4 Must-Have Benefits When Seeking Your Next Dental Job

Negotiating your compensation package is a critical step in securing your next job. The dollar amount often takes center stage, and we get very caught up in that bottom line number. However, there are several other valuable benefits that you should know about to help boost your overall job satisfaction and work-life balance. So before accepting your new position, consider the following four key benefits. 

#1: 401(k) Plans

Retirement can feel like a distant dream when you are newly embarking on your career, but you want to ensure you are taking advantage of this benefit. When discussing 401(k) benefits, consider these factors:

• Employer Contributions: Some employers offer matching contributions to your 401(k) plan. If your employer offers matching, you want to take full advantage of this as it is free money given to you for your retirement. 
• Vesting Schedule: Inquire about the vesting schedule, which dictates when employer contributions become yours. If you leave your employer before you are fully vested, there is the possibility that you cannot take all of your employer contributions. 
• Investment Options: Seek flexibility for your retirement contributions. Does your employer pick how the money will be invested, or are you given options to choose from that vary in risk? 

#2: Health Insurance

Healthcare is essential; understanding the health insurance plan before employment could save you time and money. 

• Coverage: Ensure your health insurance covers a wide range of medical services.
• Premiums and Deductibles: Review the monthly premiums and deductibles to understand your out-of-pocket expenses. Ask if the employer pays part of the premium or if are you responsible for the entire amount. 
• Family Coverage: Does the plan offer family coverage if you have dependents? 

#3: Vacation Time

Balancing work and personal life is crucial for your well-being. Negotiating for ample vacation time can help you recharge and maintain a healthy work-life balance:

• Paid Time Off (PTO): What is the PTO allowance for a full-time or part-time employee? Is this time accrued throughout the year, or are you given your vacation time up front to use when needed? 
• Paid Holidays: Ensure you receive paid holidays, as this can be a significant benefit that adds to your time off. Does the office only pay for major holidays, or are some more minor holidays also paid? I always recommend requesting a list of days the office closes during the interview process. 

#4: Continuing Education and Uniform Allowance

Two often underestimated but invaluable benefits to remember are continuing education and a uniform allowance.

• Continuing Education: Ask whether the office attends CE events together or offers reimbursement towards continuing education courses, helping you expand your skills and knowledge. 
• Uniform Allowance: A uniform allowance to cover the cost of professional attire ensures you always present a polished image to patients. Another option is to have scrubs and jackets brought in by an outside company, and the office covers the cost of the service, ensuring you always have laundered uniforms. 

Benefits Package Alignment

Before accepting a job offer, download your FREE 5-step Ultimate Dental Job Seeker Toolkit. Step 5 is all about the job offer, including tips for weighing the offer and negotiation.

Hourly wage will always be an important piece of your total compensation in the job offer. However, your benefits package should align with your personal and professional priorities. Accepting a job with a comprehensive benefits package can significantly improve your job satisfaction and overall quality of life. As you begin your career or consider a change, don’t underestimate the power of these non-monetary benefits in securing a brighter and more fulfilling future!