Post on 10-Aug-2015
transcript
About this webinar60 minutes:
- 20 mins presentation from Fish4jobs
- 40 mins Q&A with Daily Mirror’s Careers Editor, Tricia Phillips
Presentation in two sections:
- CV advice and mistakes to avoid
- Cover letter tips
Interact by posting questions using the ‘Ask a question’ tab
Continue conversation on twitter using #Fish4jobsCvWebinar
and on facebook post webinar
VISIT ‘RESOURCES ‘
SECTION:
CV advice
Cover letter tips
Free CV and cover letter templates
Mistake #1: Bad formatting/layout
Tips
No perfect layout
Easy to scan read
Chronological flow: present and work back
2 pages
Lead with the best stuff first!
Structure
Contact details
Personal statement
Key achievements/skills
Work history
Education
Hobbies & interests (where relevant)
References available upon requestRESOURCES:
CV template
Graduate & School leavers CV templates
Mature job seekersCV template
Mistake #3: Generic or no personal profile
3 sections
1. Who you are (education and work history)
2. What you can bring to the table (skills, achievements)
3. Your career aim (what job you want)
Avoid clichés
Keep it concise
Tailor
RESOURCES:
Write a profile that packs a
punch
Examples that state the obvious
“A highly motivated, hard working and enthusiastic individual who possesses the ability to learn new skills. I am punctual with excellent timekeeping and attendance. I consider myself to be very reliable, honest and trustworthy, I get on well with people and enjoy working as part of a team or on my own initiative. I am of smart appearance and well spoken.”
“An employer would find me reliable and responsible as well as being extremely flexible and co-operative. I am eager and willing to expand my skills and try out new challenges that may come my way. I am a bubbly and bright person who works well in a team and solely. I also believe I have enough experience and life skills to excel at any challenge thrown my way.”
"I am a committed and hard working individual who enjoys a challenge. In addition to strong communication skills, I am able to work effectively in a team. I can also demonstrate advanced problem-solving skills and thrive under pressure. My drive and ambition ensure I am a valuable addition to any company.”
Examples that sell“Enthusiastic school leaver with five GCSEs looking for an apprenticeship in the engineering field Possessing good written and verbal communication and an interest in engineering which has spanned my lifetime with particular passion for electrics. For my GCSE Design & Technology project, I built a working calculator and was awarded an A*. Looking for a start in the exciting world of electrical engineering where I can learn a trade and realise a lifetime ambition.”
“A motivated, adaptable and responsible school leaver seeking an entry-level position in public relations which will utilise the organisational and communication skills developed through my involvement with promotional work during vacations.”
“Results-oriented sales professional with 10+ years proven success in both B2B and B2C sales. Confident networker, with established relationships in FTSE 100 companies including BT, Microsoft and major UK retailers. Managed sales teams (15+ people) within IT, telecommunications and retail sectors.”
Unnecessary personal data
Date of birth
Marital status
Children
National insurance
Passport number
No photos!
Relevant hobbies
Relevant hobbies & interests
Examples:
Captain of school hockey team (demonstrates leadership)
Duke of Edinburgh Award (demonstrates commitment)
Volunteer/community work (proactive)
Visiting museums and art galleries (if applying for jobs in architecture or the arts)
Cars (if applying to be a mechanic/work with cars)
Amateur dramatics (if applying for drama
or role that involves public speaking)
To recap
Keep the layout clear and easy to scan read, 2 pages
Tailor your CV to individual role/types of role
Include a personal statement that makes you stand out
Get someone to proof read your CV
Remove any personal data that isn’t relevant (esp. hobbies!)
RESOURCES:
CV tips
CV template
Graduate & School leavers CV templates
Mature job seekersCV template
Cover letters: should I bother?
Simple answer, yes!
Majority of candidates don’t include one so sets you apart
Snapshot of why your skills, achievements and experience make you relevant for the job
Always include cover letters when applying for jobs on job sites
RESOURCES:
Cover letter tips
Cover letter templates including
school leavers & graduates
Cover letters: top tips
Keep it short, structured and snappy
Tailor it to each job you apply for
Back up with relevant examples
Bring your reader up to speed on your current situation
Stick to plain, professional language
Proofread your letter or email with eagle eyes before sending
Sounds simple, but remember to include your address, telephone number and email
RESOURCES:
Cover letter tips
Cover letter templates including
school leavers & graduates