If you’re fresh out of chiropractic school, landing your first job can feel overwhelming especially if most job listings seem to ask for “2+ years of experience.”
But here’s the truth:
Most clinics aren’t just looking for experience. They’re looking for potential.
Many employers are excited to hire new grads if they bring the right mindset, attitude, and foundational skills.
Here’s what clinics are really looking for when hiring new chiropractors, plus actionable tips to help your resume shine even without a long work history.
Top Qualities Clinics Want in New Chiropractic Graduates
You don’t need decades of experience to get hired. You just need to show that you’re coachable, professional, and ready to grow.
✅ 1. Coachability and Eagerness to Learn
Employers want someone who:
- Takes feedback without ego
- Is open to learning clinic systems and adjusting styles
- Can evolve quickly with mentorship
A teachable attitude matters more than a perfect resume.
✅ 2. Communication and Bedside Manner
New chiropractors who are confident with patients even if their technique is still developing tend to build strong rapport early.
Clinics look for:
- Friendly, professional demeanor
- Active listening skills
- The ability to explain care plans in simple terms
✅ 3. Solid Technique and Clinical Fundamentals
Even if you’re not a master of every adjusting style, you should be:
- Comfortable delivering care safely and confidently
- Familiar with documentation and SOAP notes
- Able to follow clinical protocols
Many clinics are happy to teach advanced techniques but they expect a strong foundation first.
✅ 4. Adaptability to Clinic Systems
Each clinic has its own flow, tools, and philosophy. As a new grad, your willingness to:
- Learn their EHR software
- Follow their care plan structure
- Work collaboratively with their team
…can be a bigger asset than prior clinic experience.
Resume Tips for New Chiropractic Graduates
Don’t let a lack of work history hold you back. Instead, highlight your training, soft skills, and potential.
Emphasize Internships and Externships
List where you interned, what types of patients you treated, and any special skills you gained.
Example:
“Completed 300+ patient visits during externship at XYZ Chiropractic, focusing on sports injuries and extremity adjustments.”
Highlight CE Courses and Certifications
If you’ve taken continuing education in techniques like:
- Webster (prenatal)
- ART or FAKTR
- Pediatric adjusting
- Functional rehab
Include them especially if they align with the clinic’s niche.
Showcase Soft Skills and Leadership Roles
Think back to school organizations, peer mentoring, club leadership, or event planning. These show initiative and professionalism.
Example:
“President, Student ICA Chapter organized monthly guest speakers and technique workshops.”
Pro Tip: Personalize Your Cover Letter
Many new grads write generic cover letters that say little beyond “I’d love to work for your clinic.”
Instead, include a brief paragraph that shares:
- Why you chose chiropractic
- What excites you about this clinic specifically
- How you want to grow in your first role
A little storytelling goes a long way.
Final Thoughts
If you’re a recent chiropractic graduate, don’t let a short resume stop you from applying. Clinics are often looking for:
- Growth mindset
- Good communication
- Trainable technique
- Alignment with their mission and methods
With the right positioning and a clear willingness to learn you can stand out as a new grad and land a job that launches your career.