How to Master 3 Popular Interview Questions

Stepping into the world of dental professionals is a journey paved with hard work, dedication, and a passion for enhancing oral health and smiles. As you embark on this path, one pivotal milestone awaits you—the interview. Whether you are a seasoned dental professional seeking new opportunities or a recent graduate ready to make your mark, acing the interview is crucial in securing your dream job.

Interview preparation is the key that unlocks the doors to success in this competitive industry. By understanding the most common questions and mastering the art of tailored responses, you can confidently present yourself as the ideal candidate. Three common interview questions will most likely be asked during your initial interview.  Preparing yourself ahead of time with throughout responses will ensure you look prepared and polished.

Interview Question 1: “Tell Us About Yourself”

You may think this is an easy question;  however, when you are put on the spot and already nervous, you may stumble on this “easy” question. The interviewers want a unique response about who you are and what drives your life and career. Avoid being too generic or just reciting the resume that is already in their hands. Taking a DISC assessment can be a great tool in helping you fabricate an impressive response.    

Understand Your DISC Personality Type

DISC is a behavioral assessment tool that categorizes individuals into four primary personality types: Dominance (D), Influence (I), Steadiness (S), and Conscientiousness (C). Each type represents certain behavioral traits and communication styles. Your DISC report will give you the language you need to talk positively about yourself and help frame even your weaknesses more positively. The DISC personality chart lays out your strengths and weaknesses and will guide you toward the best way to market yourself.

Understanding DISC helped me transform my response from “My name is Allie. I’ve been a dental hygienist for 10 years. I love to go hiking with my dog and attend concerts…” to “A little bit about myself is that I am a Supportive personality type, which means I am very friendly, compassionate, and empathetic towards people, which helps me build deep, loyal relationships with my patients and coworkers. I am also a great team player, so I am usually the first to step in when someone needs an extra hand in their operatory or sterilization.” 

You can take your DISC assessment when you make your free account on DentalPost!

Interview Question 2: “What Do You Know About Our Office?”

Knowing more about the dental office allows you to tailor your answers during the interview. You can highlight specific skills, experiences, or attributes that match their requirements and demonstrate how you can contribute to their practice’s success. It also prepares you for the question, “What do you know about our office?” 

Check Social Media

Most dental offices have some sort of social media page. Look at what they’re posting, whether it’s a website, Facebook, or Instagram. Do they do activities outside of the office regularly? If so, you can answer, “I saw on your Facebook that your team enjoys getting together outside of work, which shows me there is a healthy work culture and respect amongst the team, which is extremely important to me.” 

Check Their Reviews

Dive into their Google Reviews and see what their patients say about their experience. You can answer, “I read your Google Reviews, and your patients seem to appreciate your chairside manner. You make them feel comfortable and confident in a usually uncomfortable and anxiety-ridden situation. I enjoy working alongside a dentist who advocates for their patients and forms trusting relationships.”

Check Their Website

Go onto their website and read the dentist’s biography. Get an insight into their background and the services they provide at their practice. Does he or she seem to appreciate modern technology? Does their office offer same-day Cerec crowns? Do they 3D print their aligners, occlusal guards, and prosthetics? Does their periodontal protocol involve the newer Peiro Protect or Guided Biofilm Therapy technologies? Knowing the details within the office will help guide an impressive response such as, “Well, I saw on your website, Dr. Smith, that you have been a dentist for over 30 years. You seem to appreciate what modern dentistry offers with digital software and 3D printing. I have always wanted to work in an office where I can learn and grow with modern ways of performing my dental skills.” 

Interview Question 3: “Do You Have Any Questions for Us?”

It’s highly recommended to ask your interviewer relevant, thoughtful questions. Doing so will give you a better understanding of whether the position is the right fit for you.

It also shows the interviewer you have a genuine interest in the position. If the time for you to ask questions comes and you let the interviewer know that you don’t have any, it may come across as a sign that you did not prepare or are not taking the position seriously.  

Remember, interviewers are not just a one-way street. You want to interview the dentist to ensure the office fits you well! Do not hesitate to ask questions about the work culture, expectations, and responsibilities. Be upfront with what you seek regarding your career and future growth, and make sure they align with your practice. The more upfront and forthcoming you are, the better your chances are in finding not just a job, but your dream job!

For guidance on questions to ask during the interview, check out: Interviewing with Precision: 10 Essential Questions to Ask 

Get your FREE download of The Ultimate Dental Job Seeker Toolkit now, complete with worksheets, checklists, tips, and best practices to help you find a job you love.