Director's Message: Hygienists without job descriptions

Nov. 24, 2014
Don’t even think about accepting a position without first reading the practice’s philosophy/vision statement and a job description.

Director’s Message: Hygienists without job descriptions

Don’t even think about accepting a position without first reading the practice’s philosophy/vision statement and a job description. A key to having salary increases and performance conversations is to have a job description with specific duties and clearly defined responsibilities. Otherwise, there can be no accountability, and ill feelings and confusion ensues.

------------------------------------------------------------------------

Other Director’s Messages in RDH eVillage

------------------------------------------------------------------------

Take time to examine the job description again, or if you don’t have one, create it. Do not settle for cookie cutter “to-do” lists. Each job within a dental practice has a purpose that relates to the practice’s philosophy for being in business. If you are unsure of your responsibility or what is expected from the position you hold, then take some time and discover it.

Job Description Template

You can use the following categories to begin to create your own job description or to update an existing one.

  • Job title:
  • Reports to:
  • Education/experience:
  • Personal characteristics: (knowledge, skills, and abilities)
  • Outcomes/results:
  • Responsibilities: (What are the most important technical, clinical, or organizational responsibilities associated with your job?)

2015 Action Steps

  • Don’t have a job description? Create one.
  • Have a job description, yet haven’t look at it in over a year? Update it.
  • Schedule a meeting with you manager/employer and discuss creating or revising your job description.

Kristine H. Hodsdon RDH, MSEC
Director, RDH eVillage

Kristine A. Hodsdon, RDH, MSEC, is an international speaker and executive coach who consults and teaches Dental Wealth Clarity, a virtual training on proven success solutions to master your money, marketing, and mindset. Her company, kristineahodsdon.com,provides customized coaching and trainings, and she is also a consultant and trainer with Pride Institute. She can be reached at [email protected].