Figuring Out What’s Right for You 

Pediatricians often choose their jobs based on several factors. Here are some general categories to consider with questions you can ask to make sure that you find a job that is right for you:

Personal and Family Needs

Personal and family needs play a significant role in selecting the right position.

• How important is it to have friends or family/relatives close by for additional support?
• Are there career opportunities for my spouse/partner?
• Are there sufficient educational and cultural opportunities available?
• Does the climate and available recreational activities suit me/my family?
• Does the community appeal to me?
• What is the cost of living?
• Are the salary and benefits sufficient for me/my family? 

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Professional/Career Needs

Here are some questions to help assess career objectives before starting a job search.  

•  What kinds of patients do you want to serve? 
• Do you want to practice a specific style or philosophy of pediatrics? 
• Do you prefer inpatient or outpatient care? 
• Do you enjoy working shifts? 
• What type of location would you like to be in—rural, suburban, urban? 
• Are you a team player or someone who likes to go it alone? 
• Do you want full-time work, part-time work, or job-sharing? 
• What are your long-term goals? 
• How many hours do you want to work?  
• Do you mind working a lot of evenings and weekends?  
• How often do you want to be on call? ​