ADA HR

Important Considerations for Early-Stage Dentists

There are many considerations for employees at any stage in their career. The early stages, however, are potentially the most important as the first years can lay the foundations and groundwork for later career progression. At the start of your career, it is important to know the rights and obligations under a particular contract as well, considering the different forms that exist in the dental industry. In addition, you should be focused on what you want out of your career.

GETTING THE RIGHT SUPPORT AND MENTORING

Ensuring that you have the right support when you start your career is essential. There are many things to navigate, from patient relationships to other industry obligations, and it’s important that you are able to get the appropriate support when you need it. Because of this, early-stage dentists should consider whether the practice at which they are working can offer the support needed. This may be in the form of a more senior dentist mentoring you or ‘buddying up’ with you to ensure that you have the resources available to transition into the workforce. Finding the right support may also include investigating if your employer has an Employee Assistance Program: the beginning of a career can be stressful, and these support services can often be useful in helping you to cope with new pressures.

DEVELOPMENT – WHAT DO YOU WANT FROM YOUR CAREER?

In any occupation, career progression is a key consideration. If you are someone who is interested in management and potentially opening your own practice, this can be something to consider during the early stages of your career. Many employers do provide additional training in areas and can give you an opportunity to practice these skills within your employment. You may also look at business management courses to upskill yourself. Further specialisation is also an opportunity in the dental profession. Although there are many options, knowing what your particular interests and skills are can assist you in making decisions about how you want your career to progress.

RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS UNDER A CONTRACT

Depending on what type of contract has been issued, obligations and entitlements can be different. There are many different types of engagement in the dental profession, including employment relationships, independent contracting and Services and Facilities Agreements. Each engagement has different rights and obligations, and therefore may not be appropriate in all circumstances. The ADA HR Advisory Service has a range of fact sheets which outline the different models and members can also call the HR Hotline to discuss whether the engagement is right for them. The ADA HR Hotline is here to help memberss understand how certain contract clauses in your contract operate and can give additional guidance as to the rights and obligations arising out of the particular contract. The start of a new career is an exciting time and taking the time to understand what is required of you and where you want to go is key to setting yourself up for a successful future. ADA HR FEATURE

For more information on this article please call the ADA HR Advisory Service on 1300 232 462.

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