Imagine this: you have completed phlebotomy training and education and received the NCCT and CPT-1 certifications. After months of hard work, it is time to find a job. Although you have all of the experience and skills to be eligible for entry-level positions, you need a high-quality phlebotomy resume to articulate those experiences.
Resumes are your first impression on employers. It is a screening process to determine who is the best fit for the position. A polished phlebotomy resume will help you stand out from other job candidates and get an interview.
Phlebotomy Resume Sections
When creating a phlebotomy resume, formatting is critical. Sometimes, employers will not look at resumes if they do not look professional. Ensure that the same font is used throughout the resume and is a 10- or 12-point font. Only your name and the section headers should be larger than the other text. The organization is essential to a phlebotomy resume; they are divided into five sections:
HEADER
Everyone knows the header section is for their name. However, don’t forget to also add “CPT1” after your name. This helps potential employers to immediately recognize that you are a Certified Phlebotomy Technician and qualified to work as a phlebotomist in California.
OBJECTIVE
The objective section of a phlebotomy resume clearly states what people are looking for in a position. For instance, people may write that they prefer more lab work, interaction with clients, or traveling (i.e., mobile phlebotomy). Typically, this section is tailored to each place you are applying to. If a company is looking for someone with a specific skill set, it may be beneficial to adapt the resume to include those assets in the objective and other sections.
SKILLS AND STRENGTHS
This section promotes the opportunity to highlight one’s technical and interpersonal skills. Listed below are a few examples of each for reference:
Technical Skills:
- Knowledge of specific blood draw techniques, such as butterfly needles
- Experience with data collection
- Experience with medical database
Interpersonal Skills:
- Detail-oriented
- Customer service
- Additional language(s) spoken
WORK EXPERIENCE
The work experience in a phlebotomy resume section lists where the applicant worked previously, their position, and the duration of their time with the company. This section appears in reverse chronological order, with the most recent job at the top and least recent at the bottom.
Under each position, phlebotomists list their duties and responsibilities. An effective strategy is the STAR method, in which people list a situation they faced, their tasks, the action they took, and the results — the more specific, the better.
EDUCATION
Similar to work experience, education is presented in reverse chronological order. For most phlebotomists, the most recent education obtained is often from a phlebotomy school. With that said, make sure to insert a current CPT I license number with your phlebotomy school so an employer can verify it. It is also useful to note high school education on a phlebotomy resume since a high school diploma or GED is a prerequisite.
Furthermore, a current BLS (basic life support) certificate is a requirement for all phlebotomy jobs and therefore should also be included in this section. At PhlebotomyU, the students will have just taken the BLS course as it is a requirement of our class. Depending on the phlebotomist, they may list additional phlebotomy certifications in the education section.
Top Phlebotomy Skills
Phlebotomists exhibit a wide range of skills, and a resume intends to exemplify these assets. One of the essential skills is having a great attention to detail. Phlebotomists document procedures and client information, properly label specimen tubes, and accurately follow all guidelines. Communication skills also need to be portrayed, as phlebotomists are regularly communicating with clients and lab staff, articulating test results, and answering questions.
Competency with medical record databases, necessary computer skills, and advanced hand-eye coordination are also useful to address on your resume. Interpersonal skills, such as empathy, should also be included. Whether it be an annual physical or routine bloodwork, patients are often stressed to hear their results. Phlebotomists exhibit patience, care, and support for all clients on a daily basis.
What If I Have No Experience?
For aspiring phlebotomists with minimal or no experience, do not fret. Internships and externships are great substitutes, as long as they are relevant to phlebotomy. For instance, an externship in a doctor’s office or an administrative internship would be applicable. Your first job, perhaps serving as a host at a restaurant, would not be necessary to include.
Other Tips for Creating a Strong Phlebotomy Resume
When writing a phlebotomy resume, remember that there is always room for improvement. Ask friends, family, and colleagues for suggestions and edits. Also, before submitting your application, ensure that your resume is updated and showcases the skills relevant to the position and company.
How to Find a Phlebotomy Job
To become a phlebotomist, people must have the necessary training. A high school diploma and national and state phlebotomy certifications are prerequisites for all phlebotomy positions. Once you have completed your phlebotomy resume, it is time to search for jobs on phlebotomy job portals and career sites and connect with potential employers.
PhlebotomyU CPT-1 Course
PhlebotomyU administers a Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT-1) course, including a 40-120 externship program and over 100 hours of hands-on phlebotomy training. Through our curriculum, hundreds of students have created stellar phlebotomy resumes and gained valuable insights and experiences to become the next generation of phlebotomy leaders.
To learn more about our CPT-1 course, contact us today.
