Impressions matter- how to help physicians pack for a site visit
Posted by Jackie Farley
As a physician recruiter, it’s essential to ensure that your physician candidates are well-prepared for arguably the most crucial step in the hiring process - the site visit.
Having an organized and well-thought-out packing strategy can make a huge difference in how candidates present themselves during their visit to your facility and can help them feel more confident and in control when they walk through your door.
Here are some helpful tips and valuable advice to help physician candidates pack for success during their site visit.
Tip 1: Pick the right ’fit
You know that old say saying ’You never get a second chance to make a first impression’? Well, it’s an old saying because it’s incredibly accurate! Appropriate attire can go a long way for a candidate wanting to create a good first impression during their interview.
Advise your physician candidates to dress professionally and conservatively. For men, a suit or dress slacks with a formal shirt and a tie are ideal. Women should select either a professional dress, or a blouse with dress pants or a skirt, and closed-toe shoes. Both men and women should opt against wearing excessive accessories and strong perfumes or colognes. Also, candidates should avoid the temptation to wear their scrubs for the interview. Scrubs are for after you’re hired, not before.
Tip 2: Pack the paperwork
Remind your physician candidates to bring essential documents, such as their CV, medical license, board certifications, and any additional certifications or diplomas. Suggest that they have both printed and digital copies available since that shows both their preparedness and adaptability.
Suggest that they bring their documents in some type of portfolio or folder. Handing over a crumpled, bent mess of papers for their interviewer to inspect does not convey a good sense of organization or professionalism.
Tip 3: Remember the research
Encourage your candidate to thoroughly research your facility to ask insightful questions during the interview. This will help them convey their interest in the position and leave a positive impression.
You should also suggest that they carry a small notebook for their notes and questions, which will also help demonstrate their interest in your organization as well as the position they are applying for.
Tip 4: Feet of strength
Site visits typically involve a great deal of walking and touring facilities. That means that while a candidate’s footwear should be professional, it’s crucial that it also be comfortable. Remind candidates to choose closed-toe shoes that will be comfortable for an extended amount of walking and standing.
Tip 5: Accessorize like a pro
It’s always good to advise candidates to bring a professional-looking bag or a briefcase to carry their documents, notes and keep their personal items organized. A leather or high-quality nylon bag will not only complement their professional attire but will also help make a well-put-together and organized impression.
Tip 6: Network now
Suggest that your candidates bring business cards to exchange contact information with potential colleagues and key staff members they may meet during their visit. This will allow for easy follow-up communication after the interview.
Tip 7: The incidentals
There are things a candidate will bring along that are just common sense, such as toiletry items, dental hygiene products and medications they may need during their stay.
However, some small items that are often overlooked but are incredibly handy are:
- A small umbrella
- A phone charger
- Important contact numbers
- Breath mints
- An emergency kit with things you hope they won’t need such as pain relievers, allergy medication, a needle and thread, Band-Aids and a laundry stain remover pen.
A well-prepared, confident candidate will stand out during their site visit and interview. As a physician recruiter, you can help your candidates succeed by providing them with these tips.
Lastly, it may not hurt to remind them the most important things they can bring along - the things that will make a lasting impression and increase their chances of landing the position they want - are enthusiasm and a positive attitude. And those aren’t things they will need to pack in a suitcase.