Congratulations, new grads, you have completed an essential milestone in your dental hygiene career. As you step into the real world, there may be some challenges that you should be ready to face, which could include finding the right employer. This can set the stage for continued career growth and allow you to succeed in your goals.
Finding an ideal office isn’t always easy, as it is often not feasible to keep holding out for the right job or changing offices until you do. This article aims to equip you with some practical tips to help in your search for the right fit rather than diminish potential struggles.
Choosing the Right Fit
As a new hygienist, I was eager to begin my career but never spent time evaluating the opportunities. I felt pressure to accept whatever came my way and tried to adjust to the given environment. I gradually learned to respect the value of my education. I started to assess the details of each job offer and carefully gauge the opportunity for growth or risks that came with it.
I also gradually understood that some employers may overlook the value and responsibility of your education and license. Instead, the focus may be solely on the financial aspect of the business rather than respecting a dental hygienist’s professional standards for patient care.
It is essential to seek employers who value your skills and expertise and provide a safe environment for patients and you to practice.
Finding an ideal workplace that aligns with your personal values and supports your professional growth is invaluable. Understanding what to look for in a suitable workplace can enable you to make informed choices in your job search. Here are six practical tips to guide you in choosing the right fit.
1) Search an office online before your interview
Before going for an interview, you can search the office’s website, read Google reviews, and look for their rating and reviews on job application websites. The office’s website may provide information about various dental procedures they offer, give insight into team members if they are listed, and provide pictures of the office to give you an idea of where you would be working.
An office’s Google reviews can provide feedback from the patients whose dental well-being you may ultimately be responsible for. However, be mindful that Google reviews typically provide a one-sided perspective. It is important to pay attention to how the office responds to the patient’s feedback.
You can also look for an office’s rating and reviews on job application websites to see the perspective of current or former employees. When reviewing job application websites, consider whether the office offers flexible hours or maintains a strict schedule based on your preference. Additionally, look for any available benefits and the turnover rate of team members. Like Google reviews, be mindful of one-sided perspectives.
2) Consider the location and commute
Search the location and find an effective way to commute to the office. This will help you plan the time you need to arrive promptly for an initial or working interview and if you are offered and accept the position. Also, consider the travel time involved if traffic or unfavorable weather conditions can be a concern.
Parking is an additional aspect to weigh if you choose to drive to work. Considerations may include the availability of parking spaces, the proximity of parking to the office, and the cost of parking if the office does not have a parking lot. If you choose not to drive, are public transportation options nearby?
The safety of the office’s location is another factor to consider.
3) Assess the office during a working interview
During a working interview, you have a valuable opportunity to assess the working environment and determine if it’s an ideal fit for you. Some things to consider are:
- Are you allowed to practice according to dental hygiene standards of practice?
- Does the office prioritize patients’ needs, or are they production-driven?
- Are the instruments acceptable and the equipment functional?
- How are the patients scheduled? Is adequate time given for appointments?
- Does the office prioritize patients’ needs, or are they production-driven?
- Is there a reasonable time allotted for lunch?
You can also ask your peers and senior colleagues what they look for during a working interview. If necessary, consider requesting to work a few trial shifts to allow both parties to assess if they are the right fit for each other.
During a working interview, you can also assess the office’s management and team members’ interactions with the patients.
Keep in mind that working interviews should be paid just as any other working shift.
4) Ensure a comprehensive employment contract
From my experience, any promises made during the interview must be clearly reflected in the employment contract. This includes but is not limited to:
- Job responsibilities
- Compensation structure and terms, such as salary, hourly rate, or production-based
- Working hours
- Vacation or sick leave policies
- Benefits
- Other incentives: Allowances for uniforms or continuing education
If you feel that you are being given more (or less) responsibility than discussed during the interview, you can always politely talk to the employer and renegotiate the contract and compensation details.
5) Look for open communication
A clear, easy, and open approach to communication is one of my top priorities when looking for an employer. Open communication is key to staying aligned with the other team members. For instance, it helps everyone stay informed about any changes in the office protocols.
As a part-time hygienist, you may not be in the office daily and need updates on your schedule and any patient cancellations that affect it. Clear and timely communication can help you manage your time effectively and stay informed even when you are not in the office every day.
Open communication also helps align the team with patient care. This might include needed radiographs based on the patient’s specific needs, treatment modifications, uncompleted treatment, or any immediate referrals or consultations required by a specialist.
6) Consider temping
Before committing to a permanent position, temping can be a valuable tool for identifying what an ideal work environment looks like for you. Temping in various offices can help you understand your preferences for a permanent position.
Temping can also give you a refreshing change from your regular routine and allow you to explore new ideas and technologies used in different practice settings. Additionally, it can help you meet other dental professionals and inspire your professional growth by exposing you to new challenges.
In Closing
Remember, your career, education, and dental hygiene license are a significant part of your life. Trust your instincts and stay open to new challenges and opportunities. However, always adhere to your professional ethics and boundaries. Follow current evidence-based best practices and comply with rules and regulations for practice in the state or province in which you are licensed. If you have any questions regarding any specific situation, feel free to contact the appropriate regulatory body for guidance.
Finding the ideal office is like finding a second home – invest your time and explore. Keep exploring with your mind and heart until you find a place where your heart sings and your soul feels at ease.
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