Pounding the pavement

When it comes to the job hunt, we all need a little guidance. by Linda Belaus, RDH

During my more than 30 years as a dental hygienist, I’ve been on tons of interviews, I’ve volunteered with my local component as employment chairperson, I’ve owned and operated a very successful referral service for more than 10 years, and I’ve managed my own Web site, www.dentaljobs.net, for more than eight years.

And with all this background, I understand that the most difficult thing about a job search is figuring out where to start. Hopefully, this advice will help you map out an effective job search—one that will land you the job that truly meets your needs and makes you happy.

The best way to find a job is through networking—talk to your colleagues at continuing education courses or meetings, have lunch with them, make contacts anywhere and everywhere you encounter them. Your friends, family and former co-workers each have a network of their own, and a friend-of-a-friend might hold the perfect lead. Don’t be shy. Reach out to your network and let your contacts know you’re on the job market.  

But of course, the more ways you search, the more likely you are to connect with the right employers, so don’t discount other options such as employment agencies, staffing services or the Internet. Newspapers are another avenue, but one that is utilized less and less now that online resources offers an easy, less expensive alternative.

Finding the job you want to apply for is only one aspect of an “effective” job search.  Many make the common error of waltzing into the perfect job completely unprepared.

All job searches should start with a “self inventory.”  You would never consider taking a long trip unless you were confident your vehicle was road worthy and your suitcases were packed. In the same way, your resume needs to be up-to-date and in order.  You need to thoroughly consider your strengths and contributions to your previous employers.  You should walk into your interview with a clear image of the many advantages you bring as an employee.

Of course, each dental office will value certain traits more than others. For some, people skills and customer service are the main issue, while others feel the latest techniques and equipment make their office more desirable, and some see the quick turn-around and attention to detail as the traits they believe to be most important.  

Many times you can pick up on their priorities through the wording of their advertisement. Pay close attention to words like friendly, enthusiasm, good with people, motivated, organized, state-of-the-art, progressive, and high tech. Not only will understanding what a particular office is looking for help you to land the job, but perhaps more importantly, help to determine your long-term satisfaction in that setting.  

Once you have an interview, make sure you…

* Arrive on time. Whether it’s an informational interview, an open house or a formal interview, always arrive about 10 minutes early. Allow plenty of time for traffic and poor weather.

* Dress and act the part. In a business setting, always dress in professional clothing in the best quality you can afford.

* Listen more than you talk. Even if you’re nervous at an interview, try not to ramble. By keeping your mouth shut, you can learn valuable information about the company and avoid saying something that you’ll wish you hadn’t.

* Ask good questions. At the end of an interview, the employer will inevitably ask if you have any questions. Have a list of questions prepared that showcase your interest in the position.

Linda Belaus, RDH, has been in the dental field for more than 30 years, taking her through the ranks of receptionist, chairside assistant, dental hygienist and continuing education instructor. She has been the owner and operator of a dental referral service, as well as the publisher of a dental newsletter. Visit her Web site www.dentaljobs.net.

1. Please outline the duties of your last position. Did you implement any new ideas, systems, and programs at your last job? If so, please tell me about them.

2. What did you like best and least about your last position?

3. Why did you leave?

4. Tell me about your strengths in dentistry? Do you feel there are any areas upon which you need to improve?

5. Have you worked in a situation where there was conflict? Tell me what you learned from the experience.