Do you remember your first day on the job? It is getting ready in the morning with anticipation and eagerness, making an effort to look impeccable from head to toe, leaving home early to ensure early arrival at the new office and walking through the office doors with intention, a smile, and mind alert. 

Enthusiastic and eager to show them what you’ve got. Close your eyes for a moment, and go back to that first day. How did you feel?

Are you the same now after the COVID19 crisis and most likely being out of work for several weeks, even months? Your answer is most likely a resounding NO!

When I asked a friend of mine what has changed, she described it like this:

 I can only speak in regards to changes in our office. 
Every employee is required to wear a mask. Our assistants and hygienist wear the N95 and a regular disposable mask and new face shields. They are also required to wear disposable jackets. 
Our front desks now have plexiglass between the patients and staff. Since our front desk staff can not sit six feet apart, we have also installed plexiglass. 
The doctor has bought the new UV type lights that kill germs in the operatories, as well as, air filter systems in every operatory with larger ones at our front desks and lobby. 
We don’t have patients in our lobby. Patients now check-in at a station we have set up outside. They must sign a COVID-19 release form. They have their temperatures taken; if they need to pay for services, they will see a front office staff member then everyone waits in their car until a room is ready for them. 
And of course, there are hand sanitizers on every desk and work station. We sanitize every work station at the beginning and the end of each day.

Back on that first day, and this, ladies and gentlemen, is your new normal. If you weren’t fully engaged and invested in your job, I bet you are now. 

What does that mean to you? 

If there is something that you’re confused about in your current circumstances?

Schedule a meeting with your supervisor to gain knowledge and discuss it.

Most likely, it’s a whole new process for your entire team and you’re learning together. Keeping the lines of communication open with your supervisor is vital.

You can still keep that love for people and your career. Invest in yourself by continuing in your education, in turn, is essential to your job.

Expand your skills.

If there is a specific area of dentistry you enjoy, learn more about it. Network and surround yourself with others who have the same interests.

Join dental groups on Facebook and LinkedIn to learn more about what others share and experience in the industry.

Join local dental associations and study clubs related to your field of expertise. You never know what you will find. One meeting could lead you to a connection, leading you to the job of your dreams!

You can get back that first-day feeling by encouraging others and embracing change and flexibility that will be forthcoming.

Your employer needs you as much as you need them. Work together to make things easier for your team and your patients.

It’s easy to remain stagnant, unhappy, and unfulfilled, and it’s up to you to take the initiative and make the change.