The DFW Hospital Council is posting blogs submitted by our Associate Members. The following was provided by Witt/Kieffer. For guidelines, please contact Chris Wilson at chrisw@dfwhc.org.

By Donna Padilla, Witt/Kieffer

Whether you are searching for an executive position for the first time or not, there are some key points that pertain to any job search. While each situation is unique, common themes and process points tend to surface each time a position is filled. Below is a list of tips that any organization or recruiter wishes you knew before embarking on a search.

Level of interest: It is always good to be open to opportunities that cross your desk. Most of the time these opportunities are appropriate for networking rather than acting upon. While you may want to learn more, it is important to weigh your interest against your current professional and personal situation. If you are not making the move alone, don’t make the decision alone. Involving family early in the process is critical. Inviting your spouse/partner to visit the location — especially if they are unsure — is also a good idea. Waffling interest and last-minute turndowns are damaging to the search process and, ultimately, your reputation.

No surprises: We have all had moments in our careers that we wish we could do over or had handled differently. If there is something in your past — for example, a short career stop you have not included on your resume or something that will show up in a more thorough background check — it is best to bring that to light as early as possible. Your recruiter will be better able to address the situation up front with the organization and advise you on how to discuss it moving forward.

The interview: The best advice is to do your homework. Seek feedback from the search consultant on what to anticipate and how to prepare. Ask for and expect to receive direct feedback regarding your presentation. This feedback is not meant to be critical, but to help with the specific search you are considering as well as for future interviews. When onsite, make sure you are listening as actively as you are presenting yourself. Come prepared with questions. You want the interview to feel more like a meeting than a strained conversation. Creating a dialogue is a shared responsibility.

The social element: A social dinner is often a critical step in the final interview process. Remember that you are still a candidate and want to present yourself as engaged and able to interact socially and professionally. While onsite, you may be given a tour of the community and will likely be joined by a realtor and organization host. Both are there to help guide you as well as gauge your interest. Many, if not all, organizations will ask the realtor for feedback on how the tour went. Similar to the dinner, this is an opportunity to show how you come across out of the spotlight.

The time commitment: Do not underestimate the time a search will take, especially if you are employed. Typically, searches have several rounds and are almost always held in person and onsite. Make sure your recruiter or the organization is aware of any schedule constraints (e.g., existing vacations or a current location from which traveling is difficult). Strategize early about how you will approach these visits.

Note: A longer version of this article is available on the Witt/Kieffer website here.

Donna Padilla is senior partner and vice chair of the Healthcare practice at the executive search firm Witt/Kieffer.