When people apply for jobs online, one of the most frequently asked questions is how to write a resume. Many employers no longer simply require that you fill out a job application. Instead, you must submit a resume for healthcare and many other fields. You might not know where to start if you have never written a behavioral health resume. Since your resume is a potential employer’s first impression of you, it is important to learn how to write a good resume for healthcare.
Browse the jobs board on Behavioral Health Jobs to see which positions are available in your area or remotely. The job postings can give you an idea of what qualities employers are looking for, which can help guide you as you write your healthcare resume.
Writing Your Resume for Healthcare
In the competitive world of healthcare, standing out from the crowd with a polished resume is your ticket to an interview. Your resume is the first impression you’ll make, and in a field as important as healthcare, it’s important to stand out. Your resume should reflect your passion for the medical field, your specific qualifications, and your relevant experience. Here’s how to write a healthcare resume that gets noticed.
What to include on your healthcare resume:
- Contact information – Ensure your contact details are current and easily found at the top of your resume.
- Professional summary – This is a short, compelling statement that sums up your career aims and what you’ve achieved so far in the field.
- Work experience – List all relevant work experience in the healthcare industry, including internships and volunteer work, in reverse chronological order.
- Education – Include all medical certifications, degrees, and relevant coursework.
- Skills – Your healthcare skills should be listed prominently and should reflect the job description’s requirements.
- Certifications – Include all relevant healthcare certifications and licenses.
- Awards and achievements – Showcasing your accolades can significantly boost your resume’s impact.
Keeping a clear, professional format is essential. Avoid using elaborate fonts and stick to a clean, easy-to-read style. Bullet points are your best friend for listing tasks and achievements, as they are scannable and draw attention to your capabilities quickly.
Never use a generic resume for multiple applications. Tailoring your resume to each job you apply for can make all the difference. Pick keywords and phrases from the job description and ensure they’re mirrored in your resume. This improves readability and ensures your resume passes through automatic resume scanning systems.
Lastly, your summary statement is one of the most crucial aspects of your resume. It provides a snapshot of who you are and what you can offer. Be sure to write it in a way that resonates with the specific position you’re applying for.
Your Cover Letter Is Important Too
Many job seekers underestimate the power of a good cover letter. Your cover letter is an additional opportunity to market yourself. This is your chance to tell a story, make a personal connection, and explain your interest in the particular position and employer. Here’s how to create a cover letter that complements your resume:
- The introduction – Start with a strong, personalized opening. If possible, address the cover letter to the hiring manager by name and open with an engaging first sentence.
- The body – Use the main part of your cover letter to expand on the bullet points of your resume. Tell a few stories about your achievements and the challenges you’ve faced. Explain how your previous experiences have prepared you for the role.
- The conclusion – In the final paragraph, restate your interest in the position and provide a clear call to action. Whether it’s a request for an interview or a mention that you’ll follow up, be direct about the next steps.
A well-researched cover letter that speaks directly to the healthcare employer you’re applying to shows that you’ve done your homework and that you’re genuinely interested in the position. Reference the institution’s mission, values, or any recent initiatives you support or want to contribute to.
Behavioral Health Jobs: Answering Your Frequently Asked Questions About Resumes
At Behavioral Health Jobs, we understand that sending out resume after resume without a response can be frustrating. In addition to providing the latest behavioral health job postings in your area, we supply you with information about preparing a resume that stands out so you can get your foot in the door. Follow our tips for crafting a great resume, then head over to our jobs board to start applying for your next dream job in healthcare.
