How to Evaluate, Negotiate, and Land Your First Hygiene Job

Presented by: Kayla Baldwin

Course Description:

As a student, most of your energy goes into getting through clinic, passing exams, and preparing for boards. But once all of that is behind you, a new question comes up: what happens next? When you finally have your license and start applying for jobs, you may realize there’s a lot more to consider than you expected.

How do you know which office will be the right fit? What should you look for in a job listing, and what should make you think twice? When the topic of pay comes up, how do you talk about compensation in a way that reflects your worth? And once you receive an offer, how do you put together a clear agreement so everyone starts on the same page?

This course will walk you through the entire process, from the job search all the way to writing a simple, effective contract. You will leave feeling confident, prepared, and ready to join a team where you can truly thrive.

Course objectives:

At the conclusion of this course, the participant will be able to:

• Identify dental offices that align with their goals, values, and work style.
• Recognize key elements to look for in a job listing.
• Spot red and green flags during the job-search and interview process.
• Understand their professional value as a hygienist and negotiate with confidence.
• Create a clear, written agreement that helps prevent misunderstandings and burnout.

About the presenter:

Kayla is a practicing dental hygienist based in New York City, a dental hygiene consultant, and a content creator committed to elevating the profession. With clinical experience in three different states, she brings a broad understanding of workplace dynamics and patient care across diverse practice settings.

Through her consulting work, Kayla helps hygienists nationwide secure better career opportunities by guiding them through job transitions, pay negotiations, contract development, and strategies for overcoming burnout. She is also a frequent guest speaker at dental hygiene programs, where she equips students with practical tools to navigate interviews and confidently move from the classroom to the operatory.

About this Student Webinar Program:

This is an interactive student webinar designed specifically for current students and recent grads. While your camera will be off, we encourage lively discussion in the chat box—ask questions, share takeaways, and connect with other future professionals!

This format is designed to be flexible and student-friendly, so feel free to tune in between classes, during your commute, or wherever you may be. Whether you're soaking up info on the go or participating from your couch, we're glad you're here!

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