Searching for a job can seem overwhelming enough, and before you get too far into your search, you need to have an appealing, organized curriculum vitae. Your CV should paint a clear picture of your work experience, credentials and training. But what do you need when getting started on your CV?

Websites like Physician CV provide sample CVs and templates to help you get started and know what to include.

You can also learn more about CVs and resources in the second step of First Practice: Write Your CV, which includes information from the PracticeLink Magazine article “CV Essentials.” According to the article, you want to incorporate the following in your CV:

  • Contact information: Include your name, medical degree and address.
  • Objective: Consider using your objective statement as the basis for your cover letter instead.
  • Education: Include the name of your school, graduation date and area of study.
  • Academic honors: Include a line for any under the education section.
  • Board certification, specialty and licenses: List the specialty in which you’re board certified (and when) and the states you’re licensed in.
  • Internships, residencies and fellowships: List the institution, location, dates and specialty. Include positions of leadership.
  • Volunteer experience: This can be especially valuable for residents just starting out.
  • Clinical experience: In order from most to least recent, include the practices where you’ve worked. Include a brief description of the facility, your responsibilities, and dates.
  • Publications/presentations: Include any you’ve written or co-authored. Mention any presentations at conferences.
  • Professional memberships: Include relevant societies and organizations.
  • Awards and honors: Include any of your professional recognitions.
  • Cultural activities, interests: Include if you’re very involved in a charity or cultural institution.

Outline your information in reverse chronological order and draw attention to your best assets. Once you have the details organized, you can finesse the descriptions and check for any errors.

For templates and more tips on writing your CV, contact PhysicianRelations@PracticeLink.com or visit www.PhysicianCV.com.