Applying for a new job? Lisa McCusker shares her advice for finding the right practice for you.
Whether you’ve finished vocational training (VT) or are eager to find a new opportunity after being in one place for some time, it’s vital that you think carefully about whatever role you decide to pursue. Depending on your situation, there are many things to consider before you accept a job offer – here are just some of the things to bear in mind in your search for a new role.
Research, research, research
It pays to be well-informed about the company prior to applying for a role. So, before your interview, spend time gathering information about the company concerning their patients, services and their general reputation in the area. The website usually displays reviews, as well as what treatment they provide and perhaps even pictures of the work they produce. Not only will this help you gain a clearer image of what kind of business it is, but it’ll also help you prepare more thoroughly during the interview process. You’ll be better prepared to answer any questions with real insight and an evident understanding of what’s required from you – you’ll also have the knowledge needed to ask meaningful questions to your interviewers.
Get your CV in order
Writing a decent CV can be daunting, as you’re essentially condensing your skills, experience and personality into a short format. However, as this is likely the first introduction your potential employer will have of you, it’s crucial to get it right.
There are many resources out there that can help you tidy up your CV, but it’s important to tailor your CV for each role you apply for – this is where researching the business comes in handy, too. With a keen understanding of what the dental practice is seeking in an employee, you can modify your CV to reflect the skills you possess that are needed for the role.
CVs should be formatted neatly and chronologically, but keep it short, sweet and to the point. Employers, on average, scan CVs for around six to seven seconds, so get the important stuff in there with minimal frills.
…and your portfolio!
Your portfolio will display your skills, development, knowledge and understanding. This can be in a hardcopy or in an electronic format, the latter of which allows you to access and send your portfolio more easily. Remember: your portfolio represents the very best of what you can do, as well as how your skills will flourish in the future. Spend time ensuring it reflects exactly what you want it to.
What opportunities are there?
Are you interested in developing abilities in a certain area? Is there a particular direction you want to take your skills? If you have a plan for your career, make sure your potential employer offers such opportunities. This might include providing you with the right materials, equipment and resources needed to help you flourish in the team or facilitate attendance at training courses. Ultimately, you need to get a feel that the business has its employees’ best interests at heart and wants to see you succeed.
Also, don’t be afraid to negotiate on your salary. You don't want to ask for too much, but you also don’t want to settle for too little. If your ideal salary cannot be met, what other benefits could the employer provide? They can be awkward conversations to have but don’t be afraid to probe and see what more you could be offered.
The right culture
When you enter the practice, what does it ‘feel’ like? Is the atmosphere pleasant and upbeat? Are your potential colleagues friendly? With so much time spent in the practice alongside your team, it's paramount that the work culture is the right one for you. Do you see yourself working well with the practice owner? You don’t have to be the best of friends, but a smooth working relationship will benefit everyone. Figures from Culture Shift show that 61 per cent of workers have had to take long-term leave due to problematic workplace behaviour, while 55 per cent said the emotional distress caused lasted up to two years. As such, you should ensure their workplace values fit with your own and there are no ‘red flags’ that might cause issues further down the line.
Cast your net wide
No matter your reasons for seeking a new role, it’s important that you don't just take the first job offered. Think about what you need from a potential employer and let that shape what sort of opportunities you look for. Dental Elite has decades of experience in the dental sector, and the team can help you find the role you’re looking for. They have a comprehensive selection of vacancies available, including roles for dental nurses, dental hygienists, associate/locum dentists and much more. There’s plenty of choice for roles in private, NHS and mixed practices too, so you can rest assured that they’ll find the right role for you.
At the moment, the dental sector really is your oyster when it comes to finding a new role. But like anything, choosing the right position for you, in the right location and workplace, requires careful consideration to ensure the most successful outcome.
For more information call 01788 545 900, email info@dentalelite.co.uk or visit www.dentalelite.co.uk