Getting the Job – Your Medical Assistant Interview:
Once you have completed your training as a medical assistant you will begin your search for employment. Medical assistants find employment in doctor’s offices, clinics and other health care facilities. They have the opportunity to work a variety of shifts. Preparing for an interview may maximize your chances of being offered a position with an employer. Medical assistants must compete with their peers for jobs in their field. Practicing the interview, preparing answers to the most commonly asked questions and picking an outfit that represents professionalism are all steps one can take to prepare for their interview.
Professional Appearance
- First impressions are an important part of the interview process. Putting together the right outfit that achieves a professional look is the first step when preparing for a medical assistant job interview. You should choose an outfit that gives you a professional appearance. Business attire such as a suit or dress shirt and slacks/skirt should be worn to an interview. Ties and jackets should be worn if available.
- A medical assistant should make sure their interview outfit is clean, free of rips or frays and freshly pressed. Dress shirts should be tucked in and buttoned completely. An untidy appearance may cause an interviewer to think less of the individual, causing them to choose another candidate for the position.
- Jewelry should be simple rather than flashy so it complements the attire instead of drawing attention. Casual clothing including jeans, t-shirts and tennis shoes should be avoided.
- Even though a medical assistant is interviewing for a health care provider position, scrub uniforms should also be avoided. Women should apply makeup tastefully, achieving a more natural, rather than glamorous, look. A person going to an interview should make sure their shoes are clean and polished.
Things to Take to an Interview
A medical assistant should take a few simple things with them to each interview. An updated copy of their resume that is free of errors or typos should be taken to the interview. Taking a resume allows you to give the interviewer a copy if needed. It also allows for you to review your resume, giving a chance to refresh your memory regarding work history, skills and experience. Reviewing the resume can be done in the waiting area or the car prior to the interview. Take proof of any certifications or licenses, bring a pen and notebook so you can write down any necessary information.
Research the Company
Researching the company, is a good way to show employers interest in working for their company. You can research a company by performing an online web search or by talking to someone who works there. Some employers may ask, “What do you know about our company?” during the interview. Those whom research the company prior to the interview will be more prepared to answer this question, making a good impression with the individual conducting the interview. Having knowledge about the company may also allow you to be less nervous because you are properly prepared.
Prepare Answers to Common Questions
As a medical assistant, you should get ready for an interview by preparing answers to the most common questions asked by employers. Stumbling through answers to questions may give the interviewer the wrong impression. Having answers prepared for commonly asked questions allows you to answer with more confidence and less nerves, showing the interviewer that you are comfortable and competent. Lists of commonly asked questions and answers can be found by calling our campus (1 (888) 620-6745) or inquiring on our website www.allenschool.edu. Keep answers to questions posed by the interviewer truthful, simple and to the point. Prepare answers that provide information pertaining specifically to them.
The Allen School career services department can assist you on what questions to expect and ask in a medical assistant interview. The effort you put in before going on an interview will increase your chances of landing your dream job. Contact the Allen School today! We are enrolling now for our summer classes and cannot wait for you to become part of the Allen School family. Visit www.allenschool.edu to learn more.
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