By: Sarah K. Wells MSN RN CEN CNL

Today’s nursing job market can feel shockingly competitive. While healthcare organizations continue to face staffing challenges, many employers are also receiving large volumes of applications for desirable positions. To manage this influx, organizations increasingly rely on applicant tracking systems (ATS) and artificial intelligence (AI)-enabled software to screen candidates before a human recruiter ever reviews an application.

For nurses, this means that having the right qualifications is only part of the equation. It’s equally important to ensure your application clearly communicates your value in a way that both technology and hiring managers can recognize.

Resumes are KEY

Start by carefully reviewing the job description and incorporating relevant keywords throughout your resume and cover letter. If a position emphasizes patient education, triage, leadership, quality improvement, or electronic health record experience, be sure to include those exact terms when they accurately reflect your experience. ATS software often prioritizes applications that closely align with the language used in the posting.

Next, focus on measurable accomplishments rather than simply listing responsibilities. Instead of stating that you “provided patient care,” highlight outcomes such as improving patient leading a practice change initiative, preempting or mentoring new staff, or participating in committees, councils, and quality improvement projects.

Networking = The Secret Sauce

Networking remains one of the most powerful tools in any job search. Connect with colleagues, attend professional conferences, engage with nursing organizations, and maintain an active LinkedIn presence. Personal connections can help your application get pulled from a sea of digital submissions.

Stand out from the crowd!

Technology may influence the hiring process, but authentic experience, strong professional relationships, and a well-crafted applications remain the keys to standing out as a nursing candidate.

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About the Author: Sarah K. Wells, MSN, RN, CEN, CNL is an experienced nurse career strategist dedicated to helping nurses and nurse practitioners of all experience levels and specialties achieve success in their nursing and NP journeys. Sarah founded New Thing Nurse and NTN Consults to help provide support and guidance to the nursing and healthcare community in a simple and direct format. Sarah’s vision is to foster a more supportive and fulfilled nursing world that spreads throughout healthcare and beyond.

Sarah is serving as a 2026 Advocacy Fellow with ANA-California, focusing on AI and equitable nurse staffing. Learn more about the 2026 ANA-California Advocacy Fellowships.

New Thing Nurse helps the nursing and NP community thrive in their careers! Join us on IG or Facebook @newthingnurse 🩺