Posted by DocJacko from IP 129.112.109.250 on March 31, 2006 at 16:33:39:
In Reply to: What kind of personalities impress the PDs posted by nini on March 31, 2006 at 15:47:07:
Don't just slurp their a_sses, that is not going to get you anywhere. Be confident in yourself, show them that they need you. Be relaxed, cool and smile. Be human and nice. Be enthusiastic. After all, the PD has to enjoy the prospect of working with you.
I think what is extremely important is this:
DO NOT ASK BORING QUESTIONS!!!
e.g. "what is your board pass rate?" or "what is your call schedule?" Every PD will fall asleep, because he/she has already spent the whole morning answering the same stupid questions.
Use your questions to show them that you really know everything about their program (prepare yourself very well!!!). For example, ask them if you may spend time doing research with Dr. XY because you read his recent publication on blablabla and you are very interested in this because you used to work on this blabla.
Or ask them how renal patients are covered in their hospital since you noticed that the hospital does not have a division of nephrology.
Tell them that you are very impressed with their research record and ask the PD which group he could see you join considering your background.
In other words, avoid the bread-and-butter questions about the details of their program. You can find all that out from other sources (current residents, website, etc.). Ask about the real deal, how this residency will enhance your career.
It works very well: after my first 3 interviews, I had 3 prematch offers and I accepted the last one, cancelling all other interviews.