"For the last two and a half years, I worked reception for a large auto dealership. In this line of work, I learned the importance of making lasting first impressions with the customers that walked through the door. Last year, a very elderly couple pulled up to our showroom and walked in looking a little lost. I greeted the couple with a smile on my face and an upbeat attitude. I began asking how I could help them. After finding out that they hadn't vehicle shopped in over 15 years, I connected them with one of our experienced sales reps and went about my day. About three hours later, they were signing papers for a new SUV, and my GM came to thank me for the service I provided. While it didn't seem like much, the couple told our sales rep that they stayed and looked at vehicles because of how they were treated from the start."

First impressions are everything, and there are many ways to impact a new patient significantly. When you answer, be sure to give a detailed overview of how you would make a good impression on a new patient. If you have some work experience, consider telling a brief story of when you built a relationship with a patient, customer, or colleague. Include specific details of how you developed a relationship with this person. At the end of your response, remember to explain how your relationship-building skills will benefit the dental school you are interviewing with.