Last month we interviewed Candice (Candi) from Utah, who has been a working hygienist for about two and a half years. We were first introduced to her in June of 2012. She had a baby not long after graduating from school and had been temping here and there, but was having a hard time landing anything permanent.
She found a copy of our book – Landing a Great Dental Hygiene Job – and she put into action many (if not all) the strategies shared in there. 
Here’s our interview with Candi –
GetHiredRDH: Tell us about the moment you knew you wanted to become a Dental Hygienist?
Candice: In third grade I had my teeth cleaned by a lady that had the same name as me (Candi). She had a plaque on her wall that said “Candi is good for your teeth” This sealed the deal from then on I knew I was going to be a hygienist. I had no idea how hard it would be but its worth it!!
GetHiredRDH: Tell us about a professional mentor or favorite quote that inspires you professionally?
Candice: I have someone that has inspired me throughout my career. She was my freshman sister in hygiene school. She encouraged me to continue my studies by example. She is a dedicated professional and I am in debt to her.
GetHiredRDH: What’s the most challenging thing about finding an RDH job?
Candice: I only have certain days that I’m available to work and that makes it challenging to find a job that is only hiring for those days.
GetHiredRDH: Tell us about your experience landing your current job (how long you were searching, how many other jobs you had applied for, the interview(s), etc.).
Candice: I sent out 85 post cards and got a few phone calls for temping and then got my dream job 6 months after because of my post cards. (I recently quit because we moved to Salt Lake City) I got a lot of jobs meanwhile just by dropping off resumes and telling them to call me to temp.
GetHiredRDH: Boil it down, what were some of the key factors that helped you get your current job?
Candice: When I had my job they said it was because of my postcard and website. They said, “this girl seems like she has it together.”
GetHiredRDH: What advice would you give other hygienists who are struggling to find a job (or the right job)?
Candice: Persistence and Prayer. There is always room for great hygienist and you have to think outside the box. Be gritty.
