60 Second Interview: Doctor

In this interview, Rupert talks about his career as a GP and his work in the field of aesthetics. He explains why he loves making people feel better and more confident, and shares some top tips on what you can do to get a head start in your healthcare career.

Name: Dr Rupert Critchley BM MRCGP

Company: GP and Founder of Viva Skin Clinics

Industry: Medical & Healthcare

What is your job? GP & Founder/Director of Viva Skin Clinics

How long have you worked here? Viva Skin Clinics was established in 2004

Education

University: University of Southampton

Degree: BM MRCGP

A-level: Chemistry, biology, music tech, maths (AS)

1. What was your very first job?

My first job was working in a hotel cleaning floors on my summer holiday break at school.

2. What did you want to do when you were at school?

I was very much intrigued by science and the human body, essentially how things worked. Alongside this, I found enjoyment in helping people. Merging these together lead me to pursue a career in medicine.

3. How did you find out about the industry?

I got some industry experience in hospital in which I was mostly told that the reality of working as a doctor would not be as I expected - especially financially - but in the end I went with my heart. 

4. How did you get there?

Work experience and not thinking too far ahead - I found that small steps were more effective when career planning.

For example, focus on the A-levels and aceing the exams rather than your finishing point years down the line. You can become consumed with the end point rather than thinking about the present moment.

Other than than, nothing pays off more than hard work and perseverance.

5. What is a typical day like?

I work as a GP two days a week which involves seeing patients in a busy NHS practice in Surrey. A day in the GP surgery can be challenging with busy duty lists and short 10 minute consultations. However, the moment you see a smile, treat or fix a problem, it is worth every minute. Helping people is incredibly rewarding and I live for those moments.

I run an aesthetics business called Viva Skin Clinics the rest of the time. We make people look and feel better with natural looking enhancements. Mostly helping to correct things that bother people about their complexion. I am the director of this so have to organise the team on a daily basis and manage how the company grows. My three clinics are based in Central London. I also run a training academy for doctors, dentists and nurses in Harley Street so enjoy teaching other people.

6. What’s the best thing about your job?

Making people feel better and improving their self-confidence.

7. What is the most challenging thing about your job?

Running a business in itself alongside working can be consuming. Getting a work-life balance is really important. Stay fit and live well because this helps above all.

8. What advice do you have for people who want to do what you do?

If at first you don’t succeed try and try again would be my advice - providing you love every minute of what you do.

Apply this to everything you set your mind on and always aim to be the best. Maintain your work life balance and surround yourself with positive and influencing people. Your environment is also key to development as an individual.

Get yourself stuck in as much as you can. Shadow doctors, go to hospitals and GP surgery for work experience. Find out exactly what they do. Contact local GP practices and hospital post graduate centres in the area. Get stuck in and be proactive. You can always find someone who would is welcome and accommodating. Doctors love to teach so you should find this eye opening and rewarding. It will give you a good insight into what the job entails so will help you make that important decision.

Don't let anyone influence what you want to do.

9. What things do you wish you’d known before starting your career?

The initial salary may be less than expected and length of training to become a consultant or general practitioner lengthy, but the long term gain is rewarding especially in certain fields of medicine such as dermatology or cosmetic surgery.

You should never make a decision purely based on finances and pay. Enjoy what you do so follow your heart!

10. Where would you like to be in 5 years?

In 5 years time, I want to spend more time travelling and keep focus on enjoying the simple things in life! Keep appreciating family, friends and the beauty of the nature and the world we live in.

Could a career as a doctor be for you? Check out our guide to find out how you can get there.

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Image credits

Lead image by jannoon028 via Freepik