Writing the perfect locum CV
By: Daniel Harrison-Pinder

Top Tips for Locums: The Perfect CV – Do’s & Don’ts

Our expert recruitment consultants here at Seven Resourcing are often asked what prospective employers look for in a first-rate locum CV.

Your CV is a very personal thing and there’s no single right way of writing one; however, through our vast experience of recruiting for many diverse locum jobs across a broad range of specialist sectors, we’ve compiled a list of simple tips that can be considered universal.

Do

  1. Include a brief synopsis of why you chose a career in healthcare, nursing, social care or criminal justice. What attracted you to this profession and what motivates you?
  2. Keep it as clear and concise as possible – short paragraphs and bullets. The manager might have a whole stack of CVs to sift through, so don’t make yours look like a chore.
  3. Highlight your qualifications and experience – ensure the dates of your previous employment are accurate.
  4. Make a feature of any long-term placements as these will show your dedication and commitment.
  5. Draw attention to your adaptability and versatility. If you’ve worked across different teams or areas of the profession, emphasise your diverse skillset – as well as any particular areas of specialism.

Don’t

  1. Include extended sections about your hobbies, interests and how you spend your recreational time – unless it’s particularly relevant to your role. We all enjoy “socialising”, but there’s no place for it on a professional CV.
  2. Obfuscate any gaps in employment. State the dates clearly and make sure there’s a reasonable explanation for any extended breaks.
  3. Draw attention to short-term placements. Sometimes you’re only needed for a month or two, but if there are too many of these short contracts on your CV the employer might surmise you’re difficult to work with or lack commitment.
  4. Gloss over any issues that might need further explanation. For example, if you recently left an area or trust that is in need of candidates, you should explain your reasons for leaving somewhere that needed you.
  5. Include lots of jargon and acronyms – even if you think the reader will understand it. Most managers are time-poor, so make sure your CV can be digested quickly and easily. Readability is key.

One other thing to bear in mind is that your LinkedIn profile should mirror your CV, as prospective employers will probably look you up and won’t look too favourably on any contradictory information.

Do you have any locum CV tips to add to our Top 10? Please leave a comment below or share them with us on our Facebook page. We’d love to hear from you!