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Research (Do your homework.)
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Gather background information.
-Internet
-Facility website
-Talk to people who have knowledge about or
work for the organization. (This will help you stand out.)
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Be prepared to answer the question “Why would you like to work
with us?”
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Have a list of questions ready. This shows you are
prepared and interested. Make sure the questions are well
thought out and intelligent. The questions you ask will
reflect on you.
First impressions are usually lasting.
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Dress professionally and conservative.
Make sure your attire is neat, wrinkle free and organized.
A two piece suit of a conservative color and fabric are best.
-The best color choices are navy, black, and dark gray.
- Choose solids or very subtle patterns.
-Pick a good quality fabric that resist wrinkles.
A long sleeve shirt in a light color scheme is best.
- Make sure the fit is correct (not too loose or tight).
Inspect all clothing for tags, pulls and lint.
Wear a tie that is conservative and professional (not too bold).
The shoes and belt should match. Preferable in a dark color. Make sure
the shoes are polished and professional.
Socks should be dark in color and the skin should not show when you are
sitting down.
Keep jewelry to a minimum. Do not wear anything that stands out.
Make sure all facial hair is trimmed and well groomed.
Cologne should either be very light or not worn at all.
Keep it simple.
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Dress professionally and conservative.
Make sure your attire is neat, wrinkle free and organized.
A two piece pants or skirt suit of a conservative color and fabric are best.
-The best color choices are navy, black and dark gray.
-Choose solids or very subtle patterns.
-Pick a good quality fabric that resist wrinkles.
The blouse should be solid or small print.
-There should not be any cleavage showing.
If wearing a skirt it should be long enough that your thighs should not show
when you sit down.
-Skirts should be knee length or longer.
-There should not be any high slits in the skirt.
Make sure the fit is correct (not too loose or tight).
Inspect all clothing for tags, pulls and lint.
Hosiery should be sheer(patterns are not professional).
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Closed toe shoes are best.
-Shoes should not have extremely high heels.
-Dark colored shoes are more professional.
-Make sure the shoes are polished and clean.
Keep jewelry to a minimum. Do not wear anything that stands out.
-Jewelry should be conservative.
Perfume should either be very light or not worn at all.
Cosmetics should look polished.
-Do not wear too much make up. Go light and conservative.
If you would like to carry a purse make sure it compliments your outfit.
- Your purse should be small and blend with your outfit.
-Purse should not be of a loud print. Keep it simple.
Tote bags to carry a resume are fine. Again, make sure that it compliments
your attire.
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Make sure you have exact directions to the location.
Arrive 10 – 15 minutes early.
Be courteous and show respect to everyone you see.
Smile
-No one wants to work with someone that is grumpy. Pleasant and positive people are more
enjoyable to work with. Employers are looking for someone who will fit in and not cause
conflict.
Handshake
-Firm
-Dry
-Full contact
-Hold handshake for several seconds.
Make sure to have continued eye contact.
- Eye contact shows you are interested in what the speaker has to say.
- Eye contact also show respect.
Do not fidget.
-Moving around, playing with your hair etc. is distracting and shows disinterest.
Show good posture.
-Stand or sit tall. Your shoulders should be back and your head up.
Proper body language shows confidence.
Be honest and act with integrity.
-If you do not do this you are cheating yourself.
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Be a great listener.
-Do not speak when others are speaking and make sure to keep eye contact.
Show a positive attitude.
-Do not make comments that would be interrupted as negative.
Do not chew gum.
Turn off your cell phone.
Think before you answer questions and be cautious with your wording.
Remember interviewing is both ways. You are interviewing them as well.
Before leaving make sure you know the next step. When to expect a phone call.
At the conclusion of the interview make sure to thank the interviewer for their time
and consideration.
With in several days of the conclusion of your interview send a thank you note.
Remember, interview skills are not natural they are a learned skill.
“Practice makes perfect”
-Find a partner and practice interviewing often. Have your partner share feedback.
Soon interviewing will become second nature.
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Tell me about yourself?
What three words would you use to describe yourself?
What are your strengths?
What are your weaknesses?
Is there any one person who had or has been a big influence in your life? If so,
how?
Why did you choose a career in medicine?
Did anyone discourage you from the medical field? If so, how did you handle
this?
Has there been a case that has impacted your life? Is so, tell me about it and
how it influenced you.
Why are you interested in our program?
If chosen, what benefits would you bring to our program?
Would you describe yourself as a leader or a follower?
Do you have any medical research experience?
What are your plans for the future?
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Danielle Hale
Doctor Cathy Callahan
Virginia Tech Career Services