It’s natural to be curious and want to learn about a potential job opportunity as much as possible. Physical therapy employment opportunities are projected to increase by 15% by 2032. Job growth means more interviews and employment opportunities. Questions can come up in the interview process flow, but there may be others you want to know but might be hesitant to ask. Don’t be afraid to ask your own questions. 

Job role and expectations

• What does a typical day or week look like for one of your therapists? — You want to know what a day looks like. Keep your question open-ended to give you more insight into the position and its expectations.
• How are some of the other therapists using their strengths in the clinic other than treating patients? — This question can let you know a few important things: It can tell you if employees wear multiple hats and if the manager recognizes and values the employees who go the extra mile. If you do or don’t want this environment, this can let you know what roles you may be expected to fill outside of patient care.
• How long have you been a part of the department? What about other therapists? — This question can be more important than you think. It can be very telling if the team is relatively new, less than five years old, or well established. If you may be joining a team with many new therapists, it could mean a high turnover rate. However, it can be just as challenging if you would be joining a team of therapists who have been together for 15 years.
• What is the division of labor for the clinic? — Staffing setup and roles impact job satisfaction. Make sure the ratio of physical therapists to physical therapy assistants meets your expectations for the job you want to do. 
• Who will I be working with? — Does the clinic employ other disciplines like athletic trainers and techs? If you are a newer physical therapist, can you be paired with a mentor? This can help you learn the scope of care offered at the clinic outside the position you’re interviewing for. 
• Why did this position become open? — Use this question to determine the need for this position being listed. Is the clinic growing or did someone leave? The position needs to be filled, but why?
• What are your biggest goals for the clinic this year? — This question can help show you the manager’s priorities for the clinic and can give you the chance to sell yourself. Show off your strengths; reference your experience and skills and how they can help the clinic meet its goals. 

Job-specific questions

• What is the probationary period for this position, and what does it involve? — Can you start contributing to your retirement starting day one? When can you start using your time off? 
• What will the onboarding process look like for this clinic? — Will you take over someone’s entire established caseload, or will you gradually build it up? What EMR does the clinic use, and how will you be trained on using it?
• How do you measure job performance? — This can give you a glimpse into what the clinic values the most and how it works. Some clinics might have a specific system. It doesn’t have to be a deal breaker, but you should be wary of a clinic that doesn’t evaluate performance. You can’t grow if performance isn’t measured.
• How much time is allocated for patient care? — Some clinics may let their therapists have significant scheduling autonomy, while others set the schedules without allowing input from therapists. It’s beneficial to know how your prospective employer runs the show.

Pay and benefits

• It’s important to me to keep my clinical skills up to date. What value does the clinic place on continuing education? — This answer can show you the clinic’s budget for continuing education and its view on employee development.
• What are the hours/days you want to cover with this position? — If they are hesitant to commit to an answer, be hesitant to accept an offer. While it can be common for a PT to have a flexible shift with varying hours, not giving an answer can be a warning sign.
• What is the compensation package? — You may be reluctant to ask this question, but your salary is important. The compensation package can give you an overview of benefits, PTO, 401(k), etc. Where you are in your career can influence what part of a compensation package you’re most interested in.

By asking questions like these, or other questions you may think of, you can gain a deeper understanding of the clinic and the job you’re applying for. Interviews aren’t just about the employer evaluating you, but also you evaluating the employer to ensure that it’s the best fit. Asking questions can help show your genuine interest and help you make the most informed decision about your career.

Ready for a new and exciting career opportunity? You’ll find it at Rehab Access Physical Therapy

Rehab Access Physical Therapy firmly believes that partnership means creating something that is greater than the sum of its parts. Rehab Access is proud to be part of the Alliance Physical Therapy Partners partnership that brings together physical therapy clinics around the nation to help people get the kind of treatment they’re looking for and then exceed their expectations. 

But we realize that our clinics can’t serve the people in their communities with exceptional physical therapy without amazing PT team members and admin staff. That’s why we’re always on the lookout for hardworking individuals who want: 

• A less hectic daily schedule than most PT providers require. 
• Exceptional health, retirement and wellness benefits. 
• Readily available mentorship and professional development opportunities. 
• To be part of a team that’s committed to caring for its patients and the local community.

Want to learn more about the current career opportunities available at Rehab Access? Check out our Careers page.