Residency interviews are not far off. If you’re a residency program candidate, we are confident that you must be killing the interview prep!
But this is not quite the case with everyone. Some candidates are frequently:
- failing to convey who they are as a person,
- feeling anxious on D-day and
- not being articulate enough to answer even the basic questions.
Well, this is nothing but a lack of preparation before the interview. And this is not it. Medical interview prep is not an easy feat and candidates need to know where they are going wrong.
In this post, we’ll discuss some of the common mistakes candidates make before and during the interview process. We will also offer expert tips backed by matched residents on how to fix those mistakes and jazz up your Residency Interview Preparation 2024!
So, are you ready? Let’s get into it straight off!
NOT To-Dos In A Residency Interview: 7 Common Mistakes To Avoid And Ways You Can Fix Them
Residency interviews are a gateway to your dream school. You can shoot up your chances of getting to your dream school if you’re mindful of your mistakes. Below are some of the common yet not-so-common mistakes made by residency program candidates and the solutions:
1. Not preparing well enough
Don’t do this: Failing to research the program thoroughly is one of the common mistakes many candidates make. This can come off as a sign of unprofessionalism and lack of interest in the program.
Do this instead: Candidates are advised to thoroughly research the program beforehand, familiarizing themselves with its strengths, faculty, curriculum, and any recent publications or achievements.
For example, arriving early for the interview, having a well-organized portfolio or resume, and practicing responses to common interview questions can also help candidates appear more prepared and professional.
2. Negative talk:
Don’t do this: When asked about past experience, some candidates speak badly of their earlier mentors and institutions. Remember, you’re judged at every word you speak and the way you speak. Candidates who speak badly of their earlier institutions, other applicants, or mentors are perceived as immature. This negative talk can give you a hard time clearing residency interviews.
Do this instead: As you progress through the interview, be mindful of your tone and approach to answering questions. Highlight your own strengths and experiences rather than speaking negatively about past institutions or experiences. Make a favorable impression by maintaining a positive and respectful attitude throughout the interview, even when discussing challenging situations.
3. Overemphasis on finances or lifestyle:
Don’t do this: No doubt compensation and work-life balance are valid considerations. But, if you focus on these aspects way too much, you appear less committed to the practice of medicine.
Do this instead: Strike a balance and lay the stress on factors like learning opportunities and clinical experience. How do you do that? Frame your questions about finances and lifestyle in a way that displays how they align with your career goals.
4. Non-verbal cues:
Don’t do this: Some non-verbal cues like checking your phone too much, slouching posture, and being too shy can mess up your overall impression.
Do this instead: Maintain good eye contact, sit up straight, and avoid distractions like checking your phone during the interview. Actively engaging with the interviewers, asking thoughtful questions, and demonstrating enthusiasm for the program can help candidates appear more interested and engaged.
5. Lack of questions:
Don’t do this: Imagine you had an awesome interview session and the interviewer now asks you if you have any questions. What do you do? Well, most of the candidates we know will either go blank or simply say no.
Do this instead: We can’t stress this point enough. If you’re given the opportunity to ask questions, please ASK questions. Candidates often do not leverage this opportunity. Come prepared with smart questions that will showcase your curiosity and desire to learn more about the residency experience.
6. Overconfidence or arrogance:
Don’t do this: Now, we are not saying that confidence is bad. But, being overconfident and overly arrogant is something we do not favor. In fact, the medical field itself values humility and teamwork, and candidates should aim to spell out these qualities during the interview process.
Do this instead: Think about how you can convey confidence without appearing arrogant or overly boastful. Acknowledging areas for growth and expressing a willingness to learn from others can help candidates appear humble and approachable.
7. Avoiding direct questions:
Don’t do this: Most of the candidates we have observed are overly vague in responses and even dodge questions instead of addressing them directly. This practice casts doubts on a candidate’s transparency and honesty.
Do this instead: Try answering questions directly and honestly, and provide clear and concise responses. If you’re unsure about a question or need clarification, it’s okay to ask for clarification or take a moment to gather your thoughts before responding.
Closing Thoughts
That’s all we had to say, folks!
Residency programs do keep an eye on your performance in the interview. And preparing for it well in advance is the key!
Interview preparation services can be your best bet as they will address the mistakes mentioned above more thoroughly so that you don’t repeat them in the interview. They have advisors who’ve been there in your shoes and faced the actual interview. They know the ins and outs of the interview process and the recipe for the ideal candidate!
Invest in good interview preparation services, appear for mock interviews before the actual interview, and get detailed feedback on your performance.
We know we’ve said it over and over again throughout the post but interviews are a doorway to help you get to your dream school. Take it easy but DO NOT take it easy!
