A concise statement at the top of a nursing resume, typically one to two sentences, designed to highlight a candidate’s career goals and how they align with the target position. For example, a statement might express a desire to contribute clinical expertise to a fast-paced emergency department, or to leverage experience in pediatric care to provide compassionate patient support.
This introductory statement used to be a standard practice, allowing applicants to quickly convey their professional aspirations. While its relevance has decreased in recent years, with some career advisors recommending a summary statement or skills section instead, a well-crafted introductory statement can still be beneficial for certain situations, such as career changes or entry-level positions. It allows recruiters to immediately understand the candidate’s intentions and assess their fit for the role. A clear, focused introduction can make a resume stand out in a competitive job market.