Whether you’re applying for a dental assistant role or an executive leadership position, there are five essential components of a resume that consistently make the difference. Here’s what you need to include:
1. Contact Information That Looks Professional
This may sound basic, but you’d be surprised how many resumes contain outdated email addresses or incomplete information. At a minimum, include:
- Full name
- Phone number
- Email (use a professional address)
- City and state
- LinkedIn profile URL (if relevant)
Pro Tip: Avoid including your full mailing address. It’s not necessary and may work against you if you’re applying for out-of-town roles.
2. A Targeted Professional Summary
Your resume needs a brief but powerful opening. Think of this section as your elevator pitch. For healthcare candidates, it should answer three questions:
- What is your role or area of expertise?
- What kind of work settings do you excel in?
- What value do you bring to employers?
Example:
“Certified Dental Assistant with 5+ years of experience in fast-paced private practice settings. Skilled in chairside support, digital X-rays, and patient care. Passionate about delivering high-quality clinical assistance and supporting team workflows.”
For more federal formatting and summary examples, explore this Resume Guide from CareerOneStop.
3. Core Competencies or Key Skills Section
This section should be keyword-rich and tailored to the job you want. Include both hard skills (EMR systems, sterilization techniques, insurance verification) and soft skills (team collaboration, empathy, time management).
Why it matters:
Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) scan for keywords. This section helps your resume get past those filters that recruiters and HR departments use.
If you’re ready to put your skills to work, browse our open job opportunities in healthcare and dental staffing.
4. Work Experience That Speaks to Outcomes
List your work experience in reverse-chronological order and lead with action verbs. But don’t stop at duties. Emphasize results.
Before: “Assisted dentist with procedures.”
After: “Provided chairside support for an average of 20 procedures per week, contributing to a 15% increase in daily patient flow.”
Include:
- Job title
- Employer name and location
- Dates of employment
- 3–5 bullet points per job
5. Education and Certifications
This section should clearly show your qualifications for the job. For healthcare professionals, include:
- Degree(s) and institutions
- Professional certifications (e.g., RDH, CMA, EFDA)
- State licensure (if applicable)
- Expiration dates for certifications if relevant
Bonus Tip: If you recently completed new training or CE credits, include them to show you’re staying current in your field.
Final Thoughts
Crafting a strong healthcare resume is part art, part science. At The AGA Group™, we help medical and dental professionals we work with highlight the components of a resume that matter most. Whether you’re early in your career or moving into leadership, your resume should tell your story with clarity and confidence.
Need help updating your resume? Contact us today or explore our Talent Showcase to get started.
About the Author
Greg Ikner is the President of The AGA Group™, a leading healthcare staffing and executive search firm based in Kansas City. With over 45 years of experience in the life sciences and healthcare recruiting industry, Greg helps medical and dental professionals he works with advance their careers through expert resume advice and personalized job placement strategies.
