Career Resources
One Interview Tip I Would Give to All PAs
Career and leadership expert Andrea Lowe, MHA, PA-C, shares advice on how to effectively prepare so that you stand out from the crowd during job interviews. Anticipate competition for any job you’re interviewing for and do your homework.
Video: Job Interviewing Tips for PAs
The interview is your first chance to show why you are the best candidate for the position. Our video will help you prepare for your interview and help you show off your best self.
Recruiters
Thinking about using a recruiter to find your next PA job? Use our checklist to vet your choice and see a list of common warning signs.
Guide: Resumes and CVs
Do you need a résumé or a CV – or both? What should these important documents include? How can you avoid common mistakes? These essential career documents should be straightforward and specific, convey your achievements to potential employers, and show how you fit the role and experience they are seeking in a PA.
Guide: Where Will You Take Your PA Career?
Starting out as a PA, you have many options available to you. You can head into a clinical or nonclinical role, and even consider independent contracting. Here’s a list of questions you can ask yourself to help determine where your interests lie.
Find Your Passion at Any Stage of Your PA Career
Whether you are just starting your PA career, are in mid-practice, or near retirement, be cognizant of what drives and ignites you. By taking inventory, considering new initiatives, and talking to other PAs, you can find your passion.
PA Student to PA: Navigating the Transition
While the transition from program to practice may seem overwhelming and nerve-wracking, PA students can set themselves up for a successful career start with these tips.
Handling Difficult Interview Questions
Interviews can be stressful, no doubt about it! I’ve found in my work with PA clients that preparation (especially for difficult questions) is an effective way to promote confidence and even turn anxiety into excitement about meeting with a prospective employer. Effective preparation involves careful assessment of your abilities as a clinician (and person) and how they correspond to the job, and also working out your replies to commonly asked difficult questions in advance.
Interview Preparation Advice and Exercises
As a career coach, I frequently help my PA clients prepare for interviews. In this article, I’d like to share some exercises that will help you be a more effective and confident interviewee.
Interview Prep
The interview is your first chance to show why you are the best candidate for the position. It’s also a chance for you to understand more about the practice or organization and its culture, approach to patient care, and knowledge of team practice.
How to Mitigate Negative Job References
Even the most successful PA career hits the occasional snag that can make transitioning to a new position challenging. Aside from potential contract disputes, a frequent trouble spot is obtaining a positive reference from a former employer with whom there was a conflict. Find out how you can deal with negative job references.
Cultivate Your Network: Employment References
Creating your references list is an essential part of the job search that can also help you cultivate your professional network and prepare you for inter-views.
