Here’s a tip to give you a heads-up when you interview to help you avoid a hiring mistake.  Ask applicants to write a short statement (about a half page to full page) explaining how their background and abilities make them a great fit for the position.
You can either ask for this information to be sent in along with a resume, or you can make the request at the interview by giving applicants time to complete this task at your office.
If you ask in advance and the applicant does not follow directions, that’s a red flag because they failed to comply with your very first request.  When you receive a writing sample, either in advance or when you meet the applicant in person, you collect valuable information.
There are jobs in dental offices that do not specifically require writing skills, but everyone in the office should have a command of language and the ability to express themselves clearly.  When you read the writing sample, you get a window into the applicant’s ability to choose and order information and communicate their thoughts.  You also gain insights from the tone of the writing.
When I was in college, someone asked a history professor if he was “taking off for grammar†on written exams.  The professor replied that he was not specifically deducting points for mistakes in grammar, punctuation, and spelling; but he said that he could not help but be impressed by writing that showed good organization, logic, and a clear expression of ideas. Â
You need not wait to hire someone who writes flowing, error-free prose; but beware of the applicant whose written language abilities do not rise to the level required in your office.  Also, when you find someone who has a talent for writing, you may well be able to put that ability to good use.