Download editable New Grad RN Resume Sample and apply the changes according your to skills in easy steps.
Introduction
As a new registered nurse (RN), you need to create an impressive resume to land your first nursing job. Your resume is a powerful way to show potential employers what you can do, what you’ve learned, and what you’ve done. In this article, we’ll show you how to create a new grad RN resume that will make you stand out from the crowd and increase your chances of landing your dream nursing job.
1. Know why you are writing your resume.
Before you start making your resume, you need to know what it is for. Your resume should not be a complete list of everything you did or learned while you were in nursing school. Instead, it should be a short, focused document that showcases your skills and matches the job you’re looking for.
2. Choose the right format for your resume
There are different ways to organize a resume, either chronologically, functionally, or a mixture of the two. Most of the time, a chronological approach works best for a new RN who just graduated. This format places the most weight on your academic achievements and clinical experiences, which are critical to showing that you are ready to become a nurse.
3. Write a unique resume objective.
Start your resume with a strong objective that states what you want to do with your job and what you can offer as a new graduate RN. This piece should be short but strong and it should be written for the job you want. Focus on how much you love nursing, how much you care about your patients, and how much you want to grow and learn as a nurse.
4. Talk about what you learned.
As a new RN, your schooling is one of the most important things you have going for you. Include important information such as the name of the nursing school you attended, the type of degree you received, and if your GPA is good. Also, list any honors, awards, or extracurricular activities that show how committed you are to being a great nurse.
5. Talk about your clinical experiences and rotations.
Recruiters are very interested in how you did in your clinicals while you were in nursing school. Create a separate section listing the clinical rotations you’ve done and the skills you’ve learned in each. Include details about how you cared for patients and any specialty areas you worked in, such as pediatrics, obstetrics, or critical care.
6. Focus on important skills
Use the section on skills to demonstrate specific skills that will make you a useful asset as a new RN graduate. Include skills such as evaluating patients, administering medications, caring for wounds, and any other professional skills you have. Also, talk about soft skills like communication, teamwork and adaptability which are very important in the field of nursing.
7. Use internships and volunteer work to your advantage
Include on your resume if you worked as a nursing intern or assisted in a healthcare setting. These experiences show that you take learning seriously and are committed to making a positive difference in patient care.
8. Provide details about your licenses and certifications
List your qualifications in a clear manner such as Basic Life Support (BLS) or Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS). Also, include your RN license number and the state you obtained it from. Putting this information up front shows that you care about your career and are ready to work as an RN.
9. Use a format used by professionals
Make sure your resume is clean and professional with titles and bullet points. Don’t use fancy styles or colors that might distract the reader. Hiring managers are impressed by a well-organized resume, and it becomes easier for them to find the information they need.
10. Proofread and edit your work carefully
Before you send your resume, check it carefully for typos and grammatical errors. In nursing, attention to detail is important, and a perfect resume shows that you care about being accurate and professional.
11. Change your resume for every job you want.
Change your resume every time you apply for a job. Read the job description and identify the exact skills and qualifications the company is looking for. Tailor your resume to these requirements by placing the most important skills and experiences at the top.
12. Make connections and ask for help from experts
Use your nursing school’s resources and alumni network to find job opportunities and help with your resume. Career counselors and nurses with lots of experience can help you write a unique resume.
To create a good resume for a new RN, you need to show a balance of your education, clinical experience, and relevant skills. By following the steps in this article, you’ll be able to craft a strong resume that shows off as a qualified and enthusiastic new nurse. This will help you get your first nursing job.
FAQ’s
How long should my resume be for a new RN graduate?
Your resume should be between one and two pages maximum. Keep it brief and to the point and focus on the most important facts.
Should I list my clinical experiences, even if not in my specialty?
Absolutely! Even if your clinical rotations are in general areas, they show that you have a lot of experience caring for patients and performing other nursing duties.
Can I use a resume template?
While templates are a good place to start, you should avoid using generic ones. Make changes to your resume to make it stand out and match your skills.
What if I am a new RN with little work experience?
Focus on your academic achievements, clinical experiences and important skills. If you don’t have much work experience, showcase any internships or volunteer work you’ve done.
How can I get my resume noticed by companies?
Personalize your resume for each job application, placing greater emphasis on skills and experiences that match the job requirements. You can also stand out by making connections and getting advice from experts.
Don’t forget that your new grad RN resume is your ticket into the nursing field. Take the time to create a resume that shows how passionate you are about nursing and how much you care about your patients. With the right resume, you’ll be one step closer to landing your first nursing job and starting a rewarding career in healthcare. Good luck!