Embarking on a dental career starts with the job interview process. It is typical to feel nervous at the prospect of being interviewed, but below are eight tips that can help you come across as a strong candidate.
1 – Gain Knowledge About the Practice
A little bit of digging and research will reveal all the information you need to be knowledgeable about the dental practice you are attempting to work for. Find out if they have any specialties and awards. The more you know, the more you can impress the interviewer. This actually takes very little time to do and is worth the investment of research skill.
2 – Create a Spotless Resume
You need to have a resume handy to offer. It needs to be completely up-to-date and neat looking. This is one area you do not want to spare any time or expense getting done. Have it done by a professional resume service if this is not something you feel confident about doing. Preparation is the best method for doing well in a dental career interview. Be ready to land a job with your next opportunity through Advantage Dental Careers.
3 – Arrive at Interviews Well-Groomed
Plan what you will wear to an interview well in advance. Take a critical look in the mirror to make sure you are well represented. All clothes should be in good shape, clean and well-fitting. Try and avoid eating or drinking anything until after the interview. This will keep accidental spills from happening, leaving you no time to change.
4 – Always Be On Time
Showing up late for a job interview is an almost sure guarantee that you will not get the job. No matter what the circumstances might be, they will tend to feel you are not that interested in the position. They are also leary that it could be a demonstration of a tendency at tardiness for work if hired. This may not be the case at all. You may have been in an accident, lost your car keys, or had any number of problems erupt. It will still be a huge black mark against you.
5 – Firm Handshakes and Good Eye Contact
Always greet the interviewer with a smile and a firm handshake. This shows that you are present and focused on the interview process. Weak handshakes and a lack of expression give bad body language signals that are picked up quickly as a negative.
6 – Never Speak Ill of Former Employers
It is in poor taste to speak ill of former employers. The gentlest way you can describe separating from the employer is best. Speaking harshly of a former employer can be misconstrued as a possibility that you are taken to gossip, or might speak ill of them if things are not going the way you want at the time.
7- Answer All Questions Directly
Never avoid answering a question posed by the interviewer. If it seems you are avoiding providing an answer, it might be taken as deception, or trying to hide something. Answer everything as completely as you are able.
8 – Smile and Exude Positivity
No one wants to hire a negative person. Show them the best side of your personality. You do not want to go overboard and talk too much, but be bright and positive about everything. It will make you a desired asset to the business.