Writing Your Resume and Cover Letter

Mark LEplattenier, MPAS, RPA-C Hofstra University Program in Physician Assistant Studies

Purpose of the Resume

Convey information about YOU Your qualifications for the position The unique skills or services YOU bring to the organization Honest summary of your preparation and readiness Provide enough key information to slow the reader down. Make it concise yet complete.

Key Elements of the Resume

Current Contact Information Include e-mail and mail addresses Avoid PO Box and fax number Include a phone number where you can speak freely Caution -children, employer, cell phone +/- (if best way to reach you)

Employment Objective
What position you are looking for. A resume without a job objective statement effectively says, "This is what I've done. Could you figure out what I should do next? Key words Title Area of Work Specialization Type of community

Layout
In medicine, education and clinical training are essential - near the beginning of the resume: PA education is highly relevant to your new position As a new graduate - no work history in this field Focus on what you have!

Education First Then Experience

The chronological format is most useful when: Your overall work history shows growth in your career path. You have no gaps in your work history.

Professional Experiences
Clinical Rotations List all. Be prepared to discuss your experiences during the interview(s) with physicians and other decision makers. Organize by Hospital, then rotation, since most students have the same core rotations. Focus on your educational and technical achievements in each clinical experience. Include health, professional and other relevant experiences.

Certifications / Licensure / Professional Membership

Provides documentation of your credentials and qualification for the position (include board eligible - if NCCPA exam not taken) NYS License Include BCLS, ACLS, PALS with expirations Professional organization or society.

The Extras
Include Special Skills and Attributes Honors, awards and special recognition document your unique achievements. Computer literacy in basic programs, clinical programs and language skills. Community Service is viewed favorably in health care-----only include what is real and relevant. Be prepared to discuss the impact.

The Extras
List personal interests, hobbies, etc. sparingly. Do Not Include Marital Status Children Identifying Information

The Cover Letter

Must accompany the resume Resume provides the facts; cover letter tells the story. Initiates action----gets the employer to contact you for an interview. Make it quick and easy to read (one page max!).

What is a Cover Letter

A cover letter expresses your interest in and qualifications for a position to a prospective employee. A cover letter should introduce the main points of your resume. It should help you to market your qualifications to the prospective employer.

Before you get started writing

Do research on the organization to which you are applying. Know the mission and values of the organization. Try to speak to individuals who have worked for this organization or know it.

Components of Cover Letter

Heading / Inside Address Salutation Opening Paragraph Body Paragraph Closing Signature

Components of Cover Letter

Heading / Inside Address Name of hiring officer Harry Hayward, MD Name of organization, and address Salutation Learn the name of the hiring officer for this job and address her / him. Dear Dr Hayword:

Components of Cover Letter

Opening Paragraph
Discuss the job you are applying for, introduce yourself. Personal connection?

Body Paragraph
Address job specifications what YOU can do. Why you are the best candidate. Highlights from resume education, experience, skills.

Closing
Ask for an interview, thank them for their time.

Signature

Sample Cover Letter

Letters of Recommendation and References

PA employers ALWAYS contact the PA Program. Dont list the names of your references on your resume - retain a separate listing of references. Update the contact information regularly. Select your references carefully - people who know you and can attest to your strengths.

Letters of Recommendation and References

Ask permission to use someone as a reference. Communicate with the references regarding your interests, skills and accomplishments. Thank them for their assistance. Avoid generic letters..to whom it may concern..employers prefer personal contact and references want to know who may call them.

Welcome to the PA Profession