Questions to ask the Hiring Manager during an Interview
Author: Felicia Sprague, Co-founder Dental Hive
Picture this: you applied to a job ad and got an interview. It’s going great but then the hiring manager asks if you have any questions and your mind goes blank. Maybe you were caught off guard or perhaps they answered your standard questions already. Regardless, go into your next interview prepared with a list of unique questions that will help you figure out if the clinic is the right fit for you.
What courses have you or your team done in the past year?
Working for a clinic that understands how professional growth impacts morale, productivity and job satisfaction for their employees is vital, especially if it’s somewhere you see yourself longterm. Giving employees ongoing opportunities to learn will help retain staff and is important for growing a strong team.
What kind of support will be given to the person who gets this position?
Whether you’re looking at joining a small clinic or a large office, entering a new job is always easier when given the support and training required to succeed. There’s a chance you may be the only assistant, receptionist or hygienist at your office so you may not have someone in the same position to lean on but having the support of the rest of the team and being provided training and growth opportunities will help you feel like you’re not alone.
How would you describe the clinic’s culture?
Different clinics have different cultures. It’s crucial that you think about what you need to feel happy at an office and what values are important to you. Once you truly know the culture that you want, you’ll be able to figure out quickly if the clinic is the right fit.
What was the last change the clinic has made based on employee feedback?
This is a great question because if the hiring manager doesn’t have a good answer or any answer, they may not be open to employee feedback which shows they may not be open to growth.
What is the performance review process?
Feedback is a gift for employees and employers so having a clinic that will provide constructive feedback and praise (and is willing to receive the same) knows what is required for growth. Having regular reviews or check-ins show that the clinic places importance on growth, engagement, recognition and accountability.
Does your company respect employee lunches, time off and the right to disconnect?
If the answer is anything other than a resounding yes, you should really consider if it’s the right clinic for you. An employer that doesn’t respect your time, doesn’t respect you or a healthy work-life balance.
How would you describe your journey and professional growth with the clinic?
The answer to this question will be another big indication of the clinic’s views on professional growth, as well as retention, and promotions. Stagnant employees won’t be employees for long.
At the end of an interview, the opportunity to ask questions is one you don’t want to waste. Having a unique list of questions like these will show the hiring manager that you’re prepared and will also help you figure out if the position and clinic is the right fit for you.
About the Author: Felicia Sprague
Felicia Sprague is a dental regional manager and co-founder of Dental Hive. Felicia is experienced team training, HR, dental systems development and implementation, and has a track record of increasing productivity in dental offices.
