Tips for your resume

1. Think about the layout

A good layout will really catch an employer’s attention. Start with a really strong first line to engage the reader and place a photograph at the top of the page. Make it a head and shoulders shot, not a holiday snap.  A clean, easy to follow layout will make it look professional and easy to read.

2. Sell yourself

For jobs after graduation you should detail recent clinical courses you have been to and what skills you have picked up from them. This shows your interest in certain areas of dentistry and your commitment to continued development. If you are applying for a role with more advanced dental work, showing you have undertaken CPD in these areas is a benefit and also advising what key responsibilities you've had in previous roles, along with clinical experience is helpful.

3. Show your passion

If there are particular areas you enjoy in dentistry then let them know.  They'll be looking for someone who is enthusiastic so try to convey this in your resume.

4. Demonstrate your knowledge of clinical governance

Whatever position you are applying for, an understanding of clinical governance is mandatory. Detail any clinical audits that you have undertaken, any risk management projects you have completed or any research you may have been part of.

5. What makes you different?

Link what you enjoy in your outside life into dentistry. Future employers want to know there's more to you than being a dentist.

6. What else to include on a resume?

Any awards or prizes that you've won - this will show outside recognition you've had for your clinical or academic work. Most societies will run competitions, and it's really worth applying for a few of these with some of your best cases, as the recognition gained looks really impressive on a resume. To help with this, start documenting your best clinical work as soon as possible and build a portfolio of your work.

List any governing bodies and associations you have a current registration with. 

You may have a portfolio of case studies or post some of your more interesting cases on Instagram. You can always include a link of your resume.

Have you been published in a dental magazine? Whether it's a short article giving hints and tips, or an article documenting a challenging clinical case. It's a great learning experience and it shows your commitment to continued learning and helping others.

Any other achievements or qualifications that you've undertaken? Whatever position you're applying for, try and develop your resume early on and keep it updated and refreshed.

Include at least two referees that can provide commentary around your clinical and people skills and abilities. Ideally they will be professionals that you have worked with in the past 2-3 years, such as Principal, Lead Dentist, Practice Manager, etc.  Or you can always say 'References available upon request'. 

Feel free to use our resume template.