The 2 most important questions physicians should ask at job interviews

Job interviews for physicians should be more about confirmation, and less about exploration – unlike other professions.

That’s because accepting an interview means a physician is considering that employer as a serious option, says Peter Cebulka, director of recruiting development and training for Merritt Hawkins.

Before the interview, Cebulka says a physician should find out as much information as possible, including the base salary and the exact methodology used to calculate qualitative incentives and productivity bonuses. Job candidates should also have a clear understanding of their work schedule, including on-call requirements.

At the interview, physicians should focus intently on obtaining comprehensive answers to these two questions:

1. What is the demand for services here?
2. How is the surrounding community?

Cebulka says this first question is important because it will help to determine the number of patients available for the physician to take on. But he says it’s the second question that will likely determine if the job is the right fit.

He says the interview should emphasize the social aspects of the job more than the professional.

“[Physicians] should get to know the people that they’re going to be working with on a daily basis,” Cebulka says. “You get to chose your ‘day family.’ Get to know them and find out their backgrounds. You never get a second chance to make a first impression.”

Cebulka recommends the physician and his or her spouse take a community tour after the interview to determine schools, commute patterns and neighborhoods.