Last week, I discussed my interview with Scripps President and CEO, Chris Van Gorder, and his advice regarding staying focused on your current role. Chris Van Gorder is the first featured leader on the newly launched America’s Healthcare Leaders website. This week we continue looking at some of Van Gorder’s advice regarding career advancement.
Perhaps you are a recent graduate just now entering healthcare, or maybe you are an experienced and successful healthcare leader who simply feels called to a different position within your field. No matter where you are in your career, this advice applies to you.
Van Gorder noted that a common question that often comes up in an interview is “Where do you want to see yourself end up?” This question hints at long-term career plans and where your sights are set. But Van Gorder says,
“What I always tell my residents and others is, ‘the reality is they don’t actually care that much about where you want to end up. They’re interviewing you for a specific job, and they want to know you want that job.”
This is a great point and excellent advice for those seeking a position with an organization. Before your interview, consider the following questions:
- Why are you applying for this job?
- What do you hope to achieve through this job?
- Why did you choose this organization?
- Are you committed to doing this job well, no matter where your sights are ultimately set?
Being able to answer these questions beforehand will give you clarity and help you through the interview, and also help you stay focused and committed in that position—which will ultimately increase your success.
Van Gorder went on to describe a good attitude to cultivate regarding your current position or the one you’re applying for:
“Look, I want to do this job today, and I’ll do a good job. And at some point, if I get to the point where I feel a little bit more stale at this job or I think it’s time for me, then I’ll take a look at the next job, but my goal right now is to do a really good job here.”
Most people won’t work the same job for the rest of their lives. Change is inevitable, and change is good! But as Van Gorder explains, keeping your mind in the present as you approach a new career opportunity is just as important as thinking of your career long-term. Think about how discipline and concentrated effort in the role you’re in or are about to begin can benefit you now and long into the increasing success of your career.
Question: Have you been guilty of thinking only long-term? How can you better focus on your current position?
To preview the video interview with Chris Van Gorder and to learn more about America’s Healthcare Leaders, please click here.
Copyright © 2015 by Dan Nielsen – www.dannielsen.com
America’s Healthcare Leaders – www.americashealthcareleaders.com
National Institute for Healthcare Leadership – www.nihcl.com
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