There is nothing worse than reviewing a resume and having a fabulous phone pre-screening interview only to learn during the face to face interview that the candidate is not able to back up what you thought to be true. Often times, job candidates will say they have all their certifications, licenses, CEU’s and letters of recommendation, but these documents are in a box somewhere, and they can’t find the box. Something else we hear a lot is that their computer crashed and they can’t retrieve any of their files.
Here at Dental Temps, we’ve heard it all! But the bottom line is this: if you don’t have at your fingertips documentation to support your resume, get a grip and begin now to secure all the documents and get them in one, easily accessible place. If you are someone who is just beginning your career, I’m so happy you are reading this blog. I want to be the first to help you proactively take steps to establish a system that keeps track of all your professional documents and inspires you to continue using and updating the system throughout your career. Believe me when I say that if you show up for the interview and present a folder with all your supporting documents, you will stand out above other candidates.
Here’s a list of documents to help you get started:
- Letter of introduction
- Resume
- References
- Letters of recommendation
- Education transcripts
- Certifications
- Licenses
- CEU’s
- Online patient reviews
- Any other supporting documents you feel relevant to support information on your resume.
When you provide supporting documentation, you’re presenting a complete, professional, concise, authentic package of who you are. You’re conveying, in a subtle way, to the hiring manager that you are organized, have a keen sense of attention to detail, you anticipate and you’re a helper. Hiring managers are grateful when candidates present pertinent information upfront and on their own, as it cuts back on follow-up emails and phone calls to request documents.
I recommend that you keep your resume and supporting documentation updated and be sure to store your documents on an external thumb drive. If your computer crashes, you won’t be left empty handed. Also keep several folders filled with hard copies on nice white paper, and you’ll be ready at a moment’s notice to walk out the door for an interview.
Don’t wait for a rainy day, the time to begin is now! Get a grip and get organized!
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