Danette Ocegueda, RDH, MS, Western Region manager of Professional Education for Philips Oral Healthcare, gives an inside look at the industry side of the profession to help you make the decision whether to make the leap into a corporate position.
Much like Dorothy in The Wizard of Oz following the yellow brick road, navigating the job titles for roles within the dental corporate world can be daunting. With a little research into the company and some insight from those familiar with the corporate side, you can learn more about the job and find the perfect position! Let’s take a look at some of the reasons you might consider becoming a corporate representative, which can range from sales representative to professional educator to marketing manager.
Ability to apply clinical skills and knowledge outside of the operatory. Dental hygienists possess a unique set of clinical skills and have a great understanding of the human body, especially in the head and neck region. In certain roles, dental hygienists serve as subject matter experts; therefore, companies desire individuals who have strong clinical backgrounds as corporate representatives.
Capacity to use other skill sets. You may have other skill sets such as sales, marketing, strategic planning, goal setting, or additional skills that companies are looking for in a corporate representative. Newer dental hygienists may be transitioning into dental hygiene from other career backgrounds or others may have acquired these skills through involvement in professional or community organizations. If you enjoy the marketing and sales aspect of dental hygiene a position as a corporate representative may be right for you!
Personal autonomy. As a corporative representative, you will have a manager or report to someone within the corporation. Depending on the position, being a corporate representative allows for some sense of personal autonomy. With autonomy comes responsibility as well; you will be held accountable for your portion of the business. If you like the allure of having personal autonomy and working independently, then working as a corporate representative may be a good fit for you.
Variety and flexibility. For those who like variety, a corporate job may be appealing. Every day is different, which may offer some flexibility in your work schedule. However, as a corporate representative, part of your job may require you to be the face of the company at continuing education events, vendor fairs, or trade shows, which may be held on evenings, weekends, or holidays. This is something you should consider if your lifestyle or family obligations require a more structured and predictable schedule.
Control of your income potential. Your income potential may be based on your efforts, motivation, and your ability to convince customers to purchase products or services from you. Some positions offer commission/incentive-based salary or a combination of a smaller base salary plus a commission or quota incentive. This type of compensation can be very attractive and offers a sense of control over your income potential.
Travel perks. Some corporate jobs may require travel. Depending on your role, travel requirements can be local, national, or international. Also depending on the position, another company benefit may include the use of a company car for local travel. Many companies allow employees to keep their accumulated hotel, airline, and rental car points that can be used for personal travel plans. This is undoubtedly an added reward of the job.
Less physical strain on the body. A corporate position may be attractive for hygienists who experience physical pain or cumulative trauma to their body from the demands of clinical dental hygiene. Physical issues may hinder some hygienists from being able to work in a clinical setting, therefore making it necessary to seek employment outside of the operatory.
Corporate benefits. Unlike many small businesses, larger corporate companies may provide an enticing benefits package. Much larger corporations may offer health benefits, life insurance, disability, and long-term care as well as flexible spending and daycare reimbursement accounts. Companies may also offer paid sick leave, vacation, retirement, and pension plans such as 401k, profit sharing, or employee stock purchase options. Some companies may even offer tuition reimbursement and health club incentives to encourage employees to further their education and to make healthy lifestyle choices. Benefits like these make a corporate position very inviting and in high demand.
Corporate positions also allow you to improve or enhance your current skill sets, including the capability to develop professionally and personally and gain a greater understanding of the business world.
Danette Ocegueda, RDH, MS, will provide dental hygiene students with more insight on how to break into the corporate side of the profession in a future post. Stay tuned!
