When you are doing rotations and electives, you will be
evaluated by supervisors during each clinical experience. This is
a common source of concern as these individuals are potential
sources of letters of recommendation for job applications, so
here are some tips for increasing the odds that you will receive
positive comments.
- Much friction comes from
misunderstood expectations. So as soon as the clinical
experience begins, seek out the person in charge and clarify
what's expected of you.
- Ask for feedback—don't wait
until the end. This way, you can work on any deficit areas and
demonstrate that you want to learn and are eager to
improve.
- Approach interactions with
superiors with respect. If you express that you value what they
want from you first, they are more likely to listen when you
follow this with your own concerns about fulfilling what they
request.
- Avoid comments on personalities
when discussing issues. Instead, state the specific facts
leading to the problem and, whenever possible, suggest a
compromise or solution to the problem.
- Before going over a superior's
head, take a step back and ask yourself how important the
problem really is. One bad evaluation is unlikely to hurt your
career, but negative comments about you made by multiple
evaluators will raise the concern that you may be the
problem.
- Associate with colleagues as one way of putting your
problem in perspective. Others may have found ways to address
the issue that you haven't thought of. And even if you only
hear your experience validated by the experience of others,
your feelings of being singled out or isolated will
decrease.
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