Social Worker Resume Example & Writing Guide
- Why use this social worker resume example?
- How to write a great social worker resume
- Which key skills are relevant for a social worker resume?
Social workers are an essential part of society, serving people who are struggling or at risk. If you’ve chosen this noble profession, you’re probably ready to get through the job application process and move on to what matters. The best way to expedite the process is by creating a top-notch resume that displays your skills and education. Keep reading to learn how you can create an effective social worker resume.
Why use this social worker resume example?
Writing a resume can be daunting, especially if this is your first time creating one. Fortunately, the process isn’t complicated once you get the hang of it. In this guide, we’ll offer a few tips that you can use to get your resume in top shape. We’ll explain what to include and give you some formatting tips. Finally, you’ll be able to view an example resume that you can use as a guide.
How to write a great social worker resume
Here are some tips to keep in mind when you’re writing your social worker resume:
As a social worker, you’ve probably completed specialized training that sets you apart from the crowd. Make sure to highlight this by featuring your credentials in an education and/or certification section.
Include a separate expertise section at the top of your resume that includes relevant technical and soft skills. This allows recruiters to skim your resume and look for key qualifications.
Before you begin writing, go back to your job listings and review them. Look for the skills and qualifications most valued by employers and highlight them in your resume if they apply to your work history.
Which key skills are relevant for a social worker resume?
Social workers specialize in counseling and public services, but they also require an excellent set of interpersonal skills. Including these competencies on your resume is a good way to grab the attention of recruiters. Here are several relevant skills that you can list:
Crisis intervention
Conflict resolution
Documentation and reporting
Legal compliance
Addiction treatment
Social services
Individual and group counseling
Client advocacy
Child and family welfare
Mentoring
Summary example
A compassionate, dedicated, and highly skilled social work professional with expertise in counseling at-risk-juveniles and their families. Superior client intake/evaluation skills coupled with the ability to quickly establish rapport with clients.
Employment history example
Social Worker at King County Health & Human Services, Seattle, WA
2015 - Present
Use an in-depth knowledge of Federal, State, and local guidelines, regulations, and statues governing the delivery of human services to conduct individual and group counseling to children, adolescents, and adults afflicted with depression, anxiety, court involvement, substance abuse, and unemployment. Provide intervention and case management services in conjunction with social, community, and mental health services. Ensure the safety of vulnerable children/adolescents; provide promiscuity awareness/support to assist children and families. Help teenagers with high school graduation and transitioning into adulthood. Use crisis intervention and resolution techniques to support escalated clients; remain calm in crisis or other high-pressure situations. Adhere to strict legal protocols; work frequently with Statues 938 for juvenile codes, Statues 48 for children in need of services, and Chapter 51 for mental health commitments. Complete detailed oral/written reports.
Successfully lower recidivism rates in teens with delinquent/out-of-control behavior.
Assisted clients with meeting their mental health needs by informing them of available programs/services including therapy, medication management, drug treatment programs, court support, and community services.
Encouraged active participation in programs and verified attendance at that court-mandated activities.
Initiated and maintained contact with courts, schools, mental health, and community agencies to assist individuals and family in need.
Family Social Worker at St. Patrick Youth and Family Services, Redmond, WA
2010 - 2015
Worked in an alternative school setting with at-risk students; assisted with graduation issues and delinquent behavior. Counselled kids struggling with multiple issues, including school anxiety, self-harm, criminal thinking, trauma, self-harm, suicidal thoughts, family disruptions, and drug/alcohol issues. Mentored at-risk youths and taught social/living skills; encouraged positive life choices. Assisted students with the transition from high school into adulthood. Documented daily client interactions.
Recognized for a genuine compassion and concern for students, and an advanced ability to connect; collaborated with county social workers on treatment plans.
Used alternative therapy including art projects, learning-based field trips, and guest speakers to reach students; held family meetings as required.
Education example
Bachelor of Arts in Social Work at the University of Washington
Skills example
Client Advocacy/Support
Individual/Group Counseling
Crisis Intervention/Referrals
Client/Family Education
Social/Educational Adjustments
Recordkeeping/Documentation
Treatment Plans/Enforcement
