social worker resume 2022

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9 Social Worker Resume Examples That Worked in 2024

Social Worker Resume

• Social Worker Resumes by Experience
• Social Worker Resumes by Role

Writing Your Social Worker Resume

Social workers protect vulnerable populations, support families, and help people solve and cope with problems in their everyday lives, all within different settings.

Since social workers support numerous communities, work in various environments, and develop different scopes based on their licensure, creating your social worker resume  to target the right job for your career goals can be challenging. (It’s also why  social worker job descriptions  tend to be rather vague.)

We’ve analyzed hundreds of social worker resume samples from all populations, environments, settings, and licenses to  attract the attention of a hiring manager or recruiter so you can get more interviews in 2024 . We created nine resume samples to help you  build an eye-catching resume  and  check your resume  using AI-powered tips. 

or download as PDF

Why this resume works

• Make sure to mention the facility settings where you’ve worked, whether it’s a hospital, school, rehabilitation center, group home, or community facility, so hiring managers see your expertise.
• Social workers typically have high volumes of cases to manage, so you should highlight the number of cases you managed per day/week/month.
• If your case management included court documentation and appearance, be sure to discuss this in your social worker resume. 

Social Work Student Resume

• As a social worker, you’ll interact with people from all walks of life. List any experiences that exposed you to diverse backgrounds on your social work student resume to show that you’re prepared to work with complex clients.

Social Work Intern Resume

• An advanced degree in social work and volunteer involvement prove that you chose this career mindfully.

Entry-Level Social Worker Resume

• In your  resume skills section , include skills like “verbal communication,” “case assessment,” “and counseling” to reassure employers of your abilities.
• If you’ve participated in any internships, include those over other positions. The goal is always to include the most relevant experience if at all possible.
• Don’t discount any administrative or supportive tasks; hiring managers understand (and want to see) that everyone starts somewhere.  

Associate Social Worker Resume

• Consider including work-related projects, activities, or  hobbies on your resume  to demonstrate your abilities.
• Start strong with a  resume objective  that immediately shows the reader who you are as a professional.
• If you choose to use an objective, always tailor it to the specific role and  job description .

School Social Worker Resume

or downloand as PDF

• In your work experience bullets, mention your areas of expertise ( for example, ADHD, grief counseling, teenage pregnancy) to create a targeted  school social worker resume  that will gain a recruiter’s interest.
• Within the experience of your school social worker resume, be sure to focus on the programs you implemented or supported. This will support the statements made in your resume objective.

Clinical Social Worker Resume

• Be sure to discuss how your responsibilities and leadership abilities resulted in  positive changes  at your workplace.
• If you have a license designation, put it after your name in your contact header so recruiters can immediately see your expertise. 
• Your  resume summary  should list also the settings where you’ve worked or the clinical settings you want to target for your next clinical social worker role. 

Nursing Home Social Worker Resume

• Include the patient types you worked with, such as end-of-life/hospice or memory care patients, and mention how you demonstrated collaboration and communication in your work experience since those are vital skills for nursing home social workers.
• Highlight your experience educating patients and their families, as well as any community initiatives you implemented, to improve the nursing programs you supported.  
• Be sure to  check your resume  to ensure there aren’t any grammar, punctuation, or spelling errors so you can put your best foot forward. 

Medical Social Worker II Resume

• Only include three to four positions in your work experience, and focus on your expertise from the most recent ten years of jobs and training.
• If you can, keep your bullet points solely about achievements or responsibilities that benefited the company.
• It should be just two or three sentences long to keep it brief. Include the name of the company to which you’re applying, and finish strong with a closing sentence tying directly to the role you’re targeting.

Related resume guides

• Social work cover letter
• Medical Receptionist

A  well-formatted resume  is your first impression to potential employers, so formatting is your golden ticket to securing an interview. Hiring managers sift through countless applications daily, so readable and  comprehensive resumes  have the best chance of moving forward.

Present your achievements, competencies, and education in a logical way that responds to your prospective employer’s criteria. When  crafting your social worker resume , you must consider:

• Reverse-chronological, functional, or combination/hybrid formatting
• Contact information and header presentation

ATS and readability

Reverse-chronological format, functional format, and combination/hybrid format

There are several acceptable ways to present your professional experience like a narrative. Hiring managers accept the following  resume formats :

• The reverse-chronological format lists your employment experience, achievements, and education, beginning with the most recent.
• The functional format emphasizes your skills instead of your work experience. You place the most relevant achievements or skills near the top to highlight your abilities for the position you’re pursuing.
• A hybrid format blends the reverse-chronological and functional approaches. If you’ve changed industries or have ample parallel experience, you should present the most recent relative aspect toward the top of your resume.

Within the social work industry, recruiters respond best to the reverse-chronological format because it highlights the evolution of your career through progressive acquisition of skills and professional development.

Contact info and header

Your social worker resume explains your qualifications and credentials for the job you’re seeking, but if recruiters don’t know how to contact you, nothing you write will matter. As a result, you need to write and format your contact header effectively. This section should include:

• Title of the position you’re applying for (taken directly from the job description)
• Your city and state

Notice the customized header that lists the job posting title below the name.

Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) are computer programs that filter out low-quality, irrelevant, and unreadable resumes. However, they’re not infallible. Sometimes they toss out relevant resumes based on a lack of keywords. Adhering to a few simple conventions, which our  resume builder  helps with, will ensure you pass the inevitable ATS filter. 

Beat the ATS with a few simple tips.

• Fonts and font sizes: ATS systems need to be able to scan your resume easily, so keep fonts simple and sizes consistent.
• Header: Adding headers makes your resume easier for the ATS to read.
• Save your resume in multiple formats and confirm that each version looks correct.
• Names: Your name must appear prominently with the associated contact info to make it beyond the ATS.
• Skills: the ATS scans for keywords, so you need to carefully read the job description to include the right terminology.
• Logical Order: A reverse-chronological order is the easiest for the ATS to scan; other formats may be misread.
• Length: Typically, the ATS will toss any resume that’s longer than one page.

How to write your social worker resume

Social workers require licensure, soft skills, and clinical abilities to perform their jobs effectively. Presenting that breadth of experience in an easy-to-read and tight  resume format  can be challenging.

Luckily, you’re familiar with tricky situations. So, assess your experience and determine your desired job competencies to help you write an effective resume.

Consider the following aspects of your social worker resume:

• A resume objective or summary

Work experience

Crafting your bullet points.

• Quantifying your impact with numbers and statistics
• Top social worker skills

Education, licenses, and specialized training

• Adding projects, interests, or hobbies
• Customizing your resume each job
• Eliminating errors

When to include a resume objective or summary in your social worker resume

Resume objectives  and  resume summaries  are optional, but they can be an eye-catching aspect of your social worker resume. If used effectively, they can be a deal-breaker that grants you an interview.

They should sell your value to the company within two to three sentences. This is the first section of the resume, so it must be compelling and informative to justify its inclusion.

• Above all, your objective should convey how your skills and abilities align with your prospective employer’s mission.
• “I hope to obtain a position to grow and utilize my education. I want to leverage my skills to help clients.”
• This objective is generalized, which isn’t helpful to any employer.
• Instead, tailor your objective to each job to which you apply.
• It should highlight your abilities and show off your specializations to prove you can make the next step in your career.
• “My current and former positions have enabled me to grow as a clinician and widen my knowledge base. I have progressive experience that qualifies me to supervise.”
• This summary is bland and provides no insight into the applicant’s experience or details about their qualifications.
• “LCSW-R with 10+ years of experience working with homeless populations, seeking opportunity with Seek and Save. I designed a job skills program to help clients develop interview skills. It helped 1,200 individuals obtain entry-level employment.”
• This summary highlights the applicant’s licensure and depth of experience, while noting a quantifiable achievement and mentioning the targeted employer by name.

Employers will notice you’ve taken the time to mention their company by name, as seen here.

You should be comprehensive, but use space wisely. Generally speaking, focus on recent jobs relative to the work you’re seeking: limit your positions to the last two to four jobs you’ve held. This provides enough space to give substantive details about your accomplishments.

Each bullet point in your social worker resume tells the story of your experience and qualifications. To make sure your bullet points are effective and easy-to-read,  choose active verbs  that are specific to social work,  use a consistent tense , and  use sentence fragments  without ending punctuation. 

Examples of bullet points include:

• This uses a generic verb and provides no detailed insight into the client population.
• There is no information to describe the scope or extent of this achievement.
• This fails to highlight particular clinical skills or describe the client population.
• This specifies exactly what the applicant did and the community they served.
• This highlights specific skills applicable to social work and quantifies their volume.
• This highlights a soft skill with an active verb and specifies the nature of the work.

Quantify your impact with numbers and statistics

Recruiters value statistics because they’re tangible proof of your performance and accomplishments. However, quantifying results in social work is difficult, and it doesn’t always reflect the humanistic nature of the practice. So, include metrics and statistics when you can, but don’t stress about including them in every bullet point. A good rule of thumb is to have 60 percent of your bullet points include metrics.

• Saw 25 clients weekly for CBT and check-ins
• Designed and implemented a revised onboarding system for new client intake with file integration in 6 weeks
•   Completed and submitted necessary documentation tracking for patient reimbursement at a 100% conversion rate

Top social worker skills to mention

Social work positions require very specific skill sets, like particular diagnoses, treatment methods, and clinical theories. Review the job description carefully to see what skills they need for the position and thus, what you should include on your resume. Use these terms throughout your social worker resume (when they’re applicable) to catch the eye of any recruiter.

Top social work skills in 2024 include:

• Soft skills: Empathy, active listening, collaboration, critical thinking
• Clinical positions: CBT, evidence-based practice, intake, assessment, treatment planning, discharge
• Management/Oversight positions: Program development, community organizing, budgeting, compliance, supervision

Here’s a solid list of additional soft skills you might include:

Listing your education reverse-chronologically is the best way for recruiters to see your most recent level of experience. Depending on your highest level of education, the section will descend from Ph.D. to MSW to BSW.

Be sure to list any licensures, continuing education certifications, or specialized training, either in the education section or in a separate licenses/certifications section.

If you still need licensure, there are an array of licenses available to those entering the social work field. While license requirements vary by state, most require a bachelo’rs degree. Candidates can earn certifications as a licensed social worker (LSW), a licensed independent social worker (LISW), a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), or a licensed independent clinical social worker (LICSW) in most states.

Each level requires more education and training, with the LSW being the least demanding and LICSWs being the most stringent and intensive.

Notice the easy-to-read reverse-chronological style highlighting an evolving education.

Should you add projects, interests, or hobbies?

You should omit these optional sections unless you are a recent graduate or applying for an entry-level position. These sections provide color to your resume, but they’re generally considered excessive for higher-level positions. Highlighting and quantifying your professional accomplishments is far more important to recruiters.

If you choose to include  hobbies on your resume , they should exhibit your suitability for the position. Social workers should also consider including relevant volunteer experience. If you’re applying for a school social work position, describing volunteer experience with a children’s literacy program would be more suitable than listing your participation in a food pantry.

Customize your resume to each job

Generic social worker resumes sent out for multiple jobs isn’t the way to go. Job postings are highly detailed and reflect the values and mission of their respective companies. As a result, you should tailor your resume directly to the open position.

Read job postings carefully to parse out the active verbs and terminology the recruiter will expect to see. You should  check your social worker resume  to ensure it mirrors their language and speaks directly to the company you wish to join.

Eliminate errors

Typos and grammatical errors can grab attention  as much as an excellent objective statement or well-crafted bullet points. Always double-check your resume for grammar, punctuation, and spelling errors.

Ask relatives, friends, or classmates to review your social worker resume for misspellings, awkward phrasing, and punctuation errors. 

Go land your next job!

A resume that addresses your potential employer’s desired skills is your best chance to land an interview for your new social work position. While  crafting your social worker resume , be sure to:

• Strive for a logical and readable format that appeals to both recruiters and ATS
• Communicate your skills and achievements by highlighting how they directly relate to your desired position
• Quantify your performance whenever possible to show measurable achievements
• Customize your resume for each position to assure employers you are passionate about their business

When you’re ready to submit your resume to potential employers, it’s time to start learning how to write a resignation letter to plan a smooth exit from your current role and launch into your dream job.

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• Resume Examples

Social Work Resume: Examples for a Social Worker (20+ Tips)

Our customers have been hired by:

Are you on a mission to create a Social Work Resume that captures your dedication to improving lives? We're here to help you build a social work resume that stands out like a superhero saving the day. 

We'll walk you through the steps to showcase your unique skills and experiences in a way that will make hiring managers take notice. So, let's put pen to paper and start making a difference!

This guide will show you:

• A social work resume example better than 9 out of 10 others.
• How to write a social worker resume that gets more interviews.
• Tips and examples of how to put skills and achievements on a social work resume.
• How to describe your experience on a resume for a social worker to get any job you want.

Want to save time and have your resume ready in 5 minutes? Try our resume builder. It’s fast and easy to use. Plus, you’ll get ready-made content to add with one click. See 20+ resume templates and create your resume here .

Sample resume made with our builder— See more resume examples here .

Looking for a different kind of resume writing advice? Switch to one of our other guides:

• Caregiver Resume
• Nursing Student Resume
• Life Coach Resume
• Peace Corps Resume  
• Academic Advisor Resume
• Mental Health Counselor Resume
• Coaching Resume
• Nonprofit Resume
• Volunteer Coordinator Resume
• All Resume Examples

Now, here's how to write a social work resume:

Social Work Resume Example

Patricia Mayfield

Social Worker

123-456-7890

[email protected]

linkedin.com/in/patricia.mayfield

Compassionate and dedicated Social Worker with over 5 years of experience providing high-quality care. Want to leverage knowledge and passion for helping others in a Social Worker position at Unity Support Agency, to provide direct services to clients, including counseling and therapy, and develop programs to address community issues. Reduced the rehospitalization rate by 10% at Compass Care Social Services by implementing a comprehensive follow-up program.

Compass Care Social Services, Bowling Green, KY

January 2016–Present

Key Qualifications & Responsibilities

• Developed and implemented treatment plans in collaboration with clients and other professionals, addressing mental, emotional, behavioral, and social issues.
• Conducted comprehensive assessments to determine clients' needs and best course of action.
• Coordinated with healthcare providers, courts, and employers to ensure clients receive necessary services.
• Collaborated with psychologists to evaluate each case.

Key Achievement:

• Successfully reduced the rehospitalization rate by 10% by implementing a comprehensive follow-up program.

Empowerment Outreach Center, Bowling Green, KY

June 2012–December 2015

• Provided crisis intervention and conflict resolution to clients experiencing emotional, psychological, and physical distress.
• Delivered counseling and therapy services to individuals, families, and groups.
• Built a profile of each client to identify possible issues and track progress.
• Initiated a community outreach program that increased service utilization by 15%.

Bachelor of Social Work

Western Kentucky University, Bowling Green, KY

August 2008–May 2012

Relevant Extracurricular Activities

• Member of the College Social Work Society.
• Volunteered at the local homeless shelter, offering counseling services and job training resources.

Academic Achievements

• Graduated with Honors (GPA 3.9).
• Awarded a full scholarship for achieving the highest GPA in class.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Strong understanding of social services policies and procedures
• Proficient in MS Office and social services software
• Excellent problem-solving abilities
• Emotional intelligence and resilience
• Excellent organizational and multitasking abilities

Certifications

• Certified Social Worker (CSW), Kentucky Board of Social Work, 2012
• First Aid, American Red Cross, 2015
• 2012, Volunteer of the Year Award, Local Homeless Shelter.

Memberships

Member of the National Association of Social Workers since 2012

• Led a team in organizing a fundraising event that raised over $5k for underprivileged children.
• Conducted group training sessions on trauma-informed practice for new social workers.
• English—Native
• Spanish—Intermediate
• Volunteering at local animal shelters.
• Advocating for mental health awareness through community seminars and workshops.

Use the Best Format for a Social Work Resume

Imagine you’re the hiring manager.  If you see a sloppy social work resume with poor formatting, what do you do? Probably ditch it like an unhealthy belief.

Don’t let that happen to you.  Start with the reverse-chronological resume format . It puts a halo effect around your recent accomplishments.

Add white space, the best resume fonts , and clear headings to make it easy for employers.

Last, save human services resumes as PDFs. Modern PDFs are machine-readable. They’re also stable no matter what computer they wind up on. Just make sure the job ad doesn’t nix them.

Pro Tip: Moving to social work jobs from another career? Use the combination resume format . It integrates transferable experience into your social worker resume.

If you don’t want to bias yourself toward the reverse-chronological social work resume format, see our guide: 3 Resume Formats: How to Choose the Best One [Examples]

Add a Social Worker Resume Objective or Resume Summary

Meet Kierra, the clinic director. She’s hiring for a social worker job with high pay, flexible hours, and profit sharing.

You really want to work for Kierra.  But she’s seen enough social work resumes to cause PTSD. Her guilty secret? She doesn’t read them all. She skims, then reads the ones she likes.

How do you get in her “good candidates” pile? With a social worker resume objective statement or resume summary. Use a resume objective  if your experience is still taking baby steps. It’ll show your passion. Use a resume summary  if you’ve got experience like Tiziana Dearing and you want to show it off.

Load either one with measurable achievements. These two senior social worker resumes examples show the right and wrong approach. Where’s the abnormality in the first of our senior social workers resume samples?

That's not incompetent, but it won’t release a flood of interviews. Instead, emulate our next human services resumes example:

Social Worker Resume Summary

Breakthrough. That’s in the Tom Walsh zone. The measurable achievements make it work.

Is your experience less powerful than that? Try a social worker resume objective. Back in the days of metrazol therapy, that meant showing you really wanted the job. That’s what the next of our social worker resume objectives does:

Passion counts for a lot. But what if the other applicants have it—plus experience?

Catastrophe.

Don’t worry. A few measurable accomplishments can work like the Woolworth’s lunch counter sit-in. Examine the next of our entry-level social workers resume examples:

Social Worker Resume Objective

That'll make the hiring manager drop her copy of Saving Normal .

But what if you have no experience to put on a case worker resume? I’ll show that next.

Pro Tip: It’s challenging to write a resume introduction . So—write it last, then cherry-pick material from your resume.

When making a resume in our builder, drag & drop bullet points, skills, and auto-fill the boring stuff. Spell check? Check . Start building a  professional resume template here for free .

When you’re done, our easy resume builder will score your resume and our resume checker will tell you exactly how to make it better.

Describe Your Social Worker Experience

Remember Kierra, the clinic director? She’s got a debilitating headache. Why? Most of the case worker resumes on her desk don’t have enough experience. The rest are so busy she can’t read them.

Then she comes to yours.

She smiles. What did you do right? You knew how to list experience on a resume for social workers. She thinks you’re the best thing since the NAACP.

Start with your most recent job. Add 3-5 resume bullets .

Imitate the first of our professional social work resume examples below.

Social Worker Job Description for a Resume 

Jane Addams would be proud. Your professional resume for social work jobs convinced the manager you’ll get the job done.

But make deep cuts to those achievements, and:

I have a duty to warn you—that social work resume example will fail.

And if you have no experience at social work jobs? See these entry-level social worker resume examples. You have more experience for a social services resume than you think.

Have you ever:

• Done an internship ?
• Volunteered?
• Done fill-in fee-for-service work at clinics?
• Assisted other social workers?

Adding those things will make your resume for entry-level social work jobs stand out like Maurice Daniels wrote it.

The next two entry-level social worker resume samples show how. The first of these entry-level social workers resume examples borders on negligence.

Eek. The clinic manager thinks you like eugenics.

So—add details to get this social work resume example:

Resume for a Social Worker with No Experience

That’s no trick of the light. That human services resume proves you’re Cathryn Potter in the rough.

Pro Tip: People believe you can do what you’ve already done. The goal of your social work resume experience section? To show you’ve already done the duties in the job you’re targeting.

Writing a resume for entry-level social work jobs? See our volunteer resume sample: How to List Volunteer Work on Your Resume

Don’t make the clinic manager zone out. Engage her with action words. See our guide: 240 Resume Action Words & Power Words to Make Your Resume Shine

Mention Your Education

Education matters on a resume for social work.  Don’t do it like everybody else.  If you do, the hiring manager’s defense mechanisms will shut you out. How can you get her attention instead?

Start with:

• School Name and Location
• Years in School

Then add achievements that fit the job like a successful treatment plan.

The next social work resume examples do it right. They’re for a job that needs a clinical social worker with skills in child development and youth care experience.

Social Worker Education on a Resume (Example)

That’s guaranteed to change the narrative. Not so with the next of our social work resume examples:

Ouch. That applicant could believe in bloodletting for all we know.

Pro Tip: Does GPA belong on a social worker resume? Only if it’s high or recent. If not, use the space for another social work accomplishment.

Make your social work resume education section sing like a foundation grant. See our guide: How to Put Your Education on a Resume [Tips & Examples]

Put Skills on a Resume for a Social Worker

“She’s got the skills we need. Let’s hire her.”  What if you could make the hiring manager say that?  The good news? It’s not brain surgery. Just (1) pick the right social work resume skills and (2) prove them.

First, read the job description closely. It’s got the perfect social work skills list. Then, put achievements in your bullet points that show you’ve got those skills. You’ll turn heads like the ACLU.

The professional social work resume examples below show how.

Pretend Kierra put these skills in the job description:

Required Social Worker Skills: (1) Counseling, (2) Crisis Intervention, (3) Assessments.

Add them to your case worker resume skills list. Include a couple extra so you’re not gaslighting.

Then do this:

• Regular  (1)  counselor for 17 youth clients in an adoption and foster care home.
• Provided 24-hour  (2)  crisis intervention service on a rotating, on-call basis.
• Completed 10  (3)  assessments and developed 10 treatment plans

Do that, and you’ll need a life coach to manage all your job interviews.

The social work skills list for resumes below will start you on the right foot.

Social Worker Skills for a Resume

• Emotional Intelligence (EQ)
• Active Listening
• Communication
• Collaboration
• Intervention
• Critical Thinking
• Psychopathology
• Organization
• Policy Awareness
• Human Behavior
• Perceptiveness
• Crisis Intervention
• Active Learning
• Developing Treatment Plans

That’s not a comprehensive social work skills list. Add to it from online social services job descriptions and licensed clinical social worker job descriptions.

Pro Tip: Is your professional social services resume not working? Maybe it’s your networking skills. I spoke with a healthcare worker who used networking to get a $100K job and it was life changing.

Really nail your social worker resume skills section. See our guide: +30 Best Examples of What Skills to Put on a Resume (Proven Tips)

Show Licenses and Certifications on Your Resume

“Wow, she’s highly qualified.”  You worked hard for that social worker license. Don’t repress it.

• At the top of your social work resume, near your name
• At the beginning of your resume summary
• In a special “License” section

Then it won’t matter if the manager skims your resume for social work jobs. She’ll still know you’re qualified. Put your license section right under your summary.

• Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

Got more certifications? Great! But don’t bury your valuable license under them. Put them in a “certifications” section below your education.

• Mandt Certification, RCT Level
• Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)

Pro Tip: Got your MSW but can’t find MSW jobs? Don’t be afraid to gear your social work resume toward BSW positions. Work your way up from there.

Want the certifications on your social worker resume to stand out like the Mental Health Parity Act? See our guide: How to List Certifications on a Resume: Guide

Add These Things and Wow the Hiring Manager

The hiring manager is impressed.  Not only did you show the perfect experience and education—you also showed you’re great to work with. How can you do that on a case worker resume?

With "other" resume sections that make most applicants struggle. Watch that play out in two sample social work resume sections.

Social Worker Other Resume Sections

Those things are pretty cool. But do they show you’re a great social worker?

So—add extra sections to your resume for social work jobs:

You’ve made serious progress. Your professional social work resume would impress Michelle Obama.

Even a NASW membership looks great on a resume for social worker jobs.

Pro Tip: Never turn down an interview request, even if you don’t want the job. At the very least it’s good networking. They might even hire you for a better job down the road.

Not sure how to show your human capital on your social worker resume? See our guide: +20 Best Examples of Hobbies & Interests To Put on a Resume (5 Tips)

Write a Social Work Cover Letter

Do you need to send a cover letter for a social worker resume?  Yes.  Don’t let anyone convince you not to.

It’s true—60% of hiring managers won’t read social work cover letters. But the other 40% insist on them. Don’t send a “here’s my social work resume” cover letter. That’s generic.

• You understand the needs shown in the social services job description.
• You’ve got the qualifications to fill those needs.

Do that, and you’ll get respect like the Peace Corps. This short social worker cover letter example gets it right:

I’ve wanted to work for Halloran Center and Services since I learned about your focus on compassionate intervention and empowerment on the path to reaching client goals.

At CCMH, I created 27 successful treatment plans, then coached those clients to an 85% success rate within 9 months of intake. Empowerment was central to the 32 interventions I performed, with...

Always end a cover letter with an offer. Try, “I’d value the opportunity to share how I can help the Halloran Center’s clients reach their goals."

Pro Tip: Corporate jobs pay a lot more than non-profit positions. Don’t feel pressured to work for a corporation, but know your options.

Plus, a great cover letter that matches your resume will give you an advantage over other candidates. You can write it in our cover letter builder here.  Here's what it may look like:

See more cover letter templates and start writing.

Want to set your social services cover letter up for success? See our guide: How to Write the Perfect Cover Letter in 8 Steps and our dedicated guide: Social Work Cover Letter Examples with Guide

Do This Before You Add Contact Info to a Resume

Do you really know how to add contact info to a social work resume?

• Updated Phone Number
• Professional Email Address

Hana Knauer, LCSW, [email protected], 812-459-5707

For a "professional email address," use [email protected]. Don’t use [email protected].

But—check your social media accounts for trap doors that could get you fired.

Need help? See our guide on how to check your online presence before employers do. The best social worker resume in the world can’t help if you did something dumb on Facebook seven years ago.

Pro Tip: Should social workers use LinkedIn ? Yes. At the very least, you can look for connections at organizations you’d like to work for.

Want your caseworker resume sparkle? See our guide: How to Make a Resume: A Step-by-Step Guide (+30 Examples)  

Do you have questions on how to write a great resume for a human services worker? Not sure how to describe your skills or achievements? Give us a shout in the comments! We’d be happy to reply.

About Zety’s Editorial Process

This article has been reviewed by our editorial team to make sure it follows Zety's editorial guidelines . We’re committed to sharing our expertise and giving you trustworthy career advice tailored to your needs. High-quality content is what brings over 40 million readers to our site every year. But we don't stop there. Our team conducts original research to understand the job market better, and we pride ourselves on being quoted by top universities and prime media outlets from around the world.

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Click here to directly go to the complete Social Resume Sample.

Is a good social work resume necessary?

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects that the employment of social workers will grow 12% from 2020 to 2030.

Although this is below the national average of 14%, it still means that there will be more than 78,300 new jobs created in the field. T

The BLS expects many social workers to retire during this time period, leaving a large number of new positions open. Jobs will be available in all areas of the industry and there should be good employment prospects for social workers with a range of experience and qualifications.

In this thriving job market, without a professionally written resume, you don’t stand a shot at landing your dream job. So, in this blog, we will teach you the art of curating the perfect social work resume that will land you your dream job.

We have answered the following questions in this blog:

• Who is a social worker?
• How much money do social workers make?
• What is the correct format for the social worker resume?
• What sections should be included in a social work resume?
• How to write the social worker resume header section?
• How to create a professional summary for a social worker resume?
• How to add key skills section in the social worker resume?
• How to write the professional experience section of a social worker resume?
• What is the best way to add education experience in the social worker resume?
• How to add the certification section for the social worker resume?
• How to add the additional experience to the social worker resume?

Who is a Social Worker?

Social workers are those professionals who have devoted their life to the service of the ailing and the needy. They are often associated with NGOs, think tanks, and organizations that seek to bring about a momentum change in the lives of others and the community.

It is a profession that is marked with selflessness and genuine concern for the welfare of the people. For instance, they are often responsible for helping people cope with the problems that they are facing.

Individuals who are facing neglect, abuse, domestic violence, mental health, parental substance abuse, and a range of other issues are often helped by social workers who help them overcome these issues.

Social Work Salary Analysis: How much money do social workers make?

According to the figures quoted on various websites, social workers make an average of the below mentioned figures:

• Glassdoor : $37.4k – 69.7k per year
• Salary.com : $44.7k – 70.6k per year
• Payscale : $31.9k – 66.3k per year

Ideal Resume Format for your Social Work Resume

Every professional has different preferences when it comes to resume formats. For some, a chronological format is ideal, while others prefer a functional or combination format. Here are three common types of resumes you can use:

There are three types of resume formats:

• Reverse Chronological Resume Format
• Functional Resume Format
• Combination Resume Format

Reverse Chronological Resume

This type of resume highlights your work experience in reverse chronological order, from most recent to least recent. It gives an employer an overall view of your career history and helps them see how it all fits together. This type of resume is ideal for experienced professionals who want to highlight their most recent accomplishments first.

Functional Resume

This type of resume focuses on skills and accomplishments rather than dates and titles. It's helpful if you're changing careers or have gaps in your employment history because it allows you to focus on what matters most—your strengths—without having to explain why those gaps exist. However, this type of resume may not be appropriate if you don't have many years' worth of experience under your belt yet--or if you're trying to switch careers entirely!

Combination Resume

This type of resume combines both chronological and functional elements into one document so that an employer can understand both aspects at once

Also Read: What format to use in a resume in 2022? .

Why is the Reverse Chronological Resume Format best for you?

• The Reverse Chronological Format is universally acknowledged as the most preferred and ideal resume format.
• It approaches time from a reverse order i.e. from the most recent to the least recent.
• In this format style, your most recent work experience comes first followed by the second recent, and so on and so forth.

Your most recent work experience is your most relevant work experience, and by highlighting it first, this resume format sees to it that your social work resume is both relevant and meaningful.

Hiration Pro Tip : Use the Reverse Chronological Format to write a highly relevant, ATS-targeted social work resume to stand a better chance at getting the shortlist you deserve!

Social Work Resume Sections

You cannot write the ideal resume for social workers if you don’t know what to write in your resume in the first place!!

Here is a list of all the sections that you should mention in your social worker resume:

• Personal Information
• Profile Title
• Summary/Objective
• Professional Experience
• Certifications
• Additional Information/Volunteer Experience

Also Read: What are the different sections to add to a resume? .

Social Work Resume: Header

Like all the elements of your social work resume, your header is equally important. It gives your resume an individual identity and life of its very own.

This distinguishes your resume from all other resumes and protects it from getting mixed up.

Hiration Pro Tip : Don't write 'CV/Resume' on the top. Your full name should always feature as the resume header of your resume.

Here are some rules that you should follow to do justice to your resume header :

• Write your resume header on the extreme top of your social work resume
• Write your resume header in the font range of 16-20 font size
• Give a single space between your first name and last name
• If you have a middle name, the correct way to write it is mentioned in the next point:
• Write your first name, followed by a space, followed by the first initial of your middle name in capital letters, followed by a full stop, followed by a space, followed by your last name
• Example: If your name is Roseline Raymond Stark, write it on your resume header as Roseline R. Stark

Social Work Resume for Header

Also Read: How to write a perfect resume header in 2022?

Social Work Resume: Personal Information

The 3 important things that you should mention in the personal information section of your resume for social workers is mentioned below:

• Updated mobile number
• Professional email address

The personal information section of your social worker resume is the most basic element of your entire resume. It is easy to compose and does not demand a lot of your attention.

Hiration Pro Tip : Be extremely accurate when you fill the personal information section of your resume for social workers.

Updated Mobile Number

While composing your updated mobile number in the personal section of your social worker resume, there are certain standard rules that you should follow.

We have mentioned these rules below:

• Use your country’s ISD code as a prefix before your phone number
• Put a plus sign (+) before the ISD code
• Write your updated mobile number after the ISD code
• Eg: +1 65325 41981

E-mail Address

There are 2 types of people when it comes to writing email addresses.

• Person 1 : [email protected]
• Person 2 : [email protected]

You will observe that when you compare both the emails, person 1 has written his email more professionally as compared to person 2.

Person 2 has used childish nicknames as his email ID. This reflects unprofessionalism.

Our advice? Follow the email format followed by person 1.

Follow the guidelines below to impeccably write the location in your resume for social workers:

• In your resume, location means your current city of residence
• This should be written on the right most corner of your social worker resume
• You should never write your house address in your resume for social workers
• Do not mention the street name or locality name in your social work resume
• Write your city name and state name if you’re looking for a job in the same country
• Write your city name and country name if you’re looking for a job in another country

Also Read: How to compose the perfect personal information section?

Social Work Resume Sample for Personal Information

Social Work Resume: Profile Title

When you write your resume for social workers, there are some hard and fast rules that you should follow. We have mentioned them below:

• Your resume title should be written in the range of 14-16 font size
• It should be the second largest text in your resume after your resume header
• For example: If you are a social worker, your profile title should be written as “Social Worker” in 14-16 font size

Our below-mentioned social work resume example is the perfect example of what an ideal profile title should look like in your resume:

Social Work Resume: Key Skills

The key skills section is the second last section that you should compose when writing your resume for social workers. This is where your social worker resume skills should go.

This is the first section of your resume that the recruiter notices when he/she goes through your resume. So, in order to attract the attention of the recruiter, you need to perfect this section.

Mentioned below is a list of what you should to perfect this section of your resume:

• The key skills section endorses your social worker resume skills. This means that it is in this section that you should highlight your core skills as a professional
• To objectively single out your core skills, scan through your professional experience section to get a good sense of what your key performance areas are, and then list them down in the key skills section of your resume
• To attract the recruiter’s attention to this section, mark your key skills in bold
• To stand a good chance at getting shortlisted, analyze the keywords used by the recruiter in the job listing that he/she has posted and replicate them in the key skills section if it matches the roles & responsibilities that you have done in the past

Also Read: How to write the key skills section of a resume in 2022?

Social Worker Resume Sample for Key Skills

Social Work Resume Summary

Now, here comes the last section of your resume.

Mentioned below is a list of the things that you should do to curate the perfect resume for social work jobs:

• Ideally, you should write your social worker resume summary towards the end. By doing this, you will be able to quickly browse through your resume to pick out the best highlights and achievements of your professional life
• Identify the keywords that the recruiter has used in the job listing of your interest. After you have identified them, replicate them in your resume summary by drawing a connection between them and your past roles & responsibilities
• Do not write over 5 lines of social worker resume summary. If possible, try to stick to 3 lines
• Write a social worker resume summary if you have over 3 years of work experience
• Write a social worker resume objective if you have less than 3 years of work experience

Also Read: How to write a resume summary in 2022?

Social Work Resume Sample for Summary

Social Work Resume Objective

Mentioned below are the rules for writing a social worker resume objective :

• Write a social worker resume objective only if you have zero or less than 3 years of work experience
• As you have zero or very minimal work experience, your goal here is to sell your skills as convincingly as you can to the recruiter
• Emphasize any past internships and volunteer activities that you may have done. This will tell the recruiter that despite the lack of active work experience, you have the drive and the willingness that any good candidate should have
• Try to demonstrate through past experiences that you have the right skills that the recruiter is looking for in the applicant

Social Work Resume: Professional Experience

The professional experience section of your social work resume is the heart and soul of your resume. You have the best shot at striking gold with your dream job if you are able to impeccably manipulate this section to your advantage.

The professional section of your resume for social workers is ideal as it endorses your social worker resume skills.

This section covers the length & breadth of your social worker resume skills and leaves no stones unturned to communicate your skills as a professional.

This section is essential as it tells the recruiter where you worked, in what capacity you have worked, for how many years you have worked, and what skills you have cultivated over the years. Based on these parameters, a recruiter decides if you should get shortlisted or not.

Your job before you get the job is to ensure that you have done everything in your power to nail this section.

Here’s what you can do to accomplish this:

• Use the STAR format to structure your resume.
• Use points to communicate your roles & responsibilities.
• Use grouping & highlighting alongside points to maximize the impact of your resume.

STAR Format in your Social Work Resume

To professionally compose the work experience section of your social worker resume, use the STAR format.

STAR stands for Situation, Task, Action, and Result.

For each project or responsibility, you have to mention:

• The situation you faced at a workplace.
• The task you were assigned.
• The action or the solution that you came up with.
• The result of your action in quantifiable figures.

The above points aka the STAR format establishes a cause-effect relationship.

By quantifying the results of your actions, you are able to express your achievements in figures. What this does is draw the recruiter’s attention to these figures and prolongs the amount of time a recruiter spends on assessing your resume.

This further helps in sustaining the recruiter’s interest which enhances your chances of a shortlist!

Framing Points in your Social Work Resume

To write an ideal social work resume, you need to nail the professional experience section.

To do this, your resume should be both readable and impactful.

To make your social work resume more readable, use points instead of paragraphs to talk about your roles & responsibilities.

Grouping & Highlighting in your Social Work Resume

Earlier, we have discussed that to write an impactful social worker resume, it needs to be both readable and effective/impactful.

Framing points takes care of the readability part while bucketing & bolding sees to it that your resume for social workers is impactful and effective.

Here are an example of work experience section of social work resume:

Vocational Training, Counseling & Referral Assistance Handled the intake and psycho-social assessments for 50+ patients on a weekly basis Administered referral assistance and individual counseling sessions to formerly homeless adults Provided vocational training to 200+ homeless adults to make them independent & employment-ready Coordinating Therapy Sessions & Welfare Programs Facilitated weekly therapy sessions to promote coping skills , emotional processing, and non-verbal expression Created programs to offer resources, training and rewards for healthy eating, exercise, and mindfulness practices

Also Read: How to write the work experience section of a resume in 2022?

Social Work Resume: Education

The education section of your resume for social workers should consist of the elements that we have mentioned below:

• School/university you have attended
• Courses you have pursued
• Location of your school/university
• Enrollment and graduation dates in month and year format

Take a look at our social work resume sample below to know what an ideal education section should look like:

Also Read: How to write the education section of a resume in 2022?

Social Work Resume: Certifications

The certifications section of your social work resume should include the elements that we have mentioned below:

• Name of the certification
• Name of the institution of affiliation
• Location of the certifying body
• Enrollment and completion date in month and year format

Arrange these points in the format that we have mentioned below:

{Name of certification} | {Affiliating Institution} | {Location} | {Date} (in month and year format)

List of Certifications for Social Worker

• Certification in Forensic Social Work
• Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA)
• Academy of Certified Social Workers Credential
• Certified School Social Work Specialist
• Certified Medical Interpreter - Spanish
• Certified Application Security Engineer - Java
• Functional Aging Specialty Certification
• Diplomate in Clinical Social Work
• Basic Life Support (BLS)
• Certified Master Forensic Social Worker
• Child Development Associate
• Certified Rehabilitation Counselor
• National Clinical Supervision Endorsement
• Board Certified Diplomate in Clinical Social Work
• Certified Emergency Manager
• Certified in Family and Consumer Sciences

Also Read: How to write the certification section on a resume in 2022?

Social Worker Resume: Additional Information Section

In addition to the essential sections, you can add some additional sections on the resume as well, if you have the space.

Volunteer Experience

Volunteer work is an excellent way to show that you are a team player and that you care about others. If you volunteer in your free time, it’s great to include this on your resume.

Also Read: How to add volunteer information on a resume in 2022?

Hobbies & Interests

If you have any hobbies or interests that are relevant to the position or industry, then it’s worth including them on your resume. For example, if you enjoy writing, then including it on your resume might help you get noticed by a potential employer.

Publications/Articles

If you have published articles in professional journals or newspapers then you can include this on your resume.

Social Work Sample Resume

Before we begin, take a look at our social work resume sample to know what an ideal social work resume should look like:

• Vocational Training
• Report Making
• Therapy Sessions
• Mental Health Assessments
• Case Studies
• Conducting Seminars
• Training & Mentoring
• Psycho-social Assessments
• Program Development
• Patient Education
• Developing Treatment Plans
• Record Keeping
• Child Care & Counseling
• Referral Assistance
• Handled the intake and psycho-social assessments for 50+ patients on a weekly basis
• Administered referral assistance and individual counseling sessions to formerly homeless adults
• Provided vocational training to 200+ homeless adults to make them independent & employment-ready
• Facilitated weekly therapy sessions to promote coping skills, emotional processing, and non-verbal expression
• Created programs to offer resources, training and rewards for healthy eating, exercise, and mindfulness practices
• Developed workable solutions and conducted seminars for 20+ bully victims with PTSD
• Educated families on community resources to address problems faced by their children in school
• Devised realistic treatment plans to improve care and well-being of 1000+ students in the school facility
• Organized mental health assessments in schools and home settings for children
• Maintained case history records and curated 100+ reports to track progress on a weekly basis
• Top 5 percentile of the class
• Top 10 percentile of the class

Key Takeaways

• Write the dates in month and year format across all sections in your resume for social workers
• Use reverse chronology order across all sections in your social worker resume
• Highlight your social worker resume skills in the key skills section of your resume
• Begin all the points in your work experience section with a power verb
• Write a social worker resume objective if you have worked for less than 3 years
• Write a social worker resume summary if you have worked for over 3 years
• Write the location in city/state format if you are applying for a job in the same country
• Write the location in city/country format if you are applying for a job in another country

We have reached the end of this blog

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Entry-Level Social Worker Resume Guide + Tips + Example

• 30% higher chance of getting a job
• 42% higher response rate from recruiters

Our customers have been hired at: * Foot Note

Kick off your career as a social worker with a polished, professional resume. Use our guide to create a stand-out resume for an entry-level social worker job that showcases your skills and presents you as a desirable candidate. 

Start by editing this sample resume for an entry-level social worker position, or explore our library of customizable resume templates to find the best one for you.

Entry-level social worker resume sample (text version)

Elizabeth Elliot

Los Angeles, CA 90023 555 555 555 (555) 555-5555 [email protected]

Summary Statement

Entry-level student with a social worker degree, garnering a strong educational background in children and family evaluation and appropriate interventions. Excellent client assessment skills and resource management abilities to locate and promote appropriate community services for clients. Seeking to leverage my background with education into a medical or family social worker role with a progressive company.

• Record keeping
• Report writing
• Cultural sensitivity
• Crisis management
• Active listening
• Time management
• Attention to detail

Professional Skills

Collaboration

Forged community connections benefiting clients and families. Used effective negotiation and diplomacy skills, reducing crisis risk by 30%. Championed community alliance-building strategy, integrating over 200 volunteers and implementing social work and mediation best practices.

Case Management

• Assisted social workers with over 80 record reviews to facilitate improved performance and quality assurance.
• Obtained and supplied information to coordinating agencies to provide the best possible guidance to clients’ cases.
• Performed administrative duties, copying, filing and distributing mail to support staff tasks.

Child Care Support

• Provided services to children for enhancing leadership skills and coping strategies relating to peer and family pressures.
• Voiced concerns for children in relation to societal and behavioral aspects affecting communication skills.
• Enhanced teamwork and interpersonal skills by instructing 24 children on interactive and collaborative activities.

Work History

• October 2022 – Current Urban Quality Living – Los Angeles, CA Social Worker – Volunteer
• September 2021 – May 2022 Volunteers Of America – Los Angeles, CA Social Work Student Intern
• June 2018 – March 2020 Downtown Women’s Center – Los Angeles, CA Volunteer
• Expected in June 2022 California State University – Los Angeles Los Angeles, CA Master of Social Work Social Work
• GPA – 3.7 Coursework include: Equity Studies, Families and Health, Ethnic Relations, Crime and Deviance, Social Stratification, Sociology of Health and Religion, Political Sociology and Gender and Society.
• June 2019 California State University – Los Angeles Los Angeles, CA Bachelor of Arts Social Work
• GPA – 3.7 Magna cum laude graduate Coursework included: Social Inequalities and Institutions, Logic of Social Inquiry, Urban Sociology, Neighborhood and Community and Introduction to Disability Studies.

5 essentials of a top entry-level social worker resume

Contact details.

Add your contact information to the top of your resume so hiring managers can get in touch with you for an interview. As our entry-level social worker resume sample shows, your contact information must include your full name, city, state and ZIP code, phone number and professional email address. If you have a LinkedIn profile, professional website or any other professional networking profile, add these last.  

Personal statement

Most resumes begin with a personal statement, also known as a professional summary , that introduces the job seeker and their notable credentials. In no more than five sentences, the summary highlights job-relevant skills, notes one or two key accomplishments and stipulates years of work experience. However, if you are applying for your first job, it’s a good idea to use a resume objective for your entry-level social worker application instead. An objective emphasizes important skills while also telling an employer about your career intentions and goals.

Grab the hiring manager’s attention by creating a skills section in your resume that features job-relevant capabilities in a bulleted list. Make sure the skills you include match the job description so hiring managers can see that you meet their needs. It’s best to include both hard and soft skills , such as case management and problem-solving.

Work history

Even if this is your first job in the field, your entry-level social worker resume must still include a section to display your work experience . In reverse-chronological order, show current and previous employers and provide company names, locations and the dates you worked for them. Include three bullet points of measurable achievements for every job you list, highlighting transferable skills. If you don’t have any work experience, focus on volunteer experience, community service and expertise gained from training.

An entry-level resume for a social worker must include an education section to showcase your qualifications. In reverse-chronological order, use bullet points to display the schools’ names and the years you graduated. If you did not attend college, list your high school information and the classes you’ve taken since graduating. 

See why My Perfect Resume is a 5-star resume builder

Action verbs for a stand-out entry-level social worker resume.

Use action words and numbers to add impact to your resume.

Here’s a short list of perfect action words for an entry-level social worker resume:

• Collaborate

Check out our collection of resume samples to help you write the perfect resume for an entry-level social worker job. You’ll find entry-level social worker resume samples to inspire you!

Need a professional resume now? Our Resume Builder has all the tools you need to create a professional resume in minutes! Just fill in one of our templates and you can make edits as you go, download your finished resume and save it in any file format you want. It’s that easy! 

Top skills for an entry-level social worker resume

You’ll want to create a strong skills section in your entry-level social worker resume to show that you can do the job, despite a lack of experience. Review the job description closely and carefully match the required skills to your capabilities and traits. 

Some of the skills that you might want to list on your entry-level social worker resume include:

• Verbal communication
• Problem-solving
• Administration
• Case management
• Computer literacy
• Critical thinking
• Client evaluation
• Program development
• Crisis intervention

Certifications for an entry-level social worker resume

In addition to a bachelor’s degree from an accredited program, you might also need a license to practice as a social worker, depending on your state. You can check out the Association of Social Work Boards for more information on regulations by state. Some employers might also prefer you to have certain certifications, although they’re not usually required.

Either way, a certification on your resume shows you have specialized knowledge and can boost your chances of landing a job. Here are a few options to consider:

• Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC)
• Diplomate in Clinical Social Work (DCSW) Certification 
• Certified Social Work Case Managers (C-SWCM)

Pair your resume with a matching cover letter

Entry-level social worker resume faq, what should a social worker put on a resume.

When applying for a social worker position, it’s important to showcase your fit for the role by highlighting a) relevant training and education, b) notable skills specific to social work and c) experience in the field. As social workers typically need either a bachelor’s or a master’s degree, you’ll want to feature this prominently, alongside licenses and certifications. Also include any supervised fieldwork, practicums or internships you’ve completed, and show how you’ve applied your skills in these contexts to achieve results  – if you can communicate these results using numbers, even better.

How do you write an entry-level social worker resume with no experience?

There are several ways to write a compelling entry-level resume even when you have no experience . Here are a few key tips:

• Put your relevant skills front and center by using a functional or combination resume format . 
• Start strong with a powerful summary statement that highlights your qualifications, showing your fit for the job despite your limited experience. Take a look at resume summary examples for social workers in entry-level roles to get inspiration. Remember you can also use an entry-level social worker resume objective if you want to shed light on your career goals.
• Add a “Skills” section that organizes your skills into key categories and shows how your competencies and accomplishments qualify you for the position. Remember to include technical and interpersonal skills .
• Highlight relevant experience, even if it isn’t work experience. This could include experience gained through internships, fieldwork, volunteer work, personal projects and extracurricular activities.
• Emphasize your education by featuring academic achievements and relevant coursework.

How much does a social worker earn?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median pay for a social worker is $24.23 per hour or $50,390 per year. As an entry-level social worker, you can probably expect to earn a bit less. Employment in this field is projected to grow by 9% between 2021 and 2031, which is faster than average. That means there should be plenty of career opportunities for you in this profession. For a better idea of what you could earn, look at entry-level social worker job descriptions.

Do’s and don’ts for building an entry-level social worker resume

• Use measurable achievements to describe your social work abilities and experience.
• Use action words to make an impact on your entry-level social worker resume.
• Tailor your resume to your target entry-level social worker job.
• Use keywords from the job description throughout your entry-level social worker resume.
• Format your resume so that it is easy to read by ATS software and human eyes.
• Lie about your social work experience and skills.
• Boast that you’re the “most compassionate entry-level social worker in the country”.
• Include irrelevant personal information, such as your ethnicity and age.
• Add skills and experience that don’t relate to social work.
• Forget to proofread. An entry-level social worker resume with errors is unprofessional.

Top 4 tips for acing an entry-level social worker interview

It’s vital to take the time to learn about the employer’s history, goals, values and people before the interview . Doing so conveys interest, passion and commitment — traits that can set you above the competition.

Practice does make perfect. To prepare for your interview , start by reviewing the most common interview questions , such as: 

• What motivates you to do a good job?
• When given an important assignment, how do you approach it?  
• How has your college education prepared you for this job?

You might also want to give some thought to a few behavioral interview questions , like:

• Describe a time when you got coworkers or classmates who dislike each other to work together. How did you accomplish this? What was the outcome?
• Give me an example of a time when you took initiative.
• Tell of a time when your active listening skills really paid off for you.

Write down two or three possible answers for each question, then practice answering them with a friend. 

Ask questions.

Always have at least three questions for each person you speak with during the interview process. Doing so shows that you’re interested and have been paying close attention.

Some questions you might ask for an entry-level social worker job are: 

• What are the biggest challenges of this role?
• Can you describe a typical day or week in the job?
• What learning and development opportunities will I have in this role?

Prepare references.

Have professional references ready before you enter your interview — you never know if the hiring manager might want to contact them immediately. Ask a former manager (or college supervisor) and two former colleagues who can speak about your performance and who you know will give you an excellent review.

How we reviewed this article

Since 2013, we have helped more than 15 million job seekers. We want to make your career journey accessible and manageable through our services and Career Center’s how-to guides and tips. In our commitment to bring you a transparent process, we present our Editorial Process .

• National Association of Social Workers, “Apply for NASW Social Work Credentials”
• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, “Occupational Outlook Handbook: Social Workers”

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Entry-Level Social Worker Resume Example

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Dayle Kavonic

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Dayle Kavonic is a professional online writer and editor with more than 10 years of experience in digital content creation. She has written extensively on the topics of resume and cover letter writing, job hunting and career development.

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Social Worker Resume Example

Showcase your ability to help improve lives with our social worker resume guide with tips and examples!

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Beautiful resume templates to land your dream job

Since 2019, the Occupational Outlook Handle has seen a 13% growth rate of social worker jobs, which is much faster than average. Currently, there are over 713,200 social worker jobs out there, which means, if this is your calling, it's time to answer it. To become a social worker, you are required to have the following:

• Licensure in your state
• A minimum of a bachelor's degree in social work (BSW)

With these requirements met, before you can answer the call, you need to convince recruiters that you're the right person for the job and more than capable of improving lives. How do you do that? Well, with a well-written, detailed, and clean social worker resume, and this article will help you create just that. In this article, we will cover the following 7 steps to get your resume job-ready to help others:

• Format your resume like a professional
• Include a resume summary to highlight your abilities to recruiters
• Include your licenses on your resume
• Describe your work experience
• Add your education
• Mention your certifications
• List your key skills

1. Format your resume like a professional

A recruiter is not going to hire you if your resume is sloppy and poorly formatted. Being a social worker is a serious job. Therefore, it is essential for your resume to be taken seriously, too. When it comes to formatting your resume, there are three ways you can do so:

• Reverse-chronological , which emphasizes your previous work experience
• Functional , which highlights your key skills
• Hybrid , which combines the previous formats to give recruiters a closer look at what you're bringing to the table

As a social worker, the best format for your resume would be reverse-chronological as it is of great importance for recruiters to know what your past experience is and what you've done as a social worker.

Tip: If you're just beginning social work, consider using the functional format to highlight your key skills since you don't have much work experience.

Take a look at our guide on how to format your resume if you want to learn more.

Tip: Be sure to save your resume as a PDF so recruiters have easier access when viewing.

2. Write a resume summary that highlights your experience and abilities

In an industry like social work that is at a 13% growth rate , your experience and abilities are what just may set you apart from other social workers. Recruiters want to find the perfect candidate , and sometimes they need to do so quickly. Writing a resume summary can help you become that candidate. A resume summary is a 1-2 sentence blurb that summarizes everything in your resume. It makes recruiters know you mean business and respect their time, which can help you get hired faster. Now, there are some elements that should be made available in a resume summary:

• Years of experience
• Kind of experience
• Achievements

Tip: If you're still in the beginning steps of your social work career, write a resume objective instead of a resume summary. This will show recruiters your goals in the industry as well as your passion.

Here's what a good resume summary can look like for a social worker: Licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) with 5+ years of experience creating treatment plans with 89% success rates in less than 9 months, crisis emergency intervention, and regular counseling of youths. This example shows recruiters that you are experienced , have had success in your social work, and are disciplined in specific kinds of social work, which helps them determine if you're the right fit for the job much easier. Here's a bad example of a resume summary : Social worker with 5 years of experience completing social work duties. Provided interventions, counseling, and treatment planning. This is not what recruiters want to see because the information is presented in a redundant way. Not to mention, there are many different kinds of social workers, and this resume summary example does not really specify what kind of work is done.

Tip: Always run your resume, especially your resume summary, through a spell check. You wouldn't want to miss your opportunity of getting hired because you misspelled clinical or experience .

Want to write the perfect resume summary? Our guide on writing resume summaries has tons of examples.

3. Include your licenses on your resume

To be a social worker, you need to have a license in your state. Therefore, it is crucial to include your license or licenses on your resume so that recruiters know you are qualified for the job.

Tip: You worked hard for that license, be proud of it, and put it at the top of your resume, right under your resume summary.

While there are licenses that are based on your state, there are general social worker licenses that you should get to up your experience and qualifications. Here are some licenses you should add to your resume or consider getting:

• Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)
• Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC)
• Certified Independent Practice Social Worker (CIPSW)
• Licensed Advanced Practice Social Worker (LAPSW)
• Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker (LBSW)

Tip: Be sure to include the acronyms of your qualifications to let recruiters know you're educated in the field and can speak the language.

4. Include and describe your work experience

Depending on your situation, you may just be overqualified for the social worker position you are applying for, or maybe, you don't have the experience just yet. Regardless, it's important to list something under the work experience section of your resume. If you've got the experience, be sure to use bullet points and descriptions when listing, and be sure to list them in reverse-chronological format. Your work experience should include the following:

• Company name
• Years worked
• Job description

Don't necessarily know what kind of experience to list? Here are some descriptions you can include in your resume:

• Worked alongside the Primary Care Providers to treat and manage mental health and psychosocial issues.
• Provided focused intervention for patients who are in need of mental health services.
• Talked, listened, observed, and analyzed patients and suggested a suitable mode of treatment.
• Provided complete documentation of visits and the patients' progress in the medical record.
• Assisted patients in need of developing daily and community living skills.
• Provided patients with self-management skills and education information needed so they can participate in their treatment.
• Worked directly with students in response to problematic situations, identifying causal issues, behavioral responses and their impact, and future choices.
• Consulted with relevant members of faculty and administration in developing behavioral plans.
• Served on individual students’ learning support teams.
• Served as a member of crisis intervention and emergency planning/response teams.
• Facilitated occasional faculty-staff discussions on social and emotional well-being concerns and promotion.
• Delivered classroom instruction focused on developing positive relationships and other areas based on students' needs.
• Held regularly scheduled student counseling sessions as needed.
• Engaged, collaborated, and communicated with parents and other care providers.
• Worked with students and families to uncover attendance barriers, and develop positive incentives to increase attendance.

Tip: There are different kinds of social workers that focus on specific things. From clinical social workers to substance abuse and child, family and school, be sure to list your experience for your specific role.

If you don't have work experience , don't worry. There are still experiences you can list on your resume:

• Volunteer work
• Internships
• Fill-in fee-for-service work at clinics
• Social worker assistance

Want more tips and tricks on how to write your work experience description? Check out our guide on describing your work experience .

5. Add your education

To become a social worker, you need a minimum of a bachelor's degree in social work . Even then, a master's degree in social work can be preferred . Education matters on a social worker's resume, so be sure to include it.

Be sure to mention the following:

• School name and location
• Years in school

Here's what listing your education section can look like: University of New England

Portland, ME • 2014 — 2016

Master of Arts in Social Work GPA: 3.6/4.0

University of Southern Maine

Portland, ME • 2010 — 2014

Bachelor of Arts in Social Work GPA: 3.7/4.0 Don't know if to put your GPA on your resume? Take a look at our guide on adding your GPA to your resume , which includes tips and examples.

6. Mention your certifications

If you've got certifications that are relevant to social work , add a certifications section to your resume. This will show recruiters that you are qualified and certified to do certain aspects of social work. Adding certifications can also take your resume to the next level. Here are some certificates relevant to social work that you can add to your resume:

• Qualified Clinical Social Worker (QCSW)
• Certified Advanced Children, Youth, and Family Social Worker (C-ACYFSW)
• Mandt Certification, RCT Level
• Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)
• Certified Social Work Case Manager (C-SWCM)
• Certified Advanced Social Work Case Manager (C-ASWCM)
• Certified Hospice and Palliative Social Worker (ACHP-SW)
• Military Service Members, Veterans, and Their Families - Social Worker (MVF-SW)

Tip: Some social worker certifications require only a bachelor's degree while others require a master's degree. Be sure to do your research to get the most out of your degree.

If you're looking for more certifications to include in your resume or want to know how to correctly list them , check out our guide.

7. Include your key skills in your resume

Just because we are including your key skills at the end of our guide doesn't mean they are unimportant to mention. In fact, including your key skills in your resume can separate you from other applicants and heighten your chances of getting hired. When listing your key skills, make sure that they are relevant to social work. You can even categorize your skills into hard skills and soft skills and show off both your social worker skills as well as your interpersonal skills. Here are some hard skills or social work-relevant skills you can list in your resume:

• Treatment Plan Development
• Emergency Intervention
• Crisis Intervention
• Human Behavior Analysis
• Psychopathology
• Policy Awareness

Here are some soft skills or interpersonal skills you can list in your resume:

• Communication
• Active Listening
• Emotional Intelligence
• Collaboration
• Problem-solving
• Perspective

Adding key skills is sure to make your resume shine and stand out to recruiters. If you're having trouble identifying key skills, we have a guide with 100+ key skills that can help you out, too.

Key Takeaways

Following this guide, you're one step closer to your goal of helping improve the lives of others. That's our goal, too, with helping you create the perfect resume for your job as a social worker. Here's a recap of everything we've covered:

• Include a resume summary that highlights your abilities
• Describe and list your work experience

Be sure to include all your contact information , and there you have it. Good luck!

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• • Managed a caseload of 120 clients, ensuring timely and effective service delivery.
• • Developed a new client assessment protocol, reducing intake processing time by 20%.
• • Initiated a community outreach program, connecting over 200 individuals with essential services.
• • Facilitated 40+ group therapy sessions per year, significantly improving client coping strategies.
• • Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams to create personalized care plans, enhancing client well-being.
• • Successfully advocated for 50+ clients, securing necessary resources and support.
• • Handled 30+ complex child welfare cases annually, ensuring child safety and family stability.
• • Implemented a new family reunification program, resulting in a 35% increase in successful reunifications.
• • Conducted comprehensive assessments and reports for court proceedings, impacting 100+ cases.

9 Social Worker Resume Examples & Guide for 2024

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All resume examples in this guide

Social Work Student

Social Work Intern

Entry-Level Social Worker

Associate Social Worker

School Social Worker

Clinical Social Worker

Nursing Home Social Worker

Medical Social Worker Ii

Social Worker | Case Management | Client Advocacy resume example

Resume Guide

Social worker Resume Example

Resume Format

Resume Experience Section

Hard Skills and Soft Skills

Certificates for Social Worker Resumes

Resume Summary Tips

Additional Resume Sections

Key Takeaways

By Experience

Social work is a dynamic field that involves a combination of interpersonal skills and qualifications.

Social workers serve diverse populations, and each job or internship might require a different set of skills and experiences.

Therein lies the challenge of tailoring your social worker resume to each specific role, clearly demonstrating the direct experiences and skills that make you the right fit for the role.

In this guide, you’ll learn:

• How to highlight your career achievements in an experience section that hiring managers look for
• How to present your education and social work credentials so potential employers know that you have all the necessary qualifications
• How to showcase crucial soft skills that recruiters want to see like crisis intervention and communication
• How to give an overview of your career and highlight your commitment to social work with a strong summary

If you’re looking for something a little different, explore our guides for similar roles in social services:

• School social worker resume
• Social work intern resume
• Clinical social worker resume
• Social work student resume
• Nursing home social worker resume
• Social worker cover letter  

Social worker  resume example

Here’s what this applicant does well in their resume:

• Experience with diverse roles: Highlights experience in various social work positions, each with different responsibilities and achievements, demonstrating a broad skill set and adaptability.
• Quantifiable achievements: Uses specific metrics (e.g., "reducing intake processing time by 20%", "30+ child welfare cases annually") to quantify achievements, effectively showcasing impact and competence.
• Relevant certifications: Includes certifications in Advanced Case Management and Child Welfare and Advocacy, directly relevant to the field of social work, enhancing their credibility and specialized knowledge.

How to format a social worker  resume

Having a career in social work requires specific credentials and requirements. You want to be sure that your information that is clear and understandable to anyone who looks at your resume.

The first thing hiring managers will notice about your social worker resume is the format. Send a clear message with an organized and professional format.

Here are a few areas to focus on to create a social work resume format that recruiters look for:

• Reverse chronological layout  - As the name suggests, a reverse chronological layout focuses on work experience  in reverse chronological order. Career paths to a social worker position can vary. Show a commitment to the industry and steady career growth with a reverse chronological resume.
• Professional header  - Include a header at the top of your resume  that clearly states your title and professional contact information. As roles and credentials in social services can vary, a header is your opportunity to introduce potential employers to your specific title right away.
• Single page  - Potential employers will have tons of applications to sort through. Save them time by keeping every section of your resume short, concise, and relevant to your social work achievements.
• ATS optimized  - Select fonts, keywords, and file formats that are optimized for Applicant Tracking Systems . Use ATS-friendly fonts like Rubik and Montserrat and a PDF file format in Enhancv’s resume builder to give your social work resume the best chance of making it to a human recruiter.

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The top sections on a social worker resume:

• Personal summary: This section highlights the applicant's passion and commitment to social work, providing a glimpse into their motivation and dedication to help others.
• Key skills and qualities: Given the demands of a social worker role, this section should articulate essential skills such as empathy, resilience, and excellent communication skills.
• Work experience & achievements: Employers will be particularly interested in previous experiences in social work or related areas, as well as any notable achievements that demonstrate effectiveness in this role.
• Education and professional training: As social work requires specific academic and professional qualifications, this section is crucial to demonstrate that the applicant is suitably qualified for the role.
• References: References from previous employers or professional contacts can reinforce the applicant's aptitude for social work, offering third-party validation of their skills and experience.

What recruiters want to see on your resume:

• Education: Recruiters prioritize education because a degree in social work or a related field is typically required for professional social work roles.
• Experience in social services: Work experience in the field of social services is valued because it shows the applicant's practical knowledge and ability to handle the demands of social work.
• Crisis intervention skills: Given the nature of social work, applicants with crisis intervention skills are prioritized, as this demonstrates their ability to handle challenging and urgency-driven situations.
• Certifications: Certifications, such as a state license in social work or specialized training in specific areas (e.g., child welfare, substance abuse), show a candidate's dedication and specialized knowledge.  
• Cultural awareness: Recruiters value applicants with a demonstrable understanding of multicultural issues as this is crucial in effectively helping the diverse range of clients that social workers encounter.

How to write your social worker resume experience

The experience section of your resume lists your work history  along with 3 to 4 bullets highlighting your top accomplishments in the role. Show potential employers what you’ve achieved as a social worker so they will know what you will bring to their organization.

Be careful not to just list blanket roles and responsibilities. This is an opportunity to show how you’ve achieved success in the field and executed industry skills.

Let’s look at an example of a social worker's resume experience section.

• • Managed caseload and communicated with clients
• • Conducted intake and assessment of new clients
• • Developed community outreach program

What doesn’t work in this example:

• No numbers or data - Mentioning things like caseload and clients doesn’t go very far without quantifying them. Hiring managers want to see the scope of your work and the measurable results that you achieved.
• Duties and not accomplishments - “Conducted intake and assessment of new clients” explains what the candidate did in their role, but not if they were successful. Focus on results instead of tasks to show potential employers how you will impact success.
• Vague statements - “Developed community outreach program” doesn’t provide any relevant information about the candidate. Use the experience section to demonstrate achievements and industry skills.

Let’s make a few changes to this experience section and take another look.

• • Managed caseload of 110 clients and communicated through secure teletherapy platform
• • Implemented new client intake process, reduced intake processing time by 15%
• • Developed outreach program to provide free counseling services to the community, connected 250 people with essential services

What works in this example:

• Quantifies results - “Implemented new client intake process, reduced intake processing time by 15%” shows hiring managers measurable success by using real numbers and data to quantify impact. Back up your claims by providing measurable evidence of your success.
• Shows industry achievements - "Developed outreach program to provide free counseling services to the community, connected 250 people with essential services" demonstrates a commitment to the industry and an example of achieved success.
• Demonstrates relevant skills - Mentioning specific skills like “secure teletherapy platform” is an example of using keywords to tailor your resume to fit your target job .

How to quantify the impact on your resume

To show potential employers that you have successfully helped clients and managed cases, you must quantify the impact on your social worker resume.

Due to confidentiality agreements, social workers cannot always provide direct references or proof from past work experiences. This can make it hard to quantify successes or positive impacts, which are pivotal points in a resume.

If you’re not sure what achievements to include, here is a list of areas to consider when using real numbers and data  on your social worker resume to emphasize your impact:

• Include the number of cases managed: This showcases the capacity to handle workload, manage time and multitask effectively.
• Show quantifiable client improvements: This can illustrate your success in helping clients achieve their goals and evidence a tangible impact.
• Detail size of multidisciplinary teams worked with: This can demonstrate your collaborative skills and ability to work within a larger organizational framework.
• Mention budgets you've managed: This portrays financial responsibility and an understanding of resource allocation.
• Specify your client demographic: Citing the average number of clients and demographic specifics can highlight expertise in a particular area of social work.
• Include success rate in linking clients to resources: This illustrates your efficiency and effectiveness in responding to client needs.
• Detail  the number of crises handled: This underlines your ability to cope under pressure and your crisis management skills.
• Indicate the number of comprehensive assessments completed: This shows you can effectively understand and address complex client needs.

How do I write a social worker resume with no experience

The path to a social worker position varies from candidate to candidate. Maybe you are shifting from another area of social services or just finished school and are new to the field.

If you’re making a career change or new to the industry, you have to find a way to write a social worker resume with no social worker experience.

The key to an effective entry-level social worker resume is focusing on transferable skills instead of work history.

Follow these steps to writing an effective social worker resume with no experience:

• Choose a functional resume layout
• Focus on transferable skills
• Present education and credentials clearly
• Use additional sections to highlight skill development and specialty knowledge
• Tailor every section to fit your target job

A functional resume layout focuses on transferable skills  rather than experience.

This is a great method to show potential employers other ways that you’ve learned relevant skills and tools like interviewing techniques and client database software.

Don’t pad your experience section with irrelevant jobs  just to fill space. Only include roles that are relevant to your target position  and focus on transferable skills.

Other jobs in social services like school counselor or case manager are great ways to show relevant skills. Even roles in customer service or community outreach present an opportunity to develop soft skills for social workers.

How to list your hard skills and soft skills on your resume

Social work requires specialized skills in tools and techniques. Present your skills so hiring managers know you are proficient in therapy techniques and client-tracking software.

Your skill section has two major categories. Hard skills are the technical knowledge  and abilities needed to perform job duties, whereas soft skills are the interpersonal and communication skills  needed to interact with others.

Listing hard skills on your social worker resume is fairly simple. Technical skills like software and assessment tools can be listed without a detailed breakdown.

Here is an example of hard skills on a social worker's resume.

If you’re including a hard skill on your resume, potential employers will assume you’re proficient. Only list hard skills that are relevant and that you’re confident in.

Here are a few more hard skills to consider for your social worker resume.

Best hard skills for your social worker resume

• Case Management
• Client Advocacy
• Problem Solving
• Intervention Planning
• Psychological Assessment
• Project Management
• Therapeutic Techniques
• Policy Development
• Knowledge of Social Work Theory
• Crisis Intervention
• Proficient in Microsoft Office
• Case Note Reporting
• Budget Planning
• Proficiency in Database Management
• Experience with EHR Software
• Experience with Social Services Software
• Public Speaking
• Multilingual skills
• Legal Knowledge
• Experience with digital communication platforms like Zoom or Skype

Soft skills tend to be open to interpretation so it’s best to explain. Including an example with each soft skill will help recruiters understand how you’ve achieved success by using those skills.

Here is an example of a soft skills section on a social worker's resume.

By providing examples of achievement with your soft skills, potential employers will see how you will impact success at their company.

Here is a list of top soft skills to consider for your social worker resume.

Best soft skills for your social worker resume

• Active Listening
• Communication
• Adaptability
• Cultural Awareness
• Problem-Solving
• Negotiation
• Time Management
• Emotional intelligence
• Organization
• Collaborative Teamwork
• Ethical Judgment
• Motivational Skills
• Sensitivity
• Professionalism
• Respect for Diversity

How to list your certifications and education on your resume

Having the right credentials is crucial for social work. Your certifications and education should be prominently displayed on your resume so hiring managers see that you’re qualified right away.

Most social work jobs will require at least a bachelor’s in social work while others will require a master’s in social work.

While the specific requirements vary from state to state, practicing social work also requires a social work license. Typically licensure follows an exam after completion of a social work degree.

Let’s look at an example of an education section on a social worker's resume.

Your education section should include :

• Name of institution
• Name of degree
• Years attended

Additional information like GPA or coursework is not necessary. Only include it if explicitly requested, or if you are applying for an entry-level position and have relevant coursework.

Your certification section will also be short. Hiring managers will be looking to see if you meet the requirements. Save them time by presenting the information.

Your social worker certification section only needs to include  the name of the certificate and the issuing institution.

Here is an example of a certification section on a social worker's resume.

Earning additional certifications is a great way to increase your employability as you continue your career. Certifications in specialized techniques and therapies will give your social worker resume a boost.

Here are a few certifications to consider for your social worker resume.

Best certifications for your social worker resume

• Certified Advanced Children, Youth & Family Social Worker (C-ACYFSW)  - National Association of Social Workers
• Child Development Associate (CDA)  - Council for Professional Recognition
• Certified School Social Work Specialist (C-SSWS)  - National Association of Social Workers
• Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC)  - Commission on Rehabilitation Counselor Certification
• Certified Social Worker in Health Care (C-SWHC)  - National Association of Social Workers

How to write your social worker resume summary or objective

A summary or objective is an opportunity to introduce yourself and your value in the industry to potential employers. It captures your career history and top accomplishments in 3-4 sentences.

Though the terms are often used interchangeably, there is a slight difference between a summary and an objective.

A summary is a brief introduction  that summarizes your career and top achievements. An objective looks to the future  and captures what you are hoping to achieve in your new position.

A summary is more suitable for candidates with experience in the field. Entry-level candidates are more likely to focus on an objective.

If you have at least some social work experience, combine them by writing an introduction, a career highlight, and a goal you share with your target employer.

Let’s take a look at an example of a social worker resume summary.

• Generic buzzwords - Words like “experienced” and “passion” don’t mean much if they aren’t quantified. Hiring managers want to know exactly how much experience you have and what your passion has helped you achieve.
• No measurable results - “I have handled complicated cases and reunited many families” is left open to interpretation. How were the cases complicated and how many families were reunited?
• No objective - Just stating that you want the job isn’t a sufficient objective. Research your target company and find out what solutions you can provide to their challenges.

Let’s make a few changes and look at this summary again.

• Introduces credentials - Since credentials are valuable in social work, it’s a great idea to let hiring managers know right away that you have relevant certifications and specific experience.
• Highlights accomplishment - “I implemented a new family reunification program which resulted in a 20% increase in reunifications” shows a specific achievement in the industry and gives potential employers a good idea of your abilities.
• Shared goal - “Seeking the opportunity to leverage assessment experience and increase family reunifications at Children’s Community Center” lets hiring managers know how this candidate’s specific experience will impact success in their new role.

Additional sections for a social worker resume

There are different kinds of social workers so it follows that there are many different paths to get there. Additional sections on your resume can be a great way to show how you’ve developed social work skills in unique ways.

Here are a few sections to consider adding to your social worker resume:

• Languages  - Speaking multiple languages can be a great skill for social workers, especially if your clients have a first language other than English.
• Continuing education   - Continuing to expand your education and complete training for things like cognitive behavioral therapy or dialectical behavior therapy is a great way to keep your resume up-to-date and increase your employability.
• Volunteer work   - Volunteering is a great way to develop social work skills and show achievements outside of work history.

Key takeaways for writing a great social worker resume

Congratulations! You’re almost ready to send out that amazing social worker resume that gets callbacks! Let’s take a moment to briefly review some key points.

• Create a clear and professional social worker resume with a format that communicates key information to hiring managers and gets through ATS filters.
• Quantify the impact on your resume by using real numbers and data to show how you’ve achieved things like managing cases and reuniting families.
• Strike the right balance between soft skills and hard skills so potential employers know you can handle the technical aspects of the job as well as interpersonal communication.
• List your education and certifications clearly so that hiring managers will see right away that you meet the requirements to fill the role.

Social Worker resume examples

Explore additional social worker resume samples and guides and see what works for your level of experience or role.

Social Work is a field that values practical experience and strong interpersonal skills. In pursuing opportunities as a social work student, you should emphasize certain aspects on your resume.

Intimate understanding of social work theory is a must, however, practical experience beats theory in this field. Highlight any field placements or practicum experiences you’ve had, indicating the theory you applied to aid your clients efficiently.

Showcase your diversity and cultural competency skills. In a diverse society, social workers need to be adaptable. Discuss times where you’ve worked with different cultures and how it impacted the service.

Empathy and good listening skills are crucial here. Instead of only listing them, demonstrate how these have improved client engagement or satisfaction.

Provide evidence of your communication and problem-solving skills through descriptions of academic projects or client interactions. This will help employers understand your approach in making a difference in people's lives.

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• Social Worker Resume Guide & Examples

Clinical Social Worker Resume Examples: Proven To Get You Hired In 2024

Clinical Social Worker Resume Template

Download in google doc, word or pdf for free. designed to pass resume screening software in 2022., clinical social worker resume sample.

As a clinical social worker, your role is about creating lasting change in the lives of those you serve. That said, your resume needs to reflect your ability to do just that. You'll want to showcase how your experiences have helped improve clients' overall well-being—physically, psychologically, and socially. These days, potential employers are heavily focused on evidence-based practices, trauma-informed care, and a multidisciplinary team approach. They're not just looking for someone who can counsel clients. They want candidates who can collaborate with other healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive care. Writing a resume for this role can be tricky, particularly because you're dealing with sensitive, confidential information. You need to highlight your case management skills and therapeutic abilities without breaching client confidentiality. It's a tricky balance, but an important one to maintain.

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Recruiter Insight: Why this resume works in 2022

Tips to help you write your clinical social worker resume in 2024,    highlight specialized social work skills.

As a clinical social worker, you'll need more than just basic counseling and advocacy skills. Highlight specialized, role-specific skills such as diagnosing mental, behavioral, or emotional disorders, creating and implementing treatment plans, and knowledge of the latest therapeutic techniques.

   Showcase your multidisciplinary team experience

Clinical social workers often work as part of a multidisciplinary team, collaborating with psychologists, psychiatrists, and nurses. Show that you can thrive in this type of environment by mentioning experiences where you've worked with other healthcare professionals to deliver holistic care.

A clinical social worker is focused on the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mental and behavioral issues. Their work ranges from individual to group therapy. This role may seem similar to psychology but it’s more complex in that it deals with socioeconomic, cultural, and familial impacts on people. This resume portrays a highly qualified social worker, with several years of experience and an M.A. in Science. It begins with an internship and a volunteering capacity which shows drive and work ethic. 10 years of experience are listed in many areas ranging from mental health counseling to clinical social work.

   Mention any internship and volunteering experience, if applicable.

Notice how this resume highlights internships and volunteering capacity. You should include any extra work you’ve executed since this portrays the value of your capacity to take initiative.

   Highlight relationships with clients.

Notice how this resume mentions work with families and individuals alike. It emphasizes the continuation of communication and safety through upheld relationships. This shows recruiters the interpersonal and social skills that are needed for the job.

Medical Social Worker Resume Sample

Behavioral health counselor resume sample.

• Clinical Social Worker Resume Tips

We spoke with hiring managers at top healthcare organizations like Mayo Clinic, UnitedHealth Group, and Anthem, Inc. to understand what they look for in clinical social worker resumes. Based on their insights and our analysis of successful resumes, we've compiled a list of tips to help you create a strong clinical social worker resume that will catch the attention of employers and land you an interview.

   Highlight your clinical expertise and specializations

Employers want to see that you have the specific clinical skills and experience needed for the role. Be sure to highlight your areas of expertise, such as:

• Conducted individual and group therapy sessions for patients with depression, anxiety, and trauma, resulting in a 30% reduction in symptoms
• Specialized in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), successfully treating 50+ patients with complex mental health needs
• Trained in crisis intervention and provided emergency assessments for 100+ patients in a hospital setting

Avoid being too general or vague about your clinical skills:

• Experienced in providing therapy to patients
• Knowledgeable about various treatment modalities

   Quantify your impact with metrics and outcomes

Whenever possible, use numbers and data to show the impact of your work. This helps employers understand the scope and significance of your experience:

• Managed a caseload of 80+ clients, maintaining a 95% satisfaction rate based on patient surveys
• Implemented a new group therapy program that increased patient participation by 50% and improved treatment outcomes by 25%
• Collaborated with a multidisciplinary team to develop individualized treatment plans for 150+ patients, resulting in a 40% reduction in hospital readmissions

Avoid making claims without backing them up with data:

• Helped many patients improve their mental health
• Created successful treatment plans for clients

   Showcase your experience with diverse populations

Clinical social workers often work with diverse populations, so it's important to highlight your experience and cultural competency:

• Provided culturally sensitive counseling to a diverse client population, including individuals from various racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic backgrounds
• Fluent in Spanish and provided bilingual therapy services to Latino/a clients, improving access to care for underserved communities
• Developed and facilitated support groups for LGBTQ+ youth, creating a safe space for 30+ participants to share their experiences and build coping skills

Avoid simply stating that you have experience with diverse populations without providing specifics:

• Worked with diverse clients
• Experienced in multicultural counseling

   Emphasize your collaboration and leadership skills

Clinical social workers often work as part of a multidisciplinary team and may take on leadership roles. Highlight your collaboration and leadership experience:

• Collaborated with psychiatrists, nurses, and case managers to provide comprehensive care for 200+ patients in a community mental health clinic
• Supervised a team of 5 social work interns, providing training and guidance to support their professional development and ensure high-quality patient care
• Led a committee of 10 staff members to develop and implement a new evidence-based treatment protocol, resulting in improved patient outcomes and increased staff efficiency

Avoid generic statements that don't showcase your specific contributions:

• Worked as part of a team
• Experienced in leadership roles

   Include relevant certifications and training

In addition to your degree, include any relevant certifications or specialized training you have completed:

• Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the state of California
• Certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy, successfully treating 20+ patients with PTSD
• Completed a 40-hour training in Motivational Interviewing, enhancing skills in promoting behavior change and treatment adherence

Avoid listing irrelevant or outdated certifications:

• CPR certified in 2010
• Completed a workshop on Microsoft Office

   Tailor your resume to the specific job and organization

Customize your resume for each job application to highlight the most relevant skills and experience:

• For a position in a children's hospital, emphasize your experience working with pediatric patients and families, such as: "Provided play therapy and supportive counseling to 50+ children and their families coping with chronic illness, resulting in improved emotional well-being and treatment compliance."
• For a role in a substance abuse treatment center, highlight your experience in addiction counseling, such as: "Conducted individual and group therapy sessions for 75+ clients with substance use disorders, utilizing motivational interviewing and relapse prevention strategies to achieve a 60% success rate in maintaining sobriety."

Avoid using the same generic resume for every application:

Clinical Social Worker with 5+ years of experience providing therapy to diverse populations. Skilled in assessment, treatment planning, and case management. Passionate about helping clients achieve their goals and improve their mental health.

Skills For Clinical Social Worker Resumes

Here are examples of popular skills from Clinical Social Worker job descriptions that you can include on your resume.

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
• Social Services
• Individual Counselling
• Family Therapy
• Mental Health
• Community Outreach
• Mental Health Counseling
• Program Development
• Clinical Supervision

Skills Word Cloud For Clinical Social Worker Resumes

This word cloud highlights the important keywords that appear on Clinical Social Worker job descriptions and resumes. The bigger the word, the more frequently it appears on job postings, and the more likely you should include it in your resume.

How to use these skills?

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Resume Guide: Detailed Insights From Recruiters

• Social Worker Resume Guide & Examples for 2022

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Clinical Social Worker Resumes

• Template #1: Clinical Social Worker
• Template #2: Clinical Social Worker
• Template #3: Clinical Social Worker
• Template #4: Medical Social Worker
• Template #5: Behavioral Health Counselor
• Skills for Clinical Social Worker Resumes
• Free Clinical Social Worker Resume Review
• Similar Social Worker Resume Templates
• Other Other Resumes
• Clinical Social Worker Interview Guide
• Clinical Social Worker Sample Cover Letters
• Social Worker - 2024 Resume Guide
• Alternative Careers to a Clinical Social Worker
• All Resumes
• Resume Action Verbs

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Social Worker Resume Examples

Use these excellent social worker’s resume to create an outstanding resume

Social Worker Resume Samples

1. Candidate seeking Social worker’s job

Resume summary statement:

Personable LCSW with 3+ experience in offering post-crises counseling. Looking forward to joining Acme Center to further my career through my excellent assessment counseling expertise. While at KHF, helped 32 adolescent clients meet their health and wellness goals in 6 months.

• Offered services on a 24-hour on-call crisis intervention program
• Made recommendations to the family court based on information gathered from health records, child services agencies, and the DJJ community specialist
• Collaborated with the Psychologist at Acme Wellness clinic to complete psychological evaluation reports
• Educated teenage clients and their parents about proper recovery practices and follow-ups.

2. Candidate seeking Social worker’s job

Empathetic and passionate MSW with over 9 years of experience in assessment, counseling, and conflict resolution among disadvantaged youth and other individuals with special needs. Developed and maintained beneficial community rapport with police and state agencies, and motivated 67% of youth to earn their high school diplomas.

• Spearheaded intuitive and thought-provoking programs to help disenfranchised youth get their self-esteem and willpower
• Retrofitted the child rescue center at Acme Children’s home with child-proof safety features and outlined a robust child safety program
• Facilitated individual group guiding and counseling sessions to address the requirements needed for a safer home environment

Social Worker Resume Vocabulary & Writing Tips

Words to Use

• Intervention
• Treatment plans
• Case management
• Collaboration
• Social policy awareness
• Discharge plans
• Communication
• Community rapport
• Active listening
• Special needs

Action Verbs

Social worker resume tips and ideas.

A social worker’s role in crisis management and sudden upheavals among people is imperative in overcoming the negative effects caused by personal trauma.

Regardless of whether you work in a clinic, hospital, non-governmental organization, or government welfare service,  your job is instrumental in ensuring clients’ wellbeing.  This is why you need to write a comprehensive social worker’s resume detailing your in-depth knowledge of psychology (child, abnormal, and general human behavior), sociology concepts, and more importantly, the ability to advocate for your clients and ability to remain calm under intense emotional situations.

We recommend using these types of keywords and sector-specific terminology throughout your resume to demonstrate your expertise and knowledge.

Since your job will entail assisting people undergoing different degrees of crises, your resume must also show  your ability to maintain order, communicate effectively, and show empathy while remaining objective .

To help you create an excellent resume in a matter of minutes, you can benefit from using a free  online resume builder  and following a few resume tips  tailored to social workers.

Reverse chronological. You can use  online resume templates  to illustrate this resume format further

• Neat resume design
• Margins and white space
• Resume fonts types and size
• Subheadings and bullets
• Contact information
• Resume professional summary
• Work history
• Education background
• Additional skills and certifications
• Volunteer history
• Hobbies and interests

Resume Length

1 letter page

The most recommended format for writing your social worker’s resume is the  reverse chronological order .

This format helps emphasize your work experience and helps the hiring manager see where else you have practiced your skills as well as track your career progress. In addition to that, your resume will also be  ATS (Applicant Tracking Software) friendly .

A neat, well-designed resume layout will guarantee that your recruiter will be impressed by your organizational skills and continue reading. It is therefore critical that you draft a  simple, easy-to-read, and yet impressive  resume design with an element of personality.

• Put a  one-inch margin all around  the resume to increase white space and ensure the resume does not look too cluttered.
• You should also use  resume headers  and bullet points for each section to help your recruiting manager skim through it quickly.
• Use  formal serif fonts  like Times New Roman, Georgia, or Cambria in size 12 to write up your details. Avoid using bold or underlining any sections as they will make your work look bulky.
• You can use a maximum of two minimalist colors  to make your resume stand out from the pile of drab, white paper.

Photos are not required when applying for a job unless stipulated in the application requirements. Generally,  they are not recommended  as they may predispose you to bias in the hiring process. If a photo is required , you should attach a clear headshot.

Sections of a Social Worker Resume

The following sections are required on your Social worker’s resume:

Add current contact information, and references if needed in the job application procedure.

One A4 size page  is the maximum required for any profession, regardless of your experience level. Add only the most relevant information briefly, and  use resume columns  to make maximum use of your one page .

Social Worker Resume Section Headings

Your resume summary is the first three or four lines that you will use to introduce yourself formally to the recruiter, so  it should be catchy and appealing.

In these three lines, include your  experience level, competencies, soft interpersonal skills, and one significant career achievement.  Use numbers to quantify your achievements and strong action verbs to have a stronger impact on your recruiter.

Work experience

You may have the right experience to scoop the job opportunity , but have it slip through your fingers for failing to show off your experience, responsibilities, and achievements adequately.

While listing your job experience, start with your current or most recent role , and begin each subsection with the job title you held, company name , the period of tenure , and five bullet points clearly detailing your roles, responsibilities, and achievements in each. Again, use the right resume action words to add more impact to this section.

If you have little or no experience,  you can include any volunteer opportunities , internships, or apprenticeships you have done.

The hiring manager wants to see where you got your foundation and coursework done, so do not forget to include your education section .

For a great social worker’s job,  you may have to have a master’s and bachelor’s degree and be licensed to practice in a specific state.  Start with your college name and location, years of study, and the degree or diploma obtained .

If you have less experience  in social work, add the extra-curricular activities you took part in at school that are relevant to the job.

Struggling with Resume Writing?

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Related Professions

Mental Health Counselor To get the job of a mental health counselor, you must present a professional resume that shows how qualified you are. Use this guide to help you do that. Updated on December 21, 2023 Mental Health Counselor

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1 Social Worker Resume Example to Land You a Role in 2023

Social workers are passionate about helping others and making a positive impact in their communities. As a social worker, your resume should reflect the same values of empathy, understanding, and compassion. It should be tailored to the needs of the people you are trying to help. In this guide, we'll review X social worker resume examples to help you make a lasting impression.

Resume Examples

Resume guidance.

• High Level Resume Tips
• Must-Have Information
• Why Resume Headlines & Titles are Important
• Writing an Exceptional Resume Summary
• How to Impress with Your Work Experience
• Top Skills & Keywords
• Go Above & Beyond with a Cover Letter
• Resume FAQs
• Related Resumes

Common Responsibilities Listed on Social Worker Resumes:

• Develop and implement individualized treatment plans for clients
• Provide counseling and support to clients and their families
• Advocate for clients in court and other legal proceedings
• Monitor and evaluate client progress
• Connect clients with community resources and services
• Maintain client records and documentation
• Collaborate with other professionals to coordinate services
• Educate clients and their families on available resources
• Develop and implement crisis intervention plans
• Conduct home visits to assess client needs
• Participate in case conferences and team meetings
• Participate in continuing education and professional development activities

You can use the examples above as a starting point to help you brainstorm tasks, accomplishments for your work experience section.

Social Worker Resume Example:

• Developed and implemented a crisis intervention plan for a client in a high-risk situation, resulting in the client receiving necessary medical attention and avoiding harm to themselves or others.
• Advocated for a client in court, successfully securing custody of their child and connecting them with community resources to support their family's needs.
• Collaborated with a team of healthcare professionals to develop and implement a treatment plan for a client with a complex medical condition, resulting in improved health outcomes and increased quality of life for the client.
• Managed a caseload of 20 clients, consistently meeting or exceeding performance metrics for client progress and engagement.
• Developed and facilitated a support group for clients with a specific mental health condition, resulting in increased social support and improved mental health outcomes for participants.
• Participated in a community outreach program, connecting individuals experiencing homelessness with resources and services to support their basic needs and improve their overall well-being.
• Conducted home visits to assess client needs and developed individualized treatment plans for 10 clients, resulting in improved mental health outcomes and increased client satisfaction.
• Participated in a case conference with a multidisciplinary team to develop a comprehensive treatment plan for a client with complex needs, resulting in improved coordination of care and increased client engagement.
• Educated clients and their families on available resources and services, resulting in increased utilization of community resources and improved overall well-being for clients.
• Crisis intervention
• Case management
• Treatment planning
• Client advocacy
• Interdisciplinary collaboration
• Support group facilitation
• Community outreach
• Home visit assessments
• Resource education
• Mental health assessment
• Family support
• Cultural competence
• Active listening
• Problem-solving
• Time management
• Communication
• Documentation
• Ethical decision-making
• Conflict resolution

Entry Level Social Worker Resume Example:

• Developed and implemented individualized treatment plans for clients, resulting in a 25% improvement in client satisfaction and a 10% increase in treatment success rates.
• Conducted assessments and provided counseling services to clients, leading to a 15% reduction in client symptoms and a 20% increase in overall mental well-being.
• Collaborated with other professionals to coordinate services for clients, resulting in a 30% increase in access to necessary resources and support.
• Provided crisis intervention services to clients, successfully deescalating high-risk situations and reducing emergency room visits by 20%.
• Conducted home visits to assess client needs, resulting in a 15% improvement in living conditions and a 10% increase in client safety.
• Advocated for clients in court proceedings, leading to a 25% increase in successful outcomes and a 10% decrease in legal complications.
• Documented client progress in case files, ensuring accurate and up-to-date records for 100% of clients and improving communication and coordination among the care team.
• Attended meetings with other professionals to discuss client cases, contributing valuable insights and recommendations that led to a 20% increase in collaborative decision-making and a 15% improvement in client outcomes.
• Provided education and support to clients and their families, resulting in a 30% increase in client knowledge and empowerment, and a 10% increase in family engagement in the treatment process.
• Individualized treatment planning
• Client assessment
• Counseling services
• Interprofessional collaboration
• Home visitation
• Advocacy in legal settings
• Case documentation
• Collaborative decision-making
• Client and family education
• Support provision
• Mental health support
• Resource coordination
• Risk assessment and management
• Communication skills
• Empathy and compassion
• Problem-solving skills
• Cultural competency
• Confidentiality maintenance
• Knowledge of social services and resources
• Ability to work in high-stress situations
• Understanding of human behavior and social environments
• Knowledge of legal and court procedures
• Ability to motivate and empower clients.

Licensed Social Worker Resume Example:

• Developed and implemented a comprehensive treatment plan for a client, resulting in a 50% reduction in symptoms and improved overall well-being within six months.
• Collaborated with a multidisciplinary team to coordinate services for a high-risk family, leading to improved communication, increased access to resources, and a 30% decrease in child protective service involvement.
• Provided crisis intervention services to individuals experiencing mental health emergencies, resulting in successful de-escalation and stabilization in 90% of cases.
• Conducted thorough assessments and developed individualized treatment plans for clients, resulting in a 75% increase in client satisfaction and a 20% improvement in treatment outcomes.
• Established and maintained strong relationships with community resources, enabling seamless referrals and access to necessary services for clients, resulting in a 40% increase in successful resource utilization.
• Advocated for clients' rights and needs within the legal system, attending court hearings and providing testimony that contributed to favorable outcomes for clients in 80% of cases.
• Provided individual and group counseling services to a diverse caseload, resulting in a 60% reduction in symptoms and improved overall functioning for clients.
• Conducted home visits and outreach services to underserved populations, increasing access to mental health services by 50% and improving overall community well-being.
• Maintained accurate and up-to-date client records, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards and facilitating effective communication and collaboration with other professionals.
• Comprehensive treatment planning
• Multidisciplinary collaboration
• Community resource networking
• Legal system navigation
• Individual and group counseling
• Outreach services
• Record keeping and regulatory compliance
• Communication and collaboration skills
• Empathy and active listening
• Risk assessment
• Resilience and stress management
• Understanding of mental health disorders and treatments
• Ability to work with diverse populations
• Professionalism and work ethics.

Medical Social Worker Resume Example:

• Developed and implemented a comprehensive care plan for a patient with complex medical and psychosocial needs, resulting in a 50% improvement in their overall well-being and a reduction in hospital readmissions by 30%.
• Collaborated with a multidisciplinary team to coordinate and facilitate a successful transition from hospital to home care for a high-risk patient, ensuring continuity of care and reducing the risk of complications.
• Educated patients and families about available community resources and services, resulting in a 40% increase in utilization of support programs and improved access to necessary resources.
• Conducted thorough assessments of patients and families to identify their specific needs and developed individualized care plans, resulting in a 25% improvement in patient satisfaction scores and increased engagement in their own healthcare.
• Provided crisis intervention and short-term counseling to patients and families in high-stress situations, effectively managing their emotional well-being and reducing the risk of adverse outcomes.
• Collaborated with healthcare professionals and community organizations to make appropriate referrals for patients, ensuring they received necessary support and resources, resulting in a 20% increase in patient access to essential services.
• Advocated for patient rights and access to services by actively participating in interdisciplinary team meetings and collaborating with healthcare professionals, resulting in improved patient outcomes and a 15% increase in patient satisfaction scores.
• Monitored patient progress and adjusted care plans as needed, effectively managing their ongoing care and achieving a 20% reduction in hospital readmissions.
• Documented patient care activities and progress accurately and efficiently, ensuring comprehensive and up-to-date medical records and facilitating effective communication among healthcare providers.
• Comprehensive patient assessment
• Care plan development and implementation
• Multidisciplinary team collaboration
• Patient and family education
• Knowledge of community resources and services
• Short-term counseling
• Effective referral coordination
• Patient advocacy
• Interdisciplinary team participation
• Patient progress monitoring
• Medical documentation
• Emotional intelligence
• Therapeutic communication
• Patient rights protection
• Adaptability
• Critical thinking.

Hospital Social Worker Resume Example:

• Developed and implemented a comprehensive discharge planning process, resulting in a 30% reduction in readmission rates and improved patient outcomes.
• Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams to assess patients' social and emotional needs, resulting in personalized treatment plans that addressed their unique challenges and improved overall patient satisfaction by 25%.
• Established strong relationships with community resources and organizations, enabling seamless referrals and connections for patients and their families, resulting in a 20% increase in access to essential support services.
• Provided crisis intervention and counseling to patients and families in high-stress situations, resulting in a 40% decrease in patient anxiety levels and improved coping mechanisms.
• Advocated for patients' rights and ensured their voices were heard within the healthcare system, leading to policy changes that improved patient-centered care and increased patient satisfaction by 15%.
• Implemented a patient education program, delivering workshops and resources to enhance patients' understanding of their conditions and treatment options, resulting in a 25% increase in treatment adherence.
• Implemented a digital record-keeping system, improving efficiency and accuracy in maintaining patient records, resulting in a 50% reduction in documentation errors and increased compliance with regulatory standards.
• Conducted follow-up visits to assess patient progress and address any ongoing needs, resulting in a 20% decrease in hospital readmissions and improved patient outcomes.
• Collaborated with healthcare staff to facilitate effective communication and coordination of care, resulting in a 30% decrease in communication errors and improved interdisciplinary teamwork.
• Comprehensive discharge planning
• Patient needs assessment
• Relationship building with community resources
• Crisis intervention and counseling
• Patient education program development
• Digital record-keeping
• Patient follow-up and progress assessment
• Effective communication with healthcare staff
• Coordination of care
• Understanding of healthcare policy and regulations
• Stress management skills
• Understanding of medical terminology
• Knowledge of community and social services
• Proficiency in healthcare software and technology
• Ethical decision-making skills
• Conflict resolution skills
• Time management skills
• Active listening skills
• Case management skills
• Ability to maintain patient confidentiality.

High Level Resume Tips for Social Workers:

Must-have information for a social worker resume:.

Here are the essential sections that should exist in an Social Worker resume:

• Contact Information
• Resume Headline
• Resume Summary or Objective
• Work Experience & Achievements
• Skills & Competencies

Additionally, if you're eager to make an impression and gain an edge over other Social Worker candidates, you may want to consider adding in these sections:

• Certifications/Training

Let's start with resume headlines.

Why Resume Headlines & Titles are Important for Social Workers:

Social worker resume headline examples:, strong headlines.

• Compassionate Social Worker with 5+ years of experience in providing support to at-risk youth and families in underserved communities
• Experienced Social Worker with a proven track record of developing and implementing successful mental health treatment plans for diverse populations
• Dedicated Social Worker with expertise in crisis intervention and conflict resolution, committed to empowering individuals and communities to achieve their full potential

Why these are strong:

• These resume headlines are impactful for Social Workers as they highlight key skills and experiences that are relevant to their roles. The first headline emphasizes the candidate's compassion and experience working with at-risk youth and families in underserved communities. The second headline showcases the candidate's expertise in mental health treatment and their ability to work with diverse populations. Finally, the third headline highlights the candidate's dedication to crisis intervention and conflict resolution, as well as their commitment to empowering individuals and communities. All of these factors are crucial for Social Workers and are likely to catch the attention of hiring managers.

Weak Headlines

• Compassionate Social Worker with Strong Communication Skills
• Experienced Social Worker with a Passion for Helping Others
• Skilled Social Worker with Knowledge of Case Management

Why these are weak:

• These resume headlines need improvement for Social Workers as they lack specificity and don't emphasize the unique value or accomplishments that the candidates bring to the table. The first headline mentions communication skills, but doesn't provide any context or results, such as successful client outcomes or improved team collaboration. The second headline highlights experience and passion, but fails to showcase any measurable achievements or certifications that could strengthen the candidate's profile. The third headline mentions knowledge of case management, but doesn't provide any examples of successful case management or specific areas of expertise.

Writing an Exceptional Social Worker Resume Summary:

Social worker resume summary examples:, strong summaries.

• Compassionate and dedicated Social Worker with 5 years of experience providing support to individuals and families in need. Skilled in crisis intervention, case management, and community outreach, with a proven track record of improving clients' mental health and well-being. Passionate about social justice and committed to empowering marginalized communities.
• Experienced Social Worker with expertise in child welfare and family services, with a focus on trauma-informed care. Proficient in conducting assessments, developing treatment plans, and providing counseling to children and families. Demonstrated success in improving family dynamics and reducing the number of children in foster care through effective case management.
• Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 10 years of experience in mental health counseling and therapy. Specializes in treating individuals with anxiety, depression, and trauma-related disorders, utilizing evidence-based interventions such as CBT and DBT. Proven ability to establish strong therapeutic relationships and facilitate positive change in clients' lives.
• These resume summaries are strong for Social Workers as they highlight the candidates' relevant experience, skills, and passion for helping others. The first summary emphasizes the candidate's dedication to social justice and their ability to improve clients' mental health and well-being. The second summary showcases the candidate's expertise in child welfare and their success in reducing the number of children in foster care. Lastly, the third summary demonstrates the candidate's clinical skills and their ability to facilitate positive change in clients' lives through evidence-based interventions. Overall, these summaries effectively communicate the candidates' value proposition and make them highly appealing to potential employers.

Weak Summaries

• Social Worker with experience in providing counseling and support to individuals and families, seeking a new opportunity to make a positive impact in the community.
• Experienced Social Worker with a background in case management and crisis intervention, looking to utilize my skills to help vulnerable populations in need.
• Social Worker with a passion for social justice and advocacy, committed to empowering marginalized communities and promoting equity and inclusion.
• These resume summaries need improvement for Social Workers as they lack specific details on the candidate's accomplishments, areas of expertise, and impact on the community. The first summary provides only a general overview of the candidate's experience, without mentioning any specific populations or issues they have worked with. The second summary, though longer, still lacks concrete examples of case management or crisis intervention that resulted in positive outcomes for clients. The third summary mentions social justice and advocacy but doesn't provide any quantifiable results or details on the candidate's successes in promoting equity and inclusion, which would make their profile more compelling to potential employers.

Resume Objective Examples for Social Workers:

Strong objectives.

• Compassionate and dedicated Social Work graduate seeking an entry-level position to utilize my strong communication skills and passion for helping others to provide support and advocacy for vulnerable populations.
• Recent MSW graduate with a specialization in mental health and experience in crisis intervention, seeking a Social Worker position to apply my knowledge of evidence-based practices and trauma-informed care to empower individuals and families to overcome challenges and achieve their goals.
• Goal-oriented and culturally competent professional with experience in community outreach and program development, seeking a Social Worker position to leverage my skills in needs assessment, resource coordination, and collaboration to promote social justice and equity for underserved communities.
• These resume objectives are strong for up and coming Social Workers because they showcase the candidates' compassion, education, and relevant skills, while also highlighting their eagerness to make a positive impact in the lives of others. The first objective emphasizes the candidate's communication skills and passion for helping others, which are important attributes for a Social Worker. The second objective showcases the candidate's educational background and experience in mental health and crisis intervention, demonstrating a strong foundation for success in the role. Lastly, the third objective highlights the candidate's experience in community outreach and program development, making them a promising fit for a Social Worker position where they can further develop their skills and contribute to the promotion of social justice and equity.

Weak Objectives

• Seeking a Social Worker position where I can make a difference in people's lives and utilize my skills to help those in need.
• Recent Social Work graduate seeking an entry-level position to gain experience and further develop my skills in the field.
• Passionate about social justice and helping marginalized communities, seeking a Social Worker role to make a positive impact in the lives of those I serve.
• These resume objectives need improvement for up and coming Social Workers because they lack specificity and don't effectively showcase the unique value or skills the candidates possess. The first objective is generic and doesn't provide any information about the candidate's background, passion, or relevant experience. The second objective only mentions that the candidate is a recent graduate and seeking an entry-level position, but doesn't elaborate on any specific skills or experiences they have that would make them a strong candidate. The third objective mentions the candidate's passion for social justice, but doesn't provide any specific examples of how they have demonstrated this passion or any particular area of social work they are interested in, which would make their profile more appealing to potential employers.

Use the Resume Summary Generator

Speed up your resume creation process with the ai resume builder . generate tailored resume summaries in seconds., how to impress with your social worker work experience:, best practices for your work experience section:.

• Focus on specific examples of how you have positively impacted the lives of your clients, such as helping them achieve specific goals or overcome challenges.
• Use data and metrics to demonstrate the effectiveness of your interventions, such as improvements in mental health symptoms or increased client satisfaction.
• Highlight your ability to work collaboratively with other professionals, such as doctors, nurses, and therapists, to provide comprehensive care to clients.
• Emphasize your experience with different populations, such as children, the elderly, or individuals with disabilities, and how you have tailored your approach to meet their unique needs.
• Showcase your knowledge of relevant laws, regulations, and policies that impact the social work field, and how you have applied this knowledge in your work.
• Mention any awards, recognition, or unique accomplishments associated with your work as a social worker, such as successful grant applications or community outreach initiatives.
• Use clear and concise language that is easy for HR, recruiters, and hiring managers to understand, avoiding jargon or technical terms that may not be familiar to those outside of the social work field.

Example Work Experiences for Social Workers:

Strong experiences.

Provided individual and group counseling to a caseload of 20 clients, resulting in a 75% increase in client satisfaction scores.

Collaborated with community organizations to develop and implement a job training program for low-income individuals, resulting in a 50% increase in program enrollment and a 25% increase in job placements.

Conducted home visits and assessments to ensure the safety and well-being of children in foster care, resulting in a 90% decrease in instances of abuse and neglect.

Coordinated and facilitated a support group for individuals with mental health disorders, resulting in a 60% increase in group attendance and a 40% increase in reported feelings of social connectedness.

Advocated for clients' rights and needs by collaborating with legal and medical professionals, resulting in a 75% success rate in obtaining necessary resources and services.

Conducted trainings and workshops for community members on topics such as trauma-informed care and cultural competency, resulting in a 50% increase in knowledge and awareness among attendees.

• These work experiences are strong because they demonstrate the Social Worker's ability to provide effective counseling and support services, collaborate with community organizations and professionals, and advocate for clients' needs. The use of specific metrics and outcomes highlights the impact of the Social Worker's work, while the variety of experiences showcases their diverse skillset and ability to work with different populations.

Weak Experiences

Conducted individual counseling sessions with clients to discuss their mental health concerns and develop treatment plans.

Coordinated with other healthcare professionals to ensure clients received comprehensive care.

Maintained accurate and up-to-date client records.

Facilitated group therapy sessions for clients with substance abuse disorders.

Assisted clients in accessing community resources such as housing and employment services.

Participated in team meetings to discuss client progress and treatment plans.

• These work experiences are weak because they lack specificity, quantifiable results, and strong action verbs. They provide generic descriptions of tasks performed without showcasing the impact of the individual's work or the benefits brought to the clients. To improve these bullet points, the candidate should focus on incorporating metrics to highlight their achievements, using more powerful action verbs, and providing clear context that demonstrates their leadership qualities and direct contributions to successful outcomes.

Top Skills & Keywords for Social Worker Resumes:

Top hard & soft skills for social workers, hard skills.

• Case Management
• Crisis Intervention
• Counseling and Therapy
• Assessment and Diagnosis
• Treatment Planning
• Group Facilitation
• Advocacy and Outreach
• Program Evaluation
• Documentation and Record Keeping
• Cultural Competency
• Trauma-Informed Care
• Crisis Prevention and Management

Soft Skills

• Empathy and Compassion
• Active Listening and Communication
• Cultural Competence and Diversity Awareness
• Collaboration and Teamwork
• Problem Solving and Critical Thinking
• Time Management and Prioritization
• Flexibility and Adaptability
• Emotional Intelligence and Self-Awareness
• Advocacy and Social Justice
• Conflict Resolution and Mediation
• Crisis Intervention and Management
• Relationship Building and Trust Development

Go Above & Beyond with a Social Worker Cover Letter

Social worker cover letter example: (based on resume).

[Your Name] [Your Address] [City, State ZIP Code] [Email Address] [Today’s Date]

[Company Name] [Address] [City, State ZIP Code]

Dear Hiring Manager,

I am excited to apply for the Social Worker position at [Company Name]. With [Number of Years] years of experience in the field, I am confident in my ability to make a positive impact on the lives of your clients.

In my previous role, I developed and implemented a crisis intervention plan for a client in a high-risk situation, resulting in the client receiving necessary medical attention and avoiding harm to themselves or others. I also advocated for a client in court, successfully securing custody of their child and connecting them with community resources to support their family's needs. These experiences have taught me the importance of being proactive and resourceful in order to achieve the best outcomes for clients.

As a Social Worker, I have managed a caseload of 20 clients, consistently meeting or exceeding performance metrics for client progress and engagement. I have also developed and facilitated a support group for clients with a specific mental health condition, resulting in increased social support and improved mental health outcomes for participants. Additionally, I have participated in a community outreach program, connecting individuals experiencing homelessness with resources and services to support their basic needs and improve their overall well-being.

I am passionate about educating clients and their families on available resources and services, resulting in increased utilization of community resources and improved overall well-being for clients. I am confident that my experience and skills make me a strong candidate for the Social Worker position at [Company Name].

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my qualifications further.

[Your Name]

As a Social Worker, you understand the importance of building strong relationships with your clients and advocating for their needs. Similarly, pairing your resume with a well-crafted cover letter can give you a competitive edge and significantly increase your chances of landing an interview. A cover letter is an extension of your resume, an opportunity to showcase your passion for the role and delve deeper into your relevant experience. Contrary to common belief, crafting a compelling cover letter doesn't have to be a daunting task, and the benefits far outweigh the effort required.

Here are some compelling reasons for submitting a cover letter as a Social Worker:

• Personalize your application and showcase your genuine interest in the organization and the population you serve
• Illustrate your unique value proposition and how your skills align with the specific job requirements, such as experience working with diverse communities or specific populations
• Communicate your understanding of the organization's mission and how you plan to contribute to achieving it
• Share success stories and achievements that couldn't be accommodated in your resume, such as specific cases where you made a significant impact on a client's life
• Demonstrate your writing and communication skills, which are essential for Social Workers in building relationships with clients and collaborating with colleagues
• Differentiate yourself from other applicants who might have opted not to submit a cover letter, showing your commitment and dedication to the role and the organization.

In summary, a well-crafted cover letter can help you stand out as a Social Worker, showcase your passion and skills, and increase your chances of landing an interview. Don't miss out on this opportunity to make a strong first impression and personalize your application.

Resume FAQs for Social Workers:

How long should i make my social worker resume.

A Social Worker resume should ideally be one to two pages long. This length allows you to showcase your relevant skills, experience, and education without overwhelming the reader or appearing too lengthy. For entry-level Social Workers or those with limited experience, a one-page resume is sufficient. Focus on your education, internships, and any relevant volunteer work. Be sure to highlight any specialized training or certifications you have received. For experienced Social Workers, a two-page resume may be necessary to adequately detail your work history, accomplishments, and professional development. Emphasize your most relevant experience, focusing on the positions and responsibilities that best align with the job you are applying for. Include any leadership roles, special projects, or initiatives you have been a part of, as well as any awards or recognitions you have received. Regardless of the length, make sure your resume is well-organized, easy to read, and tailored

What is the best way to format a Social Worker resume?

The best way to format a Social Worker resume is to create a clear, concise, and well-organized document that highlights your skills, experience, and accomplishments in the field. Here are some tips for formatting a Social Worker resume: 1. Choose a clean and professional font: Use a simple, easy-to-read font like Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman. Keep the font size between 10 and 12 points. 2. Use clear headings: Organize your resume into sections with clear headings, such as "Professional Summary," "Work Experience," "Education," and "Skills." This will make it easy for employers to find the information they're looking for. 3. Start with a professional summary: Begin your resume with a brief professional summary that highlights your key skills and experiences as a social worker. This should be a concise statement that showcases your expertise and passion for the field. 4

Which Social Worker skills are most important to highlight in a resume?

As an AI language model, I do not have personal experience or opinions. However, I can provide a general response to the question. When highlighting skills on a resume as a Social Worker, it is important to focus on those that demonstrate your ability to effectively communicate, empathize, and problem-solve with clients. Some key skills to highlight may include: 1. Active listening: Social Workers must be able to actively listen to their clients' concerns and needs to provide effective support and guidance. 2. Empathy: Social Workers must be able to understand and relate to their clients' experiences to build trust and rapport. 3. Case management: Social Workers must be able to manage multiple cases and prioritize tasks to ensure that clients receive the necessary support and resources. 4. Crisis intervention: Social Workers must be able to respond quickly and effectively in crisis situations to ensure the safety and well-being of their clients. 5. Cultural competence: Social Workers must be able to work with clients from diverse backgrounds and understand the impact of cultural factors on their experiences and needs. By highlighting these skills on your resume, you can demonstrate your ability to provide effective support and advocacy for your clients as a Social Worker.

How should you write a resume if you have no experience as a Social Worker?

If you have no experience as a Social Worker, it is important to focus on highlighting your transferable skills and relevant experiences. This can include any volunteer work, internships, or part-time jobs that have allowed you to develop skills such as communication, problem-solving, and empathy. When writing your resume, start with a strong objective statement that highlights your passion for social work and your desire to make a positive impact in the field. Next, create a skills section that lists your transferable skills and any relevant certifications or training you have completed. In the experience section, focus on highlighting any experiences that have allowed you to work with people in need, such as volunteering at a homeless shelter or working as a camp counselor for children with disabilities. Use action verbs to describe your responsibilities and accomplishments in these roles, and be sure to emphasize any skills or qualities that are relevant to social work, such as empathy, patience, and the ability to work well under pressure. Finally, be sure to include any relevant education

Compare Your Social Worker Resume to a Job Description:

• Identify opportunities to further tailor your resume to the Social Worker job
• Improve your keyword usage to align your experience and skills with the position
• Uncover and address potential gaps in your resume that may be important to the hiring manager

Related Resumes for Social Workers:

Social worker resume example, more resume guidance:.

Entry Level Social Worker Resume Examples

Want to use this resume?

Customize this Resume

City, State, Zip Code

Home: 000-000-0000 | Cell: 000-000-0000

[email protected]

Dedicated and professional Bachelor of Social Work graduate with strong communication skills and the desire to help others looking for social work job. Strong history of supporting college students and people of all ages, finding resources for clients, and maintaining detailed records on all clients.

• Organized Social Worker
• Caring and Empathetic
• Resource Management
• Client Management
• Healthcare Social Work
• Detailed Record Keeping
• Help organize and weed through more than 2000 files to remove patients no longer using the clinic
• Contact local organizations to find support and help for patients diagnosed with diabetes, HIV, and other medical conditions
• Transport elderly patients from their homes and local retirement/nursing homes to the clinic and back again
• Advised students on which classes to take and when to take classes to graduate from the social work program
• Counseled students dealing with homesickness, bad breakups, and other issues
• Worked with the administration to create programs that informed students where to go after experiencing abuse and/or bullying on campus

There are plenty of opportunities to land a Social Worker job position, but it won’t just be handed to you. Crafting a Social Worker resume that catches the attention of hiring managers is paramount to getting the job, and LiveCareer is here to help you stand out from the competition.

View All No Experience Resumes

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RESUME TIPS

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Social Worker Resume Examples

Writing a great social worker resume is important because it is one of the first things a potential employer will see when they are considering you for a position. It is your opportunity to make a good first impression and sell yourself as the best candidate for the job.

Create your resume Select from 7 professional resume templates

If you're looking for inspiration when it comes to drafting your own social worker resume, look no further than the samples below. These resumes will help you highlight your experience and qualifications in the most effective way possible, giving you the best chance of landing the social worker job you're after.

or download as PDF

Essential Components of a Social Worker Resume

A social worker's resume is a critical document that showcases your expertise, professional history, and credentials. It reflects your career trajectory and highlights your suitability to potential employers. A well-crafted resume includes sections such as an objective or summary, work experience, education, skills, and certifications, each playing a pivotal role in presenting a comprehensive profile of your competencies and knowledge. Let's delve into the specifics of these sections, discussing their importance and content, and providing tips to enhance each segment for social workers.

1. Contact Information

Your Contact Information is the gateway for employers to reach out to you. It's essential to list your full name, phone number, and a professional email address—preferably one that incorporates your name. While including a home address is optional, consider the employer's preference.

Adding links to professional online profiles, such as LinkedIn or a personal portfolio, can be advantageous, provided they are well-maintained and convey professionalism. Ensure this section is accurate, up-to-date, and prominently placed at the top of your resume for easy accessibility.

2. Objective Statement

An Objective Statement serves as a succinct introduction, offering a glimpse into your career aspirations and eagerness for the position. Craft a concise and personalized statement that aligns with the job you're applying for, highlighting relevant skills and experiences. For instance, mention your background in child welfare if applying for a child protection role.

Express your passion for social work and commitment to societal betterment, reflecting an understanding of the job responsibilities and how your unique skill set can contribute. Avoid generic phrases, opting for a tailored approach that distinguishes you from other applicants.

An exemplary objective might read: " Dedicated social worker with over five years of experience in mental health care, seeking to leverage my proven case management and patient advocacy skills in a challenging role at XYZ agency."

3. Education and Certification Details

The Education and Certification section outlines your academic achievements and relevant qualifications. List your degrees, diplomas, or certificates in reverse chronological order, including the institution and graduation date. For ongoing studies, indicate the expected completion date.

Certifications such as Certified Social Worker (CSW) or Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) demonstrate your commitment to professional development and adherence to industry standards. Detail each credential with the issuing organization and the date obtained.

Highlight any specialized training related to areas like mental health counseling or child advocacy. This section validates your educational background and dedication to the social work profession.

4. Relevant Work Experience

The Relevant Work Experience section is a testament to your practical expertise. It should encompass past positions, emphasizing responsibilities and achievements that align with the social work role you're targeting. Detail your contributions and successes, such as program development or enhanced client satisfaction, to illustrate your impact.

Include diverse experiences across various settings like hospitals or community centers, showcasing your adaptability. Internships and volunteer work also merit inclusion if they've equipped you with pertinent social work skills.

This section should clearly articulate your professional capabilities, painting a picture of what you bring to the table as a social worker.

5. Skills and Competencies

The Skills and Competencies section highlights your abilities and expertise in social work. It's an opportunity to showcase how you meet or exceed job requirements. Essential skills for social workers include interpersonal communication, problem-solving, emotional intelligence, organization, cultural competence, advocacy, ethical decision-making, and crisis intervention.

When listing skills, provide context by citing examples from your experience. This not only demonstrates your proficiency but also how you've applied these skills in real-world scenarios.

6. Licenses and Certifications

Licenses and certifications are crucial for a social worker's resume, signifying professional competence and compliance with industry standards. Detail any licenses required for practice in your region, such as LCSW, LMSW, or LICSW, along with any additional certifications that showcase specialized expertise.

These credentials reflect your qualifications and ongoing commitment to professional growth. List each license and certification with relevant details, including expiration dates if applicable, to inform potential employers of your current status and areas of specialization.

7. References

References provide employers with the means to validate your professional background and character. Choose individuals who can attest to your social work skills and attributes, such as empathy, resilience, and communication. These might include academic mentors, previous supervisors, or colleagues.

Always secure permission from your references and verify their contact details. Providing them with information about the job you're applying for can help them tailor their recommendations to your advantage. Typically, three references suffice, but adhere to any specific instructions in the job posting.

While references are important, they should complement rather than replace the detailed information about your qualifications and experiences presented in the main body of your resume.

By carefully constructing each section of your social worker resume, you can effectively communicate your qualifications and readiness to potential employers, positioning yourself as a strong candidate in the field of social work.

Related Resume Examples

• Social Worker Assistant
• Clinical Social Worker
• Medical Social Worker
• Psychiatric Social Worker
• School Social Worker
• Hospice Social Worker

World Social Work Day 2024—Buen Vivir: A Shared Future for Transformative Change Requires Expansive Self-Care

by Erlene Grise-Owens , Laura Escobar-Ratliff

by Erlene Grise-Owens,  EdD, LCSW, MSW, MRE, and Laura E. Escobar-Ratliff, DSW

    World Social Work Day is the third Tuesday of March each year. This year’s theme is Buen Vivir: Shared Future for Transformative Change , which is the 2024 Global Agenda for Social Work and Social Development Theme 4 . This essay articulates how expansive self-care is necessary to achieve this agenda.

Buen Vivir Worldview

     As described in the Global Agenda Statement ( linked above ), Buen Vivir is an Indigenous worldview rooted in Latin American beliefs that humans are integrally connected with natural and social environments. Core aspects of Buen Vivir include:

• Relationality —Interconnection between all elements of the whole;
• Reciprocity —Reciprocal relationship between human beings and nature, i.e., co-participation;
• Correspondence —Elements of reality correspond to each other in a harmonious way ;
• Complementarity— Opposites can be complementary; nothing is superfluous. (Para. 5)

Transformative Change Requires Expansive Frameworks

     Viewed through a dominant lens, the Buen Vivir worldview may initially seem counter to self-care. However, through expansive framework perspectives, they’re inextricably linked. Expansive frameworks counter the paradigms of dominance and exclusion. They also reject the equally problematic inclusion frameworks, which still retain the dominant centers of power. Expansive frameworks do not conform to these problematic paradigms. Instead, they transform!

     Buen Vivir counters the dominant damaging paradigms of commodification, consumerism, colonization, casteism, and patriarchy. As such, it can be viewed as an expansive framework. Likewise, expansive self-care debunks damaging myths perpetuated by these dominant paradigms about self-care . As one of myriad examples: Expansive self-care counters the consumeristic myth that self-care is a privilege. Instead, like Buen Vivir, expansive self-care emphasizes the human right of all to healthy flourishing.

     Notably, worldviews that espouse “community, not self” can reinforce damaging messages for historically marginalized communities. For example, Latinx communities can be harmed by this dangerous dissonance. Writing this piece during women’s her-story month, it’s particularly pertinent to note that, when focus is on “community, not self,” women are often disproportionately relegated to support roles. Who typically cooks, cleans, and nurtures in these communities/movements? Who typically assumes leadership roles? Even in leadership, women frequently do double-duty of leadership and support roles, contributing to their burnout. Expansive self-care counters this dynamic.

Congruence of Buen Vivir and Expansive Self-Care

     Here, we connect the core aspects of Buen Vivir—i.e., relationality, reciprocity, correspondence, and complementarity—with key components of expansive self-care. As depicted through dotted lines and reciprocal arrows in the visual below, expansive self-care opens up and connects self-care in ways that are integrally congruent with Buen Vivir. The following narrative explicates this congruence. Embedded links further explain these components.

Relationality and Reciprocity

     Interconnection is a basic component of expansive self-care. Comparable to Buen Vivir, the Ubuntu worldview—I am because we are —engages interdependence. Notably, the “we” is comprised of a bunch of “I”s! The quality of interconnection in “we” depends on the well-being of the “I.” Thus, engaging in one’s own self-care is necessary for contributing to a healthy, caring collective.

     Similarly, expansive self-care is wholistic. It engages all facets of being human —physical, social, spiritual, emotional, and so forth. Expansive self-care is a human right . Like Buen Vivir, expansive self-care encompasses reciprocal connections between human beings and nature, as co-participants . Care of one’s self as a human being is inextricably connected with care of community and planet, reciprocally and relationally.

     In dominant paradigms, hegemonic reification presents “hierarchy” as “reality”—when, it’s merely constructed by exclusionists as a way to maintain disproportionate power. Like Buen Vivir, expansive self-care rejects that framework. Thus, by caring for myself, I do not “put myself first,” in a hierarchy. Rather, I’m being ethically and lovingly responsible for my own well-being, as part of my commitment to the whole. I simultaneously understand my self-care is—in and of itself—valuable,  and it’s wholistically connected with the well-being of others.

Correspondence and Complementarity

     Thus, self-care is not selfish, nor is it self-lessness—it is self-fullness ! As such, expansive self-care fully accesses all forms of power —not just hierarchical power over—for synergistic empowerment. In a Buen Vivir way, this expansive perspective counters dominant paradigms that foster divisive dysfunction and, instead, promotes empowering, harmonious relationships between elements of reality.

     The dominant frame of either/or is another significant barrier. The false dichotomy of individual versus community/organizational responsibility for human well-being perpetuates unproductive, harmful dissonance. Expansive self-care reframes this either/or as AND ! Expansive self-care conceptualizes community care, organizational wellness, and self-care as complementary .

     Rather than expending energy on the dominant framing of oppositional either/or, expansive self-care embraces the wholistic AND! Mirroring the complementarity of Buen Vivir, and using a systems perspective, self-care is the entry point of change where individuals can engage with some of the most impact. Expansive self-care conceptualizes self-care as integral to and complementary with larger systems change.  

     In summary, expansive self-care is necessary for the transformative fulfillment of Buen Vivir. Self-care isn’t contrary to Buen Vivr—it’s essential for it.

Erlene Grise-Owens, EdD, LCSW, MSW, MRE, is a Partner in The  Wellness Group, ETC.  This LLC provides evaluation, training, and consultation for organizational wellness and practitioner well-being. Dr. Grise-Owens is lead editor of  The A-to-Z Self-Care Handbook for Social Workers and Other Helping Professionals .  As a former faculty member and graduate program director, she and a small (but mighty!) group of colleagues implemented an initiative to promote self-care as part of the social work education curriculum. Previously, she served in clinical and administrative roles. She has experience with navigating toxicity and dysfunction, up-close and personal! Likewise, as an educator, she saw students enter the field and quickly burn out. As a dedicated social worker, she believes the well-being of practitioners is a matter of social justice and human rights. Thus, she is on a mission to promote self-care and wellness!

Laura E. Escobar-Ratliff, DSW, is Clinical Assistant Professor and Doctor of Social Work (DSW) Program Director at the University of Kentucky College of Social Work. Dr. Escobar-Ratliff has more than two decades of direct care, clinical, and administrative experience, as well as more than 10 years of experience in social work education.

All material published on this website Copyright 1994-2023 White Hat Communications. All rights reserved. Please contact the publisher for permission to reproduce or reprint any materials on this site. Opinions expressed on this site are the opinions of the writer and do not necessarily represent the views of the publisher. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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Russia to take over Renault’s Moscow factory to revive Soviet-era car

French carmaker joins other western firms leaving Russian market, with option to return within six years

• Russia-Ukraine war: latest updates

The Moscow city government is to take over a factory belonging to the French carmaker Renault and use it to revive the Soviet-era Moskvitch in Russia’s first major nationalisation of a foreign company during its war in Ukraine .

The development, which was met with ridicule by Russians with long memories, follows Renault’s decision to join the wave of western companies such as McDonald’s and Siemens leaving the Russian market as the war in Ukraine nears its fourth month.

Renault has ceded its 68% stake in Russia’s biggest carmaker, AvtoVAZ, with an option to buy it back within six years. According to media reports, the company’s Russian assets were sold for one rouble, meaning the city of Moscow has effectively taken control of the factory free.

Renault’s CEO, Luca de Meo, said in statement that the company was protecting its future business in Russia. “Today we have taken a difficult but necessary decision, and we are making a responsible choice towards our 45,000 employees in Russia while preserving the group’s performance and our ability to return to the country in the future.”

Hawkish commentators such as the head of Russia Today, Margarita Simonyan, have said foreign companies that leave the Russian market should have their local assets seized. Moscow’s mayor, Sergei Sobyanin, appeared to defend Renault’s decision and said the city would take over the factory to prevent unemployment.

“The foreign owner decided to close the Moscow Renault plant,” said Sobyanin. “This is its right, but we cannot allow thousands of workers to be left without work. Therefore, I decided to take the plant under control of the city and resume the production of passenger cars under the historical Moskvitch brand. We will try to keep most of the team working directly at the plant and its associates.”

For Russians who have joked about the country’s return to Soviet isolation, the revival of the Moskvitch was the perfect punchline. “Russia has invented a time machine,” wrote one. “It can move the whole country through time, but only back into the Soviet Union.”

The satirical website Panorama predicted the revival of the Moskvitch a month ago when it wrote a fake headline that the Renault factory had “assembled its first Moskvitch in 20 years”.

“Panorama does not make predictions, we report exclusively on real news from the future,” it wrote on Monday after the deal was announced.

McDonald’s announced on Monday that it would be leaving the Russian market and selling its 850 locations to a local buyer.

“The humanitarian crisis caused by the war in Ukraine, and the precipitating unpredictable operating environment, have led McDonald’s to conclude that continued ownership of the business in Russia is no longer tenable,” the company said.

The opening of the first McDonald’s on Moscow’s Pushkinskaya Square in 1990 was a major event. More than 30,000 Soviet citizens formed a queue kilometres long to sample the burgers, fries and soft drinks.

Russian state news agencies said the stores would reopen by mid-June. “McDonald’s will return to Russia in June under a new brand,” Tass cited a source as saying. “The restaurant chain and menu will be preserved, as will the jobs. More than 90% of suppliers are Russian, cooperation with them will continue. In fact, only the name will go.”

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