cv personal statement examples pharmacy

• Applying to Uni
• Apprenticeships
• Health & Relationships
• Money & Finance

Personal Statements

• Postgraduate
• U.S Universities

University Interviews

• Vocational Qualifications
• Accommodation
• ​​​​​​​Budgeting, Money & Finance
• ​​​​​​​Health & Relationships
• ​​​​​​​Jobs & Careers
• ​​​​​​​Socialising

Studying Abroad

• ​​​​​​​Studying & Revision
• ​​​​​​​Technology
• ​​​​​​​University & College Admissions

Guide to GCSE Results Day

Finding a job after school or college

Retaking GCSEs

In this section

Choosing GCSE Subjects

Post-GCSE Options

GCSE Work Experience

GCSE Revision Tips

Why take an Apprenticeship?

Applying for an Apprenticeship

Apprenticeships Interviews

Apprenticeship Wage

Engineering Apprenticeships

What is an Apprenticeship?

Choosing an Apprenticeship

Real Life Apprentices

Degree Apprenticeships

Higher Apprenticeships

A Level Results Day 2024

AS Levels 2024

Clearing Guide 2024

Applying to University

SQA Results Day Guide 2024

BTEC Results Day Guide

Vocational Qualifications Guide

Sixth Form or College

International Baccalaureate

Post 18 options

Finding a Job

Should I take a Gap Year?

Travel Planning

Volunteering

Gap Year Blogs

Applying to Oxbridge

Applying to US Universities

Choosing a Degree

Choosing a University or College

Personal Statement Editing and Review Service

Guide to Freshers' Week

Student Guides

Student Cooking

Student Blogs

• Top Rated Personal Statements

Personal Statement Examples

Writing Your Personal Statement

• Postgraduate Personal Statements
• International Student Personal Statements
• Gap Year Personal Statements

Personal Statement Length Checker

Personal Statement Examples By University

Personal Statement Changes 2025

• Personal Statement Template

Job Interviews

Types of Postgraduate Course

Writing a Postgraduate Personal Statement

Postgraduate Funding

Postgraduate Study

Internships

Choosing A College

Ivy League Universities

Common App Essay Examples

Universal College Application Guide

How To Write A College Admissions Essay

College Rankings

Admissions Tests

Fees & Funding

Scholarships

Budgeting For College

Online Degree

Platinum Express Editing and Review Service

Gold Editing and Review Service

Silver Express Editing and Review Service

UCAS Personal Statement Editing and Review Service

Oxbridge Personal Statement Editing and Review Service

Postgraduate Personal Statement Editing and Review Service

You are here

• Mature Student Personal Statements
• Personal Statements By University
• Accountancy and Finance Personal Statements
• Actuarial Science Personal Statements
• American Studies Personal Statements
• Anthropology Personal Statements
• Archaeology Personal Statements
• Architecture Personal Statements
• Art and Design Personal Statements
• Biochemistry Personal Statements
• Bioengineering Personal Statements
• Biology Personal Statements
• Biomedical Science Personal Statements
• Biotechnology Personal Statements
• Business Management Personal Statement Examples
• Business Personal Statements
• Catering and Food Personal Statements
• Chemistry Personal Statements
• Classics Personal Statements
• Computer Science Personal Statements
• Computing and IT Personal Statements
• Criminology Personal Statements
• Dance Personal Statements
• Dentistry Personal Statements
• Design Personal Statements
• Dietetics Personal Statements
• Drama Personal Statements
• Economics Personal Statement Examples
• Education Personal Statements
• Engineering Personal Statement Examples
• English Personal Statements
• Environment Personal Statements
• Environmental Science Personal Statements
• Event Management Personal Statements
• Fashion Personal Statements
• Film Personal Statements
• Finance Personal Statements
• Forensic Science Personal Statements
• Geography Personal Statements
• Geology Personal Statements
• Health Sciences Personal Statements
• History Personal Statements
• History of Art Personal Statements
• Hotel Management Personal Statements
• International Relations Personal Statements
• International Studies Personal Statements
• Islamic Studies Personal Statements
• Japanese Studies Personal Statements
• Journalism Personal Statements
• Land Economy Personal Statements
• Languages Personal Statements
• Law Personal Statement Examples
• Linguistics Personal Statements
• Management Personal Statements
• Marketing Personal Statements
• Mathematics Personal Statements
• Media Personal Statements
• Medicine Personal Statement Examples
• Midwifery Personal Statements
• Music Personal Statements
• Music Technology Personal Statements
• Natural Sciences Personal Statements
• Neuroscience Personal Statements
• Nursing Personal Statements
• Occupational Therapy Personal Statements
• Osteopathy Personal Statements
• Oxbridge Personal Statements
• Pharmacy Personal Statements
• Philosophy Personal Statements
• Photography Personal Statements
• Physics Personal Statements
• Physiology Personal Statements
• Physiotherapy Personal Statements
• Politics Personal Statements
• Psychology Personal Statement Examples
• Radiography Personal Statements
• Religious Studies Personal Statements
• Social Work Personal Statements
• Sociology Personal Statements
• Sports & Leisure Personal Statements
• Sports Science Personal Statements
• Surveying Personal Statements
• Teacher Training Personal Statements
• Theology Personal Statements
• Travel and Tourism Personal Statements
• Urban Planning Personal Statements
• Veterinary Science Personal Statements
• Zoology Personal Statements
• Personal Statement Editing Service
• Personal Statement Writing Guide
• Submit Your Personal Statement
• Personal Statement Questions 2025
• Personal Statement Changes 2024

Pharmacy Personal Statement Examples

What is a pharmacy personal statement?

Writing a personal statement for pharmacy is a chance to sell yourself to the admissions tutors and show them why you would make a great phramacy candidate.

It’s a place to describe your skills and strengths, as well as your career plans.

You are allowed up to 4,000 characters to explain why you are applying for a pharmacy degree, so you need to make sure your statement is as polished as possible to stand out from the crowd.

How do I write a good pharmacy personal statement?

Good pharmacy personal statements always use evidence to support their claims. You need to convince admissions tutors that you’re a good match for the programme, so if you claim to be committed or inquisitive, then use examples from your life to back it up.

To write a great pharmacy personal statement you need to start early, brainstorm some ideas, and then begin your first draft.

This will then need to be carefully revised and edited before asking family and friends for feedback. Incorporate their comments and suggestions, and see how it is improved before asking them to look at it again.

Read through our pharmacy personal statement examples to give you an idea of what a good pharmacy statement looks like.

Make sure you proofread your statement for grammar and spelling before sending it off, and if you feel you need a little extra help, take a look at our personal statement editing services .

What should I include in my pharmacy personal statement?

Many students choose to start their statement by picking a specific aspect of pharmacy and explaining why they enjoy it, e.g. drug chemistry, cardiovascular and renal systems, etc.

Admissions tutors want candidates that are as passionate about the subject as they are.

As well as your motivations for studying pharmacy, think about your hobbies and extracurricular activities too. What skills have you learned from these and how will these help you in your pharmacy degree?

Talk about any work experience placements you have completed, e.g. shadowing a doctor or nurse, or someone in a similar medical/clinical profession. What did you take away from this experience? Do you feel you have all the necessary personal traits and qualities that make a good pharmacy student?

Your wider reading is also important, so it's worth mentioning anything you've read recently that you found interesting and why. Generally, admissions tutors like students who express their views and opinions, and can back them up with evidence.

For more help and advice on what to write in your pharmacy personal statement, please see:

• Personal Statement Editing Services
• Personal Statement Tips From A Teacher
• Analysis Of A Personal Statement
• The 15th January UCAS Deadline: 4 Ways To Avoid Missing It
• Personal Statement FAQs
• Personal Statement Timeline
• 10 Top Personal Statement Writing Tips
• What To Do If You Miss The 15th January UCAS Deadline.

What can I do with a pharmacy degree?

There are many different career options open to those wishing to study pharmacy at university. These include:

Jobs directly related to your degree include:

• Community pharmacist
• Hospital pharmacist
• Research scientist

Jobs where your degree would be useful include:

• Clinical research associate
• Higher education lecturer
• Medical sales representative
• Medical science liaison
• Pharmacologist
• Product/process development scientist
• Regulatory affairs officer
• Research scientist (life sciences)
• Science writer
• Toxicologist

For more information about careers with a pharamcy degree, please see Prospects and the National Careers Service .

What are the best UK universities for pharmacy?

Currently, the best universities in the UK for studying pharmacy and pharmacology are:

For more information about pharamacology university rankings in the UK, please see The Complete University Guide and SI UK .

Related resources

A level results day.

Find out more

Clearing Guide

Replying To UCAS Offers

Waiting For University Offers

How To Apply To University

8 Personal Statement Mistakes To Avoid

7 University Interview Mistakes

Uni Open Day Tips

Pharmacist Resume - Best Examples & Writing Guide for 2024

You’re a pharmacist. 

Your knowledge is vital to the health and well-being of humanity.

In fact, you’re somewhat of a medicinal magician.

Taking care of your resume is no easy task.

Thankfully, this guide prescribes you the exact steps needed to create a job-winning pharmacist resume. 

• An example of a finished pharmacist resume that works
• How to write a pharmacist resume that’ll fill up your interview diary
• How to make a pharmacist resume stand out [with top tips & tricks]

Before we get into the details, here’s a pharmacist resume example, created with our very own resume builder :

Simply follow the steps below to create one of your own.

How to Format a Pharmacist Resume

There is one vital step to take before you can wow the recruiter with your skills…

You need pick a resume format.

Choosing the best format for your specific situation will allow the recruiter to see your best attributes at a glance.

The most common resume format is “ reverse-chronological ”, and it’s no surprise. Essentially, this format puts your best attributes up-top. We recommend most pharmacists to start with this format.

The following resume formats also get our approval:

• Functional Resume – If you’re a highly-qualified pharmacist, but lack work experience, this resume format is recommended. It’s ideal for trained pharmacists that are new to the field or have gaps in their employment history.
• Combination Resume – As the name suggests, this format combines both “Functional” and “Reverse-Chronological”. As such, it focuses on both skills AND work experience. Those pharmacists with a wealth of work experience may want to try this format.

Once your format has been selected, you need to pick a resume layout .

Resume Length - keep your resume under the 1-page limit. For guidance, view these one-page resume templates .

Use a Pharmacist Resume Template

The physical creation of a pharmacist resume seems easy.

Just open Microsoft Word and start typing, right?!

Well, you may want to take a slightly different approach.

You see, Word-made resumes have a layout that can fall apart with every small alteration. 

Want to skip formatting issues? Use any of the following resume templates that can be easily tailored for a pharmacist position.

What to Include in a Pharmacist Resume

The main sections in a pharmacist resume are:

• Work Experience
• Contact Information

Want to go a step further? You can also add these optional sections:

• Awards & Certification

Interests & Hobbies

That’s an impressive list, but what should you write for each section?

Read on to find out.

Want to know more about resume sections? View our guide on What to Put on a Resume .

How to Correctly Display your Contact Information

Just like when checking patient’s prescriptions for accuracy, you should also check your contact section for accuracy.

You see, a single mistake can result in the recruiter not being able to contact you for an interview – disaster! 

The contact information section should include…

• Professional Title – In this case, “Pharmacist”
• Phone Number – Check for mistakes
• Email Address – Use a professional email address ([email protected]), not one from your childhood ([email protected])
• (Optional) Location
• Dennis May - Pharmacist. 101-358-6095. [email protected]
• Dennis May - Medicinal Magician. 101-358-6095. [email protected]

How to Write a Pharmacist Resume Summary or Objective

It’s no secret that the top pharmacist jobs are in high demand.

This means your resume will be sitting on the recruiter’s desk amongst dozens and dozens of other resumes. 

And with so many resumes to get through, recruiters don’t have the time or patience to read every resume from top to bottom.

The truth is that you have less than a minute to impress .

Your resume needs to be concise and convey your value within just a few sentences. 

To do this, use a resume summary or objective .

These are both powerful introductions that sit at the top of your resume.

But what is the difference between the two sections?

A resume summary is a 2-4 sentence summary of your professional experiences and achievements.

• Pharmacist with 5+ years of experience in using strong interpersonal skills and extensive medication knowledge to help patients with their needs. Top achievements include earning 98% positive feedback in patient surveys during 2022.

A resume objective is a 2-4 sentence snapshot of what you want to achieve professionally.

Motivated Pharm graduate seeking to advise patients at Medical-X. Experience includes a placement at a fast-paced private clinic. Proven skills include Inventory management, Pharmaceutical research, and interpersonal communication. 

So, should pharmacists choose a resume summary or objective?

Generally, we recommend that experienced pharmacists use a resume summary. An objective is suited to those who have the skills, but lack experience as a pharmacist (graduates, career changers, or those still studying).

How to Make Your Pharmacist Work Experience Stand Out

Pharmacies need pharmacists that can be trusted to give the correct advice and comply with industry regulations.

With this in mind, what’s the best way to build trust and confidence?

With a pharmacist work experience section that showcases your achievements.

We recommend the following structure:

• Position name
• Company Name
• Responsibilities & Achievements

03/2018 – 12/2020

• Worked in a fast-paced pharmacy to dispense medicines, while advising on dosages and risks
• Managed and trained 6 pharmacy technicians, which increased overall performance by 18%
• Assisted patients with friendliness and enthusiasm, which resulted in 98% positive feedback from patient surveys
• Implemented the pharmacy’s quality assurance program, which provided compliance with HIPAA, CLIA and OSHA regulations

To separate your application from the other candidates, you should highlight your achievements instead of your daily tasks. 

Instead of saying:

“Managed staff members”

“Managed and trained 6 pharmacy technicians, which increased overall performance by 18%”

Although the first statement shows you held a management role, it doesn’t go into any more detail. Who knows if your work had a positive effect or not?

The second statement shows that your work resulted in an 18% performance increase. This is very attractive to other pharmacies that want to increase performance. 

Use Action Words to Make Your Pharmacist Resume POP!

You want to separate your resume from the competition, which means using power words to make your achievements stand out:

• Coordinated
• Inventoried

How to Correctly List your Education

As a pharmacist, you spent many years studying your craft.

This section is where you show the rewards of that hard work.

There’s no magic medicine here, just simply enter your education history in the following format:

• Degree Type & Major
• University Name
• Years Studied
• GPA, Honours, Courses, and anything else you might want to add

B.S. in PharmD

Boston State University

2012 - 2016

• Relevant Courses: Pharmacology, Pharmacy Law, Pharmacy Technology, Introduction to Accounting

Now, you may have some further questions that need answering. Here are the answers to some of the most frequent questions that we get:

• What if I haven’t completed education yet?

Regardless of whether you’re a graduate or still studying, you should still mention every year of education to date

• Should I include my high school education?

The general rule is to only include your highest education. So, don’t include it if you have a Pharm degree

• What do I put first, my education or experience?

Experiences take priority in any pharmacist resume, other than recent graduates, who you will likely start with their education

Need more advice? Check out our guide on how to list education on a resume .

Top 10 Skills for a Pharmacist Resume

It may seem obvious, but the recruiter wants a highly-skilled pharmacist.

This means they will be looking for certain skills as they flick through your resume.

List the wrong ones, and your resume will be thrown into the trash like a used face mask. 

Here are some of the most common and desirable pharmacist skills...

Pharmacist Hard Skills:

• HIPAA trained
• Inventory management
• Medication distribution
• Quality assurance
• Pharmaceutical research

Pharmacist Soft Skills:

• Detail-orientated 
• Communication
• Time-management

Here’s a more comprehensive list of 100+ must-have skills this year .

What Else Can You Include?

Your medical assistant resume is finished and ready to be administered .

Well, nearly…

Your resume needs to be the best it can be . 

Following the above tips should be enough to get you shortlisted, but adding the following sections could be the deciding factor that your future depends on. 

Awards & Certifications

The medical industry is ever-evolving with new rules and regulations. 

As such, you should showcase that you’re up-to-date and correctly qualified.

Have certifications that you’re proud of? 

Then add a separate section to your resume, just like this:

• Critical Thinking Masterclass – MadeUpUniversity
• Health Care Delivery – Coursera Certificate
• Drug Development – Coursera Certificate

As a pharmacist, you shouldn’t need to know multiple languages.

However, no one can deny how impressive it is to be bilingual, so add a language section if you have space.

Rank the languages by proficiency:

• Intermediate

Now, why would the recruiter want a pharmacist with personal hobbies?

Don’t worry, there are no special hobbies in particular, but including a hobbies section is an easy way to add a personal touch to your resume.

Here’s which hobbies & interests you may want to mention.

Include a Cover Letter with Your Resume

A cover letter is like a secret remedy for taking your application to the next level.

You see, a cover letter shows the recruiter that you care about working for this specific pharmacy.

Here’s how to structure a pharmacist cover letter:

No cover letter is complete without the following sections:

Personal Contact Information

Your full name, profession, email, phone number, and location.

Hiring Manager’s Contact Information

Full name, position, location, email.

Opening Paragraph

The recruiter doesn’t have much time to read your application. As such, the first paragraph should briefly mention:

• The position you’re applying for
• Your experience summary and best achievement to date

With the recruiter interested, you can get deeper into the following specifics:

• Why you chose this specific pharmacy
• What you know about the pharmacy
• How your skills are relevant for the job
• Which similar industries or positions have you worked in before

Closing Paragraph

Just like a conversation, you shouldn’t finish abruptly. You should…

• Conclude the points of the application
• Thank the recruiter for the job opportunity
• Finish with a simple call to action to continue the conversation at a later date. A simple “At your earliest opportunity, I’d love to discuss more how I can help pharmacy X” will work

Formal Salutations

End the letter in a professional manner. We recommend something like, “Kind regards” or “Sincerely”.

For more inspiration, read our step-by-step guide on how to write a cover letter .

You might want to check out our related resume examples if you're looking for a different position in the medical field:

• Nurse Resume
• Medical Assistant Resume
• Dentist Resume

Key Takeaways

So, this section marks the end of our guide…

But this also marks the start of your new pharmacist role.

Simply follow the advice in this guide to create a job-winning pharmacist resume that will have every pharmacy competing for your skills.

Let’s quickly recap the main talking points:

• Format your pharmacist resume correctly. Use the reverse-chronological format, and then follow the content layout recommendations
• Start your resume with a summary or objective to hook the recruiter
• Highlight the best achievements from your work history, rather than your responsibilities
• Attach a convincing cover letter to make your application stand out

Suggested Reading:

• 19+ STAR Interview Questions - Complete List
• Curriculum Vitae (CV) Format Guide - 21+ Tips & Templates
• Use Resume Keywords to Land the Job [880+ Keywords]

To provide a safer experience, the best content and great communication, we use cookies. Learn how we use them for non-authenticated users.

Pharmacist CV Examples (Template & 20+ Tips)

Create a standout pharmacist cv with our online platform. browse professional templates for all levels and specialties. land your dream role today.

Are you a pharmacist looking for a new job? Are you unsure of how to showcase your skills and experience in a CV? In this article, you will find a Pharmacist CV example, which will help you to understand the right format and content for your own CV. This Pharmacist CV example will give you the guidance you need to create an impressive CV that will stand out from the competition.

We will cover:

• How to write a CV , no matter your industry or job title.
• What to put on a CV to stand out.
• The top skills employers from every industry want to see.
• How to build a CV fast with our professional CV Builder .
• What a CV template is, and why you should use it.

What does a Pharmacist do?

A pharmacist is responsible for dispensing medications prescribed by a physician. They also provide advice about the safe use of prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and other health-related products. Additionally, pharmacists may offer immunizations, counsel patients on health issues, and provide drug information to other health care professionals.

• Occupational Therapist CV Sample
• Ophthalmologist CV Sample
• Optometrist CV Sample
• Paramedic CV Sample
• Pharmacist CV Sample
• Pharmacy Technician CV Sample
• Physical Therapist CV Sample
• Physician CV Sample
• Physician Assistant CV Sample
• Psychiatrist CV Sample
• Radiology Technician CV Sample
• Registered Nurse CV Sample
• Respiratory Therapist CV Sample
• Speech Pathologist CV Sample
• Surgeon CV Sample
• Surgical Technologist CV Sample
• Veterinarian CV Sample
• Veterinary Assistant CV Sample
• Veterinary Technician CV Sample
• Athletic Trainer CV Sample

What are some responsibilities of a Pharmacist?

• Advise patients on the selection, dosage, interactions, and side effects of medications
• Review and interpret physician prescriptions
• Compound and dispense medications and other pharmaceuticals
• Monitor and counsel patients on the proper use and storage of pharmaceuticals
• Provide immunizations and other health care services
• Maintain patient records
• Ensure compliance with laws, regulations, and standards
• Keep records of medications dispensed
• Monitor drug therapies for safety and effectiveness
• Advise healthcare professionals on the selection, dosage, interactions, and side effects of medications
• Assist in the development of formulary systems
• Develop and implement patient education programs
• Order and maintain inventory of pharmaceuticals

Sample Pharmacist CV for Inspiration

Personal Details Name: John Doe Address: 123 Main Street, Anytown, ST 12345 Phone: (123) 456-7890 Email: [email protected]

Summary John Doe is an experienced and highly qualified pharmacist with extensive knowledge in the medical field. He is devoted to providing the best possible care and service to his patients, and is highly adept in the use of medication and pharmaceuticals.

Work Experience

• Pharmacist, Anytown Pharmacy - Anytown, ST (2015-Present)
• Provide comprehensive pharmaceutical care, including prescription management and medication therapy management
• Counsel patients on the use of prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, and other health care products
• Maintain accurate patient records, including patient histories, prescriptions, and other relevant information
• Pharmacy Technician, Anytown Pharmacy - Anytown, ST (2011-2015)
• Assisted pharmacists in the preparation and dispensing of medications
• Maintained pharmacy inventory and ensured quality control for all medications
• Answered customer inquiries and provided information on medications and health care products

Education Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy - Anytown University (2010)

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Highly organized and detail-oriented
• Proficient in the use of pharmacy software and systems
• Knowledge of medication and pharmaceuticals

Certifications Registered Pharmacist, State of ST (2013)

Languages English (Fluent)

CV tips for Pharmacist

Crafting an impeccable CV that kickstarts your career is a challenging endeavor. While adhering to fundamental writing principles is beneficial, seeking guidance customized for your unique job pursuit is equally prudent. As a newcomer to the professional realm, you require Pharmacist CV pointers. We've curated top-notch advice from experienced Pharmacist individuals. Explore their insights to streamline your writing journey and enhance the likelihood of fashioning a CV that captivates potential employers' attention.

• Highlight key accomplishments that demonstrate your expertise as a pharmacist.
• Include a professional summary to showcase your most relevant skills and experiences.
• Be sure to include any certifications or licenses you have obtained.
• Focus on the experience that you have that is most relevant to the job you are applying for.
• Mention any awards or recognitions you have received for your work as a pharmacist.

Pharmacist CV Summary Examples

A Pharmacist CV Summary or CV Objective is an important tool for Pharmacists in their job search. It provides the employer with a snapshot of the Pharmacist's professional experience, skills, and qualifications. It is also the first impression a potential employer has of the Pharmacist and should be crafted carefully to make the best impression. The summary or objective should demonstrate the Pharmacist's ability to provide quality, personalized care and to stay current on the latest developments in the field. For Example:

• Dedicated and knowledgeable Pharmacist with 5+ years of experience in a variety of clinical settings. Skilled in providing medication counseling and patient care.
• Experienced Pharmacist with 8 years of expertise in providing medications and medical advice. Adept at ensuring accuracy in medication prescriptions and patient safety.
• Highly skilled Pharmacist with 10 years of experience in retail and hospital settings. Proficient in providing quality medications and patient care.
• Compassionate Pharmacist with 7 years of experience in retail and hospital settings. Skilled in providing medication counseling and managing pharmacy inventory.
• Enthusiastic Pharmacist with 5 years of experience in a clinical setting. Skilled in providing patient-centered care and medication counseling.

Build a Strong Experience Section for Your Pharmacist CV

A strong experience section is important for a pharmacist CV because it demonstrates to potential employers the depth of your knowledge and skills in the pharmacy field. It also provides insight into what you have accomplished in the past and what you can bring to the job. The experience section should showcase your most impressive accomplishments, such as successful projects, effective programs, and other initiatives you have been involved in. It should also provide a comprehensive look at the various pharmacies and healthcare facilities you have worked in, as well as any special certifications or qualifications you may have. Finally, it should also provide evidence of your excellent customer service skills and how you interact with patients. For Example:

• Managed and supervised the pharmacy department, ensuring that all state and federal regulations were followed.
• Provided medication counseling to patients and their families.
• Compounded medications and provided drug information services.
• Ordered and maintained a current inventory of medications and supplies.
• Evaluated patient profiles and medication usage for drug interactions.
• Filled medical prescriptions accurately and in a timely manner.
• Provided consultation to medical personnel on the use of drugs and their side effects.
• Developed and implemented strategies to improve pharmacy services.
• Performed quality improvement initiatives to ensure safety and accuracy.
• Assisted in the training and development of new pharmacy staff.

Pharmacist CV education example

Pharmacists must have a Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.) degree from an accredited pharmacy institution. To be accepted into a Pharm.D. program, applicants must have completed at least two years of college-level coursework, including classes in chemistry, biology, anatomy and physiology, microbiology, calculus, and physics. Some Pharm.D. programs also require applicants to complete a yearlong internship in a pharmacy setting. After completing a Pharm.D. program, pharmacists must also pass two exams in order to be licensed. Here is an example of an experience listing suitable for a Pharmacist CV:

• Doctor of Pharmacy, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, IL (2009-2013)
• Bachelor of Science in Chemistry, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ (2005-2009)
• Certified Pharmacist (CPh), National Association of Boards of Pharmacy, 2013

Pharmacist Skills for a CV

It is important to add skills for a Pharmacist CV because it helps employers quickly identify the areas of expertise the candidate has and how they may be able to contribute to the organization. Skills could include medical terminology, pharmacology knowledge, experience with compounding, customer service, and problem-solving. By including these skills, employers can quickly determine whether the candidate is a good fit for the position. Soft Skills:

• Communication
• Attention to Detail
• Organization
• Flexibility
• Problem Solving
• Interpersonal
• Drug Knowledge
• Prescription Filling
• Pharmaceutical Law
• Labelling Medication
• Medicine Dispensing
• Patient Education
• Medication Compounding
• Inventory Management
• Pharmacy Technology
• Interpersonal Skills

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Writing a Pharmacist CV

In today's competitive job market, an average of 180 applications floods employers' inboxes for each vacant position. To streamline this influx of CVs, companies frequently employ automated applicant tracking systems that weed out less qualified candidates. If your CV manages to surpass these digital gatekeepers, it must still captivate the attention of the recruiter or hiring manager. Given the sheer volume of applications, a mere 5 seconds is typically allocated to each CV before a decision is reached. With this in mind, it's crucial to eliminate any extraneous information that might relegate your application to the discard pile. To ensure your CV shines, consult the list below for elements to avoid including in your job application.

• Skipping the cover letter: A well-crafted cover letter is an opportunity to showcase your suitability for the role and express your enthusiasm for it.
• Excessive jargon: CVs laden with technical terms can alienate hiring managers who lack specialized knowledge.
• Neglecting vital details: Incorporate your contact information, education, work history, and pertinent skills and experiences.
• Relying on generic templates: Tailoring your CV to the specific job exhibits your commitment to the position and company.
• Errors in spelling and grammar: Proofreading is essential to eliminate typos, spelling errors, and grammatical blunders.
• Overemphasizing duties: Highlight accomplishments to underline your candidacy's value.
• Sharing personal information: Steer clear of revealing personal details like age, marital status, or religious affiliations.

Key takeaways for a Pharmacist CV

• Highlight any certifications or relevant qualifications that you have obtained
• Include a list of any professional organizations that you have joined
• Mention any awards or recognitions that you have received
• Be sure to list any professional experience that you have in the field
• Provide a list of any additional skills that you possess
• Include any volunteer experience that you have had in the field
• Be sure to cover any specializations or areas of expertise that you have
• Demonstrate your commitment to the profession through your education and training
• Describe any special projects that you have worked on related to pharmacy
• Highlight any research or publications that you have written related to pharmacy

Clearing Universities & Courses

Clearing advice.

Recommended Clearing Universities

Popular Course Categories

Take our quick degree quiz.

Find the ideal uni course for you with our Course Degree Quiz. Get answers in minutes!

Take our full degree quiz

Get more tailored course suggestions with our full Course Degree Quiz and apply with confidence.

Search by Type

Search by region.

Recommended Universities

The University of Law

London (Greater) · 93% Recommended

Heriot-Watt University

Scotland · 97% Recommended

Northeastern University - London

London (Greater) · 100% Recommended

Search Open Days

What's new at Uni Compare

dBs Institute

Discover Music, Game, and Tech degrees at a premier UK institution.

University of Law

Ranked Top 20 amongst English universities in the 2023 National Student Survey!

Ranking Categories

Regional rankings.

More Rankings

Top 100 Universities

Taken from 131,500+ data points from students attending university to help future generations

About our Rankings

Discover university rankings devised from data collected from current students.

Guide Categories

Advice categories, recommended articles, popular statement examples, statement advice.

What to include in a Personal Statement

Personal Statement Tips

Personal statement examples pharmacology personal statements.

Discover personal statement examples written by students accepted onto pharmacology and related courses. Read through the examples to help shape your own personal statement.

Pharmacology will give you a range of career options

Gain a highly sought-after qualification by studying Pharmacology and benefit from the state-of-the-art STEM labs at Bedfordshire.

Pharmacology Personal Statements

Submitted by anonymous

Pharmacy Personal Statement

My fascination in Pharmacy began when shadowing a Pharmacist on a hos...

Mharm (Pharmacy) Personal Statement

Reading the uses, interactions and side-effects of a drug was what in...

Submitted by Hasnan

Pharmacy (Masters) Personal Statement

Why Pharmacy? I considered a range of medical career options but afte...

Submitted by Sonal

I am interested in pursuing a career in Pharmacy as I have a passion ...

Submitted by Imaan

Pharmacy MPharm Personal Statement

My experience of shadowing a community pharmacist was a watershed in ...

Submitted by Amy

Pharmacology Personal Statement

I would like to study Pharmacology at university as I am fascinated t...

Pharamacology Personal Statement

Submitted by Zumeya

My desire to study Pharmacy has come after thorough research into the...

Submitted by Erin

From the science behind the design and production of medicines to the...

Recommended Course

undergraduate Universities

Undergraduate uni's.

126 courses

Heriot-Watt Uni

337 courses

Northeastern Uni

Uni of Chester

630 courses

467 courses

Uni of East London

570 courses

893 courses

Uni of Sunderland

332 courses

Uni of Westminster

515 courses

Uni of Roehampton

468 courses

Cardiff Met Uni

500 courses

West London IoT

Uni of Bradford

393 courses

Uni of Winchester

258 courses

Ravensbourne

103 courses

Uni of Kent

588 courses

Staffordshire Uni

478 courses

Uni of Leicester

436 courses

Uni of Surrey

740 courses

Middlesex Uni

670 courses

Swansea Uni

1360 courses

Uni for Creative Arts

610 courses

Leeds Beckett Uni

459 courses

Coventry Uni

780 courses

Goldsmiths, UOL

342 courses

Uni of Hertfordshire

598 courses

Queen's Uni

634 courses

Escape Studios

Uni of Bedfordshire

651 courses

Leeds Arts University

Uni of Suffolk

222 courses

UWE, Bristol

495 courses

Wrexham Uni

294 courses

Bath Spa Uni

512 courses

Uni of Huddersfield

784 courses

826 courses

Uni of Reading

692 courses

709 courses

Uni of Hull

Highlands & Islands

451 courses

Kingston Uni

619 courses

Uni of Essex

1397 courses

Uni of Portsmouth

779 courses

Anglia Ruskin Uni

876 courses

Uni of C.Lancashire

795 courses

Uni of Brighton

521 courses

Nottingham Trent

930 courses

ARU Writtle

Edge Hill Uni

400 courses

FIND THE IDEAL COURSE FOR YOU

Degree Course Quiz

Find the ideal university course for you in minutes by taking our degree matchmaker quiz today.

Find the latest from Uni Compare

Northeastern Uni London

Want to earn two globally recognised degrees simultaneously? Look no further!

University of Bradford

#1 for UK City of Culture 2025, click here to learn more!

• CV Templates Simple Professional Modern Creative View all
• CV Examples Supermarket Student Cleaner Care Assistant Sales Assistant View all
• Cover Letter Templates Simple Professional Modern Creative View all
• Cover Letter Examples Care Assistant PhD Internship Cleaner Short View all
• Cover Letter Builder
• CV Examples

Pharmacist CV Examples & UK Templates

Pharmacist job market and outlook

Pharmacist cv example & writing guide.

A love and desire to help people, together with extensive knowledge of medicines and health in general, is a winning combination for working as a pharmacist, but how do you make these qualities shine instantly, as the hiring manager reviews your pharmacist CV?

It can take just seconds for the reader to decide on your suitability, so your CV needs to make its mark, pretty quickly! After helping thousands of candidate’s secure jobs, we understand the challenges they face when trying to compile their CV. Resume.io has a wide range of CV guides and  CV examples  for many professions at your disposal, together with an easy-to-use CV builder. What could be easier?

In this CV guide, together with the CV example, you can expect to learn the following:

• What does the role of a pharmacist entail?
• Lots of tips for writing an effective pharmacist CV
• What format you should use for your CV
• How to make the most of each section of your CV

What does a pharmacist do?

The role of a pharmacist is to help support patients with their health, by providing them with advice and medicine. They will ensure patients know how to use medicine, and if properly qualified, they will prescribe the necessary medications to help a customer manage their condition.  Of course, this job comes with huge responsibility, as you need to ensure that the advice and medication you dispense is accurate, otherwise, it could cause the patient major problems. Pharmacists can work in many settings, including hospitals and within the community.

According to data from the Royal Society for Public Health and Public Health England , there are around 42,990 registered pharmacists and 19,311 registered pharmacy technicians working in England. It's important to note that these stats don't cover Scotland, Wales, or Northern Ireland, where there are — doubtless — thousands more. 

How much do pharmacists earn? The  average salary  for a pharmacist in the UK is £56,671. It will vary depending on how long you have been qualified and the city you reside. For instance, you can expect to earn more in London than anywhere else in the UK.

There is some very good news for anyone qualified as a pharmacist and looking for work as it has been added to the UK  national skills shortage , as it has been suggested that there is a national shortage of pharmacists, with fewer people studying it, and demand increasing for the services. It will be much easier now for qualified pharmacists from overseas to gain employment in the UK.

How to write a pharmacist CV

Before you get started on writing your pharmacy CV, you need to know what it should contain. Five main sections make up your CV. These are:

• CV header – at the top of your CV
• CV summary – this is under your header and is also known as profile or summary
• Employment history
• Skills section

The first thing you need to consider is who you are writing to and with pharmacists, this will involve the setting you are intending to work. For instance, you may be most interested in working in the community, or a hospital setting may be more enticing. There are lots of potential settings you can work in as a pharmacist — the world is your oyster, and you should aim to tailor your pharmacy CV to each type of role. It doesn’t need to be complicated, small tweaks should be sufficient.

Think about it in terms of writing to the hiring manager and telling him/her why you are right for the role. What would they want to read on your CV to make them think ‘hmmm, this candidate fits the bill perfectly”?

Your CV is the one document that can get you to an interview, so take your time and don’t rush it.

Stick to these guidelines and you can’t go far wrong:

• Consider your audience, and how you would communicate with this person in real life.
• Make sure your CV design is clear and concise. There is no need to go over the top with the design.
• Scatter your CV with relevant keywords, which can be taken from the job description.

Choosing the best CV format for pharmacist

The best format to use for your pharmacist CV is reverse chronological. This would usually start with the employment history, but it will depend on your level of experience. If you have little work experience, you might want to place your education at the top of your pharmacist CV instead.

Choosing the right CV format is the first port of call when writing your application. Use your judgement in what would be the most enticing for the hiring manager based on your expertise/education, and what they are looking for.

CV summary example

Just as the first step in a patient’s journey is the diagnosis, the first stage for a pharmacist CV is the summary. The summary is placed at the top of the CV and this is where you introduce yourself to the hiring manager. You make your first connection with the summary by informing the hiring manager of what knowledge you have about health and medicine, and what service you can provide customers.

Don’t refer to yourself as "I" or by your name, just use action verbs such as "administered medication," "advised patients," etc. You can see more of how this is done in our CV sample.

If you are sitting wondering how to even get started with your summary, don’t despair! We have additional support available to help you create a masterpiece, with our medical CV examples. You may want to take a look at the  doctor CV sample  or the  nurse CV example  for some ideas for your CV.

Experienced and dedicated Pharmacist with experience and success in pharmaceutical services. Bringing forth a strong background in clinical pharmacology and medication management. Extensive knowledge of pharmacy operations, pharmacy management, and medications. Proven track record of proper customer advisement and an empathetic attitude.

Employment history sample

With any good treatment plan, the first dose is the start of the journey to success, just as the employment history is the first step in gaining employment.

As mentioned above, the employment history would usually be under the summary, but if you have no experience or very little and good qualifications, you might want to start with your education instead. With the employment section, always start with the most recent, and work your way back.

Use bullet points to describe the actions, such as “providing vaccinations to customers" or “advising on the best course of treatment and administering the most appropriate medicines.”

You may want to support the responsibilities with some tangible evidence, where possible. For instance, dealing with 100+ patients a day in the local community. It is not essential for a role as a pharmacist, but this example would show that you can work in and cope in a busy environment. 

You can find a pharmacist CV sample below that you can adapt to suit your needs.

Pharmacy Floater at Rite Aid, Danbury  October 2016 - Present

• Worked on an as-needed basis, covering for absent pharmacists.
• Treated patients with sensitivity and respect for their privacy.
• Filled and verified prescriptions.
• Counselled patients on product safety and administration.
• Collaborated with physicians to best support patients.
• Identified and reported any potential illegal or dangerous activity.

Pharmacist at CVS, New York  August 2014 - September 2016

• Worked to promote an error-free and productive Pharmacy department.
• Reviewed prescriptions and practised safe quality assurance control.
• Maintained computer records of dispensed medications.
• Provided accurate screenings to avoid health complications including allergic reactions, and negative medication interactions.

CV skills example

Sometimes, as a pharmacist, you need to back up the first dose with a second to support it, and this is what you should do with the skills on your CV. Your skills are there to support your employment history, and this is where you have the chance to highlight any skills that you feel will enable you to stand out.

Don’t forget to top up your CV skills, with your personal qualities, as these are also considered strengths. For instance, you might have extensive knowledge in healthcare and medicine, as well as excellent communication skills and the ability to lead a team. A good combination of both will ensure your pharmacist CV stands out, as seen in our CV sample below.

• Pharmaceutical Operations
• Clinical Applications
• Patient Counseling
• Product Safety
• Team Management
• Excellent Customer Service Skills

Pharmacist CV education example

You must have a qualification that is accredited by the  General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC)  to be able to become a pharmacist. If you feel that your education outweighs your experience, by all means, you can put it at the top under the summary. However, in general, it would be under the skills section. Some roles require better qualifications than others. 

List your education from the most recent, and include any CPD you have been involved in, such as online courses. It is always attractive for employers to see that you are committed to ongoing learning. It shows you are motivated and keen to keep your skills up-to-date.

Here is an example of the education section from a pharmacist CV example.

Master of Molecular Pharmacology , NYU,  New York August 2012 - August 2014 

• Graduated with Distinction.
• Clinical rotations at St. Vincent's Medical Center.

Bachelor of Biology, St. John's University, New York 

August 2008 - May 2012

CV layout and design: making it count

The primary purpose of this CV guide is to help ensure you get as many chances as possible to get to the next stage — the interview. Although quality content is paramount, don’t neglect the layout and design. Make sure it is easy to read, clear and concise. There’s no need for any fancy designs, just ensure it is pleasing to the eye and easy to read.

If design isn’t your thing, and you’re not too sure what is pleasing to the eye, take a look at our tried and tested  CV templates, the formatting tasks that might be causing you concern, are taken care of here.

Key takeaways for a pharmacist CV sample

• Make sure you have a clear structure for your pharmacist CV before you get started
• Consider where the job will be based, and who your audience will be, and write your CV as if you are speaking to them
• Use relevant keywords scattered throughout your pharmacist CV sample. You will be able to find these in the job description.
• Make sure you use our online CV maker. This will make your life much easier when writing your CV.

For even more insights, check out our cover letter samples too.

Attractive CV templates at your fingertips

CVs & Résumés

• Oct 10, 2019

The 10 Best Pharmacist CV and Résumé Examples

Check out our collection of the pharmacist résumé examples – plus get tips on formatting and writing a job-winning pharmacist application.

Valerie David

Lifestyle and Career Expert

Whether you’re at the start of your career as a pharmacist or looking to move on to another challenge in the field, putting together your résumé is no easy task.

Indeed, out of all the exciting healthcare jobs out there, a pharmacist role is one of the most complex, requiring skills in chemistry, biology, patient care, management and more.

Your résumé will need to address all the education, experience and interpersonal skills the job requires. It takes a lot of hard work and dedication to become a pharmacist , so you should have plenty of impressive accolades to fill those résumé pages .

To help guide and, hopefully, inspire you, we’ve put together a list of the best résumé examples for pharmacists.

1. Community/Retail Pharmacist

Community pharmacists typically staff local standalone pharmacies or the pharmacy desks inside grocery stores and other retail spaces. The role requires more than just knowledge of medication. Retail pharmacists also discuss basic health information with patients, administer health screenings and shots, and advise both patients and doctors about drug interactions.

Working in a retail space also requires attention to sales . The retail pharmacist résumé sample below includes an entire section on key accomplishments with an emphasis on marketing and profit increases. Rather than just a list of duties, this focus on actual results gives employers tangible evidence of your success on the retail side of the job.

Whatever format you choose when writing your résumé , you want to make the most important elements stand out. Community pharmacists must have the appropriate degree and be licensed.

The résumé example below puts the applicant’s PharmD qualification right at the top and immediately notes they are licensed in the state. The education section further confirms those credentials, so even a quick scan will reveal this essential information to the hiring manager.

2. Hospital Pharmacist

Hospital pharmacies provide medication to individual patients as well as supply the hospital with all required pharmaceuticals and supplies. They work closely with doctors in selecting the right drugs for patients and also take an active role in clinical trials of medication.

When applying for a job as a hospital pharmacist, it’s important to stress your skills in customer service . In the pharmacist résumé template below, you can see the candidate has mentioned patient interactions in their introduction, skills and experience sections.

That introduction is also a key element of the perfect résumé structure . Labelled as a ‘Professional Objective’ in the résumé example above, the intro provides an excellent summary of the applicant’s skills and experience. While the rest of your résumé spells out your exact experience and qualifications to be a hospital pharmacist, it’s important to use this section to convincingly sell yourself as the right person for the job.

The second sample below also begins with a good summary. With the varied job history, it serves as a good example for hospital, primary care or community pharmacists. Note the various keywording throughout that stresses the applicant’s desirable teamwork and management skills.

3. Primary Care/Clinical Pharmacist

Pharmacists in primary care are much more involved with patients and their medication needs. They often work with an entire healthcare team to develop the best course of drugs for a patient. Their expertise is particularly needed for patients with long-term and complex conditions, and clinical pharmacists may specialise in care for a particular illness.

Primary care pharmacists may also research and develop programmes to address the immunisation and other preventative treatment needs of their community. They assist doctors in assessing at-risk patients, overprescribed medications and alternative drug options for patients with side effect or drug interaction issues.

The clinical pharmacist résumé samples below illustrate two different résumé formats to address the variety of skills and experience you may bring to the role. The first, as you’ll see immediately below, devotes more space to the specific duties of their previous jobs.

The second example frontloads the candidate’s accomplishments and awards, which is an ideal choice if you have an impressive list to present to prospective employers.

4. Academic Pharmacist

Whether they plan to teach at one of the best pharmacy schools in the world or not, academic pharmacists must have a substantial set of credentials. Roles in academia can have varying balances of teaching, practice and research, and you’ll want to tailor your résumé to the job description given.

The following academic pharmacist résumé sample follows the technical definition of a curriculum vitae and provides an intense amount of detail. The extensive experience section even includes evidence of a career change , but this is not a problem as the teaching credentials remain relevant. Being published in your field is highly valued for any academic position, and this example includes an impressive bibliography.

5. Student Pharmacist

Writing your first résumé as a graduate of pharmacy school can be a daunting task. Your lack of job experience as an actual pharmacist doesn’t mean you’ll have a lot of empty space on your résumé, however. Other relevant experiences and your studies will take centre stage instead.

The first pharmacist résumé sample below is an excellent model for making the most of relevant work experience, research and computer skills, and leadership and volunteer efforts. Unlike most mid-career résumés, this graduate résumé also adds ‘Interests’ and ‘References’ sections to help offer a fuller picture of the applicant.

The second sample below offers an interesting and more personable tone, particularly in the introduction. This résumé example also succeeds in touching on many of the necessary skills for a good pharmacist , including communication, integrity and dedication to the health and wellbeing of patients.

6. Managed Care Pharmacist

Any job in medical care will inevitably have some link to insurance companies but managed care pharmacists act as a direct liaison. Working for HMOs and other networks, their varied duties include direct contact with patients and helping them achieve the best course of affordable medication as well as recommendations to insurance companies on cost management.

The managed care résumé sample below does a nice job of highlighting the variety of experience the candidate has accumulated in previous roles. Expertise in Medicare programmes and the stress on cost-cutting are of particular interest to employers.

This example does make some of the most common résumé mistakes , however. While being succinct does have its virtues, this applicant has relied a bit too much on repetitive language. You also want to focus more on specific accomplishments. Hiring managers will want to know the exact programmes you developed and see some numbers attached to your claims of reducing expenses.

7. Nuclear Pharmacist

Pharmacists can specialise in several different areas, and one of those is nuclear medicine. Though some of their duties are very similar to other hospital and community practitioners, nuclear pharmacists measure and dispense radioactive medication for diagnosis and treatment.

Nuclear pharmacy work requires strict adherence to safety protocols, quality checks and precise measurements. The pharmacist résumé sample below wisely includes language like ‘properly’, ‘accurately’ and ‘exhibited proficiency’ in describing the duties of their previous job roles.

Education and licensing are important for every pharmacist résumé, but as seen below, be sure to also highlight your certifications .

The next step is to compile all your own job history, skills and accomplishments. Which résumé example was your favourite?

What other sections might you consider including in your résumé? Join the discussion below and let us know!

Finding a Job

Résumé Examples

View Premium CV Package

3 Pharmacy CV Examples and In-Depth Pharmacy CV Writing Guide

Posted by CV Nation on Nov 28, 2020

The complete guide to writing a great pharmacy CV for pharmaceutical jobs in the UK, United States and across the world, with 3 pharmacist CV templates you can use now.

Unlike CVs for other professions, pharmacy CVs tend to include much more detail. This may include research experience, publications, presentations, IPPE, APPE, clinical projects, conferences and teaching experience.

Presenting this information in the correct, most effective way is vital to ensure you come across as a professional candidate and stand a strong chance of securing pharmacy jobs.

In this guide, we include three pharmacy CV templates and samples, which you can use now to optimise your job search. We also detail everything you need to know to write a job-winning pharmacist CV from scratch.

The CV templates and samples in this guide are optimised for all pharmacy roles, including clinical pharmacist, retail pharmacists, hospital pharmacist, nuclear pharmacists, industry pharmacists, informatics pharmacists and poison control pharmacists.

Pharmacy CV Example

How to Write the Perfect Pharmacy CV

Name and contact details.

Start your CV with your name and contact information. Ensure to include your email address and phone number, alongside your location. If you have a strong LinkedIn profile, include your LinkedIn URL with your contact details.

You may be wondering if you should include a professional profile – often called a personal statement or executive summary – at the beginning of your CV. For pharmaceutical CVs, you should not include a professional profile .

In the first section of your CV, add your education details. Include the qualification, university name, grade/score and dates of study. Consider also including a list of the modules undertaken and the title of your thesis.

For pharmacy CVs, we usually recommend including your education details before your professional experience. However, if you feel that your experience should take precedence over your education then it’s perfectly acceptable to insert your employment experience first.

Ensure to use professional formatting when detailing your education. Take a look at the pharmacists' CV samples in this guide to see how your education should be presented.

Licensures and Certifications

Now it’s time to include any licences and certificates that allow you to practice as a pharmacist. If you have passed any licensure examinations or post-graduation examinations, ensure to include those in this section.

Professional Experience

Include your professional work experience. Use the reverse-chronological format, starting with your most recent position and working backwards.

Add your job title, the name of the company you worked for, the location of employment and the dates of employment. Then include a few bullet points to highlight the key aspects of your role.

Ensure to provide some information about the type of work you performed. For example, were you employed as a clinical pharmacist? Did you work in a hospital setting? Give the reader insight into your role as a pharmacist.

In this section, focus only on paid employment in the pharmaceutical industry. If you’ve undertaken voluntary work, you can include this in a later section.

Advanced Pharmacy Practice Experience (APPE)

If you’re a UK trained pharmacist, please skip to section 7.

If you’re a pharmacist in the United States, you’ll be familiar with APPE. Advanced Pharmacy Practice Experience (APPE) is experience that enables aspiring pharmacists to apply the capabilities gained during their education in ‘real-life’ pharmaceutical settings. Of course, you should only include this section on your CV if you have gained APPE.

Format this section in the same way as you formatted the professional experience section. Include a few bullet points to illustrate the highlights of your APPE experiences and show how you utilised your education and training in the real-world.

Here is an example of a pharmacy CV’s APPE section:

Introductory Pharmacy Practice Experience (IPPE)

Introductory Pharmacy Practice Experience (IPPE) provides pharmacy students with the opportunity to observe pharmacists on the job while conducting various tasks under supervision.

If you’ve gained Introduction Pharmacy Practice Experience (IPPE), include a section dedicated to it following your APPE section. The IPPE section should be formatted and presented in the same way as the APPE section.

Here is an example of a pharmacy CV’s IPPE section:

Pre-Registration Training (UK)

Please note, this section is for pharmacists in the UK.

As a pharmacist in the UK, you will have probably completed 52 weeks of pre-registration training. In this section, detail your pre-registration training experience in the same way you detailed your employment experience.

Alternatively, you may also include your pre-registration training in your professional experience section.

If you’ve obtained any research experience, detail it in the same way you detailed your professional experience and IPPE/APPE.

Include the title of your research project, the name of your teacher (if necessary), the project dates, as well as details of conferences/presentations associated with your research project.

Skip this step if you don’t have any research experience.

Teaching Experience

This section is for those who have gained teaching experience in the pharmaceutical industry. Pharmaceutical teaching experience may include teaching pharmacy students at universities or working as a teacher-practitioner.

You may want to combine this section with the research section (which we covered in Step 8). As the academic side of pharmacy usually involves research, your research and teaching experience may be one and the same. If so, bring your research and teaching experience together under one section.

If you do not have any teaching experience, skip this step.

Publications

Listing your publications on your CV is a great way of drawing attention to your expertise in specific areas of pharmacy. If your work has been published, or is due to be published, list these publications in a ‘publications’ section on your CV. These publications, which are usually peer-reviewed, may include research papers, conference papers and academic writings.

How should you format publications on your pharmacy CV?

Use the MLA style to document your publications. Using this format to reference your publications ensures you come across as a professional candidate.

But how do you format your publications using the MLA style?

Start by including the author’s name (your name). Then include the article title, the name of the publication, the volume number, the date and the page numbers of your work. Italicise the title of the publication to draw attention to it and make the section easier to read.

Here is an example:

‘Ben R. Robertson. ‘A study of pharmaceutical processes and practices’. The Big Cheese Pharmaceutical Journal, 43(2), 2019, 45-49.’

If the publication has more than one author, list them all in the order they are listed on the publication.

It’s possible that this section will take up more than an entire page of your CV. This is perfectly acceptable. Pharmacists’ CVs can be much longer in length than CVs for other professions.

Presentations and Conferences

If you’ve delivered presentations at conferences, list them in this section.

Not only does listing your conferences and presentations on your CV demonstrate your expertise in your field, but it also indicates that you’ve got strong communication skills.

How should you detail your presentations and conferences on your pharmacy CV?

Start by including the title of the presentation. Then add the name of the conference, the location of the conference and the date of the conference.

‘Pharmacy in the Modern Era’, The Pharmacy Conference, Texas, United States (2020)

If you have completed both poster presentations and oral presentations, separate them by listing them under separate headers, one titled ‘poster presentations’ and the other titled ‘oral presentations’.

Honours and Awards

Showcasing honours and awards on your CV is a great way of making your document stand out. As employers receive large numbers of applications for available roles, honours and awards can be the difference in establishing yourself as the strongest candidate.

Include the name or title of the award you achieved, then add the name of the company or university where the award was achieved and the date the award was achieved.

'Employee of the Year Award, Pharmaceutical Company (2020)'

Memberships and Affiliations

If you’re a member of any organisations, especially pharmaceutical organisations, list them in this section.

As well as showing off your professional connections, including memberships and affiliations on your CV can also optimise your CV for Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) – a type of recruitment screening software – as ATS is often searching for candidates who are associated with certain organisations.

When listing your memberships, include your title within the organisation, or simply ‘member of’, followed by the organisation’s name and the dates of your membership.

'Member of the Royal Pharmaceutical Society (2012 – Present)'

Additional Information

In the final section of your CV, include any additional information to support your applications. This may include additional training, IT proficiency, languages and voluntary work.

Additional Advice

Keywords and ats.

Many HR departments use screening software to filter and rank candidates’ CVs based on specific keywords. As such, it’s important to optimise your CV in line with the requirements of these systems.

How do you optimise your CV for recruitment screening software?

Pepper relevant keywords throughout your CV. If you’re not sure which keywords to include, study job specifications for pharmacist jobs and analyse the essential criteria.

Professional formatting and an easy-to-follow layout are also important in optimising your CV for ATS. Avoid graphics and tables as they can have a negative impact on your CV’s ATS ranking.

CV Formatting & Layout

One of the best ways of improving your CV’s performance in the job market is to ensure it is polished and professional in appearance. Use borders to separate sections and make use of your word processor’s spacing function to separate blocks of text.

Select one of the classic, commonly used fonts, such as Arial, Calibri or Times New Roman. Avoid creative fonts and garish colours. Additionally, ensure your CV’s text is neither too large nor too small to ensure your document does not appear unprofessional.

View our guide on CV format , which includes 12 CV examples.

Our ultimate guide on how to write a CV covers formatting and layout in much more detail.

Should pharmacy CVs include references?

Pharmacy CVs should not include references. References are requested at a later stage of the application process, so it’s not necessary to include them on your CV.

Pharmacy CV Length

As we’ve already covered in this guide, pharmacy CVs include much more content than CVs for other professions. As such, they are generally much longer. In some cases, they are as long as eight pages.

How long should your pharmacy CV be? It should be as long as it needs to be. Don’t worry about cutting content and trimming your CV down. It’s standard for science, medical and pharmacy CVs to be many pages in length; a long CV won’t have a negative impact on your applications for pharmacist jobs.

We hope you’ve found this guide and our CV samples helpful in preparing an effective CV for jobs in the pharmaceutical industry. Feel free to use our CV templates now to improve your chances of landing pharmacy jobs.

For more in-depth CV writing help, view our ultimate guide on how to write a CV .

Share this post

← Older Post Newer Post →

Top 18 Pharmacist Resume Objective Examples

Updated July 14, 2023 13 min read

A resume objective is a brief statement at the beginning of a resume that outlines the specific skills and qualifications you bring to a pharmacist position. It is important to include an objective on your resume as it shows employers why you are the best fit for the role. When writing your resume objective, be sure to demonstrate how your skills and experience make you well-suited for the job. For example, if you have prior experience as a pharmacist, highlight this in your objective by showing how you successfully served customers and maintained accurate records. You should also emphasize any certifications or qualifications that make you stand out from other candidates. Finally, ensure that your resume objective is tailored specifically for the job opening so that it stands out to employers.

or download as PDF

Top 18 Pharmacist Resume Objective Samples

• To obtain a position as a Pharmacist in an innovative and progressive healthcare organization where my expertise in medication dispensing, patient counseling, and drug interactions can be utilized to improve patient outcomes.
• To secure a Pharmacist role with an established pharmacy that values quality service and customer satisfaction.
• To join a leading healthcare organization as a Pharmacist and contribute to the delivery of high-quality pharmaceutical care.
• Seeking a Pharmacist position at an advanced medical facility where I can apply my knowledge of medications and their effects to provide exceptional patient care.
• Seeking a challenging role as a Pharmacist in which I can utilize my expertise in medication management, compounding, and drug information services.
• Looking for an opportunity to work as a Pharmacist in an environment that encourages professional growth and development.
• To join an innovative healthcare team as a Pharmacist and help provide evidence-based pharmaceutical care.
• Achieving excellence through providing safe, effective, and efficient medication therapy management as part of the pharmacy team.
• Applying knowledge of pharmacology principles to ensure optimal patient outcomes by providing safe and accurate medication dispensing services.
• Utilizing strong communication skills to educate patients on proper use of medications while promoting health maintenance and disease prevention strategies.
• Leveraging experience in compounding sterile products to ensure adherence to safety protocols while meeting the needs of patients with specialized medication requirements.
• Developing collaborative relationships with physicians, nurses, pharmacists, technicians, and other healthcare professionals to ensure optimal patient care is provided at all times.
• Applying expertise in clinical pharmacy services such as therapeutic drug monitoring and disease state management to improve patient outcomes while minimizing adverse reactions or complications from medications.
• Demonstrating leadership abilities by managing workflow within the pharmacy department while ensuring compliance with all applicable regulations related to pharmaceuticals.
• Possessing excellent problem solving skills for resolving complex issues related to drug interactions or allergies while maintaining accuracy during medication order entry processes.
• Utilizing strong organizational skills for managing inventory levels within the pharmacy department while ensuring timely delivery of medications for patients’ needs.
• Applying knowledge of pharmaceuticals for preparing intravenous admixtures for infusion therapies according to established standards of practice guidelines.
• Providing comprehensive counseling services on prescription drugs including proper dosage instructions, side effects, storage requirements, etc., based on individualized needs of each patient

How to Write a Pharmacist Resume Objective

A pharmacist resume objective is a critical component of any job application. It’s the first thing employers will read, and it should be concise and well-written to capture their attention. Writing an effective resume objective for a pharmacist requires you to highlight your qualifications, experience, and skills in the most compelling way possible. Here are some tips for how to write a pharmacist resume objective.

First, think about what kind of pharmacy position you are applying for. Are you looking for a retail or hospital setting? Knowing this will help you focus on the relevant qualifications that you possess in your resume objective statement. For example, if you are seeking a retail position, emphasize skills such as customer service, product knowledge, and time management. If you are applying for a hospital position, focus on medical terminology knowledge, accuracy and attention to detail when dispensing medication, and ability to work with physicians.

Second, make sure that your resume objective is succinct yet impactful. Focus on conveying your most relevant qualifications in one or two sentences so that employers can quickly get an idea of what makes you stand out from other candidates. Avoid using overly general language; instead use specific phrases like “seeking a challenging pharmacy role where I can utilize my expertise in…”

Finally, include concrete examples of past accomplishments or experiences that demonstrate how well-suited you are for the job. This could include awards you have earned or successful projects that you have completed in previous positions related to pharmacy work. Doing so will show employers that not only do you have the necessary skills but also have proven yourself capable of succeeding in similar roles before.

Writing an effective resume objective is key to getting noticed by potential employers when applying for a pharmacist role. Keep these tips in mind while crafting yours and be sure to highlight your most relevant qualifications and experiences so that employers can see why they should hire you!

Related : What does a Pharmacist do?

Key Skills to Highlight in Your Pharmacist Resume Objective

In the competitive field of pharmacy, standing out from the crowd is essential. One effective way to do this is by strategically highlighting your key skills in your resume objective. This section provides potential employers with a snapshot of your abilities and expertise right at the beginning of your resume. It's crucial to make it compelling and relevant to catch their attention. In this section, we will discuss the key skills you should emphasize in your pharmacist resume objective to increase your chances of landing that coveted interview.

1. Medication dispensing

A pharmacist's primary responsibility is to dispense medication to patients as per the prescriptions provided by healthcare professionals. This skill is crucial because it ensures that patients receive the correct medication, dosage, and instructions for use. It also involves understanding potential drug interactions and side effects, which can significantly impact a patient's health. Therefore, having this skill on a resume objective demonstrates the candidate's ability to perform one of the most critical aspects of the job effectively.

2. Drug utilization review

A pharmacist must have a strong understanding of drug utilization review to ensure the safe and effective use of medications. This skill is essential in identifying, preventing, and resolving medication-related problems, including overuse or misuse of drugs. It also involves assessing patient's health conditions, allergies, potential drug interactions and overall medication management which are critical for providing optimal pharmaceutical care. Including this skill in a resume objective demonstrates a commitment to patient safety and highlights the ability to contribute effectively in a healthcare team.

3. Patient counseling

A pharmacist's role goes beyond dispensing medications; they also need to provide advice and guidance to patients about their prescriptions. This includes explaining how and when to take the medication, potential side effects, and any possible interactions with other drugs. Therefore, patient counseling skills are essential for a pharmacist. They demonstrate the ability to effectively communicate complex medical information in a way that is understandable and useful for patients. This skill can contribute to better patient outcomes, increased patient satisfaction, and improved adherence to medication regimes. Including this skill in a resume objective shows potential employers that you are not only technically proficient but also capable of providing high-quality patient care.

4. Pharmaceutical calculations

Pharmaceutical calculations are a critical skill for pharmacists as they are responsible for accurately measuring and dispensing medication dosages. This skill ensures patient safety and effective treatment outcomes. Including this skill in a resume objective demonstrates the candidate's ability to perform one of the core tasks of the job, making them more appealing to potential employers.

5. Compounding techniques

Compounding techniques are essential for a pharmacist as they involve the preparation and mixing of drugs to create medications tailored to the needs of individual patients. This skill demonstrates a pharmacist's technical knowledge, precision, and ability to provide personalized patient care. Including this in a resume objective can highlight the applicant's competency in providing specialized pharmaceutical services, setting them apart from other candidates.

6. Inventory management

A pharmacist needs to have strong inventory management skills to ensure that the pharmacy is always well-stocked with the necessary medications. This involves tracking the usage of different drugs, predicting future needs, and ordering new stock in a timely manner. Poor inventory management can lead to shortages, which can negatively impact patient care. Therefore, mentioning this skill in a resume objective demonstrates an ability to maintain efficiency and effectiveness in a pharmacy setting.

7. Pharmacokinetics analysis

Pharmacokinetics analysis is the study of how a drug is absorbed, distributed, metabolized, and excreted from the body. This skill is crucial for a pharmacist as it allows them to understand how different drugs interact within the body and how to adjust dosages for optimal therapeutic effect. It also aids in identifying potential drug interactions that could be harmful. Including this skill in a resume objective demonstrates a strong understanding of drug mechanisms, which is essential for ensuring safe and effective patient care.

8. Immunization administration

Immunization administration is a crucial skill for a pharmacist as it showcases their ability to provide essential healthcare services beyond dispensing medications. This skill demonstrates the pharmacist's competence in preventive healthcare, patient counseling, and direct patient care. Including this on a resume objective can indicate the candidate's comprehensive approach to pharmaceutical care, making them more attractive to potential employers. It also shows that they are trained and certified to administer vaccines which can broaden the scope of their practice and increase their value within a pharmacy setting.

9. Drug interaction assessment

A pharmacist must have the skill of drug interaction assessment to ensure the safety and health of patients. This skill is crucial to prevent adverse reactions caused by the combination of different drugs. It shows that the pharmacist has a deep understanding of pharmaceuticals and can provide accurate advice to both healthcare professionals and patients. Including this skill in a resume objective demonstrates competence, attention to detail, and commitment to patient care - qualities that are highly sought after in this profession.

10. Medication therapy management

A pharmacist with the skill of medication therapy management is able to ensure that patients are receiving optimal therapeutic outcomes for the prescription medications they are taking. This skill is crucial for a resume objective as it demonstrates the pharmacist's ability to assess, monitor, initiate, or stop medication therapies; identify and prevent potential medication problems; and educate patients about their medications. It shows that the pharmacist can provide comprehensive care to patients, improving their health outcomes and overall quality of life.

In conclusion, crafting an effective pharmacist resume objective is a crucial step in your job application process. It's essential to highlight key skills that align with the requirements of the role you're applying for. This not only showcases your suitability but also sets you apart from other candidates. Remember, your objective should be concise, compelling and customized to each specific role. By emphasizing your unique abilities and experiences, you can capture potential employers' attention and increase your chances of landing the job.

Related : Pharmacist Manager Skills: Definition and Examples

Common Mistakes When Writing a Pharmacist Resume Objective

When writing a pharmacist resume objective, there are several common mistakes that should be avoided. A pharmacist resume objective is a brief statement at the top of your resume that outlines your career goals and objectives. It should be clear, concise, and to the point in order to grab the attention of recruiters and hiring managers.

The first mistake is failing to make the objective specific. Your objective should not simply state that you want to work as a pharmacist; it should also provide insight into how you can contribute to the organization or what skills you possess that would make you an ideal candidate for the job. For example, “Seeking a position as a pharmacist where I can utilize my extensive experience in medication distribution and patient care” is much more effective than simply stating “seeking employment as a pharmacist”.

Another common mistake is including too much information in the objective. While it’s important to provide relevant information about yourself, keep it brief and focus on what makes you unique from other applicants. Too much detail can overwhelm recruiters and take away from your core message.

Finally, avoid using cliches or generic phrases such as “hard worker” or “team player” in your resume objective. These types of phrases may sound good but they don’t really tell recruiters anything about who you are as an individual or why they should hire you over other candidates. Instead, focus on specific experiences or qualifications relevant to the position that demonstrate why you would be an asset to the organization.

By avoiding these common mistakes when writing a pharmacist resume objective, you can ensure that your resume stands out from other applicants and presents yourself in the best possible light.

Related : Pharmacist Resume Examples

A right resume objective for a pharmacist should clearly state the applicant's qualifications and desired role, while a wrong resume objective may be too vague or focused on the applicant's personal goals rather than the employer's needs.

Editorial staff

Brenna Goyette

Brenna is a certified professional resume writer, career expert, and the content manager of the ResumeCat team. She has a background in corporate recruiting and human resources and has been writing resumes for over 10 years. Brenna has experience in recruiting for tech, finance, and marketing roles and has a passion for helping people find their dream jobs. She creates expert resources to help job seekers write the best resumes and cover letters, land the job, and succeed in the workplace.

Similar articles

• Top 18 Clinical Pharmacist Resume Objective Examples
• Top 18 Hospital Pharmacist Resume Objective Examples
• Top 18 Nuclear Pharmacist Resume Objective Examples
• Top 18 Oncology Pharmacist Resume Objective Examples
• Top 18 Registered Pharmacist Resume Objective Examples
• Top 18 Staff Pharmacist Resume Objective Examples

CV personal statement examples

If you want to secure job interview, you need a strong personal statement at the top of your CV.

Your CV personal statement is a short paragraph which sits at the very top of your CV – and it’s aim is to summarise the benefits of hiring you and encourage employers to read your CV in full.

In this guide I have included 17 CV personal statement examples from a range of professions and experience levels, plus a detailed guide of how to write your own personal statement that will get you noticed by employers

CV templates 

17 CV personal statement examples

To start this guide, I have included 10 examples of good personal statements, to give you an idea of how a personal statement should look , and what should be included.

Note: personal statements are generally used by junior candidates – if you are experienced, check out our CV profile examples instead.

Graduate CV personal statement (no experience)

Although this  graduate has no paid work experience, they compensate for it by showcasing all of the skills and knowledge the have gained during their studies, and demonstrating how they apply their knowledge in academic and personal projects.

When you have little or no experience, it’s important to draw out transferable workplace skills from your studies and extracurricular work, to showcase them to employers.

Graduate CV personal statement (part time freelance experience)

This candidate has graduated with a degree in biochemistry but actually wants to start a career in digital marketing after providing some digital freelance services to fund their studies.

In this case, they haven’t made much mention of their studies because they aren’t relevant to the digital marketing agencies they are applying to. Instead they have focused their personal statement around their freelance work and passion for the digital field – although they still mention the fact they are degree educated to prove their academic success.

School leaver CV personal statement (no experience)

This candidate is 16 years old and has no work experience whatsoever, but they compensate for this by detailing their academic achievements that relate to the roles they are applying for (maths and literacy are important requirements in finance and accountancy roles).

They also add some info on their extracurricular activities and school work-placements, to strengthen this student CV further.

    Top tips for writing a CV personal statement

• Thoroughly research the jobs and companies you are planning to apply for to identify the type of candidate they are looking for – try to reflect that in your personal statement
• Don’t be afraid to brag a little – include some of your most impressive achievements from education, work or personal life
• Focus on describing the benefits an employer will get from hiring you. Will you help them to get more customers? Improve their workplace? Save them time and money?
• If you have no work experience, demonstrate transferable workplace skills from your education, projects, or even hobbies

School leaver CV personal statement (part time experience)

Although this person has only just left school, they have also undertaken some part-time work in a call centre alongside their studies.

To make the most of this experience, they have combined their academic achievements with their workplace exposure in this personal statement.

By highlighting their GCSE results, summer programme involvement, work experience and expressing their ambitions to progress within sales, this candidate really makes an appealing case for hiring them.

College leaver CV personal statement (no experience)

This candidate has left college with good grades, but does not yet have any work experience.

To compensate for the lack of workplace exposure, they have made their A level results prominent and highlighted skills and experience which would benefit the employers they are targeting.

Any recruiter reading this profile can quickly understand that this candidate has great academic achievements, a passion for IT and finance and the ability to transfer their skills into an office environment.

College student CV personal statement (freelance experience)

As this student has picked up a small amount of freelance writing work during their studies, they have made sure to brag about it in their personal statement.

They give details on their relevant A level studies to show the skills they are learning, and boost this further by highlighting the fact that they have been applying these skills in a real-life work setting by providing freelance services.

They also include key action verbs that recruiters will be looking for , such as creative writing, working to deadlines, and producing copy.

Academic CV personal statement

Aside from junior candidates, the only other people who might use a personal statement, are academic professionals; as their CV’s tend to be more longer and detailed than other professions.

This candidate provides a high level overview of their field of study, length of experience, and the roles they have held within universities.

School leaver CV personal statement with and sports experience

Although this person has no work experience, they are still able to show employers the value of hiring them by selling their other achievements and explaining how they could benefit an organisation.

They expand on their sports club involvement to demonstrate their teamwork, leadership skills, communication and motivation, which are all important traits in the workplace, and will be looked upon favourably by recruiters and hiring managers.

They also draw upon their future plans to study business studies and take a part time job, to further prove their ambition and dedication.

History graduate CV personal statement

This history graduate proves their aptitude for both academic achievement and workplace aptitude by showcasing valuable skills from their degree and voluntary work.

They do this by breaking down the key requirements for each and showing how their skills could be beneficial for future employers, such as listening, communication, and crisis management.

They also describe how their ability to balance studies alongside voluntary work has not only boosted their knowledge and skills, but also given excellent time management and organisational skills – which are vital assets to any employer.

Law graduate CV personal statement

This legal graduate makes the most from their work university work placements by using it to bulk out the contents of their CV personal statement.

They include their degree to show they have the necessary qualifications for legal roles, which is crucial, but more importantly, they showcase how they applied their legal skills within a real-life work setting.

They give a brief overview of the types of legal professionals they have been working alongside and the type of work they have been carrying out – this is all it takes to get the attention of recruiters and show employers they have what it takes to fulfil roles in the legal sector.

Medical student CV personal statement

This medical student proves their fit for the role by showcasing the key skills they have gained from their studies and their work experience placements.

In just these few sentences, they are able to highlight the vast amount of experience they have across different disciplines in the industry, something which is particularly important in the medical sector.

As they have not graduated yet and are still studying, they have provided proof of their most recent grades. This can give the recruiter some indication as to the type of grade they could be graduating with in the near future.

Masters student CV personal statement

This masters student has started by specifying their area of study, in this case, accounting, and given details about the specific areas of finance they are most interested in. This can hint towards their career goals and passions.

They have then carefully listed some of the key areas of accounting and finance that they are proficient in. For example, business finance, advanced corporate finance and statistics.

They have also outlined some of the transferable skills needed for accounting roles that employers will be looking out for, such as communication, attention to detail and analytical skills.

Finance student CV personal statement

As this finance student has recently undertaken some relevant work experience, they’ve made sure to shout about this in their personal profile.

But more than this, they have included a list of some of the important finance skills they gained as a result of this work experience – for example, financial reporting, processing invoices and month-end reconciliations.

Plus, through power words and phrases such as ‘prevent loss’ and ‘ improve upon accuracy and efficiency’, they have also showcased how they can apply these skills in a workplace setting to benefit the potential employer.

Internship  CV personal statement

This digital marketing professional has started their personal profile by outlining their most relevant qualifications and work experience, most notably their freelance role as a content manager.

They have also provided examples of some of the key marketing skills that potential employers might be looking for, including very detailed examples of the platforms and tools they are proficient in – for example, LinkedIn, Twitter and Pinterest.

They have then closed their statement by giving a detailed description of the type of role or opportunity they are looking for. In this case, an in-house position in a marketing company.

Graduate career changer personal statement

Switching careers as a graduate can be tough. Especially when it comes to writing a personal statement that will attract employers in your new chosen field.

This candidate is looking to move from history teaching into journalism, so they have created a statement which briefly mentions their current workplace, but mainly focuses on highlighting transferable skills which are relevant to journalism. They achieve this by discussing the writing skills they use in their current role, and mentioning their hobby of writing – including some publications they have been featured in for extra brownie points.

Business management graduate personal statement

This business management proves their ability to work within a junior business management position by swiftly highlighting their impressive degree (to ensure it is not missed) and summarising some of the real-life experience they have gained in management during their university placements and volunteering. They do not let their lack of paid work experience, stop them demonstrating their valuable skills.

PhD graduate

PhD graduate roles attract a lot of competition, so it’s important that your CV contains a personal statement that will quickly impress and attract recruiters.

This candidate provides a short-but-comprehensive overview of their academic achievements, whilst demonstrating their exceptional level of knowledge in research, languages and publication writing.

By highlighting a number of skills and abilities that are in high-demand in the academic workplace, this CV is very likely to get noticed and land interviews.

How to write a personal statement for your CV

Now that you’ve seen what a personal statement should look like and the type of content it should contain, follow this detailed guide to one for your own CV – and start racking those interviews up.

Guide contents

What is a CV personal statement?

Cv personal statement or cv profile, personal statement format, what to include in a cv personal statement.

• Personal statement mistakes

How to write persuasively

A personal statement is a short paragraph at the top of your CV which gives employers an overview of your education, skills and experience

It’s purpose is to capture the attention of busy recruiters and hiring managers when your CV is first opened – encouraging them to read the rest of it.

You achieve this by writing a tailored summary of yourself that explains your suitability for the roles you are applying for at a very high level, and matches your target job descriptions .

One question candidates often ask me is , “what is the difference between a personal statement and a CV profile?”

To be honest, they are almost the same – they are both introductory paragraphs that sit at the top of your CV… but there are 2 main differences

A personal statement tends to be used more by junior candidates (graduates, school leavers etc.) and is relatively long and detailed.

A CV profile tends to be favoured by more experienced candidates , and is shorter in length than a personal statement.

Note: If you are an experienced candidate, you may want to switch over to my CV profile writing guide , or example CV profiles page.

To ensure you grab recruiters’ attention with your personal statement, lay it out in the following way.

Positioning

You need to ensure that your personal statement sits at the very top of your CV, and all of it should be totally visible to readers, without the need to scroll down the page.

Do this by reducing the top page margin and minimising the space taken up by your contact details.

This will ensure that your whole personal statement can be seen, as soon as your CV is opened.

We have a Word CV template which can help you to get this right.

Size/length

Your personal statement needs to contain enough detail to provide an introduction to your skills and knowledge, but not so much detail that it bores readers.

To strike the right balance, anything between 8-15 lines of text is perfect – and sentences should be sharp and to-the-point.

As with the whole of your CV or resume , your personal statement should be written in a simple clean font at around size 10-12 to ensure that it can be read easily by all recruiters and employers.

Keep the text colour simple , ensuring that it contrasts the background (black on white is best) and break it into 2 or even 3 paragraphs for a pleasant reading experience.

It should also be written in a punchy persuasive tone, to help you sell yourself and increase your chances of landing interviews , I cover how to do this in detail further down the guide.

Quick tip: A poorly written CV will fail to impress recruiters and employers. Use our quick-and-easy CV Builder to create a winning CV in minutes with professional CV templates and pre-written content for every industry.

Once you have the style and format of your personal statement perfected, you need to fill it with compelling content that tells recruiters that your CV is worth reading.

Here’s what needs to go into your personal statement…

Before you start writing your personal statement, it’s crucial that you research your target roles to find out exactly what your new potential employers are looking for in a candidate.

Run a search for your target jobs on one of the major job websites , look through plenty of adverts and make a list of the candidate requirements that frequently appear.

This research will show you exactly what to include in your personal statement in order to impress the recruiters who will be reading it.

Education and qualifications are an important aspect of your personal statement, especially if you are a junior candidate.

You should highlight your highest and most relevant qualifications, whether that is a degree, A levels or GCSEs. You could potentially go into some more detail around modules, papers etc. if they are relevant to the roles you are applying for.

It’s important that you discuss the experience you have gained in your personal statement, to give readers an idea of the work you are comfortable undertaking.

This can of course be direct employed work experience, but it doesn’t have to be.

You can also include:

• School/college Uni work placements
• Voluntary work
• Personal projects
• Hobbies/interests

As with all aspects of your CV , the content should be tailored to match the requirements of your target roles.

Whilst discussing your experience, you should touch upon skills used, industries worked in, types of companies worked for, and people you have worked with.

Where possible, try to show the impact your actions have made. E.g . A customer service agent helps to make sales for their employer.

Any industry-specific knowledge you have that will be useful to your new potential employers should be made prominent within your personal statement.

For example

• Knowledge of financial regulations will be important for accountancy roles
• Knowledge of IT operating systems will be important for IT roles
• Knowledge of the national curriculum will be important for teachers

You should also include some information about the types of roles you are applying for, and why you are doing so. Try to show your interest and passion for the field you are hoping to enter, because employers want to hire people who have genuine motivation and drive in their work.

This is especially true if you don’t have much work experience, as you need something else to compensate for it.

CV personal statement mistakes

The things that you omit from your personal statement can be just as important as the things you include.

Try to keep the following out of your personal statement..

Irrelevant info

Any information that doesn’t fall into the requirements of your target roles can be cut out of your personal statement. For example, if you were a professional athlete 6 years ago, that’s great – but it won’t be relevant if you’re applying to advertising internships, so leave it out.

Generic clichés

If you are describing yourself as a “ dynamic team player with high levels of motivation and enthusiasm” you aren’t doing yourself any favours.

These cliché terms are vastly overused and don’t provide readers with any factual details about you – so keep them to a minimum.

Stick to solid facts like education, skills , experience, achievements and knowledge.

If you really want to ensure that your personal statement makes a big impact, you need to write in a persuasive manner.

So, how do you so this?

Well, you need to brag a little – but not too much

It’s about selling yourself and appearing confident, without overstepping the mark and appearing arrogant.

For example, instead of writing.

“Marketing graduate with an interest in entering the digital field”

Be creative and excite the reader by livening the sentence up like this,

“Marketing graduate with highest exam results in class and a passion for embarking on a long and successful career within digital”

The second sentence is a much more interesting, makes the candidate appear more confident, throws in some achievements, and shows off a wider range of writing skills.

Quick tip: A poorly written CV will fail to impress recruiters and employers. Use our quick-and-easy CV Builder to create a winning CV in minutes with professional templates and pre-written content for every industry.

Your own personal statement will be totally unique to yourself, but by using the above guidelines you will be able to create one which shows recruiters everything they need.

Remember to keep the length between 10-20 lines and only include the most relevant information for your target roles.

You can also check our school leaver CV example , our best CV templates , or our library of example CVs from all industries.

Good luck with the job hunt!