New nurse grad resume and cover letter help

ParkerBC,MSN,RN, PhD, RN · Feb 23, 2015

There are two pages to my resume, or I should say, curriculum vitae. Your resume is not the legal document. You should include all relevant information pertaining to the position for which you are applying. So, I would focus on the clinical experience. When I was recruited for my current teaching position, I included presentations, an EBP paper I wrote to complete my MSN that is in the process of being published, my nursing experience, and other teaching experience. I would not have included my presentations, paper or teaching experience if I were applying for a floor nurse position. I don't think I would incorporate work experience. The reason being is because the last three positions lasted less than one year. That sometimes is a red flag. At the very least, I would include all of the experience into a generalized notation on the resume- 5 years of sales experience, 1.5 years of customer service experience. Otherwise, it looks good. Also, it is a good idea to write a cover letter. It is a summary of your experience and why you would be a good fit for the organization. The letter will also showcase your writing skills.

I hope this information helps. Good luck to you!

sunrays1981 · Feb 23, 2015

Yes thank you for your response. I actually do like the idea of saying this many years customer service experience etc. That would probably look better since I haven't had a job since 2011. I did have someone ask about my employment history since a few positions were less than a year at my last interview. I didn't want to leave gaps in my employment but also I was a different younger person just working a job to work which is why I went back to school to be a nurse :) I do also include a cover letter with each resume which I have tweaked a few times. This brings up another question. All hospitals have online applications where you submit a cover letter and resume but they also have another section where you fill in all the information from your resume including work history. Would I not add all my employment here? Do you think it needs to match what's on my resume as far as job titles and time periods of employment?

ParkerBC,MSN,RN, PhD, RN · Feb 23, 2015

If you plan on putting your employment history on your resume, then yes, it needs to match what you put on the application. Generally speaking, most places offer you an opportunity to explain employment gaps on the application. Regardless of which way you go, be sure all of your employment history is included on the application as that is the legal document.

tatfuturern · Mar 7, 2015

i would also suggest you put the time spent caring for your mother in it bc htat was a caregiver work