BUILDING A
SUCCESSFUL CV
At Connect Appointments the first information we get about you is from your CV. Our top CV tips will ensure you impress our consultant first, then prospective employers MASTER THE COVER LETTER
Cover letters are an incredible tool when applying for a job: this is a direct reply to the job advert. Study the job advert and look for buzzwords they use. A cover letter is your chance to explain what skills, qualifications and experience make you perfect for the job. This is different to the personal statement at the top of your CV which should summarise who you are, what you do and your career objectives.
ROBERT BLACK 123 Leith Road, Edinburgh EH01 6HU Tel: 0131 987 5432 Mobile: 07812 345 123 Email: robertblack@gmail.co.uk Driving licence: Full, clean
EDUCATION Bell College
Sep 1997 – June 2001 HND in Electrical and Electronic Engineering
Edinburgh College
POWER OF THE PERSONAL STATEMENT
Your cover letter is crucial, but keep in mind that recruiters may lose track of your letter and focus entirely on your CV, this is why a small blurb – or personal statement – at the top of your CV is important. It’s a great method of summarising your entire CV into a couple of sentences, and gives you the opportunity to really sell yourself. Ensure you tailor your personal statement for each role you apply for, this shows attention to detail.
HIGHLIGHT YOUR SKILLS
No matter if you have glowing grades from school or wish you had done better, it’s important to include each qualification on your CV. This lets a recruiter get to understand your base knowledge or a subject and see how you’ve taken it forward into your working life, building on those skills. However, if there’s a particular grade you would rather not shout about, you could list the topics you studied and highlight the ones where you achieved good grades. When you progress further in your career, and have a wealth of experience and roles to reference back to, the onus on your grades from secondary school or college aren’t as integral. Briefly mention them, but give more focus to the skills and experience you’ve gained through various jobs and work placements you’ve held.
Sep 1995 – May 1997 OND in Engineering
Edinburgh High School Aug 1990 – June 1995 O Levels: English, Maths, Geography and Physics Highers: Maths and Physics
SKILLS
Proficient in use of: • • • • • •
PowerPoint Microsoft Word Excel First Aid Antron S/Step card
INTERESTS
I am an avid reader, and enjoy reading new authors. Referee for local children’s football club and volunteering.
REFERENCES Available on request
