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 Developing and maintaining a professional resume can get you noticed for many great positions or possibly for a promotion within your organization. All respiratory therapists and sleep techs should constantly look for an open door that just might take their career to the next level.
The Three R's
Writing your resume in a basic format can lead to a favorable outcome when applying for a job. Learn to adopt the three R's to improve your chances.
Readability: Break up paragraphs that are nothing more than heavy text blocks. Focus on dividing information into sections. This allows the potential employer to quickly scan the resume and pick up highlighted keywords or phrases before moving on to the next.
Relevance: Place the most relevant information at the top of the first page. Generally, employers look here most frequently. Put all pertinent work experience in this section, and keep lines and sentences simple. Use bullet points to make your resume easier to read.
Results: Make reference to any results or positive outcomes from previous positions. Potential employers want to see all performance results quantified.
Other Pointers
There's no right or wrong way to write and maintain a resume. A resume is as unique as the person it represents. But following some other simple pointers will highlight the most meaningful sections and project a positive, professional image.
• Show a steady and consistent employment record. Gaps in job history might suggest instability and lack of commitment. If you have sporadic employment, do your best to show consistency in the same industry at a minimum.
• Be detailed about specific and related clinical experience relevant to the position you're seeking.
• List all professional credentials, licenses and associations. In most states, credentials and a state license are required even to be considered for employment.
• Use proper English and correct terminology and grammar. Many typos and errors suggest a lack of professionalism or competency. Have a friend review your resume for readability.
• Emphasize any cross-training you've acquired or other desirable traits. Highlight all extra responsibilities you've successfully shouldered.
• Compile a summary of your qualifications at the top of the resume.
• Put important highlights in bold type so they stand out when the potential employer skims the resume.
• If posting a resume on the Web, remember to use power keywords, which will help you stand out if the recruiter uses an online job search engine. Include key search words in your heading so it gets the most attention possible.
• Always include a cover letter. Explain how your experience matches the needs of the organization and why you would be the best candidate for the position. This is where you can really sell yourself and make it known that you're a great fit.
Aimee Staggenborg is a Missouri practitioner and freelance writer.
Read more about how respiratory therapists are coping with the difficult economy here. Browse an article on how respiratory department managers are off-setting costs by increasing reimbursable services, using staff more effectively, and making more strategic purchasing decisions; and read two of our bloggers' thoughts on overcoming overtime blues and retaining good employees.
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