Job Search Essentials CV s Cover Letters Interviewing Basics

Job Search Essentials: CV’s, Cover Letters, Interviewing Basics David E. Kolva, MD August 23, 2007 Practice Management Seminar #4

Goals Have an up-to-date CV (resume`) printed and on digital format n Know how to write a distinctive cover letter n Tips on securing an interview, and how to interview without fear. n

Curriculum Vitae n Basically an organized listing of personal accomplishments that show your qualifications and experience. n Most PHYSICIAN employment opportunities follow an “ACADEMIC CV” format, rather than “BUSINESS CV” format.

CV’s n RULE #1: NEVER LIE The most common resume lie is about education. Other common lies include: n Stretching dates to cover employment gaps: These gaps should be explained in the COVER LETTER n Enhancing job titles & Embellishing job duties and achievements: Checking student ID cards at the college library during a work-study job does not make you a ‘security consultant’

Never Lie! SOUTH BEND, Ind. (AP) -- George O'Leary resigned as Notre Dame football coach five days after being hired, admitting he lied about his academic and athletic background. O'Leary claimed to have a master's degree in education and to have played college football for three years, but checks into his background showed it wasn't true. "Due to a selfish and thoughtless act many years ago, I have personally embarrassed Notre Dame, its alumni and fans, " O'Leary said in a statement released Friday by the university. (December, 2001)

CV’s n RULE #2: Keep it FOCUSED and BUSINESSLIKE Do not be humorous or cute. This is not like trying to get into college, or impress a future date. You are asking an employer to invest time and money into considering you over others. No cartoons or graphics.

CV’s n RULE #3: More Than TWO MUCH!! Pages is TOO No one expects you to be a Nobel Prize winner yet. A written paragraph in the Family Practice Center newsletter is NOT a publication!

CV’s n RULE #4: SPELLING, PUNCTUATION, & GRAMMAR MUST BE CORRECT n Obvious mistakes are credibility killers n “I want to work for you guys real bad, Dr. Colvin!” n Get a PROOFREADER. MS Word spell check is not infallible!

CV’s n RULE #5: Make it LOOK GOOD. Simple presentation format. NO GOTHIC FONTS! Use “best” printer setting. n White, or off-white, 24 pound paper holds up well to photocopying. n

• Contact Information: Name, Address, Phone and Email • Residency Training: 2005 -2008 • Graduate: Degree, Institution, Grad Date • Undergraduate: same as above • Employment History: other than residency if RELEVANT • Boards and License: State License #, Board Eligible date • Honors & Awards: Legitimate only (not “Mom’s Favorite Child” etc. ) AOA, Phi Beta Kappa. • Publications • Professional Affiliations: AAFP, not KKK • Personal Skills & Interests: if likely to benefit future employer

Cover Letters This is the FIRST WRITTEN communication that a prospective employer will see. n Not difficult if you follow THREE RULES: SHORT, CLEAR, COVER n the BASICS n DO NOT REPEAT What is in your C. V.

Cover Letters n “Think about the needs of the reader. ” n “Let the reader know right away who you are, and why you are writing. ” n Simple Introductory Statement: “ I am a third year resident at SJHHC. I am writing to seek a position in your practice. ”

Cover Letters n SHORT: Three (3) paragraphs at maximum! Single page! INFORM, not IMPRESS! n CLEAR: Make clear that you have researched the LOCALE and POSITION in that PRACTICE. n COVER THE BASICS: Why you want to locate there: spouse, childhood, opportunities, etc.

Cover Letters Do’s and Don’ts Send to appropriate person. Avoid “To whom it may concern”. Avoid software packaged cover letters and templates. n PERSONALIZE ! Show some passion! People hire people who love what they do. n Spelling and titles must be correct. n

Cover Letters Do’s and Don’ts Accurate contact information and how you want to be contacted. n Mention appeal of THAT opportunity. n Highlight SPECIAL EXPERTISE (i. e. fluency in languages, colposcopy, OB, Sports Medicine, etc. ) n Address time gaps in training or employment. (This avoids speculation) n

Job Search - Networking n n Most M. D. jobs are filled by word-of-mouth connections. Also can gain view of different practice settings. Best sources: Residency Alumni, especially if out of town. AAFP directories. (We all remember how it was just starting out!) n State Medical Society/Academy meetings. Be courteous and minimize the effort they have to make. Ask to forward your CV around.

Interviewing Basics n Prepare Beforehand. n Conduct During Interview. n Appropriate Follow-up.

Prepare Beforehand Professional Attire: Unspoken communication M-Conservative Dark Suits. Tie. F-Dress or Suit. No high heels. No clunky jewelry. BE PUNCTUAL! Research directions to new locales ahead of time! Grooming and Table Manners. n

Preparation Research the Practice! Most will send you a packet if not on-line. n Bring List of Key Questions. OK to refer to this list during interview. n First Visit is to assess “fit” between you and employer. n Must match your Personal and Professional Needs! n

Conduct During Interview RELAX. Not an interrogation! Most interviewers are not experienced at this. n Don’t rehash your C. V. n OK to highlight KEY accomplishment if it may mesh with employers needs. n Prepare to answer how your skills would enhance the practice. n

Conduct During Interview Discuss Professional Goals and Personal Interests. Interviewers want to know what type of person you are. n Be prepared to sell your expertise and strengths. Fine line between confidence and obnoxious. n Remember they are also your future co -workers. n Avoid politics and religion. n

Conduct During Interview Act like this is the only interview that matters. Employers HATE wasting time. n People hire people who WANT the job. n DO NOT DISPARAGE FORMER EMPLOYERS OR TEACHERS. You will look petty and vindictive. n

Conduct During Interview the support staff before you go. Get the “real” story. Assess turnover rate. n Tour the Physical Space. Tells a lot about practice organization and flow. n Inquire about spouse employment opportunities and schools for children. n

Conduct During Interview MONEY. Reserve discussion for end of interview. First interview NOT TIME to negotiate. n Best is: “What is the compensation package for this position? ” “Are benefits provided as well? ”

Interview Follow-up Write up your notes and checklists. n Allow time to reflect. n Send a brief, personalized, handwritten thank you note and mention the names of persons you met. n Call back for missing information or more details. n

Interview Follow-up Do not accept job without second interview. Allow for negotiation time. n Never accept job if you have reservations. n n Our Next Seminar: Selecting the Right Practice: Tools and Formulas