Professionalism: From the Resume to the Interview and Beyond

Professionalism is essential in any field, but when beginning your journey into dentistry, it’s important to recognize you are entering the healthcare field.  No matter your role in an office, your duties and responsibilities directly impact your patient’s health.  From sterilizing instruments to financing treatment, all the way to direct patient care, people are counting on you to do your best.

Crafting a Professional Resume

The first step in landing the perfect job starts with a resume. This document is your first opportunity in making a strong impression on potential employers. A professional resume should accurately reflect your qualifications, skills, and experiences (meaning no exaggerating). But it’s a tough task to accomplish.  Creating an eye-catching resume includes:

• Clear and concise format: Use bullet points and easy-to-read fonts
• Objective statement: Start your resume with your why. In 2-3 short sentences, explain what brought you to dentistry and what impact you hope to make
• Education: Highlight all your education. Include any online courses or certificates you have taken to prepare for your career.
• Skills: Your DentalPost profile’s skills assessment can help you here. It contains a checklist of all the skills you have, and it’s a great way to remember all you know.
• Job experience: Even if this is your first dental job, be sure to highlight other jobs you have had. It shows future employers that you know how to show up every day!

Shining at the Interview

Your resume got you in the door, and now it’s time to wow them in the interview. This is where you can showcase your personality and get a feel for the office. Keep in mind you are interviewing them as much as they are interviewing you!

• Look the part: Be sure to arrive on time, look professional, and make eye contact! No matter what the nervous voices in your head are saying, stand tall and give a firm handshake (or elbow bump).
• Be prepared: Research the practice before you arrive. Read their Google reviews, check out their services, and if their team is on the website, start memorizing names. All of this will help you feel more confident and show your genuine interest in the job.
• Know yourself: Be ready for the “tell me about yourself” questions.  The DISC assessment in your DentalPost profile will help you to articulate your strengths and weaknesses eloquently.  
• Questions for the interviewer: Prepare thoughtful questions for the interviewer. Learn about their practice, expectations, and how you can contribute to the team.
• Thank you note: If you want to make an impact, have a Thank You note in your car stamped and addressed. When you return to your car, write a short note to your interviewer thanking them for their time and letting them know you look forward to hearing from them. And then pop it in the mail!

Professionalism on the Job

Once you’ve secured your position, maintaining your professionalism is critical for your success and the well-being of your patients. Starting any new job can be scary no matter how experienced you are. Starting with an open mind will significantly impact your success.

• Teamwork: Work collaboratively with all team members. Take the time to learn how you can support them, and they, in turn, will support you. Understanding how the office systems work helps ensure a harmonious team environment.  
• Professional growth: Dentistry is changing fast. As new science, technology, and practices emerge, it’s your duty to stay on top of them. This shows your commitment to providing the best care possible and makes your work a lot more fun!
• Feedback and improvement: Be open to constructive feedback and use it as an opportunity for growth. Continued self-improvement is a hallmark of professionalism, and it’s a two-way street. If you see things in the office that can be improved, come up with solutions, presenting a few at a time. You don’t want to bombard anyone with a long list of stuff they are doing “wrong.”

In the field of dentistry, professionalism is essential for creating trust with patients, maintaining a positive work environment, and advancing your career. Whether crafting your resume, preparing for an interview, or working in a dental practice, professionalism is the guiding principle that sets you apart as a dedicated and compassionate professional.