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How do I Write a Dental Assistant Cover Letter?
A dental assistant cover letter is a thoughtfully written introduction that outlines the job to which you are applying, your unique skills and work history, and your personality and appropriateness for the position. In applying for a dental assistant job, an applicant utilizes both a resume and a cover letter to introduce him- or herself to the hiring business. While a resume is a formal way of laying out your skills, experience, and education, a cover letter allows you to introduce yourself on a more personal level.
The format of a dental assistant cover letter is practically the same as any standard letter. It should include your name and address, your prospective employer's name and address, and the date the letter is composed. Additionally, cover letter guidelines typically advise a formal greeting and closing, as well as a handwritten signature. This format shows a high level of professionalism and will help you on your to path to become a dental assistant.
In writing a dental assistant cover letter, you should first mention the position for which you are applying. This sets the tone for the rest of the letter and lets the recruiter know what position you are seeking within the business. It also avoids any confusion if the dental office is hiring for more than one position. Following this method, your intention is clear from the opening sentences of the letter.
A resume will go into detail about your work experience and education, but you should give these items a brief mention in your dental assistant cover letter. Don't go overboard in explaining your qualifications; your resume will do that. Simply highlight what experience and training makes you right for the job at hand.
One of the primary functions of any cover letter is to allow the applicant a personal introduction before the recruiter reads his or her resume. Utilize this opportunity to let your personality shine through in your cover letter. Include information about your special personal skills, such as your strong work ethic, adeptness at multitasking, and ability to work well under pressure. You may also include any personal achievements or accomplishments relevant to the job, such as winning any work-related awards or honors.
A properly written dental assistant cover letter is the first step to acquiring work as a dental assistant. Most recruiters will look at the cover letter before anything else. If attention-grabbing and personal, while not being overly informal, the right cover letter can help you land the job of your dreams.
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![A woman having a dental exam.]()
By: michaeljungA woman having a dental exam. -
![Dental assistant cover letters should be signed by hand in blue or black ink.]()
By: Andres RodriguezDental assistant cover letters should be signed by hand in blue or black ink.
Discussion Comments
I know that a professional cover letter and resume are important for any job, but I also think that timing is important whether you may get a job or not.
I have worked as a dental assistant for the same dentist for 8 years. If he receives a cover letter and resume and we don't have an open position at the time, he doesn't even look over it, but immediately puts it in a file.
At that point, it doesn't matter how fancy or sloppy the cover letter is, it gets filed away without being considered. Even when we are looking for a new assistant, very seldom have I seen him go back through and look at a cover letter that is in the file.
I work in a dentist office and open up the mail that comes in. When someone submits a cover letter or resume for a dental assistant job, the dentist I work for quickly glances over the resume before he reads the cover letter.
I am sure everyone has their own way of doing things, so it is important that both of them are eye-catching and well done.
I have a friend who works in human resources and she once told me to begin a cover letter with where you learned of the position, and the specific job you are applying for.
Many times there will be more than one job, or one way they have advertised a position, and it is helpful to stress that in the beginning of the cover letter.
If you are writing a cover letter for a dental assistant job, the dentist is usually the one who will be reading the information, so you want it to be concise and to the point. If it is not well put together, they may just set it aside and go on the next one.
I think a professional cover letter is just as important for a dental assistant job as it is for any other kind of job. When I was looking for a job as a dental assistant, I made sure and had a professional look over my cover letter and resume.
It is amazing how a few tips, can make a difference in how you present yourself in your cover letter. I began by using a sample cover letter I found on the internet, but the person who reviewed it for me, gave me some good pointers.
One thing I was told was to make sure my cover letter was not just a duplicate of my resume in a different format. The cover letter should express who you are, and why you are interested in working for that particular office.
One small thing that helps a cover letter stand out is mention that you are enthusiastic about having the opportunity to meet with them, and explain that you will be following up with a phone call or e-mail.
Then, it is important to actually do what you said, and follow through!
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