Your Associate Matched on Match Day… Now What?

Match Day can bring mixed emotions for practice owners. You’re proud of your associate dentist for matching into a residency…but you also could be thinking, What does this mean for my practice? The good news: with the RIGHT mindset and plan, this transition can strengthen your culture, protect your schedule, and even enhance your reputation as a great boss.

First Things First: Lead With Support

When your associate shares their Match Day news, how you respond matters. A supportive, professional reaction builds trust and leaves a lasting impression…one that follows you far beyond this single transition.

Dentist Job Connect founder Dr. Paul Goodman knows this firsthand. Early in his ownership journey, one of his associates matched into a residency program. While it created short-term stress, Dr. Goodman chose to fully support the associate’s goals, help plan the transition, and keep communication open. That experience shaped his leadership philosophy—and ultimately inspired the creation of Dentist Job Connect to help owners navigate moments exactly like this.

Be a Good Boss (Even When It’s Inconvenient)

Your associate’s career growth doesn’t diminish your leadership—it reflects it. Consider:

• Congratulating them genuinely and publicly if appropriate
  
  
• Asking how you can support their transition
  
  
• Discussing timelines clearly and professionally
  
  
• Keeping the door open for future collaboration or referrals
  
  

Associates remember how they’re treated on the way out just as much as on the way in.

Replacing an Associate: Start Early, Stay Strategic

Once timelines are clear, it’s time to shift into replacement mode. Key steps include:

• Reviewing your production needs and ideal schedule coverage
  
  
• Deciding whether you want a similar associate or a different skill set
  
  
• Updating your job description to reflect what actually works in your practice
  
  
• Preparing your team for the transition
  
  

How to Find the RIGHT New Associate

Finding the right dentist isn’t about filling a chair—it’s about fit. That’s where Dentist Job Connect helps. The platform is built specifically for practice owners, connecting you with associate dentists who align with your goals, culture, and location.

You can:

• Post your associate position quickly
  
  
• Reach associate dentists actively exploring opportunities
  
  
• Communicate directly and transparently
  
  
• Hire with confidence...feeling proactive rather than reactive
  
  

Match Day Transition Checklist for Practice Owners

Use this simple checklist to stay organized:

• Congratulate your associate and confirm their timeline
  
  
• Communicate expectations and end dates in writing
  
  
• Plan patient and schedule coverage
  
  
• Notify your team and align messaging
  
  
• Update and post your associate dentist job on Dentist Job Connect
  
  
• Begin interviews early
  
  
• Maintain a positive relationship through the transition
  
  

Final Thought

Match Day transitions don’t have to be chaotic. With clear communication, genuine support, and the RIGHT hiring tools, you can protect your practice while building a reputation as a leader dentists want to work for.

Your response today could be the reason your next associate chooses you tomorrow.

If you’re thinking about hiring an associate dentist—or wondering if your current associate is truly the RIGHT fit—we’re here to help. Connect with the Dentist Job Connect team here!