Creating a standout resume is essential for landing your dream job. At The AGA Group, with our 45 years of workforce solutions experience, we understand what employers look for in a candidate. Whether you’re seeking opportunities in dental recruiting, staffing, or executive search, these six main components will help you craft a resume that gets noticed.

1. Contact Information

Your contact information is the first thing employers see on your resume. Ensure it’s up-to-date and professional.

• Full Name: Use your full legal name.
• Phone Number: Provide a phone number where you can be easily reached. Be sure to create a voicemail greeting. This let’s the caller know that they are leaving the message to you.
• Email Address: Use a professional email address (e.g., gikner@agasolutionsgroup.com).
• LinkedIn Profile: Include a link to your LinkedIn profile for additional information.

2. Professional Summary

A professional summary is a brief statement at the top of your resume that highlights your skills and experience. It’s your elevator pitch and a crucial part of the “above the fold” content—what employers see first before they decide to keep reading.

• Concise and Compelling: Keep it to 3-5 sentences.
• Highlight Achievements: Focus on your key accomplishments and skills relevant to the job.
• Tailor to the Job: Customize it for each position you apply for.

3. Value Proposition Statement

Your Value Proposition Statement is a powerful addition to your resume. It succinctly communicates the unique value you bring to an employer. Many professionals like to combine the professional summary into the value proposition statement.

• Unique Value: Clearly state what sets you apart from other candidates.
• Benefits to the Employer: Focus on how your skills and experience can solve the employer’s problems or improve their business.
• Short and Specific: Keep it to 1-2 sentences that pack a punch.

4. Work Experience

Your work experience section is where you showcase your career history and accomplishments. We recommend that you go back to only the relevant jobs if you have been in the workforce for a number of years.

• Reverse Chronological Order: List your most recent job first.
• Job Title: Clearly state your position.
• Company Name and Location: Include the name and location of each employer.
• Dates of Employment: Specify the months and years of employment.
• Key Responsibilities and Achievements: Use bullet points to highlight your duties and accomplishments. Quantify achievements when possible (e.g., “Increased sales by 20%”).

5. Education

Your education section provides employers with an overview of your academic background.

• Degree: Include the type of degree and major.
• School Name and Location: State the name and location of the institution.
• Graduation Date: Mention the month and year of graduation.
• Relevant Coursework: List any coursework relevant to the job, especially for recent graduates.

6. Skills

The skills section is where you list your relevant abilities that make you a strong candidate for the job.

• Technical Skills: Include any software, tools, or technical abilities pertinent to the role.
• Soft Skills: Highlight interpersonal skills such as communication, teamwork, and leadership.
• Certifications and Licenses: Add any relevant certifications or licenses (e.g., CPR certification for dental roles).

The Importance of Above the Fold Content

The term “above the fold” originates from newspaper design, referring to the upper half of the front page that is visible when the paper is folded. In the context of a resume, it means the content that is immediately visible when the document is opened, typically the top third of the first page. This is the most critical section of your resume as it creates the first impression.

Key Elements to Include Above the Fold:

1. Contact Information: Ensure your full name, phone number, and email address are clearly visible.
2. Professional Summary: Provide a concise and compelling summary of your skills and experience.
3. Value Proposition Statement: Highlight your unique value and the benefits you bring to the employer.

Additional Tips for a Great Resume

• Keep it Concise: Aim for a one-page resume, especially if you have less than 10 years of experience.
• Use Action Verbs: Start bullet points with strong action verbs (e.g., “Developed,” “Managed,” “Led”).
• Format for Readability: Use clear headings, bullet points, and consistent formatting.
• Proofread: Ensure there are no typos or grammatical errors.

By following these guidelines and optimizing your resume for the job you want, you increase your chances of standing out to employers. At The AGA Group, we’re here to support you in your job search and career development. For more tips and assistance, visit our website or contact us today.