How to Get Ahead in Surgery

Entry into all aspects of surgery is very competitive so it is crucial that you are well prepared and make your career decisions strategically. 

You should plan your first and second choice career routes as early as possible, and frequently review your progress. Careful planning will also mean that you are better equipped to deal with any unexpected changes to your career path.

Read on for ways to maximize your career potential. 

Finding the right surgical post for you

 Identifying your speciality interest - and developing a portfolio of experience, knowledge and skills that demonstrates your commitment and aptitude for this specialty – is a key part of career preparation that you should have well underway. But what other factors do you need to consider to land a surgical training post? 

Geographic location

Some areas in the UK are extremely popular to do a surgical training post in. Competition for London posts is particularly fierce. With this in mind, it might be broadening your job search.

Do your skills match the post? 

You must honestly assess whether you are suitable for the job: pay very close attention to the person specification and job description. If you apply for a post for which you have too much or too little experience, you may not even be considered.

Find out more about skills and eligibility.

Make selective applications 

Completing the application and recruitment process for any surgical post requires considerable time and effort. While it is very important to have second choice options, applying for posts that do not match your skills or career goals will detract from more worthwhile – and potentially successful – applications. 
It is important to remember that if you accept a post you must take it up; you cannot accept an offer and then reject it if you are given a better offer elsewhere. 

Read our advice on applications and interviews.