adam e. gregg, pharmd, bcps clinical education and development coordinator, pgy1 pharmacy residency...
TRANSCRIPT
Standing Out for the Right ReasonsStrategies and Secrets for Success in the Hunt for Residency and Post-Graduate Employment
Adam E. Gregg, PharmD, BCPSClinical Education and Development Coordinator, PGY1 Pharmacy Residency Program Director, Gundersen Health System, La Crosse, Wisconsin
Deanna L. McDanel, PharmD, BCPS, BCACPClinical Pharmacy Specialist, PGY2 Ambulatory Care Pharmacy Residency Program Director, University of Iowa Health Care, Iowa City, IowaClinical Associate Professor, University of Iowa College of Pharmacy August
2015
Learning Objectives
Identify common pitfalls or mistakes that residency applicants frequently make in the application and interview process
Describe strategies that a candidate can use to maximize positive impact during the interview process
Formulate substantive responses to interview questions
Time for Some…
Before Your Fourth Year
Be a Resident in Student’s Clothes
Cultivate your experience• Focus on depth, not breadth
Position yourself to be a well-rounded residency candidate
Select a rigorous slate of practice experiences
Pursue projects that are similar in focus and substance to what a resident may complete
The Time to Brag with a Pinch of Humility
You Are Your Curriculum Vitae
Keep it clear and concise Vet inclusions with a critical eye• Time test: Focus on the most recent and applicable to your
current role/position• Rigor test: Does this reflect a depth of involvement or
effort?• Avoid “padding” or inflation• Highlight what is unique to you (i.e. scholarship, teaching,
research, leadership, service) REVIEW, REVIEW, REVIEW Update frequently
Exploring Your Options
Showcases and Fairs
Budget your time and set realistic goals• You can’t see or talk to everyone
Formulate educated questions Be cognizant of your environment• Avoid monopolizing or lurking• Look for the “in” and transition opportunities
Use the tag team strategy wisely Employ (stealth) flattery: ask individuals about
themselves
Hold Up the Mirror
Know Who You Are
Articulate your goals• Include both professional and personal goals• Get in the driver’s seat
Identify your learning preferences Embrace your failures (as long as you learned from
the experience) Assure that your social media “you” aligns
On Your Behalf
Choose Your References Shrewdly
Identify individuals that can illustrate your assets and unique qualities that will predict success in your future position
The “1-1-1” strategy may not fit all Prom queens and quarterbacks aren’t always the
best references Be courteous: ask your references before you list
them
Casting Your Net
Applying for Positions
Go back to what YOU want and what YOUR goals are Pros and cons assessment Don’t limit the number, but be REALISTIC
Letter of Intent:• Explain yourself AND why you would be a good match for
the program• PERSONALIZE it to the program• Don’t be modest, but NO life story• Be mindful of the reader
Preparation is the Key to Success
Before the Interview Do your homework (again) Follow directions and eliminate “surprises”• Know and anticipate what‘s expected of you during each
component of the interview• Don’t bring unannounced guests
Act like a boy scout: be prepared• Vet out how to get to interview site ahead of time• Have contact information readily available• Pack essentials in your carry-on if flying
Assemble a portfolio Review your CV… AGAIN
During the Interview
Project Success
Convey nonverbal confidence• Craft an assured handshake • Be aware of your body language• Engage in active listening
Appropriate and polished appearance: clean, fresh, and just to the left of conservative
Anticipate and plan for commonly encountered interview questions
Don’t read from the script or regurgitate a canned answer ALWAYS have questions to ask! Examples of WHAT NOT TO DO!
Commonly Encountered Interview Questions
General Domains
Self-Assessment• Strengths• Areas for development
Direction• Why do you want this position?• Goals: What is your (XX) year plan?
Practice Philosophy Professional Knowledge• Practice application▪ If it’s on your CV, it’s fair game!
• “Hot Topics” impacting the profession
Be Prepared
Behavioral Interviewing Behavioral Interviewing is becoming increasingly
more common:
“Give me an example of…”• Conflict resolution• Problem solving/creativity• Teamwork/cooperation• Initiative• Handling failure• Leadership• Time management
Easy Way to Impress
Ask Questions
ALWAYS have questions to ask! Examples:• What constitutes a typical day?
• Relationship between pharmacists and other healthcare providers?
• What qualities are you seeking in a candidate?
• Examples of projects past residents have done?
• Where are your past pharmacists/residents?
• How much time will the preceptors spend with me?
• What is your goal for the residents when they leave your institution?
• Why should I choose your position/program over other positions/programs?
• How do you provide feedback?
You’re Always on Stage
The “Quiet” Moments Count
Interactions with support staff and personnel Interactions with other applicants Dining out• You’re more than a pharmacist: let it show• Engage and perpetuate (but do not monopolize)
conversation• Follow the general lead of your dinner host(s) on food
selection and alcohol
Wrapping Up and Sealing the Deal
Post-Interview Follow-Up
Express gratitude in a personal and meaningful way• Avoid the “bulk mail” approach
Affirm interest in the position
Be honest and transparent without being desperate
Thank you for your time and attention
Adam Gregg, PharmD, BCPS [email protected]
Deanna McDanel, PharmD, BCPS, BCACP [email protected]
Proud to be Your Brothers!