Question:
Dear Donna,
I will graduate soon from a BSN program. I know the job market is not great so I want to do everything I can to improve my chances of getting a job. Someone suggested that I include a photo of myself on my resume. Do you think that is a good idea? Any other suggestions?
New Nurse
Dear Donna replies:
Dear New Nurse,
It is not considered appropriate to include a photo of yourself on your resume. The reason is that someone could make a case that an employer was unfairly influenced (good or bad) by seeing the age/race/ethnicity of the candidate.
There are many other ways to make your resume stand out. Read ?FAQs about student nurse resumes? (www.Nurse.com/Cardillo/Student-Resumes). Even though the article was written for student nurses, all the advice applies to new nurses as well.
Keep in mind sending out resumes is only one way to find a job and the least effective one. All nurses, both new and experienced, must be much more proactive in the job search process by volunteering, networking and using social media. For additional retails, read ?New nurse, new job strategies? (www.Nurse.com/Cardillo/Strategies) .
Best wishes,
Donna
