter ready to provide, even if the hiring manager already has these documents. Also, be ready to provide a written list of references. And have a pen and notepad handy to take notes during the interview process.  

Answer questions with clarity

Anticipate the interview questions you may be asked and prepare clear, concise answers. Practicing your answers out loud will help you gain clarity of thought. With ample preparation, you will impress the interviewer with both your medical knowledge and communication skills.

PRO TIP: Doctors, physician assistants and nurse practitioners who can explain complex topics in simple terms often excel at developing strong patient rapport. Interviewers will be looking for this skill in the way you express yourself.

Ask intelligent questions

Have questions prepared that will help you gain a better understanding of the role, performance expectations, opportunities for growth and organizational culture. Be confident when asking about salary and benefits packages. And don’t forget to ask about the hiring process and when the hiring manager expects to make a decision.

Get more tips on asking thoughtful questions in a medical job interview.

Be mindful of your body language

Offer a firm handshake when introducing yourself. Maintain eye contact and upright posture to project confidence and professionalism.  

Follow up promptly and maintain a connection

Send an email or hand-written note within 24 hours to each person who interviewed you, thanking them for their time and consideration. Personalize the message by referencing aspects of the conversation you had. Reiterate your interest in the position and why you are ideal for the job. If you don’t hear from the hiring manager in the expected timeframe, do not hesitate to follow up.

Ensuring a successful medical job interview

Advanced practice providers have more training and often more experience than other healthcare personnel. Therefore, potential employers expect a higher level of professionalism during an interview. Follow these job-search tips and refine your interview skills to give you a competitive edge.

If you are an advanced practitioner interested in exploring new healthcare opportunities, speak with the recruitment experts at TinkBird Healthcare Staffing. Our recruiters will help you find the perfect permanent or locum tenens position to make your next career move!