3 steps to Interview ready! -

Kirsty gives you her top tips for acing your GP interview

Get interview ready today.

We all know the Benjamin Franklin quote, “by failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail.” Never a truer word said, when it comes to interviews! However, time is precious in Primary Care. There is a need to be efficient. So, here are the Menlo Park top tips for making quick work of preparing for an interview:

Step 1. Review your notes from your call with your Menlo Park GP Consultant

The practice – who are they, what do they do and how do they do it?
The post – who are they looking for and how do you align with the requirements?
The meeting – who are you meeting, where and when?

Step 2. Prepare your questions:

Practice – Frame your questions using the information you have gleaned from your Consultant to encourage a meaningful conversation about the practice; processes, patient management and managing the workload.
- How do they do things currently?
- What could be improved and how are they addressing it?
People – Who are the team ‘in real life’? Think of questions to learn about your potential new team.
- What special interests do they have?
- Their approach to team work and continued learning?
Post – What is the present and future potential of the post?
- What is the detail of the immediate role and what career progression prospects could be available?
- Your aim will be to walk out of the meeting with a full understanding of the opportunity – make your questions count!

Step 3. Review your experience and what you can bring to the Practice:

Special interests and experience of working in different environments.
- Qualifications gained and further training you would like to do.
- Do you have an interest in taking lead on a therapy area or operational in the short, medium or long term?
The Broader Network – experience and / or interest in representing the practice within the PCN or CCG
Prepare to answer situational questions;
- ‘How do you work with complex or challenging patients?’
- ‘Can you share an examples of your team working abilities?’
- ‘How do you stay organised in a busy environment?’
- ‘What are your strengths and weaknesses?’

On a closing note – be authentic, inquisitive and open during the meeting. The interview process is a 2 way street and both parties need to be happy should an appointment be made. Remember to talk about any practical requirements you have and ensure the practice is aware of any limitations. Close the meeting by asking about the next steps and leave on a positive note.

Do let us know if you would like any further advice – Please reach out to me and if appropriate, I will point you in the direction of my 6 other colleagues in the GP team, depending on your location.

All the very best of luck!

Kirsty