How to create a quality clinical pharmacist CV

“You never get a second chance to make a first impression.” 

According to research, a CV has 7.4 seconds to make an impression, therefore it is essential you create one that is of high quality. Although there are many, the vast majority of CVs available online are average at best. While it isn’t recommended that you draw any inspiration from any online CV samples, this guide will show you the best ways to portray your professional background and expertise in order to maximise your career prospects.

What do you write in a clinical pharmacy CV? 

There are many elements to the role of a clinical pharmacist that require important decisions to be made. The development of medication therapy and the creation of patient-appropriate treatment plans fall under the care and responsibility of the clinical pharmacist. Therefore, it is essential that your CV displays an overarching theme of developing good rapport and consistency in your care with a range of different aged patients. 

Remember to include details of your pharmaceutical specialisms for example, which dispensing systems you are familiar with. Additionally, distinguish between the types of organisations you have worked for, did you work in the private sector or at a community pharmacy? Give as much context to your prior experience as possible, such as the size of the clinic you worked in or mention the number of patients you interacted with on a daily basis. 

Formatting tips

Formatting is key. Make sure you list your academic background, licences and work experiences in chronological order.  Including headings, bullet points and consistent margins all help to make your CV easier to read. It is best to avoid cluttering, so refrain from stuffing in clichéd keywords or generic statements like ‘good communicator’. Remember you are writing to experts in your field who will be looking at the level of care you put into your CV and how that will translate into your work.

What is the most important skill of a clinical pharmacist? 

You need a variety of fundamental skills to succeed as a clinical pharmacist, from having outstanding interpersonal skills to exhibiting excellent analytical skills. At IQVIA, we also appreciate the skill of adaptability in both situations and interpersonal relationships. We recognise the importance of direct patient interactions and having the ability to adapt to any healthcare environment whilst liaising with other healthcare professionals. 

How do you make your clinical pharmacy CV stand out? 

Make your CV stand out by writing a good professional summary. You may want to mention how you see your career progressing as a clinical pharmacist, this could be mentioning your goals and what have you done to work towards them. This is a chance to showcase your knowledge and the importance of keeping up to date with the latest medical developments in the pharmaceutical industry. If you have published any academic papers this is also a chance to draw attention to them. 

We recommend you tailor your summary in a way that demonstrates how you will be of value, but more significantly, how you will advocate the work culture of the organisation. This step may require checking the company profile on Linkedin to get more of an understanding of the team by looking at the company’s life tab. 

Are you considering a new role in clinical pharmacy?

At IQVIA, our mission is to drive healthcare forward and help patients receive the drugs and treatments they deserve. We are working towards a more modern and effective healthcare system, if you are keen to help us, why not browse our clinical pharmacist job now and submit your CV?