July 30, 2006
Is the interview really that important?
Each year, thousands of hopefuls apply for residency positions in hospitals across the country. Several factors are considered when a residency director selects a resident. They include: a dean’s letter, well-written personal statement, transcript, application form, letter from known/respected colleague, USMLE scores and the interview. A study by Taylor, Weinstein and Mayhew in 1995 examined family practice and ob/gyne residency director’s rankings of these factors from most important to least important. They looked at two parameters: selecting individuals to invite for interviewing and ranking candidates once interviewed. They found that the most important factors in selecting interviewees were dean’s letter, transcript and a well-written personal statement. When ranking candidates following their interviews, however, it was unanimous – the interview was the single most important factor considered when ranking candidates. It’s easy to see why this may be.

Many people “look great on paper”. They have excellent USMLE scores, shining transcripts, glowing recommendations and a heartfelt well-written personal statement. These may likely get you through the door for an opportunity to interview at the residency site of your choice. Once you arrive, however, the rest is up to you.

Think about this analogy: If the application package submitted for consideration is the skeleton, the interview is the flesh. Interviews bring to light qualities about an individual that cannot be revealed on paper. Traits that are spoken and unspoken, desirable and undesirable. A person may reveal that they are easy or difficult to get along with, succinct or verbose, funny or humorless, socially appropriate or offensive, arrogant or humble. The crucial aspect of this equation is: the impression an applicant makes is entirely up to them.

How can an applicant maximize their potential for success during their interview? First, dress the part. You will make a visual impression before you begin to speak. Be well-groomed from head to toe with neat hair, subtle make-up, a clean, pressed suit and shined shoes. Be sure your nails are clean without ragged edges, and your breath is inoffensive. Do not wear a strong fragrance or flashy jewelry. Next, practice interviewing with experienced interviewers who have interviewed candidates for residency positions so that they can give you informed feedback about your responses, especially as they pertain to your desired area of medicine. Videotape your attempts so that you may observe and critique yourself, to deepen your understanding of your strengths and weaknesses. Be sure you follow up your interview with personal notes to each person with whom you interviewed.

Residency is your opportunity to learn from the experts in your field of choice. Where you spend your residency has a profound impact on the growth of your body of knowledge, specialized skills, and professional attitudes. It may open doors to possibilities that you may not otherwise have had. Making sure your interviewing skills are on par with other candidates is crucial to being offered the position you want. It is well-advised to take advantage of every opportunity available to polish your interview communication skills and put your best foot forward with confidence on interview day.

-Chris Martin