As the new academic year approaches, now is the perfect time for in-school therapists—including occupational therapists, physical therapists, social workers, and speech-language pathologists—to revamp their resumes. A well-crafted resume not only showcases your skills and experience but also sets you apart in a competitive job market.
Use the following tips from Spotter Staffing to update your resume and land a better school therapy job today!
Highlight Your Relevant Experience
Detail your roles and responsibilities in previous positions, focusing on those that align closely with the demands of in-school therapy roles. For example, if you’ve implemented successful intervention programs, worked on multidisciplinary teams, or contributed to Individualized Education Plans (IEPs), make sure these accomplishments stand out. Quantify your achievements where possible, such as the number of students you’ve supported or specific positive outcomes you’ve achieved in classroom settings.
Showcase Your Specialized Skills
Therapy roles in schools require a diverse set of skills. Highlight your specialized skills, such as proficiency in specific therapeutic techniques, familiarity with assistive technology, or experience with particular student populations. Be sure to include any relevant certifications or continuing education courses you’ve completed. This demonstrates your commitment to professional development and staying current in your field.
Tailor Your Resume to the Job Description
Each school may have unique needs and priorities, so tailor your resume to the specific job you’re applying for. Carefully read the job description and align your resume with the skills and experiences they are seeking. Use keywords from the job listing to help your resume pass through applicant tracking systems (ATS) and catch the hiring manager’s eye.
Show Evidence of Collaboration
Collaboration is a key component of in-school therapy roles. Emphasize your ability to work effectively with teachers, administrators, parents, and other therapists. Highlight any team projects or collaborative initiatives you’ve been part of, demonstrating your communication skills and your ability to contribute to a multidisciplinary team
Keep Your Format Clean and Professional
A clean, professional format makes your resume easy to read and also helps key information stand out. Use clear headings, bullet points, and consistent formatting throughout. Choose a professional font and maintain adequate white space to avoid a cluttered look.
Add a Touch of Personalization
While maintaining professionalism, adding a touch of personalization can make your resume more memorable. Consider including a brief section on your personal interests or volunteer work, especially if they relate to your professional role. This can give hiring managers a fuller picture of who you are as a person and a professional.
Turn to Spotter for a Resume Review
The recruiting experts at Spotter Staffing know what hiring managers are looking for in a resume. If you want to get an extra set of eyes on your resume, let one of our recruiters go over it with you and offer some advice! We will be happy to help you take that next step towards your better job and brighter future. Revamping your resume may take some time and effort, but it’s an investment in your career that can open doors to new opportunities.
Are You Looking For a New School Therapy Job?
If you are an OT, PT, SLP, Social Worker or Special Education Teacher looking for work in Texas or Illinois, Spotter Staffing can help! We place therapists into amazing opportunities in top schools every day. Click here to browse our current open positions, or connect with one of our expert recruiters today! We can’t wait for you to Join The Herd.