An interview is your first impression with your prospective employer, so it is important to properly prepare so that you’re confident and ready on the day of. Here are some tips to help you prepare for your medical assistant interview and stand out from the other candidates.
Preparing for your Medical Assistant Interview
- Research the company. Finding out as much as you can about the company you are interviewing with will help you answer questions and show that you are serious.
- Read the company’s website to make sure you understand what they do.
- Read their recent press releases to see current events going on in the company.
- Check outside sources for news about the company and insights into their reputation. Glassdoor, for example, has company reviews and ratings.
- During your research, put together a list of questions to ask them during the interview.
- Compare the job requirements with your skills and experience.
- Review the job description and compare the requirements with your education, training, and internship experience.
- Make sure you understand what will be expected of you as a medical assistant.
- Prepare answers to common interview questions.
- To help you prepare, we’ve put together a list of common interview questions for medical assistant positions.
- It can be helpful to prepare a mock interview with a friend or family member so you can practice answering questions out loud.
- Plan what you’ll bring with you. Make sure to have everything you’ll need for the interview, such as:
- Extra copies of your resume.
- A list of references.
- A notepad and pen.
- Plan what you’ll wear.
- Make sure to have a neat, clean, and professional overall appearance.
- When unsure, it’s always better to go more formal than casual.
- Be mindful of nonverbal communication. Keep in mind that what you say is only part of the interview. Your body language and the way you carry yourself are important as well.
- Be professional while waiting for the interview. Your behavior in the waiting room can be noted.
- Smile and use a firm handshake. Maintain good eye contact. Sit up straight and avoid fidgeting.
- Follow up with your own questions. At the end of many interviews, your interviewer will ask if you have any questions of your own. Try to avoid asking questions that can be answered on their website. Good examples include:
- What makes this company a great place to work?
- What is the most important criteria for success as a medical assistant here?
Contact the Career Assistance Program at ACI Medical & Dental School for more interview tips and assistance.
