Physician assistant interview: Dos and Don’ts
When it comes to becoming a physician assistant, the interview is the most challenging aspect of the entire process. It’s a nerve wrecking experience, even for the most qualified medical professionals. The interview is that stage of hiring where a candidate can make a lasting impression on his or her prospective employer.
As a physician assistant, you need to win over your interviewers and convince them why you make the perfect fit for the job. That being said, healthcare facilities are rapidly growing, especially in rural areas. Therefore, the demand for physician assistants will continue to rise. Despite the increase in job opportunities, employers will select the most qualified candidates. In other words, you have to prove that you are worth hiring.
Here are simple yet effective tips to help you ace the interview:
Research your employer
First step, conduct a thorough research on the employer. Whether it’s a hospital, physician or private practice, make sure to learn all you can about them.
Your best bet is to check out their informational materials, such as website and online articles. Additionally, ask your acquaintances to provide you with vital information.
While researching, focus on the interviewer’s scope of practice and specialties. Having knowledge about the employer reflects your interest in working with them. Moreover, the interviewer could ask you questions related to their organization. It’s better to be prepared than be sorry.
Know what to expect
Call the employer beforehand and ask them details about the interview process. Ask them if you will be interviewed by a panel or an individual. Find out the names and positions of the person / people who will be interviewing you.
Is there anything you’re expected to bring with you? Most importantly, confirm your interview day, time and duration. Also, find out the exact location of the interview. These questions might sound trivial, but they play a key role in your preparation.
Understand your job
Understand the characteristics of a physician assistant. Similarly, study their job responsibilities. Physician assistants assist doctors and surgeons with their day-to-day activities. They examine all sorts of patients. They prescribe diagnostic tests and prescriptions and offer medical treatments as well. It’s important for a physician assistant to be patient, compassionate and organized. Remember, you need to have tremendous amount of stamina because physician assistants work long hours. Once you have a clearer understanding of a physician assistant’s qualities and responsibilities, you can make your case for hiring.
Prepare for standard questions
Be prepared for commonly asked interview questions. These include, but are not limited to:
- Tell me about yourself
- Why do you want to become a physician assistant?
- Why do you want to work for us?
- What does being a physician assistant mean to you?
At the same time, study your resume interviewer. The interviewer will ask specific questions about your education, skills, previous experience and achievements.
Some other dos and don’ts …
- Be punctual. Aim to make it at least 20 minutes early.
- Bring a copy of your resume with you.
- Dress professionally.
- Make eye contact.
- Listen to the interviewer (s) carefully before answering.
- Have some questions prepared to ask the interviewer (s). These include start date, training, etc.
- Make sure you are well rested before an interview.
- Don’t be negative about current or previous employers. This could reflect badly on you.
- Don’t talk about irrelevant subjects for too long.
- Never lie about anything.
And finally, as they say, practice makes perfect. Practice your interviewing technique in front of a mirror. But if you’re looking for someone to give you expert advice, choose us. We are one of the most trusted employment agencies for healthcare jobs. Aside from featuring physician assistant jobs for new graduates, our experienced recruiting team will help polish your resume and interviewing skills.
