Tips for nailing a job interview at a practice or hospital

Preparing anecdotes and questions to ask employers are some of the best pieces of advice for physicians getting ready for a job interview, says Anne Folger, senior talent acquisition and recruitment manager for non-profit health system Banner Health. These steps are crucial to making the best impression during a job interview.

"We do behavioral-based interviews, and it's critical that we find the best cultural fit," Folger says.

Before going into an interview, take some time to reflect about anecdotes you can share that show the kind of employee you are, she says.

"We talk about accountability or ability to lead, to be collaborator, a team player," Folger says. "Examples that demonstrate those abilities would be critical."

If you are interviewing at several different practices or hospitals, building a spreadsheet to keep information organized will help you when it is time to make a decision, she says.

The biggest error interviewees make is not asking their interviewers questions such as ones about physician input in decision-making and opportunities for expertise contribution, Folger says.

"They need to do their homework so they can ask proper questions," Folger says. "If they don't have questions, then they appear to be unprepared or lack interest."

Folger's other keys to a successful interview:

• Be on time.

• Dress appropriately.

• Do your homework.

• Make a list of questions.

• Rehearse the interview with someone or by looking in the mirror.

After the interview, make sure you send a thank you note or email, and be sure to express your level of interest in the position Preparing anecdotes and questions to ask employers are some of the best pieces of advice for physicians getting ready for a job interview, Folger says.