Did you know that a typical job opening receives an average of 250 resumes? That being said, if you’ve already locked down an interview for a dental hygienist position, you’ve already beaten out much of the competition.
The question now is, how can you nail the interview and better your odds at securing the job?
Here are 5 common dental hygienist interview questions (and great answers), to help you prepare to impress at your next interview.
Dental Hygienist Interview Questions
It’s important to remember one basic rule of thumb when job-hunting: be yourself.
If you’re not comfortable with the environment or people you’d be working with, you won’t be happy there. Being honest and sincere in a job interview is a great start to finding the right fit for both you and the offices where you apply.
1. “Tell Me About Yourself?”
This question may seem simple, but it’s one of the most dreaded interview questions out there. Many job-seekers don’t know what details to provide and how to describe themselves with the right balance of confidence and humility.
Answering Tips:
Your best bet is to practice a response. Have no more than 3 interesting things about yourself to describe. Any more than 3 and the interviewer won’t recall them.
Keep your responses clear and concise.
2. “How Did You Hear About This Position?”
Another seemingly harmless question, this is a great chance to stand out.
Answering Tips:
If you heard through a friend or another professional, this is your chance to name-drop. Even if you saw the job on a bulletin board, use that response as an opportunity to describe why it caught your eye and your interest in the role.
3. “Why Would You Be a Good Fit for This Role?”
Yet another opportunity to describe your interest in the practice and it’s unique characteristics.
Answering Tips:
Find a way to connect your strengths and passions to the characteristics the practice is searching for. Describe how your skills and passions align well with the mission and culture of the office.
4. “What’s Your Educational Background?”
This question gives you a chance to tell more about yourself than it may seem.
Answering Tips:
Instead of just listing off the name of the dental hygiene program you attended or any other educational institution, take this chance to include any academic accomplishments.
For example, let them know if you graduated with honors, completed any extracurricular activities during your education, worked with any special groups or finished any interesting projects.
5. “Can You Tell Me About a Challenge You Faced at Work and How you Resolved It?”
Be so careful answering this question, not to smack-talk old coworkers or employees. The interviewer is looking to understand how professional you are in difficult situations and what your problem-solving skills are like.
Answering Tips:
Without getting into a long, drawn-out story about work drama, focus on telling how you handled a challenged well. This is your chance to humbly describe your ability to stay calm and reasonable amid stressful situations.
Always try to end on a positive note. For example, conclude with a description of how you resolved the problem or came up with a good compromise.
Start Your Career in Dental Hygiene
When it comes to rocking an interview, preparation is key. Practice some good responses to common dental hygienist interview questions.
If you’re ready to learn more about how to become a dental hygienist and start your career today, contact us for a free information kit.