Residency

Tip of the week: Three tips for coordinator success during the interview season

Residency Program Connection, September 21, 2010

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Coordinators know the ins and outs of the program and its application process better than anyone else. By stepping up to the plate, coordinators can help attract great candidates, make interview days run more smoothly, and reduce their stress and work levels. Use the following three tips to help you get through interview season:

Have your script ready. Applicants listen to others besides the faculty, residents, and program directors. Coordinators need to be prepared to sell their program to candidates. Write down ten things you like about your program, and then use them in your conversation with applicants.

Know your requirements. Whether you meet with applicants formally or just help usher them around your facility, be ready to answer the practical questions about the program. Applicants often turn to the coordinator for information about the following:

  • Visa requirements
  • Annual leave
  • Resident contracts
  • Salary and benefits
  • Call schedules
  • Social activities
  • Housing and local attractions


Spruce up the holding pen. Many programs have a room where candidates wait between interviews or activities. This downtime is another great opportunity to point out your program’s strengths. Think of the room as a blank canvas, and decorate it with some of the following items:

  • Photos of residents on the wards or at social activities
  • A PowerPoint slideshow describing typical experiences residents face
  • Posters about the local area
  • Textbooks written by faculty
  • Information for spouses
  • Real estate guidebooks
  • Materials about interesting programs for staff members in your facility, such as volunteer opportunities

    This week's tip is from Residency Program Alert.

     



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