The mysterious phone interview. First off, check the SDN Interview Feedback as I posted one for the phone interview and one for the on-site interview.
It is a bit different but it makes a lot of sense. The idea is that they want to see if you share simlar values, ideals, and interests with the type of physicians that Mayo likes to include in its family. Mayo is not just a school or a clinic or a hospital, but it can be thought of as sort of a method of medicine. It might sound a little strange and if it bothers you, then perhaps Mayo isn't the best place. By using a phone interview instead of written essay, you have less time to prepare something that 'sounds good' and are instead answering questions off the cuff so that they get a more accurate picture (albeit less than perfect) of you.
The phone interview will consist of about 20 questions or so. Some of the topics deal with medicine but most are personal in nature regarding what you value, how you spend your time, how you got to this point in life, and how you might make choices in the future. Some of the questions might throw you, but just take your time and answer thoughtfully. The interviewer is an expert at picking out BS, so definitely answer honestly. I answered honestly about my experiences with illegal drugs, underage drinking, and smoking and was still accepted.
I found the most difficult aspect of the phone interview the idea that the interviewer provides no feedback. Apart from repeating the question if you need it, the interviewer will not clarify or reword the question. And without the interviewer present, you can't use body language to see how what you are saying is affecting the listener. The other problem I had is I find it easier to slip into the mode of just rambling when on the phone as compared with when I am discussing something in person.
Some questions will be just yes/no with additional questions depending on how you answer. Some will be explicit and others more philosophical in nature.
If it helps any, I think that the values that Mayo has built itself upon include:
The Patient Always Comes First -- attributed to one of the Mayo brother's famous quote 'the best interest of the patient is the only interest to be considered'
Compassion
Respect for the Individual
Service to the Individual and to Society
Professionalism
Teamwork
Incorporating some of those values into your answers will be quite helpful. Take a look at the Mayo website (
www.mayoclinic.org ) to get an idea of the history and philosophy of Mayo.
Let me know if you have any other questions. After the phone interview and once they receive your letters of recommendation, it will about 2 weeks or less before you will know if you are invited for an on-site interview. Best of luck...
