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Job Interview Survival Tips

Tip # 1:
Gain An Edge and Stay Ahead
Why do applicants with credentials score more job interviews and ultimately higher pay and promotions than their non-certified counterparts? Because their resumes look rich and crisp while all the others look gray and grainy. Having the right credentials (including certification in your field) will get employers instantly interested in you, even if you do not yet have the years of experience they often request in their job announcements and advertisements.

Tip # 2:
Get Certified/Registered
Passing a comprehensive certification exam impacts professional success. It means your training and experience in a specific field are sufficient to do the job, and do it well. Once you have passed the certification exam, you are recognized by the sponsoring regulatory organization, or association as a professional with the appropriate combination of knowledge and skills to proficiently and competently work in your field. Your credential is a valid statement of your professionalism and excellence.

Tip # 3:
Make Them Want You
Stay ahead of the curve by presenting yourself as a knowledgeable professional, and reliable member of the health care/medical office team. But realize, that since "value" is subjective, you will need to support your claim with objective, factual statements, and documentation.

Tip # 4
Don't Be Shy
Don't be shy! If you can show during the interview that you are their most qualified candidate it simplifies the decision-makers selection process. But at the same time, be careful, tough, because the interviewers expect you to prove your claim. So, before you talk about how you can add value to their office have the documentation that supports your claim with you and readily available.

Tip # 5:
Emphasize Your Qualities
Don't tell them you feel that you will be a great asset to their organization because your mother worked in a similar field like you for 30 years. Instead, tell them about YOUR traits and qualities that you bring to the table and matter most to them in THEIR office or work place environment...

Traits that matter…

• High standards
• Attention to detail
• Analytical skills
• Efficiency
• Dependability
• Integrity
• Persistence

…and
• Enthusiasm
• Listening skills
• Communication skills
• Flexibility
• Teamwork

Think about it---why wouldn't they want to hire a person like you?

Tip # 6:
Say I Mean Business!
You'll have to convince those present that your knowledge and skills provide genuine value and benefits to their business. After substantiating your best qualities, show them that you mean what you say. Pull out your "secret weapon" and hand over the following documentation to the decision makers in the room:

1. Resume (a detailed description of your achievements and experience
2. Diploma from an accredited medical assistant school (MA program)
3. Letter of Recommendation (previous employers, volunteer supervisors)
4. References (individuals in your community, businesses, or organizations)
5. Professional certification documents (credentials by means of exams)

Tip # 7:
What If You Freeze?
Do your homework so you are confident. If you don't you are more apt to struggle internally and blank out. What if you do freeze? Just remember to remain calm and act professional. Don't fidget, or worse, tell the interviewer "Oh, my God, I am so nervous, I am drawing a blank". No one knows what you are thinking or feeling on the inside. The easiest way out of drawing a blank is to ask your audience a question, such as: "What is the most important aspect of the job to you", or "At this point, do you have any additional questions for me?". Then, don't focus on your next words, rather focus on breathing, breathe, and again, breathe to allow your brain to "unlock."

Tip # 8:
What If You Didn't Understand a Question?
Simply, ask for clarification, however don't exhibit frustration, and be precise in your question. Then, answer choosing your words well.

Tip # 9:
What If My Cell Phone Rings?
Be smart! Don't let your cell phone sound during the interview, however, if it does apologize quickly, and immediately turn it off if it is within reach. This should be one quick motion, just to press the off button. Do not open the phone to see who is calling, and don't comment, such as:"Oh, that's probably just my husband trying to find out where I am!". If you have to reach under your chair, or dig through your pockets, or purse, then just ignore it. Searching for it will only make you appear flustered, and create an unnecessary interruption. It's best to just ignore it. However, remember: it should have been turned off in the first place.