How would you rate your communication skills on a scale from 1-10, and why would you give yourself that rating?
Success as a pediatric dentist requires great communication skills. Your communication will come in many ways, shapes, and forms with your staff, your patients, and their families. Your interviewer asks this point-blank question to hear your own personal assessment of your communication in hopes that you will speak confidently to your ability to communicate effectively that you work with.
"I rate my communication skills as a 9/10 as I will, on occasion, have times when I am not as clear as I would like to be. My supervisor and co-workers will attest to my clear and concise communication skills. Because I am an open leader, my team will let me know if I need to clarify anything."
First, on a scale of 1-10, give an honest evaluation of your communication. You ideally want to try to avoid giving yourself a 10 as nobody is perfect. You do not want to come across as overly confident or someone who has no room for feedback and improvement. Alternately, avoid giving yourself too little credit. You do not want to paint the picture that you are a communication dud! Try to remain in the 7.5-9.5 range while staying honest and accurate. As you answer, be sure to focus on your ability to communicate effectively with your pediatric patients, the faculty you will work with at this program, and all colleagues within a practice.
