What It’s Like to Interview at Northwell

Searching for a new job can trigger a wide range of emotions—from hope to anxiety—and for many, the interview is the most intimidating part of the process.

But it doesn’t have to feel that way. After all, a request for an interview means your resume and application have spurred a company to want to learn more about you! The interview allows you to share more details about your experience and skills, as well as your personality. At the same time, you can learn more about the company and role beyond what you read in the job description.

Get to know Northwell’s interview process and read advice from our recruiters to help your next interview be a success.

What is the Northwell Health interview process?

While our most common steps are outlined above, your process may differ given the variety of positions at Northwell Health. Our Talent Acquisition team engages with candidates across a variety of ways such as texting, video, virtual or in-person interviews. For example, given the many pandemic-era adjustments that businesses and candidates have had to implement, virtual interviews are far more prevalent now than ever before. No matter how you’re interviewing with us, we’ve collected some great tips to help you prepare for a successful interview experience.

What’s expected in an interview

Whether you’re interviewing for an entry-level position or a more seasoned role, our recruiters recommend that you:

• Arrive on time
• Dress professionally
• Bring copies of your resume
• Come prepared with questions

First impressions matter. Vikash Ramnarine, a senior talent acquisition specialist, reminds you to treat a virtual interview the same way you would if it were in person: “Make sure you’re dressed professionally—and don’t forget the camera is always on!”

Talent Acquisition Specialist Sade Somorin says if you’re attending an in-person interview, “Have your resume on hand. And read your resume to be prepared to answer questions pertaining to your job history.”

Sade looks at not just alignment between the candidate’s background and the role’s requirements, but also “the value the candidate will bring to their team and the organization as a whole.”

That means being specific. Sade suggests, “When you share a team project or assignment you participated in, explain the task, action and result that contributed to its success.”

Attentive listening is important, but an interview is a conversation, not a one-way street. “Candidates should have questions prepared to ask at the end of the interview about the position to ensure it is a good match for themselves and the company,” says Nicholas Franzini, a senior talent acquisition specialist. Asking pointed questions also demonstrates that you’ve done your research and have a true interest in the role and the company.

Preparing for your interview

Our recruiters advise:

• Do your research on the position and the company
• Troubleshoot ahead of time
• Plan and arrange your setting

Senior Recruiter Shannon Skaee stresses doing research before the interview so you can better explain how your experience and the job’s expectations line up. “Demonstrating that you’ve done your research can set you apart from other candidates—and may impact the final hiring decision.”

Coaching legend Vince Lombardi once said, “If you are five minutes early, you are already ten minutes late.” That’s good advice on the gridiron as well as in the job market. “Candidates should also map out a route to ensure they arrive 15 minutes early,” says Nicholas.

This applies even if you’re interviewing from your kitchen table. You won’t have to worry about traveling to your interview, but you should still allow yourself at least 15 minutes to identify and address any technical issues that may arise, especially regarding your internet connection.

In a virtual setting, be mindful of your surroundings. Conduct the interview in a quiet location that minimizes background distractions and potential interruptions. A tabletop setting, such as a desk or dining table, works great because it provides a professional feel of sitting across from the recruiter. “Avoid using a phone for a video interview,” Vikash adds, “but if absolutely necessary, prop it up on something stable so that it’s not shaking.”

Other advice? Relax! Be confident about your skills. Let your experience and knowledge shine. At Northwell, we value being “Truly Ourselves”—expressing your personality during the interview can leave a positive and memorable impression on the interviewer.

After your interview, don’t forget to send a thank you note to everyone with whom you interviewed while you wait for your recruiter to reach out regarding next steps.

Now that you know what it’s like to interview at Northwell, it’s time to apply so you can become a Health Raiser! Explore careers today.

It is important to note that Northwell recruiters will always have an @northwell.edu email address and our communications will always be clear that they are from Northwell Health.

The Importance of a Strong Personal Brand

A personal brand is an important opportunity to showcase who you are as a potential employee in a way that authentically reflects who you are as a person. Building a strong personal brand ensures that when employers search for candidates they find much more than a name and a resume—they find you. The following tips can help you create a personal brand that sets you apart and demonstrates the unique skills you bring to the table.

8 Tips for Building a Strong Personal Brand

1. Develop a professional social media presence.
   Review your social media pages to ensure that your information is filled out, you have profile pictures selected, and your bio reflects your professional goals. Remember, every social channel provides a new opportunity to let your personality and accomplishments shine.
2. Make your LinkedIn profile work for you.
   Highlight your industry skills, add recommendations and endorsements from peers, and quantify your accomplishments.
3. Become a thought leader on your social feed.
   Start a dialogue by curating news articles and other relevant content to share with your network to help position you as an expert in your field.
4. Connect with fellow professionals and peers.
   Join Facebook groups, comment on posts you find interesting, engage meaningfully and professionally. Get started by joining Northwell’s Talent Community for news and events tied to your industry.
5. Prepare an elevator pitch.
   Can you give a quick synopsis of your background and experience? Your elevator pitch is a great way to share your expertise and credentials quickly and effectively with people who don’t know you.
6. Keep all of your information up to date.
   Your online information may be the first impression a recruiter or manager has of your career history. Regularly check your resume and profiles to ensure your latest accomplishments and contact information are reflected.
7. Stay up-to-date in your industry.
   Follow prominent and inspiring figures in your industry to not only stay updated on news and industry information but to network with others who may be sharing, posting, or commenting in your industry.
8. Your personal brand isn’t just an online persona.
   Make sure your brand is present at offline events, in the workplace, and throughout your day-to-day responsibilities.

Once you’ve built a strong personal brand, you’ll be prepared to put your best foot forward with any and all potential employers. And if you’re looking for a career well cared for, explore our opportunities at Northwell Health. Apply today!

What it’s like to apply at Northwell Health

Starting the search for your next career opportunity may seem overwhelming at first. As a Fortune 100 Best Companies to Work For, Northwell Health wants to ensure you know what you can expect when you apply for an opportunity with us. Read our infographic below as we walk through the stages of Northwell’s application, selection, interview, and offer experience at New York State’s largest health care provider and private employer.

Prepare for your journey to a career well cared for at Northwell.

Ready for the next step in your career? Apply to Northwell Health today!

Five tips to ace your next virtual interview

As times change the needs of the companies do as well. In recent years, there has been a considerable increase in companies relying on online platforms to conduct candidate interviews. Recruiters actively utilize video conferencing now more than ever to engage and reach a more diverse, global group of prospective hires. For you, the prospective hire, it can give you an advantage if and only if you take it as seriously as you would an actual in-person interview. Northwell Health has prepared a number of tips to help you master the virtual interview so you’re confident and prepared to take on the next step in your professional career.

First things first, considering virtual interviews happen online, it is essential that your online connection is strong. There’s nothing worse than being in the middle of explaining why you’re the perfect candidate and the recruiter is met with grainy, pixelated images of you, or worst case, a dropped call. To avoid this, test your equipment beforehand. It may even be helpful to have a friend try a mock interview just so you’re aware of what the person on the other end of the call experiences throughout the process.

Now that you’re all set with your technology, what do you wear? It’s best to dress as if you’re walking into an actual office to conduct your interview. Dressing professionally isn’t only expected, but it also shows the recruiter that though you are home, you made an extra effort to make sure you made a quality first impression. Trust us, that goes a long way.

On to where you take the call. Most interviewees prefer to take the call from home, that way they are able to have more control of their environment than if they were at a coffee shop or even a library. If you do field the call from someplace else outside of your home, be sure it’s someplace quiet. You would hate to repeat yourself for your recruiter because they couldn’t hear you over a coffee grinder or the latest music from your second favorite band playing in the background.

Find the perfect spot. As much as it may be tempting to be as comfortable as possible seeing as most likely you’ll be taking this call from home, sitting at a desk or a table is much better than sitting on your bed. A tabletop provides the feel as if you’re sitting across from the person asking you questions and even helps keep your posture focused and your mindset on what’s in front of you.

Now that you’ve tested your equipment, figured out what to wear, where to go, and where to sit, it’s time to make sure you’re prepared. And though this process may be a bit different from what you may or may not be used to, it’s important you treat this the same as you would a regular interview. Come into the interview with questions you may have about the organization, a brief elevator pitch about your experience, how you feel you can add value to the team, and what you’re hoping to get out of your experience altogether. The more you’ve prepared, the more relaxed and confident you’ll be.

Follow these tips and set yourself up for success on your next call on others in the future. And if you’re interested in redefining health, Northwell Health has plenty of opportunities. Be sure to take a look at careers by clicking here.

What it’s like to interview at Northwell Health

When it comes to looking for a new job, interviewing can be the most intimidating part of the process. But interviewing doesn’t have to be nerve-inducing. It’s a great opportunity to let your experience shine and a major step in your career.

Get to know Northwell’s interview process and hear from our  recruiters about their best advice to help your next interview be a success.

What is the Northwell Health interview process?

While our most common steps are outlined above, the process may vary given the variety of positions at Northwell. Our Talent Acquisition team is also always looking to improve the candidate experience with innovative technology. This means that candidates aren’t limited to traditional phone screens and in-person interviews. Text message screening and on-demand or live video interviews are common to make interviewing as convenient as possible for the candidates. It is important to note that Northwell recruiters will always have an @northwell.edu email address and our communications will always be clear that they are from Northwell Health.

Phone interviews are usually the first opportunity for candidates to leave an impression with our recruiters. “A phone interview should be taken just as seriously as an in-person interview. The same rules apply: professionalism and proper articulation,” says Marisol Antunez, a senior recruiter with our Talent Acquisition team. “Make sure you have good service so there is no static or a chance the call would drop.”

Beyond one-on-one interviews, candidates may also be asked to come on-site for a panel interview. “Northwell is an extremely collaborative culture, meaning panel interviews may be common for clinical roles,” advises Robin Moreno, senior recruiter. But she sees panel interviews as a benefit for our candidates. “Don’t be intimidated. Look at it as an opportunity to network with several people that you may potentially be working with one day.”

How can a candidate prepare for an interview?

When it comes to preparing for an interview, our recruiters all had the same advice: come prepared!

“Be on time, and do your research,” suggests Shannon Skaee, senior recruiter. “Often times doing your research can be what sets you apart from other candidates which may help drive decisions in the end.”

Recruiter Jennifer LaPolla agrees, “Familiarize yourself with the job description for the role. You should be ready to answer, ‘why do you want this job?’ and reading the description will help you answer that question.” 

Other advice? Be confident about your skills. Review your own resume ahead of time so you can provide short, organized examples of your experience as well as transferrable skills. At Northwell, we value being Truly Ourselves so letting your personality shine in your interview can also help leave a positive and memorable impression on the interviewer.

Looking at Glassdoor can be another great resource for candidates. Previous candidates share their interview experience and give insight into what can be expected. While each interview is different, candidates can also leave examples of questions they were asked during their Northwell interview. Here are some of the most common:

• What’s your experience in the medical field?
• What are some ways you can help improve patient experience?
• Tell us about a time when you were faced with a difficult or upset patient. How did you handle it?
• Where do you see yourself in five years?
• What qualities do you have that would help you succeed in a stressful and busy environment?
• What are your strengths and weaknesses?

After your interview, don’t forget to send a thank you note to your everyone you interviewed with along the way while you wait for your recruiter to reach out regarding next steps.

Now that you know what it’s like to interview at Northwell, it’s time to apply! Explore jobs today.

7 ways to heat up your career this summer

Summer is here and with the changes of the season comes sunshine, beaches, vacation and…career development? Though it may be tempting to slip into vacation mode full-time, summer offers a lot of opportunities to enhance your career without giving up your fun in the sun.

Develop new skills

Offering to cover projects for your coworkers while they’re on vacation allows you to develop new skills and gain first-hand experience that you may not typically get in your role. Work with your manager and teammate to prepare for their absence. You will show your team spirit and ambition along the way!

Summer reading

Summer reading shouldn’t end after high school graduation. Whether you’re hitting the beach or sitting poolside, don’t miss the perfect opportunity to refine your skills. Relaxing with a good professional development book can help you learn how to boost your leadership skills, improve how you communicate, and provide self-reflection.

Make use of the extra sunshine

The sun is rising earlier, and you could too! Develop a morning routine that helps you take advantage of the summer season. Start your morning off right with meditation, exercise, create a to-do list, eat a healthy breakfast, or simply enjoy a cup of coffee outside.

Revamp your online presence

Grab some shade and take some time to update your LinkedIn profile with your latest work information and skills, plus connect with coworkers and friends to grow your network.

Hold meetings outdoors

Head outdoors for lunch or hold your team meetings at the park. Have lunch with your mentor on a regular basis to grow and develop your skills while checking in for feedback and advice. And instead of the usual indoor staff meetings, take a field trip to the park for some team building activities. With everyone eager to get some sun, planning some outside activities is the perfect way to regroup this summer.

Volunteer

Invest in yourself while making an impact on others. This summer find an opportunity to give back to the community by volunteering or if you are a Northwell employee, get active in one of our Business Employee Resource Groups (BERGs). Meet new people and help your community.

Enjoy your vacation

While it’s important to develop professionally, it’s also important to take time off! Enjoy your summer vacation and schedule some time away from work and the internet. And even better, studies have shown that summer vacations help boost your productivity once you’ve returned and you’re able to reinvigorate your career with a fresh mindset.

Are you ready to take your career to the next level? Apply to Northwell Health today!

Am I a leader? Top 3 signs you are!

Written by: Marisol A. Antunez, Senior Talent Acquisition Specialist

Have you ever wondered if a leadership role is right for you? In my position, I work with leaders on a daily basis and I am always learning and observing their leadership qualities. Regardless of formal leadership education and training, some leaders just have the “with-it-ness” that sets them apart from the flock. Below are three signs that can help answer this question for you: Am I a leader?

You inspire:

“Don’t count the days, make the days count.” People want to be inspired. People naturally gravitate toward those who inspire them to do more, to take chances, to run that extra mile toward greatness. A good leader inspires others through their own actions–actions that an aspiring leader should note.

Patricia Brown, AVP, Talent Acquisition at Northwell Health commented, “For me, the quality that made me realize I wanted to be in leadership was the ability to influence change in people.” Words can be encouraging but actions have a lasting effect. Great leaders are passionate about their work and genuinely love to nurture growth in those around them.

You are a visionary/innovator:

You see the whole picture. You see it, you paint it, and you sell it! Leaders naturally are able to think outside the box, be creative, and welcome challenges.  Innovation is one of the keys to success in any organization.

If you find yourself always looking for fresh new ideas, coloring outside the lines, and working passionately to contribute to your company as a whole, then you have what it takes to be a leader!

You are a good communicator:

Ever heard the phrase, “It’s not what you say but how you say it?” Communication is an art and a good leader is an expert; consider that leader the Vincent van Gogh of communication. They use their words carefully to be able to share their innovative ideas and get others engaged and excited. They know exactly how to craft the perfect email to present ideas/projects, or address any situation at a professional level. Communication is a pivotal key to being a good leader. Communication and collaboration go hand-in-hand.

Maybe these skills come naturally to you, and if so, then you have discovered your true calling! But these skills can also be developed. With the help of other leaders and mentors, you will learn what it takes to be a great leader who builds a strong, capable, goal-oriented team. So ask yourself, “Do I have what it takes to be a leader?” Remember this, a leader doesn’t always have a certain title. People can exhibit leadership qualities every day! Share your experience, spread your knowledge, infect others with optimism, and people will see you as an inspirational leader.

At Northwell, we try and foster these skills in our current and future leaders. Employees can take classes at our Center for Learning and Innovation to develop themselves professionally. Mentorship programs also exist for employees to use our leadership as a resource for their own growth and professional development. Getting active in our Business Employee Resource Groups (BERGs) or volunteering also helps cultivate leadership skills.  “Try to learn from everyone around you, staff and leaders because that is what will form your leadership practice in the future,” advises Barbara Vetoulis, nurse manager of Medical/Surgical at Phelps Hospital, “Learn from leaders that you look up to and consider a good role model.”

Photo: Northwell Health Talent Acquisition Specialists from left to right, Gisela Belinfante, Kirsten Wieckhorst, Danielle Terdick, Ali Kahen and Jennifer Carlucci

Healthcare Career Advice: Ask a Northwell Recruiter!

Applying for a new job is an exciting time but it can come with a lot of questions. We sat down with members of our Talent Acquisition team to hear their expert opinions on the best ways to help you and your resume stand out throughout the application process. From avoiding common resume mistakes to acing your interview, hear from our recruiters on how you can shine.

Watch their best tips below to prepare you to join our team in 2019!

1. Are there any steps a candidate can take to help their resume stand out?

2. What are some common mistakes a candidate make on their resume?

3. How can a candidate best prepare for an interview?

4. What’s your best piece of career advice?

5. Anything else candidates should know about applying for a job at Northwell Health?

Ready to join the Northwell Health team? Sign up for job alerts to get notified of our latest job openings in your field!

Northwell Health’s top career resolutions for 2019

The new year is a perfect time to assess your professional growth over the past year and set goals for the next! Set yourself up for a productive, exciting, and successful new year by focusing on your career. At Northwell, we’re always looking to empower our employees with the tools they need to improve their skills and accomplish any resolution they make.

Stick to these resolutions and your career will flourish in 2019!

Further your education

It’s never too late to learn something new, and furthering your education helps strengthen your mind for future challenges. Choosing to go back to school is a rewarding way to stay competitive in your industry by expanding your knowledge. At Northwell Health, we invest in our employees’ education through a multitude of educational programs. Our tuition reimbursement program* reimburses eligible employees per calendar year toward qualified tuition expenses for an associate’s, bachelor’s or graduate-level degree. We also offer an MBA program through Hofstra University, where eligible employees receive 100% employer-paid tuition expenses toward a degree!

Find a mentor

Have you been meaning to enter a mentoring relationship to help grow and guide your professional development? Connect with a mentor in the new year! Mentors can help enhance and hone your skills, bring a seasoned perspective, and help your career in the long-run. Pick a mentor outside of your immediate department so that you can gain new insight into the company and feel comfortable discussing any problems that might arise within your office as you pursue a solution.

Read a book

Reading is fundamental! Take a break from your usual fiction list and jump into new ideas that will illuminate the world around you and your place within it. If you’re looking for inspiration, explore Health Care Reboot: Megatrends Energizing American Medicine, a new book by Northwell’s CEO Michael Dowling and Charles Kenney.

Volunteer

Volunteering looks great on your resume and it feels good to boot! Find opportunities to give back around your community to help better yourself in the new year. At Northwell, we foster this passion for caring for your community with our Business Employee Resource Groups (BERGs). The BERGs program at connects our employees to others who share their passions and identity to reach out and build relationships with the communities we serve. Our BERGs have volunteered within our community educating, understanding and supporting members of various ethnicities and cultural backgrounds, the LGBTQ community, the disability community, and veterans.

Add a bullet to your skills section

Developing a new skill can help you grow in your professional and your personal life. By making professional development a priority, you’ll build new connections and position yourself for advancement.

Expand your network

Join a professional network or society and connect with a community of professionals who do what you do and love it, too!

*Union employees will receive benefits based on their CBA.

Is a new career on your list of resolutions? Look at our open positions.

Don’t miss these top questions to ask hiring managers in your next interview

We all know that moment an interviewer asks, “Do you have any questions for me?” It can be a tricky one! Asking the right questions can be tough, but it’s a necessary part of ensuring you learn about your prospective role and employer. The right question can earn you insight into the company culture, career growth opportunities, and position expectations.

And since our employees are our greatest hiring success stories, we asked them to share some of their best advice on what to ask hiring managers. With their help, we gathered the top questions you should ask in your next interview below!

1. What keeps you passionate about going to work every day?

Gerard Halfpenny, a registered nurse at Northwell suggests a question like this to help give you an idea about corporate culture, along with a sense of how long the interviewer has worked there and their passion for their work.

2. How is Northwell different from other places you’ve worked?

This question allows you to hear from hiring managers on their previous work experience and learn how they adapted to a new workplace. And more importantly, it also helps you find out what sets Northwell apart from the competition!

3. Could you tell me about an employee that you feel is a role model?

Evan Feuer, a program manager at Northwell, recommends the above question and expands on this thought by encouraging candidates to ask about what the hiring manager sees as going above and beyond in a job and what qualities successful employees have that leads to their success.

4. What are your team’s goals?

Asking this question allows you to see what a team’s upcoming goals and initiatives are to align your talents. Learning a team’s goals also helps you see how you can help accomplish their mission in your new role.

5. What motivates your employees to stay with your department?

This question from Denise Walker, a supervisor at Northwell, shines a light on an important aspect of culture. Hearing why employees choose to stay in the department allows you to discover what makes your department truly special.

6. Where is Northwell headed in the next five to ten years?

You know where you want to be in the next five to ten years. It should be more about your career goals and ambitions aligning with the company’s. This question delivers insight to where the overall organization is going and where your goals align.

7. What are three adjectives you would use to describe the workplace atmosphere on a given day?

Kathleen Jaeger Phillips, an RN at Northwell, suggests this question to give hiring managers a question with a structure for their answers that can yield telling, helpful, and fun results. Additionally, it gives you an insight on what an average day in your future workplace might be like!

9. What are some ways I can help improve this department in my new role?

Tanya Fontes, MBA and admin manager at Northwell knows that not every day at work is going to be easy, breezy. This question allows you to see how you can impact positive change for the specific department and gives insight into how the department overcomes every-day challenges.

10. How do you measure success for your team?

Asking a question like this gives you an idea of a team’s goals and how you can best achieve them as a member of the department. Knowing how your team is looking to meet their goals helps ensure you best know how to set yourself up for success.

11. As a candidate, how can I incorporate my previous experiences to promote creativity, growth, and teamwork in the position I am interviewing for?

The specificity of this question from Julia Suklevski, MSW social worker at Northwell, is fantastic! To answer it, hiring managers must assess your experiences and imagine how you will succeed. It’s exactly what you want: hiring managers imagining you in the role!

12. If there was one thing you wish the person who filled this role knew, what is it?

This question can help you clarify what the most important thing you’ll need to know in this position. Now, you can emphasize how your experience and personality are a perfect fit.

13. Are there are any mentorship opportunities available within the department?

Shawna Vernisie, creative arts therapist, loves this question because she knows that “it’s great to have someone that’s experienced in your potential department to mentor a new employee!” Making sure there are opportunities to learn in your new role helps ensure you’ll continue to grow your own skills.

14. Are there growth opportunities to continue my career within the organization?

This question will help you figure out how you can continue to progress your career. Finding out what educational opportunities are available to you will help you see where your career can continue to develop. It’s also a good way to discover how your skills can be refined in your new position.

Think you’re ready to impress one of our hiring managers? Explore our jobs page and find a position that you’re Made for.

Northwell Health military veterans share their best advice for veterans looking for healthcare careers

One of the many things we’ve learned from listening to the former military members on our team at Northwell Health is the power of working together with others who share your goals and mission.

We talked with several military veterans on our Northwell Health team to get you the best advice on how to take your military skills and apply them to a civilian job in healthcare. They reminded us just how valuable their military training has been to their careers and reinforced our unyielding commitment to supporting veterans.

Hear advice directly from military veterans who have been in your shoes! We asked our team members for their best tips on making the most of your military skills in civilian careers.

“Being organized and disciplined” is critical in any endeavor, says Melonie C. Pernice, RT (R), MBA. “Having the ability to follow through on assignments, even in difficult or stressful situations” is one way the military prepared Melonie to shine in her role here as administrative director of radiology and cardiology at our Plainview and Syosset Hospitals.

Cynthia LaRocca, DNP, RN, director of nursing education and professional development, knows the value of following the chain of command, but tries always to “lead with a heart and try to remember that things are not always just black and white.”

Mergers & acquisitions director Andrew Roberts cautions that “transitioning out can be tough, it takes courage to ask for help, but don’t shy away from that.” His advice on taking your military training to the next level in a civilian career? “Find your passion outside of the workplace, the connections you’ll make there are invaluable.”

And we couldn’t agree more with our veterans! If you’re ready to connect with an opportunity like no other – one where your unique skills can continue to make a life-changing difference – join the Northwell Health team.

How to land the right internship that will drive you to a great career destination.

You’re nearing the completion of your college degree and looking to complement your education with some real-world experience. An internship in your chosen field is one of the best ways to do just that. Here are some important steps you can follow if you want to find and take advantage of the unique opportunities internships provide.

Find the right match.

It’s more than just finding an internship in your chosen line of work. You want to get the most out of this opportunity. Make sure the goals of the internship align with your personal career objectives. director of hospital operations at Southside Hospital, Brieanna Desidario advises, “A key consideration is how this will set you up for future opportunities. Does the program emphasize networking and relationship building? Will this experience help make the transition from student to professional smoother?”

Get noticed.

It all starts with your resume. Make sure it’s formatted, visually appealing and grammatically correct. You want to make sure it’s as compelling and impressive as you are! Highlight your accomplishments with real examples. And try to keep to one page. Ryon Andersen, associate executive director of hospital administration at North Shore University Hospital says, “Remember it is an advertisement of who you are, your abilities and accomplishments. Content is important, however, readability is just as crucial.”

Make a great first impression.

If your resume results in an interview, remember to treat this as an interview for a long-term job. Do your research and learn all you can about the organization, its culture, and the internship. Then get ready to show who you are and let your personality shine through. Christopher O’Brien, senior director of finance and operations management at LIJ Valley Stream actually tells candidates, “Nerves are good. They mean you care and companies want people that care. People who push through nerves with enthusiasm are the ones that leaders want to invest in the most.”

Make the most of the experience.

You got the internship. Now make it work for you. Get to know as many people as you can, even outside of your specific department, and start building that professional network. Asking important and relevant questions is also a great way to get off on the right foot. Yash Patel, senior associate, of financial and operations management at Lenox Hill Hospital, reminds candidates that, “Even the greatest minds, bosses and employers continuously ask questions to spark conversation and to learn.”

There are many outstanding internships available in a wide range of professional disciplines. If you’re focused on a career in the healthcare field and looking for an exceptional internship option to get you off to a great start, take a look at Northwell Health’s Healthcare Management Program.

How to nail that interview – bring the right tools.

You’ve worked hard to build a great resume and make yourself stand out from the crowd. Now that you’ve landed that interview, get ready to show them that you’re the perfect candidate for the job. Northwell Health recruiters have put together a list of their top tips for acing your next interview.

Be prepared.

It may seem like a small thing, but remember to bring your resume and depending on the position, bring your portfolio. Northwell Health Recruiter Agnes also advises you double check your resume before you leave for your interview, “Review your final resume to ensure information is up to date and spell checked.” In other words, come to the interview ready to demonstrate the best examples of your success. It’s also a good idea to know exactly what’s in your resume so you can refer to it without reading from it in the interview. Another part of being prepared? Arriving 10-15 minutes early will start the interview right.

Do your homework.

Be prepared by doing research on your prospective employer. A lot of research. Learn about the company, the department where you’ll be working and the role you’ll play in it. As Northwell Health Recruiter Alex says, “Use these as talking points to let them know why you would be an added asset to the organization. You can even use LinkedIn to do research on the person interviewing you. It shows you care about the position and will help you ask intelligent questions.”

Ask questions.

You’re not there just to be interviewed. You’re also there to interview your prospective employer. It’s the only way to know that it’s the right place for you. Specifically, ask questions about the culture of the department and the overall organization as well as expectations of your role. This is why doing your research is so important. It enables you to ask the right questions and show that you’re ready to contribute in a positive way.

Make a great first impression.

An interview shouldn’t feel like an interrogation. Northwell Health Recruiter Stephanie encourages candidates to, “Smile and let your personality show!” Dress professionally with a neat outfit, limited jewelry and no perfume or cologne. You don’t want the interviewer to be distracted from what you have to say. Always make eye contact. Remember to be courteous to everyone, from the hiring manager to the administrative assistant.

Be yourself.

Though you want to make a good first impression, it’s important to remember to be yourself. Never lie about your experience or oversell your capabilities. Northwell Health Recruiter Jennifer says, “Honesty is key – never misrepresent yourself.” Your best answers in an interview will be honest ones. Letting your true personality shine in a professional way will help you stand out.

Show your customer focus.

At any business, the most important thing is the customer experience – whether it’s a hospital patient or an organization’s internal customers. By emphasizing your passion for customer service, you will show that you have the right attitude for contributing to the success of your team, your department and the overall organization. The power of positive thinking and kindness is infectious. It’s what employers look for.

If you’d like to be part of an organization that is passionate about helping you be successful – from your very first contact, take a closer look at Northwell Health. There are always exciting opportunities at Northwell Health for those who are Truly Ambitious.

Your first week at work – a checklist for success

You did it! You landed the job you’ve always wanted and now it’s your first week at work. You’re understandably nervous. You want to make a great impression, but with all that you have to keep track of and remember, it helps to have a checklist to follow. Based on the experience and insight of Northwell Health recruiters who have been where you are right now, here’s a handy list of things to help you start your career journey on the right foot!

Take a deep breath and relax.

Just remember, you’re surrounded by people who are excited to have you on the team. They want you to succeed and will help you make it happen. So, stay calm and don’t put too much pressure on yourself to figure everything out in week one. It also helps to arrive early, ready to go. Being prepared is a great way to reduce stress.

Ask questions and listen.

You’re joining a knowledgeable and experienced team. They have a lot of expertise to share with you. As Northwell Health recruiter, Saadia Lomeli says, “Seek tips from employees who have been successful in similar roles as yours.” Tap into this wealth of information – ask questions and really listen. And get ready to soak it all up like a sponge.

Make yourself known.

Introduce yourself! There is no need to wait to be introduced. Get to know your colleagues. “It is imperative to build relationships,” says Stephanie Wiltse, Northwell Health Recruiter. “They can be a great resource while you’re orienting.”

Join the team.

Northwell Health is all about customer service. That means you should always be ready and willing to lend a helping hand – teamwork makes success possible, no matter your role.

Keep an open mind and be flexible.

Be open to input and advice. Seek other perspectives and points of view. Stephanie Wiltse reminds new employees to, “Be open to feedback. We all make mistakes, especially when we are beginning a new career. If someone is giving you feedback it is to help you develop into the best employee you can be.”

If you’d like to be part of an organization that is passionate about helping you be successful – in your first week at work and every week – put Northwell Health at the top of your list of places to work.

Search jobs here!

At our first Inside Northwell Facebook Live session, we sat down with members of our Talent Acquisition team who gave the best tips for candidates looking to join our team in 2018. Check it out!

1. How can candidates stand out while applying for jobs in 2018?

My best piece of advice would be to only apply to positions that you meet the minimum qualifications for. With the volume of applications we receive we can’t contact everyone and we are contacting only those who most closely match the department’s specific needs. If you don’t hear from us, you will remain in our database and we can contact you for other positions you are suitable for. Just because you were not the right match for one, does not mean you wouldn’t be the right match for another so don’t lose faith – the needs vary from department to department.

-Elaine Strauss, Executive Recruiter, Talent Acquisition

2. How can they make their resume stand out throughout the bunch/mix?

Your resume is a living breathing document so you can make changes as you learn or develop new skills sets throughout your career, even if you are not currently looking for a new job. Make sure you mention the special project that you have taken and the impact to the organization because it’ll show you ambition to make a direct impact. If you are looking for a new job, always remember, the job description is your friend – use the information provided to help you craft your resume and use the keywords they have listed within the job description in your resume too. If your previous experiences don’t exactly match the job you are looking for, don’t forget to add the transferable skill sets you’ve learned. (ie: “Customer Service” is really “Communication Skills”)

-Arthur Beechman, Clinical and Non-Clinical Recruiter, Talent Acquisition

Remember to add keywords. We have advanced technology that we are using to source through a variety of candidates. If you have the keywords within your resume our searches will be able to match with yours and pull up your information before someone else’s. Also, remember to send the final version of your resume. You wouldn’t believe the amount of resumes we receive with a coworkers/family members/metors edits on them. Always double check!

-Elaine Strauss

If you’re updating your resume, as you should be all the time, make sure that any past experience is referred to in past tense. If it looks like current tense language for a position you held 3 years ago, we notice that and it shows less attention to detail. Also remember to quantify information. If you work for an organization that we aren’t familiar of, it’s very helpful to a recruiter to have some sense of how large that organization is, adding the number of direct reports (if any) you have, if you’ve saved the organization any money and how you achieved that – this will help us quickly understand who you are and what you do for what type of organization.

-Esther David, Director, Talent Acquisition

3. What makes a candidate “made for Northwell Health”?

4. What are the most appropriate ways for them to follow up with recruiters?

5.  What is your last piece of advice for our candidates?

Check out our Inside Northwell page to learn more. 

Becoming a Physician Assistant (PA) is no easy task, but it’s definitely worth it. As we celebrate Physician Assistants Recognition Week we asked some of our employees what their top 3 reasons to become a PA were. Here is what they had to say.

You’ll do something you love every day.

“For the past 33 years, I wake up every day to do something I love – taking care of people and making a difference. This is something that I have wanted to do since a very young age and the profession was quite young at that time. Now with the profession celebrating its 50th anniversary, I can look back and reflect on how happy I am to have been a part of it all of this time and to look forward to at all of the exciting things that are happening in the PA world. We are in a field that is growing exponentially. As the healthcare landscape is changing, so is the need for PA’s.”

-Matthew Shebes, Supervising Physician Assistant, Surgical Services, Long Island Jewish Medical Center

“Within these roles you will have direct contact to patients – in a physical and conversational way. These relationships drive you to come up with the best treatment plans to help them get better.”

-Martin Morales, Corporate Director, Physician Assistant ServicesYou will be challenged, in a good way.

You will be challenged, in a good way.

“Working in medicine is an ever-changing landscape that requires me to be up to date with the medical knowledge, and processes. There is always a challenge and boredom does not exist. I am also heavily involved in PA education. I am an adjunct at the Hofstra Northwell School of Graduate Nursing and Physician Assistant Studies and have been a preceptor for several of the PA programs for many years. To see students that studied under my tutelage go on to graduate and move up to prominent members of the PA profession is extremely rewarding.”

-Matthew Shebes, Supervising Physician Assistant, Surgical Services, Long Island Jewish Medical Center

“The key to any rewarding job is to be challenged. As a Physician Assistant, you are constantly tasked with assessing your patients’ problems and applying curative/preventative measures. The tiniest intervention can greatly improve an individual’s quality of life. Since PA’s are team players who are constantly interacting with various healthcare professionals, you also have the ability to impact your colleagues – whether it be doctors, nurses, respiratory therapists, etc. One of the reasons why I love my job is the interactions I have with my patients, my coworkers and the privilege of influencing an individual’s life.”

-Jane Joseph, Physician Assistant, Mid-Level Providers, North Shore University HospitalFlexibility.

Flexibility.

“The PA model has become more autonomous over the years and this allows PA’s to develop exceptional skill in their area of expertise. Also, the ability to have a nice lifestyle, enjoy my family and make a nice living.”

-Matthew Shebes, Supervising Physician Assistant, Surgical Services, Long Island Jewish Medical Center

“The versatility of this career is amazing. You can choose any specialty you want without limitations and you can treat a wide range of patients. There will also be a shortage of PA’s within the next 5 years because demand is high and the schools can’t keep up – job security and compensation will never be better.”

-Martin Morales, Corporate Director, Physician Assistant Services

“Physician Assistants have the unique advantage of being able to practice in various medical specialties. This allows us to gain experience and constantly expand our knowledge base. We have the ability to find our niche and stick with it, or change specialties at any point in our career. It provides PAs with a wide range of options, a great job market, and lifelong learning.”

-Jane Joseph, Physician Assistant, Mid-Level Providers, North Shore University Hospital