Apply, apply, and apply. And then follow up.

Presuming your resume is on point, I would say that most people seeking a job should be at the very minimum, getting 10 resumes submitted, whether in person, or online. Apply as much as you can. If you go into an office to turn in a resume, remember that it could be potentially be a first step in an interview process, and so you want to appear poised and professional, with a smile.

What should you do if you don’t hear back? Ah my friends here are a little secret to getting hired: follow through. After a week, call the offices you have applied to and ask if they’ve had a chance to review your resume. If and when you interview, a mailed thank you note is always appropriate to send, the office will appreciate your extra effot.

You never get a second chance to make a first impression.

The most common question I hear is, “what do I wear to an interview?” The simple answer is business professional. Business professional is actually quite an easy look to create. If it is a working interview then scrubs is best. If you have tattoos, cover them up with long sleeves or a lab coat. Take out all facial piercings and maybe some from your ears if you have several. Oral hygiene is extremely important in this field. Make sure to brush and floss before your interview. Wear a smile and be proactive at your interview.

Continue to utilize your textbook, and your school’s resources

To prepare for interviews browse through your textbook, label an adult dentition, and practice writing out the steps to a composite filling procedure. Making a phone call or sending a text your school director or a fellow classmate might provide additional help.

It may take a week, a month, three months- even a year to get hired. Sometimes it takes time to find the perfect fit. Many dentists prefer student’s right out of school so that they can train them to their exact office. You made it through your dental assistant’s course, now you’re ready to find a job!