Dental Resumes

Whether or not a candidate receives an interview from a prospective employer is largely based on their resume.  This is not only the employers’ first contact with the applicant, but it is also an opportunity for candidates to showcase their experience and achievements to employers.  Once all necessary information has been researched and gathered, the next step is in choosing between a functional and a chronological resume format.  Eight-four percent of employers prefer the chronological format, so it is generally the best choice.  This lists all information in reverse chronological order (most recent information first), and is easily read.  The following is an example of how information can be listed:

Name
Address
Telephone number
Email address

Career Objective
Within this section, a short concise paragraph should be created which includes why the candidate is interested in this particular position along with any skills they may bring to the company.  This section should be no longer than five sentences.

Education
Starting with the most recent educational facility, list all colleges or universities, including their location, followed by the degree received.  If no degree or diploma was received, include the amount of years spent at each institution.

Experience/Employment History
Starting with the most recent occupation, list employer name, location, and, if desired, a contact number.  Include the titles and/or positions held while employed at each occupation and progression of duties.  Use keywords that will catch the readers’ attention and specify accomplishments.  For candidates with extensive work experience, only list employment within the last ten years.

Depending upon achievements and qualifications, optional sections for a resume may include any of the following:

• References
• Skill Summary/Accomplishments
• Honors/Awards
• Presentations
• Leadership Experience
• Computer Experience
• Military Service
• Foreign Language Fluency
• Professional Affiliations/Memberships

A completed resume should be no longer than three pages.  A quick ten second scan of the finished resume should be all it takes to interest prospective employers.  Be sure to load the document with descriptive text, focusing on specific numbers, programs, and/or projects.  A plain text resume (contains no italic, bold, underline, numbers, bullets, borders, etc.) is accepted by 98% of employers’ email and job boards, while formatted resumes are professional, polished, and excellent for scanning, mailing, or personal delivery. 

For more information on how to create a dental resume, please visit the following sites:

• Individual Software
• Write Express
• Temple University
• California State University, Chico
• Professional Image Resumes

Let iHireDental help get your resume out into the dental field.  We offer resume fax and email blasting to companies in your area for a small fee, or have your cover letter sent out for no charge.