Tips For Generating A Travel Nurse Resume That Stands Out From The Rest

Finding an exceptional job starts with creating an exceptional resume. Anyone who has spent some time applying for nursing positions knows that the field is a competitive one. There is no shortage of qualified nurses to fill local and travel nursing positions across the country. Getting your foot in the door often comes down to ensuring that your resume ends up at the top of the pile of resumes on an employer’s desk.

After spending over a decade staffing hospitals all over the Tri-State area, White Glove Care has seen more than its share of nursing resumes. Our team of recruiters pulled together to offer some tips for applicants. Looking to transform your resume from ordinary to extraordinary? Take note of the following tips.

Perfecting A Stand Out Nursing Resume:

1. Getting A Foot In The Door: Your resume is simply a means to an end. The resume won’t get you the job, the interview will. That said, without a stand out resume, an interview is unlikely. When setting out to write your resume, remember your sole purpose: getting an interview!
2. Tell Them Who You Are Loud and Clear: Nothing is a bigger turn off to potential employers than having to search for contact information. Simply put, most employers won’t do it. If your contact information isn’t displayed clearly and prominently at the top of your resume, you are facing a missed opportunity.
3. Design Minimally: Your resume is not a work of art. A nice border or a simple touch of color will help your resume stand out from the rest. Anything beyond that will distract from the content of your document. Resist the urge to go design crazy. Simplicity and elegance are best.
4. Let Your Certifications Speak For Themselves: In the nursing field, licenses and certifications are the gatekeepers to jobs. A prospective employer looks for one thing and one thing only, before continuing on to learn more about you. Do you meet the required licensing and certification requirements? If not, your resume ends up in the trash bin. If so, you’ve moved to the next round. List all of your licenses and certifications, including identification numbers and expiration dates, as well as the certifying body. All certifications, even CPR or IV certification, should be included.
5. What Makes You Special and Searchable: What do you have that the resume before you didn’t? Show employers the unique specialties you’ve worked with. Include any areas of specialty and your length of experience in those areas. The goal is to make your resume as “search friendly” as possible. Specialty keywords might include: pediatrics, phlebotomy, chemotherapy administration, managed care, etc.

A typical rule of thumb for resume length, in general, is that a resume should not exceed two pages and should, preferably, fit on one page. Potential employers simply do not have the time, or interest, in reading a five page document that lists position after position but doesn’t saying anything new or extraordinary.

Struggling to create a one-pager? List out every placement you’ve had. Then, read it over and think back on your work history and ask yourself the following questions.

Choosing Which Placements To List On Your Resume:

1. Which of these placements best demonstrates my unique skill sets?
2. In which of these placements have I performed the best?
3. Where have I won awards, received recognition for my work or spearheaded an initiative?
4. Will this position get my foot in the door for an interview?

References are key. Employers need to know where you have worked in the past. How do you fit this need into the task of creating a one page resume? Have a separate document of all facilities you have worked with available for prospective employers as an addendum to your resume available. Bring this list to the interview with you and note on your resume that you will provide it. This offers potential employers the ability to review the document if necessary but doesn’t overwhelm them with information up front.

Need a checklist? Note what should be included in the work history and education sections of your resume.

Work History:

1. Include all relevant information, including but not limited to dates of employment, title, supervisor, unit, etc.
2. Give information about the facility and quantify whenever possible (total beds in facility and on unit, trauma level, caseload or patient ratio, etc.)
3. Specific duties, patient population (age, characteristics, conditions)
4. Specify any computer or charting systems used
5. Use a skimmable, bulleted list for each job to describe duties and responsibilities
6. Remember to use keywords throughout work history to keep your resume search-friendly

Education:

1. Name of institution, address, and phone number
2. Dates attended
3. Degree earned

The education section should be very simple and straightforward. Your resume should include all educational institutions you have attended. Finally, include any fellowships, awards, or professional recognition, in addition to any professional affiliations at the bottom of your resume.

Creating the best possible resume is a delicate balance of providing relevant, convincing information that paints a clear picture of your professional capabilities and experience in as few words as possible. Use these tips to streamline your resume and make it stand out from the rest.

Travel nursing is an incredible opportunity to explore new places while advancing your career. However, packing for travel nursing? A bit tricky. You need to ensure you’re prepared for both your professional responsibilities and the unpredictability of travel. Packing efficiently as a travel nurse involves striking a balance between having what you need and keeping your luggage manageable. To help you navigate this process, we’ve compiled a travel nursing packing list and with some helpful travel nurse packing hacks to ensure you’re ready for your next adventure.

General travel nurse packing tips

• Choose the Right Luggage: Opt for durable, lightweight luggage that is easy to maneuver. A combination of a large suitcase and a carry-on bag is often the most effective. Consider using packing cubes to keep your items organized.

• Make a List: Start by creating a packing list tailored to your needs. Having a checklist will help ensure you don’t forget any essential items.

• Think Versatile: Pack clothing items that can be mixed and matched. Opt for pieces that can transition from work to casual outings.

• Pack Smart: Roll your clothes instead of folding them to save space and reduce wrinkles. Don’t forget to leave space for items you may acquire during your travels.

Essential packing list for travel nurses

• Clothing
• Scrubs: Bring enough pairs for your shifts, plus a couple of extras in case of spills.
• Work Shoes: Choose comfortable, supportive shoes that are easy to clean.
• Casual Outfits: Pack versatile tops and bottoms for off-duty activities.
• Layering Pieces: Include cardigans or jackets, especially if you’re going to a place with varying climates.
• Undergarments: Don’t forget enough socks, underwear, and a few extra pairs for your stay.
• Pajamas: Comfortable sleepwear is a must.
• Accessories: Hats, belts, and jewelry to mix up your outfits.

Professional Gear

• Stethoscope: An essential tool for any nurse.
• Nurse Bag: A sturdy bag for your personal items, laptop, and supplies.
• ID Badge Holder: Keep your identification visible and secure.
• Phone/Tablet: Essential for communication, navigation, and entertainment.
• Laptop: If you’ll need it for work-related tasks.

Personal Items

• Toiletries: Travel-sized shampoo, conditioner, body wash, toothbrush, toothpaste, and any skincare products you use daily.
• Medications: Make sure to pack any prescriptions and over-the-counter medications you might need.
• Glasses, lenses, and lens solution if you need them for your
• Personal Comfort Items: Consider packing items that help you relax, like a book, a journal, or headphones.

Travel Essentials

• Travel Pillow and Blanket: For those long journeys.
• Snacks: Healthy snacks for your travels to keep your energy up.
• Water Bottle: Staying hydrated is crucial, especially on the go.
• Chargers: For all your devices, including power banks, if you’re in transit for extended periods.

Optional Items

• Camera: Capture memories of your travels.
• Fitness Gear: Pack workout clothes and shoes if you plan to work out during your assignment.
• Local Guide or Map: Helpful for exploring your new surroundings.
• For warm climates: Remember swimwear. If you plan to swim or sunbathe, pack a swimsuit, suntan lotion, and sunglasses.
• For cool climates, Make sure to pack coats, boots, hats, and gloves.

Are you taking a flight?

Clip these tips to ensure a smooth journey without any hiccups!

• Keep your passport handy.
• Have your boarding pass printed or accessible on your mobile device.
• Make sure your luggage meets the airline’s size and weight restrictions.
• Don’t keep any liquid or fruits in your carry on as they may be prohibited.
• Wear comfortable clothing for the flight.
• Pack a light jacket or sweater, as it can get chilly on planes.
• Consider bringing some snacks in case of delays.

Make sure to check with your airline for any specific requirements or restrictions before your flight!

Pro tip

Always check the climate and any specific requirements from your new workplace before finalizing your packing list.

We hope our travel nurse packing guide was helpful! Happy travels and good luck with your nursing adventures!

Still looking for your next travel adventure?

The job board has everything you need for your next adventure! Browse and find your ideal position, or reach out to our friendly recruiters here and let them handle the search on your behalf.