Ideas to Inspiration: Create your own opportunities by saying 'yes'
By Jackie Sanders, RDH, MBA
Last month, we reviewed the importance of tracking your production numbers and how beneficial the learning experience can become. Using your numbers to monitor your success is one element you will be able to include in resumes. You will have the opportunity to discuss changes you were able to make to become more productive, how your production increased and how you were able to monitor the changes, and share the knowledge of how the business in a dental hygiene operatory can become more productive.
Having the ability to list your clinical skills and a few additional experiences provide the hiring employer a better understanding of who you are and how you are different from any other dental hygienist applying for the same position. Be impressionable by having several facets to who you are.
Working full time as a clinical dental hygienist provides the income we need. If you find yourself in a current situation where you need the funds and are eager for more, there are a lot of little opportunities you can embrace and say “yes” to while still bringing home a monthly paycheck. The opportunities might not support the wallet, but they are experiences that look good on a resume and will move you forward to the next chapter of your career. As long as you are moving forward towards change the hard days will become easier.
It has been recommended to become involved in the local ADHA component and attend the meetings on a regular basis. One, you may meet an individual who could become a great mentor and sounding board. Two, you could accept a position that would provide additional experience or leadership skills. Three, a sponsor could attend the meeting providing you with insight to great products and/or a future career change. Each of these elements could be included in your resume.
You can also volunteer your services through different public health programs. Look for opportunities with health fairs, children’s school programs, long-term care facilities and/or homeless shelters. Providing your professional service will increase your clinical expertise while giving you an opportunity to network with your peers. You never know who you are going to meet and who could make a difference in your career path if you do not create opportunities of growth for yourself.
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Other articles by Sanders
- Ideas to Inspiration: Start today!
- Ideas to Inspiration: Is the story grim, or is it all about attitude?
- Ideas to Inspiration: Maintaining the energy that propels your dental hygiene career
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When someone offers you a chance to work at a trade show, write an article, or anything that might push you outside your comfort level, say “Yes.” If you are interested in this concept pick up a copy of, “Little Gold Book of YES! Attitude: How to Find, Build and Keep a YES! Attitude for a Lifetime of Success” by Jeffrey Gitomer.
Looking back at my career; if I hadn’t stepped to the edge and gone where I was most uncomfortable, I wouldn’t be in the position I am today, nor had the experiences to include on my resume.
Create your own opportunities, by saying yes!
