Land Your Dream NP or PA Role: Resume, Interview & Follow-Up Tips from a Health Care Recruiter

By Tasha Pruitt, Manager, Talent Acquisition – MinuteClinic® 

If you're a Nurse Practitioner or Physician Associate actively searching for your next opportunity, you already know how competitive the job market can be. But what if you had insider advice from someone who reviews provider resumes and interviews candidates every day? 

I’m Tasha Pruitt, a Talent Acquisition Manager at CVS Health MinuteClinic—and I’ve been in your shoes. I started my career as a new grad NP in 2008 and have grown into a leadership role. Today, I want to share practical, proven tips to help you stand out and land the provider role you’ve been working toward. 

📝 3 Resume Tips to Help You Stand Out as an APP 

1. Tailor Your Resume to the Job Description  Don’t send the same resume to every job. Instead, pull keywords from the job posting—like chronic care management, Epic experience, or primary care—and weave them into your resume. This shows hiring managers that you’re aligned with the role from the start. 
2. Highlight Specialized Skills & Certifications  Make sure your resume showcases your unique qualifications. Whether it’s a DEA license, DOT certification, telehealth experience, or EMR systems, these details help paint a clear picture of your capabilities. 
3. Quantify Your Impact  Numbers speak louder than generalities. Instead of saying “I helped improve patient flow,” say:  “Reduced patient wait times by 30% by streamlining triage and intake protocols.”  This kind of data-driven storytelling helps hiring managers understand the value you bring. 

🚫 What to Avoid on Your Resume 

Avoid vague, generic language like “team player” or “hard worker.” These phrases don’t communicate your actual skills or impact. Be specific about what you did, how you did it, and the results you achieved. 

🎤 3 Interview Tips for NPs and PAs 

Use the STAR Format  Structure your answers using the STAR method: 

• Situation 

• Task 

• Action 

• Result  This format helps you tell clear, compelling stories that demonstrate your clinical and interpersonal skills. 

Research the Employer & Ask Smart Questions  Learn about the clinic, patient population, and company values. Then, prepare thoughtful questions like: 

• “How are providers involved in care planning?” 

• “What does the onboarding process look like?”  This shows genuine interest and preparation. 

Practice Clear, Confident Communication  Record yourself answering questions. Eliminate filler words like “um” and “like,” and work on maintaining eye contact—even in virtual interviews. Your tone should be calm, assertive, and empathetic. 

👔 Interview Prep: Before You Log On or Walk In 

• Know the Role & Setting: Tailor your answers to the specific care environment. 

• Mock Interviews: Practice with a peer, mentor, or even a family member. 

• Dress Professionally: Yes, even for virtual interviews. 

• Follow Up: Always send a thank-you email to reinforce your interest and professionalism. 

🚫 What to Avoid in Interviews 

Never speak negatively about past employers. Even if your frustrations are valid, interviews aren’t the place to air them. Instead, focus on your growth goals and what you’re looking for in your next role. 

🌱 Career Growth 

Make sure to ask questions during your interview to understand the company’s career growth opportunities. At CVS Health and MinuteClinic, we believe in growing our providers. From clinical roles to leadership positions like Senior Clinician, Educator, or Area Director, there’s always a path forward. 

I’m living proof. I started as a new grad NP, and now I help others find their path. 

💬 Final Thought 

Whether you're updating your resume, preparing for an interview, or following up with a hiring manager, small changes can make a big difference. With preparation, clarity, and confidence, you can land the role that aligns with your skills and your purpose. 

Want to learn more about provider opportunities at MinuteClinic?

Visit:  https://cvs.jobs/imbcvs