8 Questions to Ask in an Interview

You survived the dental hygiene program, earned your degree, and rocked the regional or state board examination. Now it’s time to land the job of your dreams. But how do you ensure the practice is a good fit for you? Preparing questions to ask during the interview can help give you an inside view of the practice.

1. What are the day-to-day responsibilities this role entails?

This question can help you decide if the position is a good fit. If the daily responsibilities sound overwhelming, or cause you to moan inwardly, then you may want to reconsider the position.

2. Are there opportunities for advancement or professional development?

This question shows your interest in staying in the practice long-term as you have your eyes set on advancement in the practice. Plus, a practice that invests in professional development shows how much it values its staff.

3. How is performance measured, and how often does the practice offer performance reviews?

You’ll want a clear understanding of what the manager is looking for in an employee. Will your performance be based on the number of patients you see per day? You want to know if your performance will it be based on production, the ability to communicate with team members and patients, patient feedback, or other skills.

4. Who are your typical patients? What are some patients needs that I’ll need to address?

This question shows your ability to predict and anticipate patients’ needs to improve the patient experience. This also demonstrates your willingness to personalize the care you provide to patients.

5. What are some characteristics that will make someone successful in this position?

This will give you some insight into the employer’s expectations and the traits he or she is looking for in an employee. The hiring manager may provide a wish list of traits, such as the ability to multitask, be able to take direction, be a team player, or be detail oriented.

6. Can you tell me more about the office culture?

Not every office is the same. You may feel a strong vibe as soon as you walk into the office, or it may be difficult to get a real feel for the place during your interview. A manager may not be honest about all that goes on in the office, but he or she can share some basic information that gives you a small peek into the office culture. Be sure to watch for clues such as a forced smile, and keep an eye on the interviewer’s body language when he or she is describing the practice’s culture.

7. What are the practice’s top priorities for the next 1 year to 2 years?

This gives the hiring manager a chance to layout plans for the coming year, giving you an idea if, or how the practice envisions growing in the near future. The answer provides an opportunity to learn of the practice’s needs and plans to incorporate new technology or establish new management roles into the practice. Can you align your skillset to the practice’s needs?

8. Do you feel my experience and skillset are a good match for the duties of this position?

This will give you the opportunity to defend any misgivings the interviewer may have about your ability to perform the duties expected. Be ready to talk up your strengths, explain what sets you apart from other applicants, and express your willingness to learn new skills.