Nurse Chat CV/job application tips

So the time has come you’re being let loose into the big world. Your student days are about to be a distant memory but first things first you need to secure a J.O.B.

Get yourself comfy as I’ve got some long and lengthy tips for you!

1)Revamp/construct a CV. I personally removed all part time jobs that were not healthcare related. Although they had served me well the idea is to structure your CV to cater to your new role.

2)Look at nursing CV templates for inspiration and layout guidance. The RCN has some great resources regarding the actual layout of a CV, how many pages it should be, what to include and in what order. They also offer a service where you can send your CV in and be provided with written feedback!

3)Remember to ensure that all your information is correct and up to date. Telephone numbers, addresses, email address and of course no spelling mistakes.

4)I would advise for an opening statement on your CV as well to sell yourself to the reader.

Now when it comes to constructing the actual job application this is the chance to SELL yourself! Write a list of all your qualities and utilise these to tell the employer how these amazing qualities will be of value to them.

Example:

“I possess many qualities which I believe will be an asset to the team. I am organised and know how to manage and prioritise the care of my patients effectively. For example during my NICU placement I often had three babies with feeds all due at the same time. By having a plan of my day I already preempted this and overcame this difficulty by starting my feeds early.”

Go onto the Trust website and read about the Trust you’re sigining up for. Read about their aims, their values, what they stand for, what things they have achieved in the last year. Intertwine these with your amazing attributes.

Example:

“One of the many reasons that drew me to Trust A were your core values. Your value of teamwork is one of particular importance to me as it’s something I believe and stand for. Throughout my training I learnt so much about working within a team and how important this is to providing outstanding patient care. I would want to work within a Trust who holds this value highly as this is very important to me as a nurse.”

Talk about who you are as a person. What nursing means to you. Why did you choose this speciality? Be enthusiastic and passionate.

Talk about what you have achieved and learned over the past three years. Placements, presentations, part time work, volunteering, elective placements there’s so much to speak about. Make it personal.

Read the job specification and use this to help construct your application. What are they looking for? What would be expected of you?

Lastly good luck! You’ve got this!