How to Craft a Resume & Cover Letter for a Nursing Position

Resume Writing

When crafting your resume, remember that your most relevant information must catch the eye of the employer. Most employers/managers will give your resume a quick read to determine if they want to interview you.

To get started, try to stick to 1 page in a neat, easy to read, and professional format. Emphasize your accomplishments and relevant information under the following headings:

• Education
• Clinical experiences (type of unit, responsibilities, number of hours)
• Work experiences
• Volunteerism/ community service
• Awards

Nursing Resume Template Examples

If you have previous experience that is relevant or pertains to the position you are applying for, you might extend your resume to 1.5 or 2 pages. Other helpful tips to remember:

• Keep font size and formatting consistent. Font size 10 or 12. Use Arial, Times New Roman, Tahoma, Calibri.
• Avoid personal information. Such as single/married/children and your street address. Keep to city and state.
• Use action verbs to describe your experiences. Use short phrases and powerful words to stress accomplishments as well as describe your specific role and responsibilities. Do not use “I." Reference this list of helpful action verbs.
• Watch verb tense. Use past tense unless it is current.

When reviewing, give your resume a 6 to 10 second read test. Oftentimes, employers will only have that much time to review your resume. Also, PROOFREAD, PROOFREAD, PROOFREAD. Make sure to have a peer or professor proofread your resume.

Cover Letter

A cover letter should accompany your resume, and offer a brief summary of the job you’re
applying to and your qualifications. See:

• See: Cover Letter Example
• Yale School of Nursing: Cover Letters Made Easy
• Cover Letter Tips for Nurses