Hidden Gems – Hiring & Onboarding Dental Assistants with No Experience

Course Objectives

1. Hire for Core Values Over Experience
   Learners will identify and prioritize cultural fit and core values when hiring dental assistants with no prior experience, using selective interview practices and onboarding communication tools.
   
   
2. Create a Structured Universal Onboarding Process
   Learners will design a consistent onboarding system that includes orientation documents, access to HR links, training videos, and core values education before clinical training begins.
   
   
3. Implement a 90-Day Training Timeline
   Learners will build a phased onboarding plan that includes week-by-week goals, structured shadowing, skills training, and specific 30-, 60-, and 90-day performance benchmarks.
   
   
4. Train on Clinical Basics Using Systems and Checklists
   Learners will prepare new assistants using sterile line videos, operatory turnover training, step-by-step procedure checklists, and visuals to ensure mastery of foundational clinical tasks.
   
   
5. Utilize Teamwide Support During Onboarding
   Learners will coordinate a team-based training model where assistants, hygienists, and front office team members help guide and provide feedback to new hires throughout the onboarding process.
   
   
6. Establish Clear Feedback Loops and Check-Ins
   Learners will conduct daily and weekly check-ins, implement structured self-evaluations and trainer assessments, and use feedback forms to identify and address gaps early in the process.
   
   
7. Assess Emotional Intelligence and Initiative in New Hires
   Learners will evaluate soft skills such as motivation, adaptability, teamwork, and response to feedback as part of assessing long-term success potential.
   
   
8. Differentiate Between Capability vs. Motivation Issues
   Learners will develop clarity around whether performance gaps are due to a lack of ability or effort, and make informed decisions about continued training or termination based on early red flags.
   
   
9. Prepare New Hires to Contribute to Team Meetings and Huddles
   Learners will guide new assistants to actively participate in huddles, share personal goals, and contribute meaningfully to accountability and clinical calibration meetings within the first 60 days.
   
   
10. Maintain Accountability and Growth Beyond Onboarding
    Learners will continue monthly evaluations post-90 days to ensure growth, role clarity, and team alignment—helping DAs move into specialized roles with confidence and consistency.