A concise and focused statement at the top of a nursing resume used to be a standard practice. This statement typically highlighted the candidate’s career goals and desired role within a healthcare setting. For example, a recent graduate might have stated a desire to obtain a position as a staff nurse in a specific unit, while an experienced nurse might have expressed an interest in a leadership role.
Historically, this introductory statement served as a quick overview of a candidate’s aspirations, allowing recruiters to rapidly assess alignment with open positions. While once common, its importance has diminished in recent years, with the rise of cover letters and more emphasis on skills and experience summaries tailored to specific job descriptions. Including such a statement can sometimes be viewed as outdated or take up valuable space that could be better utilized showcasing quantifiable accomplishments. However, for certain situations, such as career changes or entry-level positions, a brief, targeted statement can still be beneficial in clarifying career direction.