Written by Andrew Tracy, Search Consultant.
Have you crafted the strongest possible resume? We work with professional Medical Management nurses (that is Case Management, Utilization Management, and Quality Management) on a daily basis and often candidates underestimate the critical importance of a well-constructed resume. In 2010 we published a paper entitled “How Your Resume Can Drive Success” that addresses the key components for drafting a powerful resume. In this document, we aim to shed some light on tips to improve your resume, secure an interview, and land your next great job. Below we expand on the next item addressed, “Write a Compelling Objective.” Download the full white paper to read more about these 7 key steps to resume success.
Most resumes and CVs include an “OBJECTIVE” section that is designed to give the reader an idea as to what the candidate is trying to accomplish by submitting this document. Career specialists and recruiters may have varying opinions on whether an objective section should even be included, but that really depends on whether the space is used properly or not. A compelling objective is your first impression and can sometimes be the determining factor whether the recipient continues to read further.
An appealing objective should include a statement that clearly defines your intentions. Be concise and to the point so your audience doesn’t have any reason to question your intention. For example, if you are looking for a Quality Improvement nurse position, or a HEDIS Project Manager role, then you should state it specifically. Make sure you use the keywords and phrases that are relevant to your field of expertise and the position or company you are targeting. Often times an objective omits these words which can give the reader the impression that you are just looking for a job as opposed to a specific career role.
The objective section may seem superfluous, as every resume has the same purpose, and so in a sense the same objective, that is to secure an interview and ultimately land the job. If you do use a very generic and non-compelling objective, such as the following, it does not add anything to your resume and might as well be omitted.
OBJECTIVE: “To obtain a rewarding position where I can utilize my skills and expertise to aid in the advancement of your company.”
This is an example that could be placed on top of any resume for any job in any field and it would remain true. It is essentially a non-statement and is taking up limited real estate on a resume you are trying to keep brief.
An objective must be compelling and targeted, and it should be specific to you and the company where you wish to work. Since it is often the first line read, see it as an opportunity to demonstrate that you have a specific goal in mind, that you have researched the company you are applying to, and that you can bring a unique value and talent specific to the organization’s needs. For example:
OBJECTIVE: “Dedicated Medical Management RN, BSN, CCM with over 10 years in progressive leadership roles within Case Management and Utilization Review, including community outreach programs, seeking position as the Director of Healthcare Services with a non-profit health plan that is committed to improving healthcare for underserved populations within the community.”
As always, you can contact one of our representatives at 800-974-4828 to assist you in re-tooling your resume for that next great opportunity in Healthcare Services. CareNational provides superior career consulting support, and there is never a fee charged to candidates for any of our services.
For other great tips, visit a recent brief blog of ours for 5 Tips to improve your Medical Management Resume, or download the full whitepaper below.
Written by Andrew Tracy, Search Consultant. For more great tips on job search strategies and to discuss our current opportunities, reach out to one of CareNational’s best Medical Management Recruiters! The blog for astute readers on all things related to healthcare medical management. When new and exciting things happen in medical management, we blog!