If you’re exploring a career at Community Health Alliance, your resume is often the first introduction you make. Our Talent Acquisition Partner, Heather Parras, brings more than six years of recruiting experience and is passionate about connecting people with roles where they can thrive—both professionally and personally.

From Heather’s perspective, the strongest candidates are those who not only have the right experience, but who are also motivated by mission-driven work and a desire to serve their community. Your resume is your opportunity to show that connection.

One of the best ways to stand out is to start with a sharp, professional header and a short summary—just two or three lines that clearly explain who you are and what kind of role you’re seeking. Recruiters often review resumes quickly, so clarity upfront matters.

Heather also encourages applicants to prioritize relevant experience. Focus on what aligns most with the position you’re applying for, rather than trying to include everything. A focused skills section can help as well, especially when you list hard, job-specific skills first.

Many organizations, including healthcare providers, use applicant tracking systems (ATS), so your resume should be optimized for screening software—but still written for humans. Clean, skimmable formatting is key. If a resume feels cluttered or difficult to read, it can be easy to miss your strengths.

Small details also make a big difference. Typos, grammar errors, or inconsistent dates can become silent deal breakers, so proofreading is essential.

Finally, customization is one of the most important steps. Heather recommends tailoring your resume for every application by highlighting the skills and experience that match the role and our work. And one common question: headshots are not necessary—simple and professional is best.

At Community Health Alliance, we’re always looking for people who bring both skill and heart to the work. A strong resume can help you take the first step toward joining a team focused on care, connection, and community impact.

For career options available, check out our career page.