How do you put a CPR certification on your resume? Should you list it under qualifications? Do you highlight it in your professional summary?
If you have a CPR certification, you can add it to your Certifications, Education, Professional Summary, or Work Experience resume section. But which one’s right for you depends on how relevant it is to the job you’re applying for.
In this article, we’ll explore whether or not you should include your CPR certification, where it should go, and common mistakes to avoid.
How to list CPR certification on a resume
CPR certification can set you apart, showing you have critical life-saving skills. While it may not lead to a higher salary, it can broaden your job prospects. However, the placement of the CPR certification will vary based on your overall profile and the job. Let’s look at how to add a CPR certification on your resume.
Certifications section
Firstly, check if the job requires a CPR certification or if it will boost your resume. For example, it may add bonus points if you work in childcare or hospitality. If that’s the case, you can showcase it in the Certifications section. Here’s a CPR certification resume example:
Certifications:
• CPR Certified – American Heart Association
Education section
Sometimes certifications aren’t an ‘add on’ but part of your formal education - for example, if you trained in midwifery. In this case, it might sit better under the 'Education' section. Below is an example of how to write a CPR certification on your resume under education:
Education:
• Bachelor of Nursing, XYZ University
• Additional Training: CPR and First Aid, American Red Cross
Professional summary
Including your CPR certification in your Professional Summary is a good option if a CPR certification is essential for the job (essential being the keyword here).
For example, imagine you are a hiring manager searching for a position that oversees people’s safety. They have two almost identical resumes on their desk, but at the top of yours, it mentions CPR training.
An example could look like this:
Energetic and responsible professional with a valid CPR and First Aid certification, seeking a lifeguard position at XYZ Beach.
Work experience
The work experience section is where you include any quantifiable achievements. It’s an excellent place to highlight your CPR certification if it played a crucial role in an accomplishment on the job.
Work Experience
Lifeguard, ABC Aquatics
• Utilized CPR certification to administer lifesaving first aid on 4 guests, resulting in 0 ER visits
If you’re unsure whether you have listed your CPR certification on your resume in the right way, upload it to the tool below — it’ll scan it and provide suggestions for improvements.
Jobs and industries that value CPR certification
Some industries value CPR certifications over others. When applying for jobs in these industries, consciously draw attention to your CPR training. Below is a list of jobs that may look for CPR certification:
- Healthcare roles (nurses, doctors, paramedics, etc.).
- Education sector roles (teachers, coaches, school nurses, etc.).
- Hospitality industry roles (lifeguards, fitness instructors, hotel staff, etc.).
- Office jobs where an employee serves as a safety officer.
If you're applying for roles in industries like tech or finance, where CPR skills may be less relevant, it’s better to emphasize job-specific skills and qualifications.
What to avoid when including a CPR certification on your resume
While a CPR certification can enhance your job application, it's vital to carefully incorporate it into your resume, avoiding several common missteps.
Overemphasizing Your Certification
Only include your CPR training alongside related skills and ensure its placement aligns with your other vital qualifications. For instance, it's a worthy addition if you're in the education sector, but it shouldn't overshadow your primary teaching credentials.
Neglecting Certification Expiry Dates
It's essential to stay aware of the validity of your certifications, including CPR. Listing expired certifications might give employers an impression of negligence. Only include currently valid certifications, or if you're in the process of renewing, specify this.
Ignoring Certification Relevance
While CPR is an important skill, it may not be relevant to every job. For roles where CPR certification isn't significant, it's better to focus on job-specific skills and qualifications.
Overlooking Regional Acceptance
If you're applying internationally, make sure to check whether your specific CPR certification is recognized in your target country or region. Different areas may accept different types of CPR certifications.
Misrepresenting Your Certification
Falsely claiming to have a CPR certification can result in job termination and possible legal repercussions. Companies often verify such qualifications before hiring. Dishonesty could jeopardize not only the current job opportunity but also future ones in the same field.
FAQs about adding a CPR Certification to your resume
If you still have some unanswered questions about including your CPR certification in your resume, check out our FAQs below:
Should I renew your CPR certification for job applications?
The decision to renew your CPR certification depends on its relevance to the jobs you're applying for. If you're applying for roles where CPR certification is required or highly valued, such as healthcare, education, or safety roles, it's strongly advised to renew your certification.
If I'm in the process of obtaining a CPR certification, can I list it on my resume?
If you’re in the process of obtaining the certification, then make sure to include it. But ensure it’s clear that you’re waiting for finalization. For example, in your Certification or Education section, you may add the following:
- Currently completing CPR certification.
Should I include expired certifications on my resume?
No. Expired certifications aren’t of much use to the employer. However, you may want to add that you completed CPR training in your work experience, which shows you have knowledge in the area and could retake the training.
How does online CPR certification compare to in-person training in the eyes of employers?
Generally speaking, employers prefer in-person training because it’s more engaging and hands-on. However, that doesn’t means online training is valueless. If the job requires a CPR certification, then what matters most is that you have one.
What are some resources for obtaining or renewing my CPR certification?
You can check out some popular CPR and first aid training resources below:
