18 months ago i started asking doctors looking for references or letters of support to write their own and send it to me to edit.
This started as a time-saving measure as i was a bit snowed under.
It has proved extremely instructive in how we doctors present ourselves.

Some thoughts:
Most doctors do not describe their rich and varied experiences, focusing only on exams and qualifications.

There is rarely a mention made of non-medical skills acquired e.g. time managemt, problem-solving, project completion. #PedsICU

This includes a desert of silence around training in open disclosure, communication, conflict resolution, complaint management and bereavement support.
These issues are huge, but oddly absent from our own description of how we work.
#intensivecare @COAIrl

Interestingly, the impact of caring for sick people, often in challenging, resource-limited circumstances is not referred to.
A missed opportunity to provide insight and reflection.

In fact, patient care is mostly not mentioned.
@MedCouncilIRL @HSE_HR

Collegiality and relationships with healthcare colleagues also remain firmly below the radar. Despite the reality that it is these relationships, and the ability to make and sustain them, which sets apart the doctors you will remember.
#kindness #colleagues

Female doctors seem particularly adept at listing phenomenal academic achievements in an apologetic manner. Or omitting attainments altogether as ‘not relevant’ or ‘too long ago’ when reminded of them.
@WomenMedIreland

References are now considered to be such a minefield that many employers only provide employment verification.

A letter of recommendation carries weight and many fellowship programmes outside Ireland continue to request them. Could we do better?
@AnaesTrainees

Both references and letters of support may be pulled out and looked at again if something goes wrong. The current system of HR tick box templates vs. personal letters of support is ad hoc and from what ive seen, provides an incomplete picture of any doctor.
@NDTP_HSE