Career and Life Planning Guidebook for Medical Residents

Paint a verbal picture of your decision-making process. “When I began the process of securing my first position post training, I must admit, the process was a bit overwhelming. There are so many things that I have to take into account, such as [customize to your situation].  Bullet Point 1 – Sample “…finding the right practice type with the right organization and team to work with.”  Bullet Point 2 – Sample “…securing a position in a community that meets both my professional and personal goals.”  Bullet Point 3 – Sample “…selecting an employer and community where I can develop a loyal patient panel and realize my dream of developing lasting relationships with my patients.” Communicate you want the job After interviewing over the past [XX months], I am excited to share with you that [name of employer] and [name of community] is my first choice. Recap your value—why should the employer give you more? “I am excited about making a positive impact with [Name of Employer] in [Name of Community]. I believe:  My values align with your organization’s mis- sion, vision, and values. Drs. [First and Last Name] and [First and Last Name] and I will work well together. My strong work ethic and motivation will help me develop a productive, sustainable practice for years to come. I will make a great team member by utilizing a positive, glass half-full outlook. I will make a positive impact on my patient’s lives in [Name of Community].” Provide compensation research. “After researching compensation data for [describe the position], i.e.:  [Practice Setting Description] 100% outpatient Family Medicine position  [Practice Type] Hospital Employed  [Geographic Region] located in the Midwest  [Demographic location / size of community] with comparable community size of [name of community]” The [name of research, survey, report] states the [25th%tile, median, 60th%tile…] total cash compensation for [Specialty] is [$X].” Transition “Over the past few days, I’ve been consumed with trying to make the best decision for my family and whether I accept one of the offers in hand or continue to interview. Before I decide, I’d like to run something byyou for consideration. Salary is not the only criteria I’m basing my decision on, but it’s an important factor. Over the past decade, I’ve accumulated [$X in loans], and I am looking to purchase a home.” “I appreciate the generous offer and most of the terms are acceptable, including [list out each term which is acceptable]: [Term 1]…  [Term 2]…  [Term 3]… The Art of Physician Negotiation 303 WWW.PHYSICIANCAREERPLANNING.COM