Top 10 Phone Interview Questions

The goal of the first candidate phone conversation is to help both parties decide if an on-site interview should be forthcoming. This is your opportunity to learn more about the candidate and to also share specifics about your opportunity and community. At the end of this conversation, you should be able to determine if the next step is to invite the physician for an on-site interview.

1. I understand you have an interest in our practice opportunity. Why are you interested in us or our area?
   
   
2. If candidate is a resident or fellow:
   
   a. On what criteria have you decided to compare all the practice opportunities available?
   
   b. Tell me a little about the strengths of your training program.
   
   c. Do you plan to focus on a subspecialty area?
   
   If candidate is a practicing physician:
   
   a. Why are you considering making a change of practice?
   
   b. What types of cases/procedures are you doing now?
   
   c. What volume of cases are you seeing?
   
   
3. In thinking about all that comes with a new practice, what would you say is the most important thing you are seeking?
   
   
4. What do you like to do in your leisure time?*
   
   
5. What are you seeking in a community?*
   
   
6. Are there any obstacles or other considerations to you making a move relatively soon?*
   
   * To avoid asking possibly discriminatory questions, don't ask specifically about a candidate's family or marital status. But if in the course of your discussion the candidate mentions a family, spouse or significant other, also ask what their community preferences and leisure activities may involve. Also, if a spouse or significant other's occupation comes up, offer assistance if you or other practice members have contacts in their profession.
   
   
7. What is your timeframe for relocating if this turns out to be a practice you would like to consider?
   
   
8. Do you have any malpractice history or licensure issues or disciplinary actions?
   
   
9. Do you have any questions about items not yet covered in our conversation?
   
   
10. I would appreciate your honest feedback regarding the practice opportunity and community. How do they meet your ideal opportunity specifications?

If by now you have decided this is a candidate you want to interview in person, close by asking if the physician is interested in visiting your practice for a formal interview and community visit.

For more tips on how to ensure a successful candidate phone interview, please contact us.