175%
14.3 The Interview
14.3 The Interview
Kristen Hosey
Appropriate Attire
For a job interview, applicants should dress professionally. This includes wearing dress pants or a skirt, a professional shirt, and a sweater or blazer. If the applicant is interviewing for a position in a clinical setting, they may be able to wear scrubs to the interview, or alternatively, they could wear a lab coat over professional attire.
In the healthcare industry, certain items may not be suitable for both the clinical setting and the interview. For example, applicants should be mindful of cosmetics, jewelry, and fragrances. If cosmetics are worn, they should appear natural and understated. Fragrances, including lotions, colognes, and perfumes, should generally be avoided, as many colleagues and patients may be sensitive to scents. Strong smells can cause headaches, nausea, and other health issues. Jewelry should be conservative, and facial piercings should be removed for the interview.
In the clinical setting, nails should be kept short and should not be visible when looking at the palm of the hand. Nails should be clean and well-maintained. Since nail polish, artificial nails, and other nail enhancements are typically not allowed in clinical environments, applicants may want to forgo them during the interview.
Jewelry and accessories should not interfere with clinical duties or patient safety. For example, applicants should opt for smaller earrings or studs rather than large earrings. Hair should be clean and well-groomed, including beards and mustaches. Applicants should refrain from chewing gum during the interview.
Interview Modalities
Many jobs require an interview as part of the application process. Interviews may be conducted in person at a clinical site or office, over the phone, or through online platforms such as Zoom or Microsoft Teams. Some employers also use panel interviews, where multiple interviewers participate in the session.
For online interviews, applicants should ensure they have a stable internet connection and verify the interview link and time in advance. It is recommended to join the meeting early (10 to 15 minutes before the scheduled time) to test the technology and ensure everything is working smoothly. The interview background should be free of distractions, or applicants can use a virtual background or blur the scene. Additionally, applicants should choose a quiet, private space for the interview to avoid interruptions. For example, a noisy café is not ideal; a quiet room in the home with good internet access would be better.
For phone interviews, applicants should also be in a quiet environment with a strong network connection. It is best to avoid outdoor locations with wind, as this can make it difficult to hear. Having a notepad handy is useful for both phone and online interviews, allowing applicants to jot down questions and reflect before answering. Since phone interviews lack nonverbal communication, taking notes will help applicants stay focused. It