Avoid These 5 Resume Mistakes Most Nurses Still Make in 2025

Even experienced nurses can miss the mark when it comes to resume writing.

At IHR Group, we’ve reviewed thousands of nursing CVs—and in 2025, we’re still seeing the same five avoidable mistakes that can cost excellent candidates an interview. Whether you’re a registered nurse, midwife, or nurse manager, your resume needs to be clear, detailed, and tailored to hospital-based roles in Australia.

Here’s what to watch out for—and how to get it right.

❌  Mistake #1: Using a Generic Resume

Hiring managers and recruiters are looking for clinical clarity—not vague phrases like “provided care” or “assisted patients.” A generic resume doesn’t help them understand your actual skills, specialties, or experience.

✅ Fix it:

Make your resume specific and clinically detailed:

• List clinical specialties (e.g., emergency, surgical, mental health)

• Include procedures, patient types, and technologies used

• Use bullet points to make your experience easy to scan

Example:

• Provided post-op care to orthopaedic patients (ward of 28 beds)

• Administered IV antibiotics, assisted with wound dressing and early mobilisation

❌  Mistake #2: Missing Dates or Unexplained Gaps

Inconsistent timelines or large, unexplained gaps make it hard to assess your recency of practice—a key requirement for hospital-based roles.

✅ Fix it:

Always include start and end months and years (e.g., Feb 2021 – Dec 2023).

If you took time off, add a short note:

• Career break – parental leave

• Travel + volunteer nursing experience

• Health-related leave – now fully recovered and work-ready

This shows transparency and professionalism.

❌  Mistake #3: No Mention of AHPRA or Current Location

Your resume should immediately show whether you’re eligible to work in Australia—especially for hospital employers who need to fill roles quickly.

✅ Fix it:

Add this right at the top, under your name and contact details:

Registered Nurse – AHPRA #NMW000XXXXXX
Based in: Adelaide, SA | Open to relocation within Australia

If you’re overseas but AHPRA-registered, mention it clearly to signal you’re job-ready.

❌  Mistake #4: Missing Certifications

Many nurses forget to list certifications—yet they’re essential in Australian hospitals. Employers often scan your resume specifically for these.

✅ Fix it:

Create a clear “Certifications” section and include:

• ✅ BLS (Basic Life Support) – must be current

• ✅ ALS (Advanced Life Support) – preferred for senior roles

• ✅ IV Cannulation, Manual Handling, Medication Safety, etc.

• Any specialised training relevant to your unit (e.g., paediatric resus, mental health first aid)

Tip: If you’re due to renew a certificate soon, include the expiry date or note “Currently renewing.”

❌  Mistake #5: No Duties Listed

Some nurses only list their job titles and employers—without describing what they actually did.

That’s not enough in 2025. Employers want to understand how your daily responsibilities match the role they’re hiring for.

✅ Fix it:

Under each role, list 4–6 core duties in bullet point format. These can include:

• Types of patients you cared for

• Procedures you regularly performed

• Team environment or shift leadership roles

• Equipment and systems used (e.g., MedChart, Alaris, Cerner)

Be factual, specific, and avoid long paragraphs.

Bonus: CV Tips for 2025

Achievements Still Matter

While duties give context, achievements show impact. If you have room, include 1–2 standout accomplishments per role:

• “Promoted to Acting NUM within 12 months”

• “Recognised in 2024 audit for medication safety compliance”

• “Trained and mentored new grad nurses during onboarding”

Even small wins help employers see your value beyond the job description.

Referee Information

You don’t need to list names or contact info—but don’t skip referees altogether.

✅ Add a simple line at the bottom:

“Recent clinical referees available on request.”

At IHR Group, we only contact referees with your permission—but having them ready shows you’re serious.

Formatting Tips for Nurses (2025)

• Length: Max 2–3 pages for experienced nurses (1–2 pages for early-career)

• File format: .doc/.docx preferred for easy editing

• Font: Clear, professional fonts like Calibri or Arial (11–12 pt)

• No headshots or photos – they’re not required and don’t influence hiring

• Organise logically: Professional summary > AHPRA + location > experience > education > certifications > referees (optional line)

✅ Your Next Move

Before sending out your resume this month, take a few minutes to review it against this list. These simple corrections can dramatically improve your chances of being shortlisted.

We know that applying for nursing jobs can feel repetitive—but a strong, tailored resume makes a real difference. At IHR Group, we specialise in helping RNs, midwives, and NUMs secure permanent hospital roles across all of Australia.

If you’re exploring your next opportunity, we’re here to help.

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