Communication key when applying for a job, starting a practice
Ophthalmology is a small world with amazing opportunities, and communication is the key to success, both to achieve the position one deserves and to attract and retain patients, according to one presenter.
“Effective communication is valuable, and a lack of communication could cost you a job and patients,” Jill Maher, MA, COE, said at Real World Ophthalmology.
When applying for a job, email communication should be brief and clear, include a CV and explain the reasons why one is interested in the position, she recommended. Answering promptly, within no more than 24 to 48 hours, and sending a “thank you” email after an interview will help one stand out among other candidates.
References should be carefully selected in advance and notified when they are likely to be contacted.
“Choose three to five professionals who could be attendings, fellow residents, colleagues, administrators, or technicians and nurses. A variety will ensure you have good communication with everybody and respect everybody,” Maher said. “Don’t forget to follow up with them to thank for being a reference and offer to reciprocate.”
When a job is offered, candidates should respond promptly, ask for some time to review the offer and have an adviser review the employment agreement, she said.
“Choose one to three priority items to negotiate based on what’s most important to you. If you feel the need to negotiate every aspect of the job offer, then it may not be the right position for you. And make sure you deliver the agreement by the deadline,” she said.
When starting out in practice, communication with patients is key. They should be educated and properly informed on what is done and why, be informed of realistic expectations and understand care plans and timelines.
“The best way to build your practice is to ask patients to refer friends and family, with a simple statement like, ‘I am building my practice and would love to have more patients just like you,’” Maher said.
She also recommended building online patient reviews, aiming to have at least four stars.
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Maher J. The value of communication in the real world. Presented at: Real World Ophthalmology; April 2, 2022 (virtual meeting).
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