How to Write a Job Listing That Will ATTRACT Applicants

Setting the Stage for Your Ideal Candidate

First and foremost, let’s acknowledge the fact that finding the right fit for your dental practice is no small feat. But guess what? The journey to finding your next star dentist often starts with YOU - more specifically, how you present your job opening. It might seem like just another task to check off, but crafting a compelling job posting is crucial. It's your first point of contact with potential candidates and sets the tone for their perception of your practice.

Would you rather apply to a vague, one-liner job posting or one that paints a vivid picture of both the practice and the role? A well-detailed posting can significantly increase the number of high-quality applications you receive. It acts as a natural filter, making sure that you’re more likely to attract candidates who truly align with your practice's needs and values.

Our recommendations below aim to streamline your job posting process, making it both efficient and effective. Let's see to it that your posting not only stands out in the crowded dental job market but also connects you with that perfect associate.

Job Title:

Your job title is the first impression potential candidates get about the role and your dental office. By ensuring it's clear, concise, and informative, you'll be well on your way to attracting the right talent for the position. Always keep the candidate's perspective in mind and think about what information would be most valuable to them when scanning job listings.

1. Clarity is Key

Make your job title clearly conveys the role. Avoid jargon or internal terminology that outsiders might not immediately recognize. For instance, “Dentist” is universally understood, while “Tooth Guru” might confuse potential applicants.

2. State the Specialization (if applicable)

If you're looking for a dentist with a specific specialization, include it in the title. Examples include “Pediatric Dentist,” “Orthodontist,” or “Periodontist.” This helps in immediately filtering out unsuitable candidates.

3. Experience Level

If there's a specific level of experience you're after, consider adding descriptors like “Entry-Level Dentist,” “Senior Dentist,” or “Dentist with 2+ Years Experience.” This provides clarity on what you're looking for.

4. Part-Time vs. Full-Time

This is a crucial piece of information that should be clear right from the title. Specify if the position is “Full-Time Dentist” or “Part-Time Dentist” to ensure candidates understand the commitment level.

5. Keep it Concise

Brevity can work wonders. While it's essential to be descriptive, a too-long title can be off-putting or cut off in job search platforms. Stick to the essentials and save the details for the job description.

6. Avoid Fluff and Buzzwords

Terms like “Rockstar” or “Ninja” may sound fun, but they can be confusing and might come across as unprofessional in the medical field. Stick to straightforward descriptors that clearly and professionally convey the role.

7. Location (optional)

If your dental office is in a sought-after location or if you believe the location is a key selling point, consider adding it to the title, e.g., “Dentist - Downtown Area.” However, remember the point about brevity. If it makes the title too long, it's best to leave it out.

Location: 

Location should include the full address of the office where the applicant would be working in.

Salary Range:

Yearly total salary will attract many more applicants than monthly or weekly for Full Time employment opportunities.

Procedures:

The field "What procedures will the associate be doing?" is a critical component of your job posting. Clearly specifying this ensures that potential candidates understand the scope of work and can assess their suitability for the role.

1. List Common Procedures

Begin by listing out standard dental procedures that every associate dentist should be familiar with:

• Dental cleanings
• Dental fillings (composite, amalgam)
• Root canals
• Tooth extractions
• Oral cancer screenings

2. Highlight Specialized Procedures

If you expect the associate to perform specialized tasks, mention them explicitly:

• Dental implants placement
• Orthodontic procedures, such as braces or aligner adjustments
• Periodontal treatments like scaling and root planing
• Cosmetic procedures, such as veneers or teeth whitening
• Pediatric dentistry procedures if the clinic caters to younger patients

3. State Patient Demographics

If the clinic has a specific patient demographic, like children or seniors, mention relevant procedures that cater to these groups:

• Sealants or fluoride treatments (typically for children)
• Dentures or bridges (often more common for older patients)

4. Mention Technology and Equipment

If your clinic uses advanced dental technology, specify any related procedures:

• Laser dentistry treatments
• CAD/CAM restorations
• Digital impressions

5. Consider the Team's Composition

If your clinic has specialists, the associate dentist might not be expected to perform specific procedures. For instance, in a clinic with a resident orthodontist, the associate dentist might not handle orthodontic adjustments.

6. Be Open to Training Opportunities

If you're willing to train the associate in specific treatments, mention it:

• "Willing to train in IV sedation" or
• "Opportunity to learn advanced endodontic treatments."

7. Clarify Expectations

If there are any non-negotiable procedures the associate must be comfortable with from day one, state it clearly. For instance, if immediate surgical extractions are a regular part of the clinic's offerings, and you expect the associate to handle these, be explicit about it.

8. Stay Updated and Relevant

Dentistry is an evolving field. Make sure that the procedures you list are up-to-date with current dental practices and technologies. Also, periodically review and update this list as the clinic's needs evolve.

Features:

What are some features of your dental practice? When looking to recruit a new dentist to your team, giving a clear picture of your dental practice’s unique features can make all the difference. This not only informs the prospective associate about the working environment but also attracts those who align with your practice's vision and values.

1. Practice Philosophy

Briefly discuss the core philosophy of your practice. Do you prioritize holistic care, patient education, or perhaps minimally invasive procedures?

2. Team Dynamics

Mention if you pride yourself on having a close-knit team, regular team-building exercises, or staff who've been with the practice for a significant amount of time.

3. Location and Facilities

Describe the locality - are you located downtown, in a residential area, near schools, or maybe in a medical hub? Highlight any state-of-the-art facilities like a modern waiting room, play area for kids, or dedicated consultation rooms.

4. Patient Base

Talk about your regular clients - are they long-term patients, families spanning multiple generations, or perhaps a younger, tech-savvy crowd?

5. Community Engagement

If your practice regularly hosts community events, free dental check-up camps, or school visits, mention these. It can appeal to those dentists who are community-oriented.

6. Advanced Technologies

Outside of specific procedures, discuss any cutting-edge dental technologies you employ, like 3D imaging, teledentistry consultations, or AI-based diagnostic tools.

7. Continuous Learning

If you emphasize ongoing education and regularly host or sponsor seminars, workshops, or courses for your staff, it can be a great draw for many professionals.

8. Special Amenities

These can be features like offering noise-canceling headphones for patients, having a relaxation zone, or using aromatherapy to help ease patient anxiety.

9. Sustainability Initiatives

If your practice takes eco-friendly measures, such as using biodegradable products or solar energy, it can resonate with environmentally-conscious candidates.

10. Business Model

Are you a private solo practice, part of a larger dental chain, or perhaps a cooperative? This can influence a candidate's decision based on their preference for working environments.

11. Awards and Recognitions

If your practice has received any local or international awards, been part of recognized dental associations, or garnered media attention, make sure to highlight these accolades. Remember, the key is not just to list what's great about your practice, but to genuinely reflect its environment and culture, ensuring a mutually beneficial partnership with your future associate.

Ideal Candidate:

The "Ideal Candidate" section is your chance to paint a picture of the person you envision thriving in your posted role. By detailing the desired qualities and skills, you not only guide potential applicants in evaluating their fit but also set clear expectations.

1. Start with the Basics: Mention the non-negotiables first - like the required years of experience, necessary certifications, or specific expertise in particular dental procedures.
2. Soft Skills are Key: Beyond technical abilities, highlight desired interpersonal qualities. Is emotional intelligence crucial due to the type of clientele? Do you value a team player given the collaborative nature of your practice?
3. Culture Fit: Dive into attributes that would mesh well with your practice's culture.
   
   

A Sample Job Posting

Job Title:  Associate Dentist – Specializing in Family and Cosmetic Dentistry

Location: Downtown Dentistry, Central City, Maple Lane

What Procedures Will The Associate Be Doing?

• Comprehensive oral exams and cleanings
• Fillings, crowns, and bridges
• Cosmetic procedures: teeth whitening, veneers, and bonding
• Basic orthodontics: braces and Invisalign consultations
• Pediatric dentistry: regular check-ups and sealants
• Root canal therapy and simple extractions

What Are Some Features Of Our Dental Practice?

Practice Philosophy: We believe in a holistic approach, emphasizing patient education and preventive care.

Team Dynamics: Our supportive team hosts monthly bonding activities. Many of our staff members have been with us for over a decade!

Location and Facilities: Modern practice in a bustling downtown location with cutting-edge technology and a cozy, family-friendly waiting room.

Patient Base: A mix of long-term patients and young professionals, with an increasing number of families and children.

Community Engagement: Regular involvement in local events, dental camps for kids, and school dental education sessions.

Advanced Technologies: In-house 3D imaging, AI-based diagnostic tools, and teledentistry services.

Continuous Learning: We sponsor staff attendance at two dental conferences or workshops each year.

Special Amenities: Comfort is key! We offer noise-canceling headphones, a relaxation zone, and even aromatherapy sessions for anxious patients.

Sustainability Initiatives: Proudly using solar energy and eco-friendly products to ensure a greener future.

Business Model: Independent private practice with a vision to expand and integrate more specialized services.

Ideal Candidate:

Holds a DDS/DMD degree from an accredited institution.

Has a minimum of 1-2 years of experience (though fresh graduates are encouraged to apply).

Demonstrates proficiency in the mentioned procedures.

Possesses excellent communication skills and prioritizes patient comfort.

Values teamwork, continuous learning, and community engagement.

Benefits:

Competitive salary with performance bonuses.

Medical and dental coverage.

Opportunities for advanced training and specialization.

Chance to work in a practice that values innovation, camaraderie, and community service.