Shadow Before Taking a Position!

For all the recent grads out there, here’s a pro tip: before accepting a job offer, always shadow! This simple yet powerful step can save you from unpleasant surprises and help you make an informed decision.

Why Shadowing Matters

Imagine this scenario:

You have a fantastic interview. The employer seems warm, supportive, and enthusiastic about welcoming you to the team. They promise a collaborative environment, opportunities for growth, and plenty of support. But then, day one rolls around, and it’s a completely different story. The team is cold, no one communicates, and there’s a lack of support or infrastructure. You’re left feeling duped.

Shadowing before accepting a position helps you see the true day-to-day dynamics of the workplace—before you commit. It’s your opportunity to get a real sense of whether the clinic’s culture, team interactions, and patient environment align with your expectations.

Tips for Effective Shadowing

1. Set It Up the Right Way

   • Proactively ask to shadow during your interview process. Reputable employers often encourage this, as they want you to experience their positive work environment firsthand.

   • Request to shadow multiple employees to gain a variety of perspectives on team dynamics and satisfaction.

2. Observe Team Interactions

   • Watch how the staff communicates. Are they friendly and collaborative, or dismissive and disengaged?

   • Look for openness to feedback and teamwork. Do they seem willing to ask each other questions and share insights?

   • Take note of the overall vibe—does it feel supportive and professional, or tense and disorganized?

3. Ask Questions—Lots of Them

   • If the person you’re shadowing is open to answering questions, it’s a great sign. If not, that could be a red flag.

   • Ask about:

     • Their story: Why did they choose this company?

     • Day-to-day operations: Schedules, documentation time, patient load, cancellation policies, and coding expectations.

     • Systems: What EMR system do they use? Is it user-friendly?

     • Organizational culture: Is management supportive? Are there opportunities for growth? Do they offer mentorship and what does this look like?

   • Compare their answers with what you observe to ensure consistency.

4. Engage with Patients

   • Don’t shy away from interacting with patients. Ask them questions like:

     • “What’s your experience here been like?”

     • “Why did you choose this clinic over others?”

     • “Have you been here before?”

   • Patients often provide valuable, unbiased insights into the quality of care and overall clinic environment.

5. Look for Red Flags and Green Lights

   • Red flags: Unhappy employees, poor communication, disorganization, and dismissive attitudes.

   • Green lights: Happy, engaged staff; satisfied patients; clear pathways for growth; and supportive management.

The Takeaway

Shadowing offers a unique glimpse into what it’s truly like to work at a clinic. It helps you:

• Confirm that the clinic culture matches your values and expectations.

• Avoid environments where you won’t thrive.

• Make an informed decision about your first (or next) job.

The best workplaces foster happiness among both employees and patients, creating an environment where great experiences and outcomes go hand in hand. By shadowing, you’re setting yourself up for success and ensuring that your first day is the start of something great.