The Job Interview Process

Initial Applications and Follow-Up

There is no standard process for initial applications, but several principles can guide you. Start with an updated CV and tailored cover letter addressed to the chair, medical director, or division director of the department. If you have a connection at the institution, consider reaching out to them for advice on whom to contact. Larger institutions may have physician recruiters listed on their websites. Additionally, job opportunities can be found through physician recruitment companies, personal contacts, or by reaching out directly to department chairs.

The Interview

Upon receipt of your application, you may have a screening call or meeting with a designated faculty member or recruiter. If this goes well, you will likely receive a formal interview invitation. Before the interview, thoroughly research the department and institution. Explore the website to understand the research activities of the faculty and the scholarly pursuits within the department. Prepare responses to common interview questions , especially addressing why you’re interested in working for this specific department. Expect to interview with various stakeholders, including the chair, individuals with similar backgrounds or interests, division chairs, chief residents, and administrative staff. Take the opportunity to discuss benefits with a human resources representative. Tour the emergency department (ED) and the hospital (peek behind the curtain, kick the tires) and speak to individuals on duty in the ED to better understand the culture of the department.

Academic departments look for evidence of diversity and uniqueness among their faculty members. During the application process, promote yourself and highlight what makes you unique and an asset to the department. Communicate your enthusiasm for the position and provide of your diversity and how you can contribute value. Remember, the interview goes both ways; you are also assessing whether the position aligns with your professional and personal goals. If the offer doesn’t meet your expectations, be prepared to continue your search.

Landing a Job and Contract Negotiation

Upon receiving a job offer, there are still a few steps until signing the contract. Contract negotiations require clarity on your priorities. While entry-level academic positions may have limited room for negotiation, common discussion points include:

• Salary
• Start date
• Start-up funds for continuing education
• Relocation assistance
• Clinical hours (contracted, expected "forced overtime," overtime compensation)
• Protected time for administrative duties, research, and teaching

Preparing for the negotiation process is crucial. Salaries at most public institutions are publicly available and accessible through internet searches. Additionally, inquire about the average number of clinical hours worked at the institution and how that figure is determined. Given that contract details vary among institutions, the optimal time to negotiate is when a verbal or written job offer is extended.

The key to a successful negotiation lies in clearly articulating your requests. Present your “ask” with a rationale, emphasizing the potential return on investment for the employer. Remember, securing an academic position is competitive. While your EM residency signifies intelligence, success, and drive, you’re competing with numerous equally accomplished individuals for a limited number of positions. Timing can also impact opportunities. Your ideal position might have been filled six months prior, or funding for the role may have been redirected due to other financial priorities within the organization. Furthermore, the institution may have prioritized hiring individuals to enhance diversity, or the position could be earmarked for an internal candidate. Here are a few reminders:

1. Be patient. The process can involve long delays between application and offers. While following up is acceptable, persistent follow-ups can be counterproductive.
2. Don't take rejection personally. Chairs and selection committees prioritize specific needs, and rejection may not reflect your qualifications. You may be a great candidate, just not the right person for the job. It is often about the department's needs more than the candidate's qualifications.
3. Seek feedback to improve your candidacy for future opportunities (and there will be a next time).
4. Make a "Plan B." Assess whether the rejection is a hard no or a maybe. Consider alternative options like part-time or adjunct positions while remaining open to reapplying in the future. Determine your non-negotiables and flexibility in securing a position.
5. Maintain professional relationships throughout the process and do not burn bridges. The connections you make within academia will extend far beyond the first job search.