Performance reviews are an essential aspect of career growth and development for dental assistants. They provide an opportunity to receive feedback, discuss career goals, and negotiate raises or professional development opportunities. Preparing effectively for a performance review can significantly impact your career trajectory. Here are ten tips to help you get ready for your performance review with your dentist.
Understand the Purpose of the Review
Before you begin preparing, it’s crucial to understand the purpose of the performance review. This meeting is designed to evaluate your job performance, identify areas for improvement, and discuss your career goals. Knowing this can help you approach the review with the right mindset.
Reflect on your performance and areas where you excel. Make note of these areas and have examples ready if asked to provide them. Also, consider areas where you might need improvement or additional support. Be prepared with ideas on how you might receive that support or training in order to improve. Lastly, think about your career goals and how the review can help you achieve them.
Gather Documentation
Documentation is vital for providing concrete evidence of your performance. Collecting relevant documents and data can help you present a clear picture of your achievements and contributions to the practice.
Compile a list of tasks and responsibilities you handle daily. Be ready to explain how you effectively and thoroughly handle these tasks and responsibilities. Prior to your review, gather any performance metrics, such as patient satisfaction surveys or productivity reports. It would be advantageous to also collect feedback from colleagues, patients, or supervisors if available.
If you want to be super professional, create a portfolio that includes examples of your work, such as before-and-after photos of dental procedures you assisted with or any special projects you contributed to that were successes!
Reflect on Your Achievements
Take time to reflect on your accomplishments over the review period. Highlighting your achievements demonstrates your value to the practice and shows your dedication to your role.
Be able to list any significant accomplishments and contributions you have made to the practice. Any continuing education (CE) you have attended that you then implemented into the office to create added value is a great example of this. Additionally, include any special projects or initiatives you led or participated in. Highlight instances where you went above and beyond your job description. Quantify your achievements when possible, such as “Reduced patient wait times by 15% through improved scheduling.” This shows proof you add great value to the practice.
Identify Areas for Improvement
Being aware of your areas for improvement shows that you are self-aware and committed to professional growth. It also allows you to proactively seek support or training.
Reflect on any challenges or mistakes you encountered. Be open to hearing feedback on how you could have performed better or gotten better results. Identify skills or areas where you need further development and be prepared with suggestions on how you can improve in these areas and the resources you may need (training, practice, verbiage, etc.).
Set Clear Goals
Setting clear, achievable goals for the future is an essential part of the performance review. These goals should align with your career aspirations and the needs of the practice.
Identify short-term and long-term career goals. Ensure your goals are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound (SMART). Be prepared to discuss how these goals align with the practice’s objectives and how they can add value to the practice. Consider goals related to skill development, professional certifications, or taking on new responsibilities.
Prepare to Discuss Compensation
If you intend to request a raise or salary evaluation, be prepared to make a compelling case. This involves demonstrating your value to the practice and providing evidence of your performance.
Research industry standards for dental assistant salaries in your region, but do not stop there. Compile a list of your achievements and contributions to justify your request. What have you done outside of your day-to-day responsibilities to add to the value of the practice? Continuing education you have taken that you have implemented to create more time for doctor production is a great example. Show measurable results to justify a salary increase to your employer. Practice discussing your request confidently and professionally. Frame your request in terms of your contributions and future potential, rather than personal financial needs.
Request Professional Development Opportunities
Professional development is crucial for career advancement. Be prepared to discuss any training or development opportunities (CE) you are interested in and how they will benefit the practice.
Identify specific courses, certifications, or training programs that interest you and explain how these opportunities will enhance your skills and benefit the practice. Be prepared to discuss how you can manage your responsibilities while participating in professional development. Highlight any areas where the practice could benefit from additional expertise and how you can fill that gap with the right training.
Prepare Questions for Your Supervisor
Performance reviews are a two-way conversation. Prepare thoughtful questions for your supervisor to demonstrate your engagement and interest in continuous improvement.
Some great questions you may ask are: “What areas do you think I excel in, and where can I improve?”, “Are there any additional responsibilities or projects you see me taking on?”, or “How can I better support the team and practice goals?”. Show your willingness to receive constructive feedback and act on it!
Request the Performance Review
If your practice does not have a regular review schedule, you may need to request a performance review. Doing so shows initiative and a commitment to your professional growth.
Approach your supervisor and express your interest in having a performance review. Explain why you believe the review will be beneficial for both you and the practice to create value for the review. Suggest a convenient time for both yourself and the person performing the review. Frame your request positively, emphasizing your desire for feedback and growth!
Practice Professional Communication
Effective communication is key to a successful performance review. Practice discussing your achievements, goals, and requests professionally and confidently.
Rehearse your talking points and key messages until you are comfortable and can present them confidently. Use positive and assertive language when discussing your talking points. Listen actively during the review and respond thoughtfully to feedback. Be “responsive”, not “reactive”. Stay calm and composed, even if the feedback is not entirely positive. Use it as an opportunity to learn and grow!
Preparing for a performance review involves careful reflection, documentation, and goal-setting. By following these ten tips, dental assistants can approach their performance reviews with confidence and professionalism. Understanding the purpose of the review, gathering documentation, reflecting on achievements and areas for improvement, setting clear goals, and preparing to discuss compensation and professional development opportunities are all essential steps in this process.
Additionally, requesting a performance review, preparing thoughtful questions, and practicing professional communication can further enhance the effectiveness of the review. By taking these steps, dental assistants can make the most of their performance reviews, demonstrating their value to the practice and paving the way for future growth and success.
At Bryant Consultants, we offer specific training geared for dental assistants to enhance their skills: both technically assisting you when a patient is in the chair and administratively to keep your practice running like a well-oiled machine. Our services can help you refine your vision, establish goals, and set processes in place to evolve your business. Contact us by calling (877) 768-4799. We provide consultation, training, and coaching to help improve the operations of your practice so that you can provide exceptional results to your patients. No office is out of reach for us. We will even come to you!
Sherri Merritt
Dental Consultant & Trainer
