How to Format Your CV for Locum Roles: A Step-by-Step Guide

When applying for locum roles, your CV is your most powerful tool. A well-structured and professional CV ensures you stand out to recruiters and medical centres, showcasing your qualifications, skills, and availability. 

Here’s how to format your CV to maximise your chances of securing locum opportunities.

1. Start with a Clear Header

Your CV should begin with your full name and contact information. Include:

• Professional title (e.g., Dr Jane Doe, General Practitioner)
• Phone number
• Email address
• Current location (optional but helpful for locum roles)
• Medical registration details, such as your Medical Council of Ireland (MCI) number.

2. Include a Strong Personal Statement

This short paragraph at the top of your CV highlights your suitability for locum roles. Focus on:

• Years of experience
• Medical specialisations
• Key skills such as adaptability, patient care, and efficiency
• Availability and willingness to travel for locum positions.

Example:

"I am a dedicated General Practitioner with over 7 years of experience in fast-paced clinical environments. Skilled in delivering exceptional patient care, I am seeking flexible locum opportunities to support healthcare facilities during peak demands."

3. Highlight Your Professional Experience

List your roles in reverse chronological order, starting with the most recent. For each position, include:

• Job title (e.g., Locum GP, Emergency Medicine Registrar)
• Organisation name and location
• Dates of employment (month and year)
• Key responsibilities and achievements.
• Tailor this section to emphasise your locum experience. Focus on:
  • Your ability to adapt to new environments quickly.
  • Experience managing varied patient caseloads.
  • Specific skills or procedures relevant to the advertised role.

4. Detail Your Education and Qualifications

Provide a concise list of your educational background, including:

• Degree(s) (e.g., MBBS, MD)
• University name and location
• Graduation year
• Include any additional certifications or training, such as:
  • ACLS (Advanced Cardiac Life Support)
  • ATLS (Advanced Trauma Life Support)
  • Specialty-specific qualifications.

5. Include Your Licences and Registrations

This is crucial for locum roles. Clearly list:

• Medical Council registration details
• Any other certifications or memberships (e.g., Royal College of Physicians).

6. Add Relevant Skills

Create a skills section to summarise abilities that make you an effective locum doctor, such as:

• Quick decision-making
• Effective communication
• Experience with diverse patient populations
• Knowledge of medical software systems

7. Mention References

Include a statement that references are available upon request. Alternatively, provide contact details for two referees, ideally a senior consultant or clinical manager who can vouch for your skills and work ethic.

8. Keep It Concise and Professional

Locum recruiters appreciate clarity and brevity. Stick to 2-3 pages, using bullet points to organise information. Avoid overly technical jargon or unnecessary details.

9. Tailor Your CV for Each Role

Every locum position may have slightly different requirements. Tailor your CV to highlight the most relevant experience and skills for the specific role you’re applying for.

Final Thoughts

A well-crafted CV can make all the difference in landing locum roles. By following this guide, you’ll present yourself as a competent and reliable professional ready to step into any medical setting. Take the time to update your CV regularly to reflect your most recent experiences and certifications.

Need more tips or locum opportunities? Get in touch with the Locum Express team today!