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The #1 Reason Applicants Fail in Interviews & Don't MATCH (& it's not what you think)

I’ve helped 970+ residency candidates match by standing out in interviews—and here’s the #1 lesson I’ve learned:

Ditch the script.
Stop delivering boring, lifeless answers.
Start having conversations.

Here’s how:


1. Keep it conversational.
You’re not delivering a monologue.
Interviews are two-way streets.
Make the interviewer feel engaged and interested.
Treat it like a conversation, not a presentation.

2. Focus on key points, not a script.
Memorizing a script makes you sound robotic.
Instead, prepare 3-5 key points for each question.
Let your answers flow naturally from there.
This way, you’ll sound real and relatable.

3. Bring your personality.
Interviewers want to know if they’ll enjoy working with you.
Smile, laugh when appropriate, and be yourself.
Showing personality makes you memorable.

4. Pause and reflect.
Don’t rush.
You don’t need to fill every second with talking.
Taking a thoughtful pause shows you’re genuine and reflective.
It shows you’re listening and processing.

5. Use the PCM Model to Make Every Answer Stand Out.
The PCM model lets you connect beyond words.
Here’s how to apply it:

Fun: Add lightness or humor where appropriate.
Logic: Stay organized and clear. Answer directly, then support with details.
Feelings: Share stories that create emotional connections.
Action: Highlight how ready you are to contribute during residency.
With PCM, you’re not just answering questions.
You’re creating a conversation and a lasting impression.

The key takeaway? It’s not just about what you say, but how you say it.

Here is a free gift 🎁 to implement PCM in your answers to take them from abstract boring to phenomenal:

Best

Dr. Manik Madaan