Career and Life Planning Guidebook for Medical Residents

4. Create a 30-second “Elevator Speech.” There may be times during networkingwhen you have only a small window of time to introduce yourself and make a good impression. That’s why it is important to have a prepared and rehearsed “elevator speech”. The best 30-second elevator speech presents the who, what, when, where, and why of your job search. To draft your elevator speech, begin with the PAST (e.g., why you chose medicine), briefly note the PRESENT (where you are in training), describe your DESIRED FUTURE (you’re hoping to establish a traditional practice in the Midwest), and finish with a request of your new contact. Your first request is for their time , a precious and non-renewable resource. When people help you with your search, it’s a tremendous gift. Then, ask for their ideas, opinions and recommendations (IOR). You may ask for their ideas about how to have a successful interview, opinions about your strategy or a recommendation of places to apply or other people to interview. Past + Present + Desired Future + Request (Time + IOR) = Success Examples: “I received my medical degree from the University of Illinois and just finishedmy familymedicine residency at the University of Iowa. I’m now in the process of looking for a position with a familymedicine group or a clinic based here in theMidwest so I can continue to make a difference with families and their healthcare. I’d be interested in your opinion on how I can position myself for this transition…” “My interest has always been in cardiology and I just completeda fellowship incardiologyatNorthwestern Memorial Hospital in Chicago. I’m currently exploring opportunities to join a large group practice on the East Coast and looking for ideas on how to do that…” The best 30-second elevator speech presents the who, what, when, where and why of your job search. Search Strategy 163 WWW.PHYSICIANCAREERPLANNING.COM