When your work is in a competitive profession, it’s not always enough to have the skills to do the job. Everyone who graduates with the same degree has the “know-how.”
You have to stand out from the crowd if you want the best positions in the healthcare field.
Most of us are taught to be humble and modest. Those are amazing qualities to have—most of the time.
But when you’re in an interview for a coveted, high-paying position, it’s not the time to downplay your abilities. You have to spotlight those traits and talents you have that make you the perfect person for the job.
Your resume and CV already document your education and experience. Employers are looking for a mix of those hard and soft abilities, though. To land that dream job with a high salary, bring up these five skills in your next interview.
1. Bilingual Abilities
Speaking a second language (or more than two) is a coveted skill that can mean the difference between you and another candidate being hired.
Two people might have the exact same experience on a resume, but if one is bi- or multi-lingual, they are more likely to get the job.
You probably already put this on your application. It doesn’t hurt to bring it up again! Even if your second language is conversational rather than fluent or isn’t a common one, make sure the interviewee is aware of your ability.
2. People Skills
Are you good at mediating conflict? Can you turn the most cranky of patients into a teddy bear? Does everyone talk about your great bedside manner?
If so, you have people skills, a soft talent that not everyone is blessed with.
It might sound like you’re bragging, but it’s not. Bringing up your ability to get along with others is an important thing to discuss in an interview.
The medical field is already stressful enough. Employers want to know they’re hiring a team player. No one wants drama in the workplace, so if your people skills are on point, show them off!
3. Detail-Oriented
You already know the importance of the little things in your medical records. In a lawsuit-happy world, one tiny detail added or forgotten can make all the difference to your reputation.
Being detail-oriented is an important trait in healthcare. This shows up in the little things you do, like showing up on time for your interview and bringing any important documents with you.
It also shows up when you ask for a copy of the contract before you sign it. When you let the employer know you want to review the terms, it means you are aware that the little things matter.
Most employers want to hire physicians who care about the details, not rush through their patient interactions and documentation.
4. Critical-Thinking Abilities
When things go off-track, what do you do? Can you think on your feet and adjust in the moment?
If so, you have the skills of critical thinking and flexibility.
It’s easy to be a physician in a practice where every patient you see is easy to handle. They come in, tell you their symptoms, get their treatment plan, and leave.
But what about when they have a medical emergency in front of you? What do you do with the patients with rare symptoms that you haven’t dealt with before?
As a physician, it’s essential that you hone your critical thinking abilities. It may be a necessity, but it’s not a common trait. Be sure your interviewer knows that you have what it takes to adjust in the moment and use your vast amount of knowledge critically.
5. Technological Know-How
The digital world is changing how medical care is performed. If you can’t keep up with the adapting landscape, you could be a danger to the business you work for.
In the healthcare field, electronic data submission and documentation is expected. These requirements come in the form of ever-changing rules and regulations.
Artificial intelligence is quickly making its way into the medical field, too. A lot of doctors are resisting this change, set in their ways and unwilling to adapt.
Physicians who are comfortable with learning and embracing new technology are in demand in high-paying medical jobs.
Conclusion
Every skill you have is a piece of the complex puzzle that is you. It’s going to take a long time for your new employer to get to know everything you bring to the table.
You can’t expect them to know anything you offer if you haven’t shared it with them. Big or small, if you have one of these traits that you know makes you worthy of that high-paying job, bring it up in your interview!
