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After passing your state competency exam and obtaining your license, you can apply for positions as a Certified Nursing Assistant, or CNA. It's an exciting milestone, to be sure. CNAs are in high demand across the country, but that doesn't mean you're guaranteed to land the ideal job. The way in which you apply for jobs will largely determine the outcome, and having an excellent resume will make a major difference. Learn some basic CNA resume writing tips to ensure great results below.
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Keep the following seven points in mind to craft the most effective CNA resume possible:
Always Submit a Resume
Sometimes, employers only ask prospective CNAs to fill out job applications. You can certainly just do the minimum that's asked of you, but submitting a full resume will help you stand out. It doesn't take long to complete one, so why not?
Demonstrate a Stable Work History
Your resume should reflect a stable work history, which means that you have held onto jobs for reasonable periods of time. If you jumped around from one position to another, consider omitting a few jobs to make it look less drastic. However, do not put any untrue information on your resume, or it could backfire.
Be Specific
Include as many details as possible about past jobs. That's especially important for any past healthcare-related positions you've held. Detail your job duties, highlight areas of specialty and explain how your experience will help you be the best CNA possible.
Use the Correct Terminology
Take care when using medical terminology or other jargon on your resume. It's great to do if you can use it correctly. However, misusing important terms will make you look unskilled. Have at least one other person with healthcare experience look over your resume to ensure there are no gaffes like these.
Detail Your Achievements and Credentials
Include information about your CNA license, such as where and when it was obtained. Highlight special certifications, including for CPR. If you have them, attach letters of recommendation. Make things easier for prospective employers by outlining the various health screenings you've completed too.
Highlight Your Skills
During CNA program, you became proficient in a variety of crucial skills. List them on your resume, and go into detail about what they are and why they are relevant. Include other skills that may come in handy as a CNA, such as computer skills or being bilingual. Basically, list anything that will demonstrate to prospective employers that you will be a valuable addition to the team.
No Experience? No Problem
Like many new CNAs, you may not have any healthcare-related experience to speak of. Don't worry. Everyone has to start somewhere, and employers know this. Don't ignore the subject, however. Rather, explain why you want to be a CNA and why you think you are well-suited for this kind of work. Letting your enthusiasm for your new career show will instill confidence in prospective employers and help you stand out from other applicants.
Applying for your first job as a CNA is daunting. Having a well-written resume to hand employers will help boost your confidence and demonstrate to employers that you are serious about obtaining a great job. Take your time while crafting it, and keep the preceding tips in mind to dramatically boost your odds of landing the right job the first time.
