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5 Social Worker Resume Examples - Here's What Works In 2024

Now that the pandemic has shaken the world, the question, “who is an essential worker” inevitably presents itself. social work has proven one of the most important jobs today. social workers enhance human well-being and are essential for the fight for social justice. we’ve curated sample resumes of social workers with details on how you can write your own..

A social worker is one of the most essential people in the labor market since they help meet people’s basic needs, relieve suffering, improve lives, and much more. Social work involves learning all about the progression of human suffering and breaking social barriers to relieve it, all while maintaining professionalism. As a social worker, you can expect to practice case management, counseling, connecting people to resources, teaching, and other tasks. 

In a social worker’s resume, you’ll find a degree in social work - an interdisciplinary approach to psychology, social and biological science, statistics, and more. You may also find several years of volunteering experience. Recruiters will be looking for a highlight of work in a local community or experience of the sort. Social workers could branch out into different roles: life coach, consultant, therapist, or essentially, social worker. 

In this article, we will examine the different types of social workers, some of their resume samples, and how you can create your own.

Social Worker Resume Templates

Jump to a template:

• Child and Family Social Worker
• Social Work Teacher
• Mental Health Social Worker
• Clinical Social Worker

Jump to a resource:

• Keywords for Social Worker Resumes

Social Worker Resume Tips

• Action Verbs to Use
• Related Other Resumes

Get advice on each section of your resume:

Template 1 of 5: Child and Family Social Worker Resume Example

A child and family social worker mediates instances of abuse and neglect as well as places children in safe environments. Being assigned such a role involves arranging adoptions and foster homes, assisting families through such processes, and reuniting dissected families and children. A skilled social worker keeps track of case files and notes improvements accordingly while understanding their clients’ needs and efficiently solving their issues. This resume illustrates a social worker of 5-year experience. It lists experience on a case-by-case basis with a success rate, a B.A. in the relevant field of social work, and the executions of each role - treatment programs, maintaining resources, and managing case files.

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Tips to help you write your Child and Family Social Worker resume in 2024

   include metrics like participant and case success rates..

Notice how this resume highlights the number of cases dealt with as well as their participation and success rates. You should always include this information to show recruiters your efficiency in managing simultaneous case files as well as your work ethic in each one’s success rate.

   Highlight the specifics of each role.

Notice how this resume explains each responsibility in detail - “organized meetings / maintained community resources”. It is important that you list those to show that you understand the dynamics and nature of the work.

Skills you can include on your Child and Family Social Worker resume

Template 2 of 5: social work teacher resume example.

A social work teacher can range from specializing in social work and conducting academic positions to instructing teachers and officials on important responsibilities. This is executed by training them (or students) on important societal, cultural, or economic factors in the educational realm or the skill of identifying instances of abuse. A social work teacher focuses mainly on training people to include social work in their professions or their lives. This resume illustrates an experienced social work teacher. It lists their social work, their community development roles, and their teaching responsibilities. There is a highly strong base established with a B.S. in Psychology - with a minor in Counselling. The resume continues on a role-by-role basis and volunteering work is listed which shows recruiters their plan-to-action progression and initiative.

Tips to help you write your Social Work Teacher resume in 2024

   define the goals of each social assistance role..

Notice how this resume highlights the reason behind each initiative - “to prevent and resolve issues related to human behavior and relationships”. You should list these for recruiters to see your know-how and immersion in the work.

   List your tools and techniques.

Notice how this resume provides its tools and techniques. This shows recruiters your methodological diversity. You should include all the ways you employ to complete your goals.

Skills you can include on your Social Work Teacher resume

Template 3 of 5: mental health social worker resume example.

A mental health social worker is mainly responsible for spotting, treating, and preventing mental and behavioral issues. Such a social worker cultivates relationships with clients, provides coping tools, addresses urgent needs, and provides support. This resume is that of a mental health social worker. As seen, there’s a strong base of a B.S. in social work with highlights on individual and group treatments, conflict resolution, and crisis intervention. There’s sufficient experience in counseling and community. This resume portrays a strong work diversity and a success rate in treatment and progression.

Tips to help you write your Mental Health Social Worker resume in 2024

   underscore client-success results..

Notice how this resume underscores client relations and societal reintegration. You should list your involvement in clients’ success in conquering their mental health issues to show recruiters your capacity of helping, empathy, and improvement of peoples’ lives.

   Highlight the social categories of your clients.

Notice how this resume lists their diversity of working with clients - children, infants, and pregnant women. This shows a wide range of interpersonal skills and dynamic work needed for this role.

Skills you can include on your Mental Health Social Worker resume

Template 4 of 5: clinical social worker resume example.

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.

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.

Skills you can include on your Clinical Social Worker resume

Template 5 of 5: clinical social worker resume example.

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.

As a hiring manager who has reviewed countless social worker resumes from applicants at organizations like the Red Cross, Habitat for Humanity, and local government agencies, I know what makes a resume stand out. The following tips will help you craft a strong social worker resume that grabs attention and lands you interviews.

   Highlight your specialization areas

Many social workers specialize in certain areas, such as child welfare, mental health, or substance abuse. Make sure to prominently feature your specialization(s) on your resume, as it shows your expertise and passion.

Compare these two examples:

• Worked with various populations, including children, families, and the elderly
• Specialized in child welfare, with 5+ years of experience serving at-risk youth in foster care and group home settings

The second example is much stronger because it clearly highlights a specific specialization and backs it up with years of relevant experience.

   Quantify your impact with numbers

As a social worker, you make a real difference in people's lives. Quantify that impact on your resume to paint a vivid picture for hiring managers. For example:

• Managed a caseload of 50+ clients per month, conducting assessments and developing individualized treatment plans
• Connected 25 homeless individuals with housing resources and support services, resulting in an 80% placement rate
• Facilitated 10 weekly group therapy sessions for adults with depression and anxiety, with 90% of participants reporting improved symptoms

Numbers jump off the page and really hammer home the scope and results of your work.

   Describe your crisis intervention skills

Social workers often deal with high-stress, crisis situations. Employers want to see that you have the skills to handle these challenges calmly and effectively.

A good resume might say:

• Responded to emergency hotline calls, assessing risk and providing crisis counseling and referrals as needed
• Conducted on-site mental health assessments for individuals experiencing suicidal ideation or psychosis, collaborating with medical staff to ensure client safety

These examples show that the candidate has real-world experience intervening in crises and knows how to assess risk, de-escalate, and collaborate with others.

   Showcase your cultural competence

Social workers serve diverse populations, so cultural competence is a must. Show that you have experience working with different communities and understand their unique needs.

Instead of simply listing:

• Worked with diverse clients

Try something more specific, like:

• Provided culturally sensitive counseling to Latino immigrant families, conducting sessions in Spanish and English
• Developed and delivered diversity training for staff on LGBTQ+ competency, reaching 100+ employees

These examples demonstrate your ability to bridge cultural differences, communicate effectively, and promote equity and inclusion.

   Emphasize your collaboration skills

Social work is a team effort. You'll be collaborating closely with colleagues, other professionals (like doctors and lawyers), and community partners. Highlight successful collaborations on your resume.

You might say something like:

• Partnered with local schools to implement a truancy prevention program, resulting in a 25% decrease in chronic absenteeism
• Collaborated with law enforcement and victim advocates to support domestic violence survivors, providing crisis intervention and court advocacy

These examples show that you can build relationships, communicate effectively, and work with others to achieve positive outcomes for clients.

   Tailor your resume to the job posting

One-size-fits-all resumes rarely cut it. Take the time to customize your resume for each position you apply to. Mirror the language in the job posting, and emphasize your most relevant skills and experiences.

For example, if a job posting says:

"Seeking a social worker to provide individual and group counseling to adults with serious mental illness."

Make sure your resume includes things like:

• Provided individual therapy to 20+ adults with schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, using CBT and DBT techniques
• Facilitated weekly skills training groups for adults with serious mental illness, covering topics like symptom management, social skills, and independent living

By tailoring your resume, you show the employer that you're the right fit for this specific role.

Writing Your Social Worker Resume: Section By Section

  header, 1. emphasize your name and social work credentials.

Make sure your name is the most prominent element in your header, ideally on its own line. Use a larger font size than the rest of your header details. Right after your name, list your key social work credentials, such as Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) or Certified Social Worker (CSW).

Compare these examples:

• John Smith, 123 Main St, New York, NY, 555-555-5555, [email protected]
• JOHN SMITH, LCSW New York, NY | 555-555-5555 | [email protected]

2. Include your location, phone, and email

After your name and title, include your city and state, phone number, and a professional email address. Use separators like a vertical line (|) to keep these details concise on one line.

Here's an example of what to include:

• JANE DOE, MSW Chicago, IL | 555-123-4567 | [email protected]

Avoid listing your full mailing address, which is no longer expected and takes up valuable space:

• JANE DOE 123 Oak St, Apt 2B Chicago, IL 60007 555-123-4567 [email protected]

3. Showcase your specialization if applicable

If you specialize in a particular area of social work, consider incorporating it into your header after your name. This quickly conveys your niche expertise. Some examples:

• SARAH JOHNSON, LCSW Substance Abuse Counselor Miami, FL | 555-456-7890 | [email protected]
• MICHAEL BROWN, DSW Geriatric Social Worker Philadelphia, PA | 555-987-6543 | [email protected]

However, avoid listing multiple specialties or unrelated titles, which can confuse your professional focus:

SARAH JOHNSON, LCSW, Substance Abuse Counselor, Family Therapist, Case Manager

  Summary

A resume summary, also known as a professional summary or summary statement, is an optional section that can be included at the top of your resume. While it's not a mandatory component, a well-written summary can help you stand out from other candidates by highlighting your most relevant qualifications and experiences. It's particularly useful if you're changing careers or have a diverse background that may not be immediately apparent from your work history alone.

When crafting your summary, focus on your key strengths, skills, and accomplishments that align with the social worker role you're targeting. Avoid using an objective statement, which is an outdated approach that focuses on what you want from an employer rather than what you can offer them.

To learn how to write an effective resume summary for your Social Worker resume, or figure out if you need one, please read Social Worker Resume Summary Examples , or Social Worker Resume Objective Examples .

1. Tailor your summary to the specific social worker role

When writing your summary, it's crucial to align your qualifications with the requirements of the specific social worker position you're applying for. Research the job description and the organization to identify the key skills, experiences, and qualities they're seeking in a candidate.

For example, if the role emphasizes case management and client advocacy, your summary might look like this:

Licensed clinical social worker with 5+ years of experience in case management and client advocacy. Proven track record of developing personalized treatment plans and collaborating with interdisciplinary teams to ensure optimal client outcomes. Skilled in crisis intervention, community outreach, and facilitating support groups.

By tailoring your summary to the specific role, you demonstrate your understanding of the position and show how you can contribute to the organization's mission.

2. Quantify your achievements and impact

When possible, use specific numbers and metrics to quantify your achievements and demonstrate the impact of your work. This helps employers better understand the scope of your responsibilities and the value you can bring to their organization.

Compare the following examples:

• Experienced in providing counseling services to clients
• Managed a caseload of clients with various needs

Instead, try quantifying your achievements like this:

• Provided counseling services to a diverse caseload of 30+ clients per week, addressing issues such as substance abuse, mental health, and domestic violence
• Managed a caseload of 50+ clients, developing and implementing individualized treatment plans that resulted in a 75% improvement in client outcomes

By using numbers and metrics, you provide concrete evidence of your abilities and make your summary more compelling to potential employers.

3. Highlight your specialized skills and certifications

As a social worker, you may have specialized skills or certifications that set you apart from other candidates. Be sure to highlight these qualifications in your summary, especially if they're relevant to the position you're seeking.

For example:

Licensed master social worker (LMSW) with expertise in geriatric care and end-of-life support. Certified in gerontology and palliative care, with a strong background in facilitating family meetings and providing emotional support to clients and their loved ones. Fluent in English and Spanish, enabling effective communication with diverse populations.

By emphasizing your specialized skills and certifications, you demonstrate your unique value proposition and help employers quickly identify how you can contribute to their organization.

  Experience

The work experience section is the heart of your resume. It's where you'll highlight your relevant experience and accomplishments to show employers you have the background they're looking for in a social worker. Here are some key things to keep in mind as you write about your work history.

1. Highlight social work skills and specialties

Social work is a broad field with many specialties and skill sets. Highlight the ones most relevant to the jobs you're targeting. For example:

• Conducted psychosocial assessments and developed treatment plans for 50+ clients with mental health and substance abuse issues
• Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to coordinate care for children and families involved in the foster system
• Provided crisis intervention and safety planning for domestic violence survivors

Think about key social work skills like case management, counseling, advocacy, and program development. Showcase how you've applied these in your past roles.

Not sure if your work experience section is highlighting the right skills? Try putting your resume through Score My Resume . It provides instant feedback on how well your resume showcases key skills employers look for.

2. Quantify your impact with metrics

Numbers jump off the page and quickly convey the scope and impact of your work. Whenever possible, include metrics to show the results you achieved. Here are some examples:

• Managed a caseload of 80+ clients, ensuring 95% of treatment goals were met within 6 months
• Secured $50K in grant funding to launch a new job readiness program serving 100 at-risk youth annually
• Supervised a team of 5 social workers and 2 interns, increasing client satisfaction rates by 30%

If you don't have hard numbers, estimates are okay. The goal is to give a sense of the scope and results of your work, not to have exact figures.

When you quantify your accomplishments, be strategic. Pick metrics that relate to the job you want. If an employer is looking for someone to manage large caseloads, highlight your caseload numbers.

3. Show progression and specialization

Employers like to see growth and progression. If you've been promoted, taken on leadership roles, or specialized in certain areas, make that clear. Compare these two examples:

• Social Worker, Agency X, 2018-2022
• Provided therapy, developed treatment plans, collaborated with other providers
• Promoted from Social Worker to Senior Social Worker in 2020
• Specialized in working with older adults experiencing depression and social isolation
• Supervised MSW interns and mentored new staff

The second example does a much better job showing career advancement and areas of expertise. It gives a clearer picture of the scope and trajectory of your social work career.

Applying for a job that requires specific experience you have? Check how well your resume highlights those key qualifications with Targeted Resume . It compares your resume to the job description and provides tailored suggestions.

4. Tailor your experience to the job

The best resumes are tailored to the specific job you're applying for. Review the job posting and identify the key qualifications and responsibilities. Then adjust how you describe your experience to highlight the most relevant aspects. For example, if a job emphasizes group therapy:

• Facilitated cognitive behavioral therapy groups for clients with anxiety, with 90% of participants reporting symptom reduction
• Developed and led an 8-week support group for new mothers experiencing postpartum depression

If it's more focused on community outreach:

• Conducted community needs assessments to identify gaps in mental health services and developed new programming to address them
• Built partnerships with 10+ community organizations to expand access to resources and referrals for underserved populations

The content is similar, but the emphasis shifts based on the job requirements. This customization helps employers quickly see you have the right experience for their role.

When tailoring your resume, look beyond the job title. Dig into the responsibilities and qualifications in the job description. Sometimes jobs with different titles have similar underlying skill sets, giving you more opportunities to showcase your relevant experience.

  Education

Your education section is a critical part of your social worker resume. It shows you have the necessary qualifications and training to excel in the role. Here are some key tips to ensure your education section stands out:

1. List your degrees in reverse chronological order

Start with your most recent or highest degree first. For each degree, include:

• Name of the degree (e.g. Master of Social Work)
• Name of the university
• Graduation year
• Relevant coursework, honors, or awards

Master of Social Work (MSW) University of Michigan, Ann Arbor 2020 Relevant Coursework: Clinical Social Work Practice, Social Welfare Policy, Human Behavior and the Social Environment

2. Highlight your social work licensure

As a social worker, your state licensure is crucial. Make sure to prominently list:

• The type of license you hold (LMSW, LCSW, etc.)
• The state you're licensed in
• Your license number, if required

Bad example:

Licensed Social Worker

Good example:

Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW), New York License #1234567

3. Include relevant training and certifications

Social work often requires ongoing professional development. Highlight any relevant:

• Certifications
• Training programs
• Workshops or seminars

Certified Social Worker in Health Care (C-SWHC), NASW Completion Date: May 2021

However, avoid listing generic training that's not directly applicable, like:

• CPR Certification
• Diversity and Inclusion Workshop

4. Tips for experienced social workers

If you have 10+ years of social work experience, your education section can be brief. Include:

• Advanced degrees (MSW, DSW, PhD)
• Licenses and specialty certifications

MSW, Columbia University LCSW, California Pupil Personnel Services Credential

• Graduation dates, to avoid potential age discrimination
• Details about your undergraduate degree, unless highly relevant

Action Verbs For Social Worker Resumes

Social work is known for being a demanding, active, and dynamic role. This is why you need to use these action words to begin sentences on your resume, specifically for work experience. Here are some examples of effective action verbs you can use to write your social worker resume. Social workers engage, collaborate, and empathize with people and human suffering which calls for action verbs that portray their humanity, emotional capacity, and work ethic.

• Consolidated
• Transformed

For more related action verbs, visit Healthcare Action Verbs .

For a full list of effective resume action verbs, visit Resume Action Verbs .

Action Verbs for Social Worker Resumes

Skills for social worker resumes.

In your resume, it’s important to include certain skills in a way that fits the concept and practice of social work and the demanding responsibilities it needs. 

Adjust and highlight qualities according to each job or field of social work that you apply for. Try to make your resume stand out for the qualification of each role.

• Psychotherapy
• Crisis Intervention
• Mental Health
• Group Therapy
• Case Management
• Mental Health Counseling
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
• Social Services
• Family Therapy
• Behavioral Health
• Motivational Interviewing
• Psychosocial
• Social Work
• Program Development
• Community Outreach
• Interventions
• Dual Diagnosis
• Discharge Planning

How To Write Your Skills Section On a Social Worker Resumes

You can include the above skills in a dedicated Skills section on your resume, or weave them in your experience. Here's how you might create your dedicated skills section:

Skills Word Cloud For Social Worker Resumes

This word cloud highlights the important keywords that appear on Social Worker job descriptions and resumes. The bigger the word, the more frequently it appears on job postings, and the more 'important' it is.

How to use these skills?

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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

In your social worker resume, highlight your extensive knowledge in social work theories and practice. Demonstrate your commitment to ongoing professional development within the field. Ensure your resume includes evidence of strong interpersonal skills and your ability to build trust with diverse populations. Showcase your experience in case management and your aptitude for advocacy in both community and individual settings.

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.

Looking to build your own Social Worker resume?

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5 Real Entry-Level Social Work Resume Examples That Worked in 2024

Entry Level Social Work Resume

• Entry Level Social Work 2
• Entry Level Social Work 3
• Entry Level Social Work 4
• Entry Level Social Work 5
• Entry Level Social Work Resume Writing 101

Eager to demonstrate your interest in social work, you’re ready to assist other social workers in an entry-level position by helping guide people in difficult life situations toward the resources they need: You might help place people in need of rehabilitation centers, group homes, or assisted living facilities.

But you might still have some questions about resume and cover letter writing . How should your career docs look when their done? How can you show your ability to provide much-needed guidance?

Don’t sweat it: We’ve helped plenty of social workers navigate their way to their dream jobs ! With these five resume templates and seasoned advice, you’ll be on the road to success in no time, too.

or download as PDF

Entry Level Social Work 2 Resume

Entry Level Social Work 3 Resume

Entry Level Social Work 4 Resume

Entry Level Social Work 5 Resume

Related resume examples

• Social Work Cover Letter
• Clinical Social Worker
• Nursing Home Social Worker
• Medical Social Worker
• Social Worker

What Matters Most: Your Skills & Job Experience Sections

Your skills section is potentially more important than ever when you’re at an entry level in your career! Skills show recruiters that you have what it takes to get the job done, even if you haven’t had the chance to build up that much relevant experience yet.

Recruiters are looking for someone who knows their stuff well enough to go beyond basic terms like “communication” and list more profession-specific strengths like “counseling”. Now’s the time to go the extra mile and make sure you don’t sound generic!

Try to present both hard and soft skills through an equally technical lens. Really go past the surface and think “What do I use this skill for ?” to get an idea of how you can get more specific with your social work abilities.

Here are some examples of what we mean:

9 most popular entry level social work skills

• Active Listening
• Case Assessment
• Case Documentation
• Problem-solving
• Adaptability
• Addiction Recovery
• Google Docs
• CharityTracker

Sample entry level social work experience bullet points

A diverse and adaptable skill set is indispensable for any social service worker, and the best way to show that your abilities count is to provide examples. Recruiters want to see that you know how to use your skills in the working world, and you can use this opportunity to showcase your biggest achievements.

Just ensure that all your accomplishments are relevant to your job role and reinforce your alignment with high-quality social work. At an entry level, you might not have tons of work experience within the field, but you can still look for experience points that overlap.

Make sure you provide metrics for the successful results in each bullet point to make them more credible. When you provide quantifiable data like milestone achievement rates or program engagement percentages, you appear more reliable and desirable.

Here are some samples:

• Developed and implemented various forms of games and play, resulting in a 12% lift in clients’ self-confidence and social skills
• Provided individual assessment, treatment plans, and psychotherapy services to a diverse teenage population diagnosed with learning disabilities and behavioral disorders, boosting milestone achievement by 9%
• Lead afterschool mentoring program three times per week for teenage youth to encourage self-esteem and teamwork with fellow classmates, friends, siblings, and families, earning a 4.8/5-star personal rating
• Drafted historical documents in Google Docs to reflect children’s social and developmental regression vs. progression, resulting in a 16% increase in record accuracy
• Communicated goals and programs to parents, encouraging parents to take advantage of all opportunities and boosting program engagement by 11%

Top 5 Tips for Your Entry Level Social Work resume

• Diversity and acceptance are huge factors in how effectively social work can guide people to success. You can show your understanding and alignment with this value by citing an array of different examples in your experience section. Mention different demographics, projects, and initiatives when possible.
• Recruiters don’t have much time to spend during their initial speed-read through your resume. They’ll only take a few seconds on average! So use a clean resume template that makes those your excellent social worker qualifications look tidy and easy to read.
• If several of your experience points are measured in the same way, such as grade increases or success percentages, you can keep things interesting by varying your context. Just a few words of backstory can go a long way in terms of upping the intrigue!
• Pay attention to the original job description for hints on how to make your tone match the values of the organization you’re applying to. Social work jobs require a balance of professional detachment and compassion, so look to the job ad for the appropriate writing style to reflect.
• Social work requires, at the very least, that you become a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW). But if you have any additional degrees, certifications, or training completion credentials like First Aid or special education, don’t leave them out!

Whichever one makes your individual qualifications look most impressive! Your resume should only be one page long, so your layout matters. You want your greatest experiences with disadvantaged groups to take center stage!

This concern is common among entry-level applicants, but don’t worry about it! If you have internships, college projects, or even volunteer initiatives in your background that relate to social work, those still count.

It couldn’t hurt! Some people write social work cover letters when they have “experience overflow,” but they’re equally good for giving some backstory on what makes you qualified for an entry-level position. Again: Refer to the job description for details on teaching values or specific demographics of interest.

Resume Guide for Social Workers

A solid resume is critical for success in the competitive social work field. Having an impressive educational background or extensive work experience does not matter if your resume does not inspire an employer to contact you. Professionals can employ simple techniques to differentiate their resumes. Keep reading to learn what information makes your resume stand out from the crowd.

How to Write a Social Work Resume

• Do Your Research: It is important to tailor your resume to each job, including social work internships for undergraduates. Study your potential employer’s website and social media accounts. Determine whether any licenses or certifications are required for the position. Ultimately, research helps you understand if a position is a good fit for you.
• List Key Points: After completing your research, create an outline by making lists to organize your education, computer skills, social work experience, memberships, and training. Include any licenses, degrees, social work internships, and volunteer work. Also note terminology, action verbs, and keywords you will incorporate into your resume. While making your outline, consider your strengths and weaknesses, and aim to highlight your strengths.
• Format Your Resume: A sloppy-looking resume will detract from your accomplishments and skills. Your final resume should be attractive, readable, and nicely organized. Pay attention to grammar and always proofread your writing. A well-formatted resume is organized with headers, bold font, and bullets. Social work resumes generally use Arial, Times, or Helvetica in 11-point font. Resume length should be one page, unless you are applying for a clinical position, in which case two pages is acceptable. Clinical-geared resumes also tend to feature educational information first, followed by social work experience.

Types of Resumes for Social Workers

To determine your ideal resume organization method, explore these three common resume formats for social workers.

Reverse-Chronological

This commonly used method shows your work history beginning with the most recent job. It is easy to skim and shows your career progression. On the negative side, the date-centered formatting exposes gaps in work history.

This style begins with a summary of your skills followed by a summary of your professional accomplishments. Your work history and educational background are listed at the bottom. This resume format benefits social workers just out of college or working professionals switching careers. On the downside, this style makes it harder for hiring managers to quickly scan your work background.

Combination

This resume merges the functional resume and chronological resume. It features a small timeline of your work history, but begins with a career summary. It is ideal for recent graduates or working professionals who have held several jobs. As a disadvantage, combination resumes are longer in length than chronological resumes.

Required vs. Preferred Qualifications

When you see the terms “required” and “preferred” qualifications, you may wonder about the difference. Jobs in social work typically require a bachelor’s or associate degree in social work. This means before a hiring manager calls you for an interview, you must hold the required qualifications. It is common to be asked to submit proof of your qualifications. For example, an employer may ask for a copy of your degree.

Preferred qualifications are those an employer hopes you have. Professionals with preferred qualifications are often put ahead of candidates without them, but those lacking preferred qualifications are not out of the running. Perhaps you have a lower-level degree, but more work experience. On the other hand, if you don’t have all, or most, of the required qualifications, chances are your resume will be discarded. Be sure to include all your required and preferred qualifications on your resume.

What Should I Include on a Social Work Resume?

Every social worker, regardless of experience, should include certain essential information on their resume. This also applies to professionals wondering how to find social work internships. Here’s what to include:

Education and Training

Under the educational header, always include degrees, certifications, licenses, and training in the social work field. Omit graduation dates. Showing that you recently graduated or graduated decades ago may work against you. If your GPA is impressive, list it. If not, leave it off your resume. College students should clearly indicate that their degree is pending.

In the experience section of your resume, include details, dates, and duties pertaining to your work experience. List your job experience in reverse chronological order. Each job should be offset from the others with bold font and bullets. The header contains your title, employer’s name, and the city and state.

For each job, describe the size and makeup of the client population you served. Be sure to include the treatments you administered. When describing your duties, use action verbs such as demonstrated, delegated, and orchestrated. Also use positive adjectives such as adaptable and compassionate to show your ability to relate to clients.

Your skills can be offset or incorporated into your work experience. Only mention skills relevant to social work and consider customizing skills to fit each job. The idea is to make your resume unique.

Licensure and Certifications

To obtain a clinical social work position, you must demonstrate that you are legally licensed. When listing your qualifications, spell out the full names and include your license number and expiration dates.

Awards, Accomplishments, and Affiliations

If you received a social work-related academic or professional award, note it in a separate section on your resume. Memberships to social work organizations are also noteworthy, so list your professional affiliations. This demonstrates you are actively involved in the field.

Volunteer Work

Include any volunteer work related to social work on your resume. This equals experience and is a plus on a resume unless the work is unrelated to the job.

What Should I Put on My Social Work Resume if I Don’t Have Any Experience?

Many hiring managers will take a chance on a less-seasoned candidate if they are willing to learn

Instead of focusing on your lack of on-the-job experience, brainstorm your other skills and qualifications, such as completing social work practicum. Consider any social work internships and volunteer work you completed. Though they may not be paid, undergraduates gain valuable experience through social work internships. If you possess licenses or certifications, that is an added bonus. Include any volunteer work or social work internships in separate category. These skills should be listed on your resume higher than your work experience. Skills unrelated to social work should also be included. Simply explain in your summary how you can transfer those skills to social work.

Keep in mind that many employers seek candidates who are motivated and willing to work hard. Many hiring managers will take a chance on a less-seasoned candidate if they are willing to learn.

What Is a Resume-Reading Robot?

What is ats.

Larger corporations and even some small companies use the applicant tracking system, or ATS, to screen resumes. The software finds keywords and scores your resume to see if you are qualified for the job. ATS also searches your social media account and scans your profile for job-related keywords. Here are a few techniques to get past ATS and get a human to read your resume.

Tips for Outsmarting an ATS

Follow these tips to outsmart ATS and get your resume read by a person.

• Simple Headers: The first step to avoid getting caught in ATS filters is to implement headers on your resume. Use clear-cut, bolded terms such as “Education,” “Skills,” and “Work Experience” to divide your resume.
• Clean Format: Choose a simple layout with commonly used fonts such as Arial, Times, and Helvetica. Skip the graphics and opt for a clean look.
• Keywords/Phrases: Software systems like ATS are designed to find keywords, so the more keywords you include, the better. “Clinical rotations,” “coordinate,” and “harm reduction” are smart keywords to include in your resume.
• Industry-Specific Terms: To show your familiarity and experience with social work, write your resume using industry-specific terms. ATS will identify these words and score your resume accordingly.

Resume Writing Tips for Social Workers

One small mistake on your resume can cost you an interview. Review the tips below for writing a great social work resume.

Tailor Your Resume

Instead of sending the same template resume to every job, customize your resume each time. Identify keywords in the job posting and include them in your resume.

Save Your Resume Under a Professional Name

It is a good practice saving your resume under a professional title such as: FirstNameLastName_Resume.doc.

Make it Easy to Read

Use basic fonts, a simple color palette, and no graphics. Do not distract from the content.

Include a Cover Letter

Do not overlook the importance of crafting a professional cover letter to accompany your resume.

Keep it to One Page

Write a one-page resume unless you are applying for a clinical-focused job, for which a two-page resume is acceptable.

Common Mistakes Social Workers Make on Their Resumes

Use this checklist to help eliminate resume errors.

Spell check won’t catch every typo, so run your resume through an online editor or get a second pair of eyes to review it.

Including Personal Information

Include your phone number and email address, but leave off your home address.

Including Salary Information

Revealing your previous salaries may prevent you from negotiating a higher salary or give the impression that you are underqualified.

Using Nicknames

Stick to your birth name on your resume as even relaxed employers have professional expectations.

Using an Unprofessional Email Address

A professional email address includes your first and last name.

First-Person Pronouns

Avoid first-person pronouns such as “I” and “me” as they are redundant.

Unprofessional Voicemail

A professional voicemail message is critical when employers contact you.

Social Work Resume Samples

Reviewing sample social work resumes gives you formatting and style ideas. You can also borrow social work terminology to include on your resume. Make your resume unique and avoid using standard templates. Here are three sample social work resumes:

• Sample 1: This chronological sample resume from Rutgers University includes great details such as the individual’s licenses, impressive GPA, and skillset.
• Sample 2: This combination example from the University of Michigan features nice organization with separate sections for clinical skills, administrative skills, and research. The three-page resume works for a clinical-focused candidate, but is likely too lengthy for anyone else.
• Sample 3: The last sample resume from the University of Texas, Austin features easy-to-read content. The job seeker also makes good use of action verbs. The lack of work experience, however, is clear since the dates are beside the jobs.

Take the next step toward your future in social work.

Explore schools offering programs and courses tailored to your interests, and start your learning journey today.

7+ Tips for Social Workers & Your Social Worker Resume in 2024

Social workers help individuals and families through difficult times and ensure they are safe from harm. As such, their contribution is invaluable. 

So, we can only assume that you want your social worker resume to represent the value you bring into society and land you the best employment opportunities out there! 

The best way to do that is by putting the spotlight on your most noteworthy professional achievements and showing that you’ve got all the right skills to excel at the job. 

Not sure exactly how to use your social worker resume to your advantage? 

Well, you’ve come just to the right place! 

• How to Pick the Best Social Worker Resume Format
• How to List Your Work Experience in a Compelling Way
• How to Tailor Your Social Worker Resume to the Job
• Tips & Tricks on How to Excel In Your Career As a Social Worker

And much more!

Let’s dive in! 

#1. Choose the Optimal Format For Your Social Worker Resume

For your value to shine through, your social worker resume needs to follow the optimal format. 

We bet you don’t want the recruiter to ditch your resume without paying it too much attention just because it looks cluttered, or because the sections don’t follow a logical order. 

For this exact reason, out of the three resume formats , we recommend you choose the reverse-chronological format for your social worker resume.

The reverse-chronological format includes employment history beginning with the most recent and then going backward.

This resume format is the most popular one around the globe and every single recruiter is familiar with it. As such, it is your best bet.

• When you’re done writing your social worker resume, save it in a PDF format . PDF-s allow your resume to look the same on any computer (while Microsoft Word documents may not). So, as long as the job ad explicitly asks for a Word resume , go with PDF.

Use a Social Worker Resume Template 

Want to skip past all the hassle of formatting a resume?

We get that! 

Having to deal with a text editor to create your CV is not fun. You have to spend hours and hours making the resume look just like you want it to…

Then you make a very slight change, and your entire resume layout gets messed up. 

That’s why resume-builders like Novoresume exist! 

To make your life a little easier, you can just pick one of the hand-crafted resume templates , and voila! All you have to do is fill in your resume contents, literally no formatting effort is required.

#2. Pay Attention to Your Contact Information

This one’s relatively straightforward.

In your contact information section, make sure to include:

• Title (in this case, “social worker”)
• Phone number 
• Email address 
• LinkedIn URL (optional) 

Simple enough, right?

However, there are a few things to keep in mind: 

• Make sure to triple-check all the information (especially your phone number) before moving to the next section. You don’t want to lose your shot at the job just because you had a typo in your phone number. 
• Use a professional email address (something like, [email protected] ), not something that sounds like it belongs in your childhood.  

Sarah Davis - Social Worker 

105-324-9089.

[email protected]

Sarah Davis - Your go-to social worker 

[email protected]

#3. Customize your Resume Summary

Your resume summary needs to be attention-grabbing.

The 2-3 sentence synopsis of your career is the first thing that recruiters lay their eyes on and what makes them decide if they should keep reading. 

As such, it’s very important that you get this right.

Not sure how you can do that? Simply follow our tried-and-tested format:

• Your job and years of experience 
• 1-2 best achievements/core responsibilities 
• Desired goal (or your motivation for working in this industry/specific job) 

And this is what it would look like in your social worker resume: 

Child, family, and school social worker with 5+ years of experience in treating childhood abuse. I’ve had three scientific articles on childhood abuse published in academic journals and I’m currently researching how abandonment issues manifest in young adults. Passionate about deepening my knowledge through experience.

Preparing a Social Worker Resume With No Experience? Go For a Resume Objective

Now, if you don’t have the necessary professional experience to write a captivating resume summary (either because you’re a recent graduate, or because you’re changing careers), you’re still in the clear. 

All you have to do in that case is go for a resume objective . 

In a nutshell, this is a brief statement of your motivation for getting into the field. 

To write an effective resume objective, follow this simple format:

• Your qualifications. E.g. “Recent graduate from University X with a degree in social work”
• Practical experience with social work or relevant skills. E.g. “2 years of volunteering experience”
• Your objective. E.g.: ”Looking to apply my social work knowledge as a Role at Company X”

Here’s a concrete example to get a better idea of what we’re saying: 

Dedicated recent graduate with a Master of Social Work (MSW) from the University of Pennsylvania. 2 years of practical experience from volunteering as a community social worker. Looking to apply my knowledge and deepen my experience as a social worker at the Butler County Community College. 

#4. Show Your Professional Experience as a Social Worker

And just like that, you reached your resume’s most important section. 

Ultimately, it’s your professional experience that defines whether you have the skills for the job or not. So you better make it count. 

Here is the best way to structure your work experience section: 

• Position name
• Company/institution name
• Dates employed
• Achievements and responsibilities (in bullet points) 

And here’s how this looks like in practice for a social worker resume:

Healthcare Social Worker

Massachusetts General Hospital

02/2017 - 05/2021

• Worked with over 100 hospital patients 
• Provided patient education and counseling
• Conducted and developed case to case consultation treatments and therapy plans  

Whenever you can, mention what you achieved instead of just listing what was required of you.

Of course, if you don’t have any relevant achievements to mention, don’t make them up. You can always go with your responsibilities. 

Or, if you do have an experience that just doesn’t fit the traditional “work experience” definition—just follow the advice below. 

Haven’t Worked in the Field Before? Internships and Volunteer Experience Counts!

Lacking work experience doesn’t automatically disqualify you from getting your dream job,  especially if you have something to substitute it with. 

So, if you’ve ever volunteered, or done an internship, make sure to include that in the professional experience of your social worker resume. 

And remember - as we mentioned above, list your achievements over your responsibilities whenever you can. Here’s how! 

Professional Experience 

Social Worker

2019 - 2020

• Volunteered at the Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) For Children. 
• Helped 60 children in the process of finding permanent home environments. 
• Did 30 hours of pre-service training before beginning to volunteer.

Are you a student struggling to create your resume? Our guide on how to make a student resume can help!

#5. Include Your Education

Your education comes directly after your work experience. Here’s what you should know about it: 

• Only include your high school degree if you don’t have a B.A. or any higher education degree. 
• If you haven’t completed your education yet, you should still mention every year of your education to date. 
• In terms of layout, your work experience section should precede education. If you’re a recent graduate with no experience (including any volunteering or internships in social work), then you can start with your education instead. 

Start filling up your education section by listing the following:  

• Degree Type and Major
• Name of University 
• Years studied 
• GPA, Honors, Courses, and any relevant achievements! 

Exceptional education results, honors, and relevant extracurricular activities can also show recruiters that you are driven, motivated, and determined to put in the effort. As such, you should not underestimate this section. 

Here’s how two well-built education sections looks like: 

MA in Counseling Psychology 

Webster University 

2015 - 2019

• Published research on trauma bonding in the Journal of Counseling Psychology 
• Founder and Editor in Chief of the Webster Psychology Magazine 

BA in Social Work

University of Southern California

2012 - 2016

• Graduated Summa Cum Laude
• Assisted in the University’s Counseling Office since sophomore year  

#6. Tailor Your Skills to the Social Worker Profile

The next thing recruiters want to see is that you have the right skills for the job. And the best way to show that is via the skills section.

Instead of just listing random skills, though, you want to specifically list the ones that are relevant for the role.

To do this, analyze the job ad you’re applying for, and extract the top skills that are mentioned there.

Say that the job description is looking for the following skills in a candidate: 

Social worker skills: (1) counseling, (2) conflict management, (3) relationship building

So, when you’re listing out your skills, make sure to include these (as long as you actually possess the skills, of course) - along with 2-3 other relevant skills. 

Additionally, whenever it’s possible, mention these skills as part of your achievements or responsibilities. You can do that by adding them as verbs in your resume summary, or as part of your work experience section. 

For example: 

• Counseled teenagers as a social worker at Brooklyn Technical High School
• Practiced conflict management and resolution as a therapist at the Southwest Idaho Juvenile Detention Center 

Best Soft Skills for a Social Worker

Not sure what skills to mention in your social worker resume?

Here are some of the ones that are most sought-after by recruiters in your field:

• Active listening 
• Self-awareness
• Emotional Intelligence
• Problem-solving
• Communication  
• Time-management
• Acceptance 
• Open-mindedness
• Perceptiveness
• Organization 
• Collaboration  

#7. List Your Licenses and Certifications as a Social Worker

Your resume is the last place to stay humble. 

You should use every chance possible to highlight how you’re qualified for the position. So, if you have any licenses and certifications, this is your chance to boast about them. 

Are you a Licensed Clinical Social Worker? There are two places to include it:

• As part of your title, under your name at the contact information (e.g. Laura Burton, LCSW)
• In the first sentence of your resume summary (e.g.: LCSW with 4+ years of experience in…)

With your license in such a front-row seat, the hiring managers looking at your application will know you’re experienced without even reading your resume.

As for your certification, those go under the dedicated “Certifications” section.

This is how it would look like in your social worker resume: 

• Certified Counselor, NCE level (2019)
• Certificate in Human Services, Great Basin College(05/2017)

#8. Take Advantage of Additional Resume Sections

So, you got all the essentials out of the way and you’re closer than ever to landing your dream job as a social worker. 

But what if you have some extra space on your resume? 

Or, maybe, you are fluent in a foreign language or have attended a ton of scientific conferences. 

No reason to let those achievements go to waste! Take advantage of additional resume sections such as “Languages,” “Conferences,” “Publications” and “Hobbies & Interests.”

Here are some examples on how this would look like on a social worker resume:

• Spanish (Verbal skills: Advanced; Written skills: Advanced) 
• French (Verbal skills: Advanced; Written skills: Intermediate)

Conferences

• 2018 NASW National Conference: "Shaping Tomorrow Together"
• 2016 NASW National Conference: “Leading Change, Transforming Lives” 

Hobbies & Interests

• Member of the National Association of Social Workers
• President of the “Counseling Through Reading” Book Club (25 members) 

5 Things You Need to Know About Working as a Social Worker 

Being a social worker isn’t easy. 

You get to do a lot of good and help people, but you also experience all the tough situations that people go through in their daily lives firsthand. 

Here are some of the things you should know about the beautiful - but, at the same time demanding - social worker journey. 

#1. Remember to take care of yourself! 

I t often happens that when our work involves taking care of others, we become less concerned with taking care of ourselves. 

For example, as a social worker, you might get too involved and personal with a case and, wanting to find a solution, end up neglecting your need for rest. This might lead to burnout. 

Well, that should never be the case - especially when you have a job with an intense workload and unstable hours. Social workers are also at risk of developing emotional fatigue - a factor for a deterioration in their mental health.    

That’s why self-care goes a long way in your industry; you won’t be able to take care of others if you don’t take care of yourself! 

#2. Advance your education to increase your employability!  

The level of your education in social work determines how far you can advance your career. 

For example, a Bachelor’s degree in social work will qualify you for entry-level positions, such as aging services or residential treatment.  

Meanwhile, you need a Master’s degree to become a Licensed Social Worker and practice your profession unsupervised. With a doctorate in social work (DSW) or a Ph.D. in social work, you can get advanced training in research and policy analysis, and even teach at the university level.  

This means that the higher the degree you have obtained, the better your employment options. 

#3. Networking is essential in the field of social work! 

Social work can be an emotionally draining field of work. 

At times, you might face situations that you are unprepared to deal with, despite all your professional experience. For instance, you might find yourself completely unsure what kind of expertise to offer in an unfamiliar situation.

That’s why building a support system of colleagues, mentors, and other professionals in the field is essential to get through all the challenges that may arise during your career.  

#4. Listening is half the communication process! 

We cannot stress the importance of active listening enough. 

Why? To assess each case that you are assigned, you’ll need to listen and understand their experiences before you can work out a solution. 

For this solution to be effective, the people you work with need to trust you and open up to you. 

Neither is doable if you’re not an expert in effectively listening to those around you. 

That’s why career advisors, professors, and trainers alike stress the importance of knowing how to listen, no matter the field of social work you are in.

#5. Government rules and standards frame the work of a social worker

One thing every social worker learns early on is that they cannot each case based on passion and goodwill alone. 

The line of action of social workers is very intricately tied with - and limited by - government guidelines, regulations, and standards. 

Sometimes, you may think those guidelines are frustrating, or you may find that organizational dysfunction causes an intense caseload that can leave you feeling overworked.  

Well, just remember that bureaucracy is an integral part of how our societies operate and that guidelines are oftentimes necessary to set a standard of how cases (which are countless across the US alone) should be treated.

So if you’re feeling frustrated, just remember that ultimately, your job helps people - which is probably what made you want to get into the field in the first place.    

Key Takeaways 

Well, that was a lot to take in! 

By now you should have the right know-how to build the social worker resume that best represents you. 

Just to do a small recap, though, let’s go over the main points we covered:  

• Choose the reverse-chronological format to make the most out of your social worker resume and put the spotlight on your most recent work experiences.
• Whenever it is possible, mention your professional achievements over your responsibilities to stand out from other applicants.
• You can list volunteer experience and internships in social work under your “work experience” section - especially if you haven’t previously worked in the field.
• Don’t leave any licenses and certifications out of your social worker resume.
• Remember, being a social worker isn’t easy! Make sure to take care of yourself and build a support system of colleagues and mentors to help you through any professional hardships.

Related Resume Examples

• Volunteer Resume
• Nurse Resume
• Teacher Resume
• Career Change Resume

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Social Work Resume: Downloadable Sample & Guide

Social work is hard enough without having to worry about getting your resume in good order for future job opportunities. You’re used to helping people in need so accept our expert resume writing advice and let us help you for once!

Social Worker Resume Example MSWord® Download our free Social Worker Resume template in Word and improve the well-being of your own career.

With a job so heavily revolving around dozens of soft skills, being able to write a good resume may be at the bottom of many future social workers’ talents.  

That’s where we come in! 

If you’ve been asking yourself how to write a resume for days on end, then this guide is for you. 

With an expected job growth rate of 9% between 2021 and 2031 according to the BLS, there are more opportunities for you to make your mark in the social work sector, which motivated us even more to put together this thorough guide. 

So take out your pen and pad and let’s crack the best social work resume code together!

Social Work Resume Sample

“First we read, then we write,” said Emerson (but also every Career Counselor to their applicants when writing their social work resumes). 

Usually, career counselors notice the way an applicant presents their skills, experiences, and employees’ abilities . In many cases, flowery language in a resume often ends up in the trash due to a lack of professionalism (depends on where you’re applying) or simply because of the dull over-explaining. 

Another common resume error is being too general and leaving out the specific details and metrics needed. 

So, before you write your resume, there are several points you must cover properly. 

To point you in the right direction, read through our complete social work resume sample first, and then we’ll break down each part of the resume to give you a greater understanding.

[Olivia Lewinski]

[Licensed Clinical Social Worker]

[32 Mc Daniel St SW 30303 | 855-280-7877 | [email protected]]

LCSW with 5+ years of experience. Aiming to teach the young generation at New York University about the coping mechanism of autistic people and exceed their goals according to a pre-planned development schedule. At Children’s Healthcare Atlanta conducted 50 treatment plans for 40 children with 80% success in two trimesters.

Experience  

Marcus Autism Center, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, 2018-present

• Conducted Treatment Plans and Assessment for autistic children
• Conducted special cognitive activities through games with 85% success.
• Organized outdoor events to develop the adjustment skills earlier.

New York-Presbyterian Hospital, 2016-2018

• Provided special development of treatment plans for autistic adults. Managed a case load of 45-50 per month
• Offered parental counseling on autism
• Successfully evaluated and intervenes in crisis situations with autistic episodes.
• Collaborated with colleagues to develop special programs as pandemic coping mechanisms.

Social Worker

US Veterans Health Administration, 2015-2016

• Provided psychotherapy services to approximately 60 individuals each month
• Launched events for patients suffering from mental health illnesses
• Offered counseling for closest relatives of severely depressed patients

Education  

Master’s Degree

Columbia University

• Thesis: Appropriate Care for Autistic Adults – acknowledged by the New York Times.

Bachelor’s Degree

New York University

• Graduated with honors
• Participated in student conferences
• Conducted a workshop with creative ideas for autistic children
• Crisis Intervention
• Psychosocial Assessing
• Developing Treatment Plans
• Active Listening
• Emotional Intelligence
• Collaboration

Certifications

• Academy of Certified Social Workers Credential (ACSW)
• Certified School Social Work Specialist (C-SSWS)
• Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA)

Pubblications

• Article on Assessing Post-COVID PTSD published in Oxford Academic
• Spoke at Social Work Discoveries podcast about enhanced empathy during the pandemic

Additional Activities

• Part-time counselor at US Veterans Health Administration
• Member of American Cancer Society
• Weekly creative activities as fuel for clearer organization, assessments, and developing treatment plans.

Also, if you’re really struggling to write your resume, check out our already designed social work resume templates .  

What’s the Best Social Work Resume Format?

There are multiple resume templates you could use, but one specific format works like a charm with social workers. 

According to career counselors, and HR experts, the best resume format for a social worker is the reverse-chronological format . 

As the name suggests, your social work resume will begin with the latest career information and detail your career backward. 

Although it might seem unconventional for a social work position, this resume type proved as the most readable template for two core reasons. 

• Practicality – points out the most relevant information about the applicant, which is helpful, since the hiring managers will instantly know whether you have or don’t have the needed experience for their opening.
• Vividness – it shows employees’ progressive skill development and the overall development into more demanding roles. So, in reverse, applicants’ social work resume skills get a better perspective.

Social Work Resume: Tips for a Perfect Reverse-Chronological Format

When writing your social work resume in reverse-chronological format , you should consider several factors.

Add a Resume Objective or Summary 

Essentially, resume objectives are mostly recommended for inexperienced candidates .

On the other hand, a summary is more fitting for experienced social work applicants who want to detail all relevant workplace accomplishments and past responsibilities in their resumes. 

Mention Your Qualifying Skills 

The social work skills you list on your resume must correspond to the job description and requirements. Don’t overstuff this section, but add other hard or soft skills you consider useful for the job .

Use Bullet Points to Break Brick Type Resume 

You don’t want the hiring manager to fall asleep halfway through your stellar career because of narrative writing, do you? Separate your cornerstones, and bullet point them.

Include Former Education, Licenses, Training 

Neatly organize and describe your educational experience from most recent to oldest. Ideally, licenses should always be listed first. 

Feature Your Published Projects

It’s always an advantage to have had some of your works published , or acknowledged by, meaningful media.

Mention Personal Interests Outside the Job

When describing your hobbies and interests this section, go for something professional or relevant to the job, not only hanging out with colleagues at the pub!

Do a Grammar Check

This is a no-brainer, but always double-check your resume for grammar errors or illogical sentences.

Also, remember to save your  resume as a PDF! The reason we say this is because PDFs are machine-readable and are more ATS (Applicant Tracking System) friendly . 

How to Write a Social Work Resume Summary or Resume Objective

Social workers are a broad term with various fields of specialization.

You must specify your applicability for the job position with solid arguments, and statistics. Check out how to write a social worker resume summary or objective that will bring you leaps and  bounds closer to the job you want.

Social Work Resume Summary Example 

Devoted social worker with over 3 years of experience. A competent employee that managed every challenge at the US Veterans Health Administration. Ardent and diligent in conducting treatment plans to help others meet their goals in no time as our Hippocratic Oath demands.

The problem with this summary is that the 90s called , and they want their template back. 

It’s not that it doesn’t work, but it’s dated and unspecified. You must be sharper and clearer in how you present yourself as a match for the job you’re applying for. 

LCSW with 3+ years of experience. Looking to educate New York University students with the latest discoveries of the COVID-19 impact on our US veterans. Previously, I’ve done 40 treatment plans for 58 patients at US Veterans Health Administration to meet their goals with 80% progress in 13 months.

This summary will get you interviews because it’s sharp and self-explanatory. The applicant immediately presents themselves as a licensed social worker that gets on their goals at the position they’re applying for.

Lastly, they support themselves with their achievements, mainly through facts and stats. No sugarcoating, no romanticizing the profession—just facts and objectives .

Remember, every time you take on a new position, you’ll need to update your resume , and your summary will need to reflect these change.

How to Write an Entry Level Social Work Resume Objective

In a nutshell, objectives are optional, and they’re recommended for entry-level social workers or those who are on the first ladder in their careers. 

Generally speaking, when writing their entry level social work resume objective , applicants can get creative and focus on their dream-job narrative. Career counselors blame their eagerness and passion to start working, but that’s not an excuse.

As you’ll see shortly, passion is always a plus, but that’s not the determinant for you getting the job. To get it, you don’t write, but document your skills, knowledge, progress, and passion. 

So, check out our entry level social worker resume sample to see how it’s properly done.

Entry Level Social Work Resume Objectives  

Passionate social worker with professional knowledge in assessment and conducting treatment plans, evaluation, and counseling. Always there to listen with deep compassion for every matter. Looking forward to putting dreams into action, and actions into plans.

Being passionate is awesome, and it’s always worth it. But, the chances of getting a job without showing evidence of any experience whatsoever are in the low percentiles.

Low, but not impossible because there’s a way to raise the odds of getting noticed, even if you don’t have direct work experience.

Check out a much-improved example below which includes volunteer work and research .

Emphatic LCSW, proficient in counseling and treatment plans. Conducted treatment plans at New York-Presbyterian Hospital as a volunteer during and after the studies. Also, voluntarily researched the impact of COVID-19 at New York University.

How to Describe Your Social Work Experience

The experience section of your resume is the main determinant that will either get you the job or not.

Namely, this section must mirror your abilities, skills, and achievements. 

By that, we mean clear and straight to the point facts. Be as specific as possible to the job description you’re applying for.

The expert’s tip is to follow the job description as your guide. Because on a second look, you’ll notice the keywords that the employer will be looking for .

When describing your goals and experience, avoid flowery language and stick to action verbs only. Using a correct action verb to replace three adjectives makes your resume neat and professional.

Social Work Resume Examples: Experience

As you’ve seen in the example above, the experience section is organized in bullet points , which, combined with a professional font , make it easy to read.

It’s worth noting that HR experts advise pointing out only the most relevant activities you performed. 

Over the years, applicants used to elaborate too much on their past duties while unconsciously breaking the purpose of their resume. So, make your professional social work resume a concise, bullet-point summary of your experience, achievements and training , not an essay on past duties.

• Conducted Treatment Plans and assessments for autistic children
• Carried out special cognitive activities through games which resulted in notable behavioural improvements and child stress levels halved.

Entry-Level Social Work Resume: Experience Section

If you don’t have the exact experience needed for the job, it’s time to spruce up your resume with experience that you can relate in some way.

Here, resume experts advise you can capitalize on your volunteering and internships that you have completed , relating them to the role you are applying for.

In doing so, you must add specific skills and accomplishments (if any) that will qualify you for the job, not simply list your duties. 

Therefore, if you’ve volunteered, assisted in interventions, got a scholarship from a social work company – feel free to add them all!

💡 EXTRA tip

Use lots of action verbs in your descriptions to make them more impactful!

Check our promising entry-level experience section for a Social Worker :

Manhattan, NYC

• Offered psychosocial counseling, in assistance to Dr. Morris at New York University.
• Conducted treatment planning, and crisis therapy sessions for 50-70 patients per month.
• Collaborated with colleagues, and participated in psychological conferences to improve the treatment program for clients.
• Successfully conducted run events with 60 people under the mentorship of Dr. Jixon at US Veteran Hospital.

Take a look too at our Caregiver resume guide , if you have experience in that related sector that you might add to this section.

Is Your Education Section in Need of a Treatment Plan? It Might Be

The social work profession is always a busy one for people looking to make a change in society. 

In a nutshell, social workers help communities by nurturing empathy and support. 

Currently, social workers can specialize in family relations, dealing with elders, dealing with the marginalized population, mental health issues, refugees, LGBTQ community—the list goes on. If you want to train to be a social worker, there are several stages:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work or similar field
• Master’s Degree in Social Work or MSW-Equivalent Program
• Finished Fieldwork Requirements
• Finished ASWB Exam
• Social Work License

Career experts advise that for each education entry you need to include:

• Title earned
• Name and location of the institution or college
• Date completed

Below this information, add the achievements that will fit your application like coursework, projects, a high GPA (of 3.50 or above) , thesis titles, etc. 

Social Work Resume Example: Education Section

Here you have an example of how your Social Work resume Education sections should be presented on your document:

Master of Social Work (MSW)

• Graduated with honors.
• Volunteered in pandemic counseling, and researched post-pandemic depression.
• Published the work under the mentorship of the leading professor.

Bachelor of Social Work

• Outstanding performances and knowledge in dealing with crisis classes.
• Tutored younger colleagues
• Organized student meetings to normalize several stigmas and develop empathy in people.

The Best Social Work Skills for a Resume

Applicants often second-guess the importance of the skills section in their social worker resumes, and focus on adding more educational degrees . However, it’s the professional skills that weigh the most when looking for a related job. 

If you want to get the social work job you want, you have to enlist the best skills you have that can make you a more fitting choice.

Soft Skills

Hard Skills

• Negotiation Ability

To do so, you must read and re-read the job requirements. 

You’ll find certain keywords in the description, and it is wise to use them as part of your skills section. 

To emphasize your abilities, whether they be organizational skills, management skills , teaching, counselling, etc. it is best to use the given keywords as bullet points. Below, we list some of the skills that all professional social workers should have. Check them out to make your resume more concise:

• Intervention
• Psychopathology
• Critical Thinking
• Policy Awareness
• Organization
• Human Behavior
• Perceptiveness
• Communication
• Active Learning
• Emotional Intelligence (EQ)

While creating your skills bullet points , don’t copy-paste this list. Instead, make sure the list is tailor-made to you, and has been customized and adjusted to more accurately describe where you will excel in this job role. Don’t lie on your resume about the skills you possess , it never pays off!

For pointers, check out how we tackled the job requirement section!

Required Skills

With this in mind, your skills section should look something like this:

• Developed Treatment Plans for 70 children at Children’s Healthcare Atlanta.
• Provided assessment for 40 children per week.
• Organized the needed documents as part of the job at Children’s Healthcare Atlanta.
• High Persuasive skills

As you can see, apart from the needed job requirements for your social worker resume , we added yet another skill that we considered relevant enough to be included in your social worker resume.

Don’t blindly follow the job requirements and the important keywords for your resume . If there’s something you consider useful to have, don’t hesitate to add it in here, in this section.

How to Add Other Sections for an Effective Resume

Often applicants dismiss the Other Section as irrelevant. 

However, this part has a significant purpose, where you add more information about your career and personal life.

Essentially, the section should contain concise information other than the needed job requirements. 

Therefore, take this section as your final say why the employers should hire you. 

Think of your final arguments to convince the hiring managers, and add them to your resume. 

It can be a conference, publications, volunteering, related hobbies etc. Such information proves you’re a dynamic employee, and a potential member of the team you’re applying for.

Now let’s see how you should or shouldn’t write this section.

Social Work Resume Sample “Other” Sections

The Other section in a resume should offer a grasp on your personal activities, accomplishments, extra languages you speak , volunteering projects, hobbies and interests, and more. 

If there’s one thing you shouldn’t do with the Other resume section , it is this:

OTHER 

• Enjoys swimming
• Reading novels
• Hanging out with friends

This is a big no-no. Your employer appreciates your hobbies and activities as they are part of an interview, but in writing, or in your social work resume you have to be more specific , and relevant. 

Moreover, you should convince them you’re not a passive person . Instead, go for something like this:

Conferences

• 2021 Post-Pandemic Mental Health Conference – spoke about the coping mechanisms at New York University
• 2019 International Federation of Social Workers – Volunteered
• 2017 NASW Conference – Volunteer

Publications

• Part-time demonstrator at New York University 

The difference is more than obvious, and you take advantage of the other section as the final say to maximize your hiring chances.

Social Work Resume: Key Takeaways

Use the reverse-chronological template , as it points out your skills and abilities the best. 

When describing your goals and experience, avoid flowery language and stick to action verbs only. Using a correct action verb to replace three adjectives makes your resume neat and professional. 

Don’t forget to use bullet points . Read the job description and find the keywords that will make fine key points, but also mind supporting them with facts and stats.

Lastly, write one section at a time . Also, after writing each section, go back to our guide to check if you’re on the right path and that your section is following the guidelines we’ve set out in this social work resume guide. 

And of course, reread your resume at the end to ensure you have avoided any grammatical errors and that your social work resume is accurate and engaging.   

We hope you found our ResumeGiants guide helpful—now, go and write a knockout social work resume and start doing awesome work in your community!

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• Licensed Social Worker Resume Example

Resume Examples

• Common Tasks & Responsibilities
• Top Hard & Soft Skills
• Action Verbs & Keywords
• Resume FAQs
• Similar Resumes

Common Responsibilities Listed on Licensed Social Worker Resumes:

• Provide individual, family, and group counseling services
• Conduct assessments and develop treatment plans
• Provide crisis intervention services
• Develop and implement case management plans
• Provide referrals to community resources
• Conduct home visits and other outreach services
• Collaborate with other professionals to coordinate services
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date client records
• Provide advocacy and support for clients
• Participate in professional development activities
• Attend court hearings and provide testimony as needed

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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
• Crisis intervention
• Mental health assessment
• Individualized treatment planning
• Community resource networking
• Client advocacy
• Legal system navigation
• Individual and group counseling
• Outreach services
• Record keeping and regulatory compliance
• Communication and collaboration skills
• Cultural competency
• Empathy and active listening
• Problem-solving skills
• Ethical decision-making
• Case management
• Risk assessment
• Conflict resolution
• Time management
• Resilience and stress management
• Knowledge of social services and resources
• Understanding of mental health disorders and treatments
• Ability to work with diverse populations
• Professionalism and work ethics.

Top Skills & Keywords for Licensed Social Worker Resumes:

Hard skills.

• Assessment and diagnosis
• Treatment planning
• Counseling and therapy techniques
• Group facilitation
• Documentation and record-keeping
• Advocacy and client support
• Trauma-informed care
• Crisis de-escalation

Soft Skills

• Empathy and Compassion
• Active Listening
• Communication and Interpersonal Skills
• Cultural Competence
• Problem Solving and Critical Thinking
• Emotional Intelligence
• Boundaries and Self-Care
• Collaboration and Teamwork
• Time Management and Organization
• Flexibility and Adaptability
• Advocacy and Client Support
• Crisis Intervention and Conflict Resolution

Resume Action Verbs for Licensed Social Workers:

• Collaborated
• Facilitated
• Coordinated
• Implemented

Generate Your Resume Summary

Resume FAQs for Licensed Social Workers:

How long should i make my licensed social worker resume, what is the best way to format a licensed social worker resume, which keywords are important to highlight in a licensed social worker resume, how should i write my resume if i have no experience as a licensed social worker, compare your licensed social worker resume to a job description:.

• Identify opportunities to further tailor your resume to the Licensed 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

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Related Resumes for Licensed Social Workers:

Entry level social worker, hospital social worker, medical social worker, social worker, hr employee relations, employee relations specialist, employee relations manager, hr assistant.

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.

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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