A Dental Hygienist's Short Guide To Professional Networking

Countless hours of learning (especially online classes) is essential, especially when studying to be a dental hygienist. There’s no point in time where there’s “too much” learning. However, problems may arise if you don’t have the right contacts, or have any connections to begin with. Even after graduation, you may feel like you know nobody in this industry, if you haven’t made those much-needed contacts. Luckily, there’s good news: With these networking tips, you’ll stay up-to-date on the latest news in the industry, as well as make lasting relationships with your colleagues and any other professional that you may come across in the future.

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Are there any courses that you still need to take to complete your training? Picking up more courses in dental hygiene is a good idea, especially since that allows you to connect with more peers. A simple hello and introduction to another classmate is a good way to start. Try breaking the ice by starting a conversation about an interesting case that you’ve heard about. This makes way for people to share ideas with each other, while broadening your circle of friends at the same time. Having familiar faces in the industry can come in handy, no matter what the future holds.

Keep In Touch With Classmates

Now that you’ve made some friends in the classroom, what happens next? One mistake is not talking with people again, making the interaction a one-time thing. Rather than fall back, keep at it. Having a simple follow-up session works great. “Establishing a connection with your peers can help you, when seeking out other professionals and connections. Staying in touch can pave the way for job opportunities and events that may open up in the future. And one of the best ways to keep you in the loop is through social media” says Hazel Oden, a communications manager at Revieweal and Oxessays.

Connect On Social Media

Social media is no longer just for personal use. Dental hygienists have taken to social media platforms like Facebook to keep in touch with each other, and share advice and opportunities that may come up. Even sharing photos and videos is a good way to grab your peers’ attention and create new conversations. Meeting new people is also common on social media, because you’ll be sharing your knowledge and connection with people that are like you. Not only does it sound good that you can make friends and connect with people on social media, but it’s also 100% free to do so.

Attend Conferences

Whether you’re a newbie or an established dental hygienist, don’t be afraid to attend dental conferences every once in a while. At first glance, a conference is normally where all the professionals come to share their ideas and connect with each other. Here’s a pro tip: You might want to carry a business card and introduce yourself to people, so that people know a name and face, and have them open up to what you have to say and offer. “You never know: You might be approached by a company that’s looking for somebody to fill a certain position. Therefore, going to these events might land you a job, especially if you’re fresh out of graduation” explains Kathy Epps, a business writer at Essayroo and Bestbritishessays.

Be Open To The Future

Again, you have no idea what will happen in the future. In order to have more confidence in the future, consider how you’re doing when connecting with people. Are you making yourself known to people, whether in school or at conferences? Please understand that this industry requires human interaction, whether you’re talking with a patient or with a fellow dental hygienist. Serving people is your priority; and to do this correctly, you have to know people. So, be open to what’s on the horizon. Join communities that understand you and support you, because supporting each other allows you to be the best dental hygienist you can be.

Conclusion

In the dental hygiene industry, as well as with any industry, you need to know the right people—as many as you can. Establishing connections might seem challenging at first; but following these simple networking tips will help you sharpen your social skills, and help you jumpstart your career. Not only will you gain lasting friendships among your colleagues and your community, but you’ll also allow doors to open, and eventually lead you to a rewarding job opportunity.

About the Author

Molly Crockett is a blogger for Writemyaustralia.com and Academized.com, and shares her ideas around health and the latest personal development. She contributes articles to online magazines, and also blogs for Australianreviewer.com online writing service.