While demand for nurses remains high nationwide, nursing graduates should polish their skills now in order to land the perfect position.

Since the COVID-19 pandemic, the U.S. healthcare system has remained in a nursing shortage. During that time, stress and burnout led many nurses to retire early or self-select out of the field. Now registered nurse (RN) employment is on the upswing, expected to grow 6% from 2022 to 2032, outpacing all other occupations. If you are a recent nursing graduate, take steps now to position yourself favorably for your first nursing job. How can you do this? Create a resume that stands out, hone your interview skills and obtain advanced skill training through a novice nurse program.

 

Create a resume that shines

Before submitting your first nursing job application, ensure your resume highlights your strengths and experiences. Instead of leading with an objective, opt for a summary that highlights your strengths in a few sentences. For example, “I am a newly-licensed nurse with enthusiasm, drive and a strong work ethic. I have a strong desire to be a capable and professional nurse. I am a team player and not afraid to ask questions.”

Common resume tips include keep your resume to one page in length and use bullet points to list relevant experience such as student nursing, practicums or other project you worked on. You should also include any certifications, credentials or professional association memberships that you hold.

Your resume should be tailored to the job that you are applying for. Include keywords from the job description in your skills and experience sections. If a cover letter is required, make sure it is impactful, helps you stand out and summarizes why you are the perfect candidate for the job.

 

Nursing interview tips

Prior to any nursing job interview, take time to prepare by researching the organization and the hiring manager. Here are some things to keep in mind when researching:

  • What are the organization’s mission and values?
  • Are there any recent press releases about the organization?
  • Do you already know people who have worked at the organization to gather more information about the company culture and management style?

Of course, first impressions matter, so dress professionally. Do not forget to make good eye contact, smile and let your personality shine through. Shortly after the interview, send a thank-you note to your recruiter, the interviewer or whomever you have been corresponding with about the position.

 

Maxim’s Novice Nurse Program

Are you a recent nursing graduate looking to get more resume-worthy experience but not sure how to start? Maxim Healthcare Services’ Novice Nurse Program provides educational skills advancement to nurses who hold less than one year of hands-on experience. Because of the specialized one-on-one training built into the program, nurses emerge better prepared to care for patients who have high acuity needs. Under the supervision of an experienced nurse mentor, novice nurses can complete advanced skills training on G-tube, tracheostomy and ventilator. The program offers excellent support, training and mentorship.

 

Maxim: A leader in home healthcare for 30 years

Maxim’s Novice Nurse Program offers a unique home healthcare setting that allows new nurses to focus on high-acuity patients one at a time, outside the stressful setting of a hospital. In this environment, nurses can offer care to patients and grow in advanced technical skills while enriching the lives of those in their community. With 30 years of experience in the industry, Maxim’s Novice Nurse Program provides an unparalleled platform for mentorship, growth and career potential. In addition, it offers a flexible schedule.

Maxim Healthcare Services is hiring nurses across the country. Our Novice Nurse Program is a great way to jumpstart your nursing career. Interested? Fill out this form to get in touch with a Maxim Novice Nurse Program near you.