Interviewing with Precision: 10 Essential Questions to Ask

Exploring new job opportunities in dentistry is very exciting – and there’s never been a better time for dental professionals looking to grow their careers! From clinical roles as a dental hygienist or dental assistant to office manager and patient coordinator positions, showcasing your skills and qualifications in the interview process is important. Asking thoughtful questions during the interview demonstrates your genuine interest and helps you better understand the position and dental practice. Asking these 10 essential questions during your interview will help you make an informed decision and stand out as a candidate.

1. Describe a typical day in your dental office.

Asking this question allows the interviewer to share a typical day for you if you go forward to accept the job. This question can be answered in so many different ways. What if the interviewer replies, “ We strive to ensure every patient receives same-day treatment, whether they are staying from recare, an emergency call, or a walk-in. Some days may go overtime, or appointments may overlap, but our patients appreciate our hustle!” You may be listening to this response, thinking, “This sounds like my worst nightmare!” It’s better to know now than later after signing the dotted line. 

2. How long has your staff been with you?*

High staff turnover can be your first red flag of bad management or a toxic work environment. On the other hand, long-time staff can indicate high job satisfaction and a supportive team. Gaining insight into staff longevity will help you make a better decision. 

3. How are appointments scheduled for new patients, SCRPs, recalls, and restorative dental procedures?*

Time matters in dentistry! When interviewing for a clinical position as a dental hygienist, it is important to ensure adequate appointment times to perform a high standard of care. If appointments are not scheduled appropriately to complete FMXs, periodontal charting, full mouth SRPs, or prophylaxis and periodontal maintenance, then that office may not be an appropriate fit.

This applies to dental assistant positions, as well! If restorative work is scheduled into double columns or appointments are overlapped, but there’s only one of you, the workflow may be unmanageable and overwhelming without adequate staff.    

4. Why are you hiring for this role?

Understanding why the office is hiring for the position is vital to your job satisfaction. Is a team member retiring? Is the practice growing and creating more op space? Are they hiring an associate dentist or merging with another dental practice? Did they have to part ways with a toxic employee? However, these questions are answered may sway your decision to join the practice.

5. Do you find that you’re able to stay on schedule?*

Consistency in schedule flow is vital to a productive day. Does the dentist run on time for appointments? Do walk-ins and emergencies soak up any wiggle room in the schedule? Is the staff working past contracted hours to catch up with end-of-day duties?  If staying on time is a struggle for the office, other underlying issues may exist. If you are interviewing for an office manager position, ask what trials and errors the office has attempted to combat this issue. This will open the door for your unique suggestions, which may impress the dentist!

6. Can we schedule a working interview?*

A dentist can “talk the talk” during an initial interview, but do they “walk the walk” when you physically work in their office? By participating in the regular day-to-day production in the operatory, you get to see what can’t easily be faked. So, this is your chance to make sure the office, dentist, and staff are who they say they are in their job post and sales pitch. This is a critical way to ensure they are the right fit for you! 

Everything You Need To Know About Working Interviews

7. How would you describe your office culture?

The culture of an office sets expectations for how people behave and work together. In dentistry, a team that communicates and works well together is essential. Ensuring no communication boundaries exist between management and staff is vital in a well-run dental practice. This way, culture can break down the boundaries between management and staff, guide decision-making, and improve workflow. A strong work culture significantly impacts commitment, job performance, and an office’s success. 

8. What is your vision for the practice in 3-5 years?

Understanding where the dentist sees their practice evolving is important in aligning your goals and values. Is the dentist planning on retiring and bringing in an associate dentist? What if they are planning on cutting back hours or extending into weekends? If you are interviewing for a clinical position, are they planning on implementing 3D technology that requires additional training? Are these changes you are willing to partake in down the road?

9. Describe your ideal candidate for this job.

It is important to understand the roles and responsibilities the dentist and team expect from their new hire. What is the top priority they are looking for? Is it a bubbly personality or someone more analytical that can organize processes? Are they looking for someone who requires minimal training, or are they looking for a new graduate they can mold? Are they looking for protocols to be revamped and reviewed and thus need someone with multiple years of clinical experience?

10. How do you encourage team development?**

How the doctor invests in the team’s growth is important to set your expectations. Perhaps the team closes the office multiple times yearly to learn from a clinical and business coach. Determining if the doctor encourages the team to attend conferences, provides CE courses, and inspires the team to grow personally and professionally is important to ensure your career expectations are met. Also, ask if the dentist compensates for these courses. A dentist that supports their staff in furthering their careers is a big win!

Preparing for an interview involves more than rehearsing answers to commonly asked questions. It is equally important to ask thoughtful questions to gain a deeper understanding of the position, the practice, and values. You can assess if the position aligns with your career goals, values, and work style by asking the right questions. Remember, an interview is a two-way street; your questions can make a lasting impression and help you make an informed decision about your dental career.

*Source: TeethTalkGirl

**Source: DentistryIQ