As new academic years and new contract terms begin, many doctors start to think about their next steps. It can be difficult to know how to get started, whether you are completing your training or looking to transition to a new job. Interviews and site visits to potential employers are a great time to gain valuable information and show the employer what you bring to the table.

Ask the Right Questions During Your Doctor Site Visit

During these meetings, ask lots of questions. Ask about the culture, long-term plans for the practice, and current staffing needs. This is a great time to:

• Tour the clinic, OR, cath lab, nursery — whatever areas are relevant for you.
• Meet the people with whom you’ll be working. Ask the other doctors what it’s like to work there.
• It can also be really beneficial to meet the clinic or department staff. While they can often be overlooked during the interview and site visit, they will be an invaluable resource and people with whom you’ll work very closely.

Evaluate Relocation and Local Living

If you would be relocating, tour the area, look at neighborhoods and schools, and learn about amenities. Bring your spouse, significant other, or children with you so they can learn about the area, too.

The potential employer will likely reach out ahead of the site visit to help make these arrangements. Let them know the things you want to see. If visiting schools, daycares, or gyms is important, let them know. This is your opportunity to gather all the information you need to make the right decision, so don’t hesitate to ask.

Showcase Your Value to Potential Employers

You also want to use this as an opportunity to make it clear to the potential employer why you would be a good fit for their practice. Share with them how you can expand the service line or plans you have for new outreach. Let them know about research you have done or quality initiatives you’ve led.

You may be in a position that is heavily recruited and in high demand. Even so, there may still be multiple candidates interviewing for the same job. Prepare by thoughtfully considering how you can distinguish yourself. This is your opportunity to tell them why you are the best choice!

Do Your Research Before the Site Visit

Know about the area, the employer, and maybe even the other doctors you will be joining. This shows that you are interested enough to spend time preparing and that this is not just another post on another job board to you (even if it actually is!).

Remember a few facts about the clinic or new service lines for the hospital. Note where the other doctors trained or went to school. Mentioning these small facts will go a long way to impress the people with whom you’re interviewing!

Why Site Visits Aren’t the Time to Negotiate Contracts

All that being said, the site visit is not the time to negotiate compensation or benefits. There will be time to work through the terms of the contract and make sure the numbers are fair.

You don’t want to agree to numbers without seeing the entire agreement. A higher base salary may be tempered by very little time off, which doesn’t work for you. A significant signing bonus may be intended to offset the restrictive non-compete. It’s best not to negotiate the contract in segments. Use the site visit to show the practice who you are and learn more about them.

Ready to Navigate Your Next Career Move with Confidence?

After touring the clinic, meeting the team, and asking questions, the next step is making sure you fully understand the contract before making any decisions.

Whether you’re evaluating a new job offer or considering a transition, understanding the fine print of your employment contract is crucial. Panacea Legal specializes in providing comprehensive contract and compensation reviews tailored specifically for doctors. Learn more about Panacea Legal’s services.