Contracts are critical
- Assess your potential ‘deal breakers’ regarding your employment. For e.g. if the contract states you must work on a Saturday morning and you can’t, that’s an important issue.
- As the ADA Graduate Dental Handbook outlines, obtaining an employment contract prior to starting work with any employer is critically important.
- A written document, fully detailing roles and responsibilities of the position and conditions of employment is vital regardless of your employer.
- It’s a legal document, a contract is significant no matter your profession. You need to understand your rights, obligations and what’s expected of you.
- A contract should contain the key items such as remuneration, working hours and locations. However, ensure that any issues discussed verbally must be included in your written contract so that it is enforceable.
Read the small print
- There’s a difference between clarifying an issue and simply ‘nit-picking’ – make sure you consider what to clarify with your prospective employer.
- If there are any obligations or clauses that are too onerous for you to accept, can you negotiate?
- Do not be afraid of negotiating (reasonably) prior to signing anything. If your prospective employer doesn’t welcome any discussion, this may be a red flag.
- Check for post-employment obligations as a breach can be serious and could result in an injunction.
- Re-negotiating any contract terms, in a diplomatic, constructive and respectful manner, should be done before signing any document.
Finding the right fit for you
- ADA NSW Peer Advisors don’t routinely examine employment contracts, we recommend all practitioners assess contracts “line-by-line” before flagging any concerns with the ADA Federal HR team or an appropriate legal representative before signing anything.
- Aside from contract specifics, there are other important issues to consider joining a practice, such as:
- What’s the available support system?
- Are you satisfied with the infection control protocols – including PPE?
- Is the practice busy enough to fill your time and will you have good range of patients to see?
- Are you compatible with the practice philosophy? It’s important to learn new things and feel like you’re making a positive contribution.
Want to read more about contracts? Continue to Part 3.
It’s always good to listen to your instincts. If you have a concern, contact ADA NSW’s Advisory Services as we’re always happy to discuss any issues.
ADA NSW Peer Advisors cannot assist with specific employment law issues, but can offer general information and advise on further help/resources. Contact the team via the ADA NSW Reception on 8436 9909.
For clarification on terms of conditions on a particular engagement, contact the ADA Federal HR Advisory Service on 1300 232 462 or email hrhotline@ada.org.au
1. A proper employment contract is essential regardless of who is employing you. This should always be a written document.
2. Review contracts fully before signing line-by-line to fully understand wording.
3. Avoid signing up for a long-term contract, especially one not providing some type of ‘escape clause’ should things not work out.
4. Contact the ADA’s Federal HR service and/or an appropriately qualified legal representative to discuss any issues before signing.
5. Be wary of any onerous contract clauses which may impact you both during and post-employment.
6. Also consider discussing contract issues with a senior colleague before approaching a prospective employer for potential negotiation.
7. While not able to offer a legal service, ADA NSW’s Peer Advisors can also offer advice on employment issues.
8. Don’t be afraid to negotiate, whoever you work for…
9. …But approach discussions in a diplomatic and clear manner.
10. Aside from contract issues, be sure the practice you are joining has a similar philosophy to your own and will support your career growth and goals.
