RNs, your nursing resume is essential for your career, so it's important to get it right! And you can do that by making sure you follow these 11 essential nurse resume tips before you apply for your next job.
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11 Essential Nursing Resume Tips for RNs
Looking for a new RN job — or a better one? Remember, your resume only has a few minutes to get someone’s attention. And that someone may not be a someone at all, but an AI system programmed to instantly reject resumes with funky formatting or without certain keywords.
Your skills are in demand, and you deserve the best career possible. So don't let common mistakes hold you back! Help ensure you land your next job by following these essential nurse resume tips.
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Building your resume from scratch? Get our nursing resume template here
Tip #1: Keep it short and sweet
How long should your resume be? If you have less than 10 years of RN experience, one page should be plenty. Two pages is fine if you have more. But any longer and you risk getting skipped by busy recruiters (or automated screeners).
In other words, keep it simple and to the point. Write ICU instead of intensive care unit — they know what it means. And use bullet points instead of full sentences when you can.
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Pro tip: If you do have two pages, repeat your contact info on both.
Tip #2: Know what — and what not — to include
The trick to keeping it simple? Stay relevant. You don’t need to list everything you’ve ever done, just what’s important. Personalize your resume each time to focus on your most impressive skills and most relevant experience. You don’t need to include all the details from your career — just the ones that matter.
Tip #3: Personalize!
Just as important as what to include is how to describe it. So, read the job description carefully, and use the exact same words when you can.
For example, if it mentions five years of experience, then make it clear that's what you have. If it mentions specific EMR systems, certifications, or skills (like vascular access) then include those. That goes for "soft skills" like communication, time management, and teamwork, too.
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Pro tip: Don’t mislead or exaggerate — if you don’t have the skills or experience, then don't say you do.
Tip #4: Skip the references & objectives
If you're still including “objectives,” switch to a "professional summary” instead. And don't include references at all unless they're asked for. Even writing "available upon request” takes up too much space — you can provide that in the next stage of the hiring process.
Tip #5: Use action verbs
Use language that describes actions you've taken, rather than events that happened. For instance, instead of saying “outcomes were improved,” say how you helped improve them.
Take it one step further by connecting action items to specific accomplishments — for instance, you coordinated care in a way that improved a unit's performance, or you successfully managed or trained others.
Tip #6: Don’t rely on AI
Yes, tools like ChatGPT can be helpful for creating a first draft, shortening text, or finding the right words. But don’t rely on them too much, and always double-check their work. If you really want your resume to stand out, you need to put in a little time creating something original.
Tip #7: Do write for AI
AI isn’t just a tool for writing resumes, but an important consideration when you create one, too. Many employers now use automated systems to screen resumes, which quickly reject ones that don't meet certain standards.
Just like most recruiters, these systems will disqualify you for spelling errors or sloppy formatting. They usually reject resumes with elements like tables, images, colored fonts, or special characters, so avoid those, too.
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Pro tip: Use basic language in headers, like "Skills" instead of "What I do" and "Experience" and not “Where I’ve worked.”
Tip #8: Be consistent
Make sure your name is written the same way as it appears on your application and LinkedIn profile. Don’t use a nickname unless you also use it in your professional life.
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Pro Tip: If you don't have a customized LinkedIn URL, it’s time to get one. (You might be surprised at how many opportunities you’ll find after you do.)
Tip #9: Only include salary info upon request
Some employers ask you to provide your salary expectations; if so, you can include a brief section in your resume or cover letter. But if they don't ask for it, don't include it, and give yourself room to negotiate later if necessary.
Tip #10: Double-check everything
Before you send, read the job listing again to make sure you've covered everything. Double-check to make sure everything is correct, especially your contact info. And have a friend read it, too — ideally another nurse.
Tip #11: Don’t forget the cover letter
Last but not least is your cover letter. This is your chance to add some info that may not fit on the resume, like how much you admire the facility, or how you think you'll fit in. It's another important chance to sell yourself — but once again, keep it short!
Put Your Resume to Work with a New Nursing Job!
Your resume is the key to your career, so take the time to make it great. And when you're ready to find your next opportunity, head over to the HealthTrust jobsite to browse hundreds of open nursing jobs across the U.S.A.
