Introduction to representation work
In these roles, you play a crucial part in advocating for the interests of dental professionals and shaping policies that affect the profession. By engaging in representation work, you contribute to overall improvements in the field, apply your professional skills in new ways, and gain a broader perspective on the dental industry.
The nature of your work will vary depending on your specific role. As a member of a national committee, you typically meet three times a year, with a combination of online and in-person meetings. In the weeks leading up to each meeting, you will receive an agenda and documents to review. For non-confidential matters, you can gather input from the colleagues you represent. It is important to consider how these issues will impact those you represent and identify the agenda items you might want to contribute to. You might also reach out to other committee members beforehand to gauge their thoughts on the issues up for discussion.
At the meeting, the Chair will oversee discussions, introduce agenda items, and invite members to contribute. You will listen to the conversation, share your insights, and vote on relevant matters. You may also ask questions of the chair or executive members about the work they have been doing on behalf of the committee. After the meeting, look for opportunities to report back to your constituents. In some roles, there will be an established mechanism for doing so.