10 Steps to Create a Killer Nurse Resume That Passes the ATS

Q1. How long should my nurse resume be?

The ideal length for a nurse resume is one page. With limited space, it’s crucial to highlight your most relevant qualifications and experience. This means prioritizing essential information and tailoring your resume to each specific job application. By keeping your resume concise and focused, you increase its impact and improve your chances of standing out to potential employers.

Q2. What is the best font to use on my nurse resume?

When selecting a font for your nurse resume, opt for professional and easy-to-read options such as Times New Roman, Calibri, Arial, or Helvetica. Avoid using decorative or unusual fonts, as they can be difficult for applicant tracking systems (ATS) to parse. Additionally, maintain consistency in font size and style throughout your resume, ensuring a visually cohesive and professional-looking document.

Q3. Should I include a photo on my nurse resume?

Including a professional headshot on your nurse resume is generally not recommended in the United States. It can be seen as outdated and may introduce potential biases during the hiring process. Instead, focus on showcasing your skills, experience, and qualifications in a clear and concise manner. Ensure that your resume is well-written and highlights your value as a candidate.

Q4. What are the most common mistakes nurses make on their resumes?

Common mistakes nurses make on their resumes include:

• Using generic or vague language instead of specific and quantifiable achievements.
• Failing to tailor their resume to each job application, resulting in a lack of relevance to the specific requirements.
• Including irrelevant or outdated information, cluttering the resume and distracting from key qualifications.
• Making grammatical or spelling errors, which can create a negative impression and undermine credibility.
• Using an unprofessional or poorly designed resume template that lacks visual appeal and clarity.

Q5. How can I make my nurse resume stand out from the competition?

To make your nurse resume stand out from the competition:

• Quantify your accomplishments and use specific metrics to demonstrate your impact.
• Highlight your unique skills and experiences that set you apart from other candidates.
• Use keywords relevant to the job description to optimize your resume for ATS.
• Tailor your resume to each job application, addressing the specific requirements and responsibilities.
• Proofread your resume carefully to ensure it is free of errors and inconsistencies.

Q6. What are the essential sections of a nurse resume?

Essential sections of a nurse resume include:

• Contact Information: Name, address, phone number, email address.
• Summary: A brief overview of your skills, experience, and career goals.
• Experience: A chronological list of your nursing positions, including job titles, responsibilities, and accomplishments.
• Education: A list of your nursing degrees, certifications, and continuing education courses.
• Skills: A list of your technical and soft skills relevant to nursing.
• Certifications and Licensure: A list of your current and relevant nursing certifications and licenses.

Additionally, you can include optional sections such as Awards and Honors, Publications, and Volunteer Experience, if relevant to your career.