Make Your Nursing Resume Work For You

Infographic Transcript

In the next ten years, the nursing industry is projected to grow by 15 percent, a number significantly higher than most industries. As more and more candidates enter this field, it’s crucial to build a resume that puts you ahead of the competition.

First Impressions Matter

Start strong with a quality nursing cover letter:

• Provide your license type and number after your name
• Make sure all of your contact information is up-to-date
• Double-check spelling and grammar
• Offer specific compliments about your potential, and explain why you’d be the perfect fit
• Be honest about why you want to work for this employer
  • Do they offer cutting-edge research?
  • Have they recently received any awards for their quality of care?

Resume Objective or Summary: Which One’s Right for You?

If you’re just starting out in your nursing career, it makes sense to include a resume objective. Keep it under 50 words and describe your career goals as succinctly as possible.2 If you’re more established in your career, choose a summary statement instead. Describe your past experience and qualifications as concisely as possible.

Show Off Your Stuff

1. Start with your name and contact information
2. Give your license type and number and national certification
3. Provide information about your highest degree
4. Give specific past experience

Include specific details about your work experience. Where did you complete your residencies? What type of care facilities are you most comfortable with? What specific duties have you had in past jobs? Talk about the types of patients you’ve had, the types of equipment you’re skilled in using, and the types of care you’ve provided.

5. Provide contact information for past employers
6. List specific past accomplishments and awards

Have you received any awards or recognition from past employers? Did your hospital or care facility earn any big awards? Explain how your work contributed to the success of your employer

Keep Your Design Simple and Clean

● Use consistent fonts and color schemes throughout
● Keep your resume concise

Follow Up!

Send a handwritten thank you note after your interview. It’s a great way to set yourself apart from other candidates!

If you’re looking for other ways to stand apart from the crowd, check out CU’s online RN to BSN. CU can help you reach your highest potential as a nurse!

Sources:

1. bls.gov
2. thebalancecareers.com
3. biginterview.com