resume question

[starletRN]

I apologize ahead of time if this isn't the place to post this but here goes:

I just graduated, and I'm working on my resume. The trouble is I have a lot of past work experience but very little of it is nursing related. Should I just put my stint as a chiropractic assistant and leave it at that or add some of my work experiences whether they relate to nursing or not?

Also, did anyone list their clinicals on their resume? I've seen where some think it's a good idea but others do not.

[racing-mom4, BSN, RN]

Highlight the nursing work you have done. Were you ever a CNA? Highlight that...include the other stuff but only for dates just to show you have commitment to a job. If at the Chiro office you did some pt care than add a couple lines of that.

A resume does NOT get you the job, it only gets you in the door!!! Once in, it is your job to sell yourself!!

Good luck!

[Whispera, MSN, RN]

I have worked many many jobs, and don't list them all on my resume. Remember, it's important to keep it short and have something on the first page that draws positive attention to you. Some say it should be no longer than one page total or those reading it won't read the whole thing anyway. I wouldn't list clinicals unless you've taken some that are out of the ordinary and would help you get the job moreso than the usual clinicals. Most employers know what clinicals you've done, since nursing school clinicals are pretty standard.

[classicdame, MSN, EdD]

When I look at resumes I am looking at anything that points towards professionalism and sticktoitiveness (no such word but should be!). So if you worked 2 years at McDonalds you at least know about dealing with customers, schedules, chain of command and getting the work done. But be brief. As a new grad I do not expect you to have nursing experience.

[scadams29]

I just graduated (December 2008) also with a 2nd degree in nursing- BSN (first in chemistry and math) and have previous employment history- none in nursing. I listed my clinical experience from school- listed the clinical, hospital and when the clinical experience was completed. I also had another area on my resume for other experience. There i listed position, company worked for, address and time on job. Just landed my first nursing position. Hope this is of some assistance.

[starletRN]

Thank you everyone for your advice. I think this will definitely help me. :) After 3 years as a chiro assistant, I was a stay at home mom and then went back to school. So my recent work experience is limited. I didn't even take a job while in school because I didn't want to take away from my studies.