Otolaryngologists Share Tips Tor Navigating Challenges They Learned In Their First Five Years of Practice 

by Linda Kossoff •

Q: What advice would you give to a resident negotiating their first contract?

“Negotiation” is not a four-letter word. You are serious about your career. Act like it. Ask how the institution or practice will help you grow. Use national database information to ensure you are being paid fairly. Make sure your contract includes protected time for research, service, or administrative duties. Do not sign a contract without having a knowledgeable employment lawyer review it.

Q: How would you describe your formula for success?

Keep up with the literature, be willing to learn and incorporate new techniques, attend conferences, participate in committees, stay curious, respect others, enjoy new and old friendships in ENT, and believe in yourself without being arrogant. Being dedicated to my profession, my patients, and my community are the three legs of my success stool.

Linda Kossoff is a freelance medical writer based in Woodland Hills, California.