Step by Step Guide to Writing a CV

A STEP BY STEP GUIDE TO

WRITING A CV

How to write a CV that will allow you to stand out from the crowd.

INTRODUCTION

The aim of this guide is to walk you through, step by step, how to create a professional CV that will help you to stand out from the crowd. There is no perfect CV–however most recruiters, if not all, are looking for specific things on your CV and will initially spend less than 10 seconds looking at it!!

It is vital you show you have the key skills and attributes for the role and you fit into the culture of the organisation.

Be prepared to allocate a reasonable amount of time to achieve this, it is work in progress and you will continue to improve it as you work through your career journey.

This guide will include many top tips as well as some examples of well written CVs.

If you require any clarification or more in depth one to one guidance please do not hesitate to contact one of the Faculty Employability Advisors in the Careers and Opportunities Hub.

PURPOSE OF A CV

The only purpose of the CV is to move you to the next stage of the recruitment process, this may be an interview or it may be some specific testing……as long it has moved you to the next stage it has done its job. If you are self-employed it is a tool to showcase your skills to potential clients and customers.

Remember a CV is YOUR marketing tool, it is describing you on your best day

STEP 1

RESEARCH THE EMPLOYER OR ORGANISATION

Develop your commercial awareness and get to know the organisation’s business activities and its sector. Start by investigating the company’s website, their social media profiles and any news items about them.

This checklist might be helpful. Have you researched the following…

F The employer’s full name, and can you spell it?

F Their corporate website, including the ‘careers’ and recruitment sections?

F The organisation’s social media accounts: LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and recognised any tone they use? Is it fun, friendly or formal?

F Latest news on the organisation or industry press releases and any stories or headlines for this business

F How the company likes to see itself and therefore what brand have they created? Can you easily find their values?

F The main business and products or services of the organisation. Can you write a summary of what it does in your own words? Where is it based and how big is it?

UNDERSTAND THE ROLE YOU ARE APPLYING FOR

Employers create a job advert to show you the responsibilities involved, this can sometimes be very general. To obtain more detailed information you need to locate the job description and the person specification for the role advertised, which are likely to be one document:

F The job description states your key responsibilities

F The person specification will include the essential and desirable criteria for the role.

Read all these documents very carefully, and consider how you can prove your ability to carry out all the tasks stated as well as meet all the essential criteria and hopefully, at least some of the desirable criteria.

The recruiter will score your CV or application form according to how closely it matches the advert and person specification. The more you evidence something you have done against the list of what they want, the more likely you will be invited to interview.

Follow these top tips:

F Use a highlighter to highlight the key responsibilities, skills and personal attributes in the job description and person specification

F List your abilities and personal attributes against those required for the job.

F Write down the things you are most proud of, your best achievements that might be relevant for this job

F List your most relevant examples from volunteering, any work experience, your degree and other university activities that will help you showcase your strengths and therefore help you to stand out from the crowd.

CONSIDER YOUR CV PRESENTATION

A CV should look professional, be well written, easy to read and without spelling, grammar or punctuation errors. Please consider the following:

F Keep your CV to 2 full pages, unless you are specifically asked to submit a one-page CV.

F Use a clear straight forward format with a legible font in size 11–12 (such as Calibri, Arial, Raleway or Verdana). Do not over fill or clutter the CV and use "white spaces" to make it easy to read.

F Decide on one simple way to highlight sections, headings in bold, capitals or italics, unless designing a creative CV.

F Bullet Points are an excellent way for recruiters to easily and quickly find the information they want. You may only have a few seconds to impress them.

F Use short sentences rather than long paragraphs for this reason keep your paragraphs short or bullet point your CV instead.

F Be professional and ensure the spelling, grammar and punctuation are correct, and avoid using jargon.

Here are some links that you might find useful:

₀ www.totaljobs.com/advice/graduate-cv-template

₀ www.prospects.ac.uk/careers-advice/cvs-and-cover-letters/example-cvs

₀ www.targetjobs.co.uk/sites/targetjobs.co.uk/files/public/final-year-cv-template.pdf

₀ www.cv-library.co.uk/career-advice/cv/cv-templates/no-experience-graduate-cv

GRADUATE MANAGEMENT TRAINEE

At Enterprise we believe that great leaders aren’t born; they’re made. When you join us you will get support to become the future leader we know you are. We’ll give you real responsibility from your first day. From customer service to finance and operations to sales, you’ll work across our entire business and learn everything it takes to manage a successful, multimillionpound organisation.

RESPONSIBILITIES

As a Graduate Management Trainee, you are empowered to make business decisions that affect your careers as well as the bottom line. We will teach you how to effectively communicate, influence and interact with all types of customers, vendors and colleagues. You’ll learn proper sales techniques, problem solving strategies and conflict management. These skills will provide you will the opportunity to market to local business partners and build solid lasting relationships with key decision makers.

SALES EXECUTIVE (PUBLIC SECTOR) GRADUATE PROGRAMME, SOFTCAT

We love recruiting graduates with ambition, energy and an eagerness to learn. If you’re looking for responsibility, rewards and a clear progression path, then Softcat is a brilliant place to begin your career. When you see the set-up, we think you’ll be keen to come on board – especially as you don’t need a tech background to join us.

RESPONSIBILITIES

As a Public Sector Sales Executive, you’ll be securing new business within public sector organisations across the UK, selling IT solutions and providing top class customer service. As you become established in the role, you’ll spend less time on building new business and focus on enhancing the existing relationships you’ve built. It truly feels like running your own business, where you get to control your earning and development.

WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR

• Previous sales or customer facing experience would be an advantage but not essential

• Passionate, fun and have the entrepreneurial flare to build your own client base from scratch

• Self-Starter, quick learner and highly organised Clear and persuasive communicator

• Ability to build rapport with new clients as well as strong relationships internally

• Interested to hear from Graduates looking for a role in sales

• Keen to learn about new and emerging technologies

Job Specification

Customer Services Staff, Winchester Science Centre & Planetarium, Winchester

Post Title: Weekend Customer Services Line Manager: Events and Customer Services Manager

1. The Role

As part of a Customer Service team you will be encompassed into the admission and catering side of the organisation. This includes serving customers, preparing food and serving drinks in an efficient and timely fashion to maintain a steady customer flow though the cafe.

2. Person Specification:

It is Essential that you have:

• Flexible and hardworking attitude

• Attention to detail and ability to see the centre through the customers eyes

• Ability to work in a fast passed environment

• Ability to take own initiative

EMPHASISE YOUR SKILLS

A professional CV is your ‘selling document’ and should be well written. It should highlight your skills and attributes, matching the person specification and job description of the job you are applying for. This should be easily found by the recruiter.

Please find below some ideas for phrases you might wish to use or adjust into your own words. Remember to utilise all your experience, such as any specific study, volunteering, part-time work, placements or involvement in university societies or clubs.

COMMUNICATION SKILLS

F Prepared and delivered a presentation or talk

F Presented information as a Student Academic Representative

F Written essays, dissertations, articles, blogs or reports

F Designed and produced marketing material for events

TEAMWORK

F Delegated tasks to team members to achieve a common goal

F Actively participated as a member of a sports team, in a band or a society

F Supported other team members in a working environment

F Volunteered to complete additional tasks when a team member was absent

PROBLEM SOLVING

F Proposed and implemented a new idea for a course project

F Identified an issue with a rota and suggested a more effective solution

F Worked around a difficulty or a constraint

F Encouraged others to be open to a discussion to change a process

DIGITAL OR COMPUTER LITERACY

F Audited and updated the intranet pages

F Designed a new website for a charity

F Created a brochure for an event

F Designed social media to promote a competition

F Produced reports and graphs using Excel.

NUMERACY

F Inputted numbers into a spreadsheet

F Responsibility as a Treasurer for a club or society

F Completed maths/statistics/data analysis.

LEADERSHIP

F Taught a group or trained a colleague

F Chaired a team or university society

F Led a group whilst carrying out an Open day event

F Held a role of responsibility, such as being on the Student Senate or Student Academic Representative

F Encouraged and motivated others in a team

CUSTOMER SERVICE

F Provided first-class customer service, took care of customer needs, ensured customer satisfaction

F Remained calm displaying a professional, can do attitude

F Welcomed visitors to an open day

F Dealt effectively with questions and complaints.

F Organisation and time management

F Prioritised work to complete my assignment on time

F Planned tasks in advance, evaluating time required for each activity being methodical with my approach

ADAPTABILITY AND FLEXIBILITY

F Covered for a Residential Assistant at short notice

F Adapted the time of the course project meetings to suit all peers on my course

F Worked part-time in Winchester whilst studying

F Signed up to attend a charity, outside my comfort zone

NETWORKING/ BUILDING BUSINESS RELATIONSHIPS

F Attended and introduced myself to prospective employers at a Careers Fair

F Invited and hosted visitors whilst attending a session

F Maintained a professional image when representing the company

USE CONVINCING LANGUAGE IN YOUR CV

Using “active” verbs as the first word of a bullet point or at the beginning of a sentence provides a positive explanation of the impact you have had. Using accurate and powerful verbs will make your CV more interesting and dynamic. Using verbs at the beginning of sentences can be very powerful.

Here are some examples of word and phrases you may find useful.

GET THE LAYOUT AND CONTENT RIGHT FOR YOU

The order and content of the CV is flexible and up to you. When considering what template to use think about the culture of the company. How creative are they? What colours do they use? What style do they have? How professional are they? How can you use a template that fits their style?

Remember, the recruiter spends less than 10 seconds initially to decide whether they think you are a good fit for the organisation. Therefore, make it easy and quick for them to find out what they want to know.

What should come first?

F The most important information should be on page one, ideally in the top half of the document.

F Give more space to and highlight experience that is most appropriate to the job. For example, if you did a related module in your degree, give some details about it and describe the assignments.

F Include any relevant specialist skills or knowledge.

F When listing details start with your most recent attainments and work backwards.

What to include in your CV

Most CVs include the following:

F Name and contact details: Usually the name is centre stage in a larger font and/or bold. Photos are not required unless it is for a Performing Arts/ Creative CV such as acting.

F Contact details: A mobile number and professional email address are enough. Some people include an address, but most employers use email. Keep yourself safe online; you don’t need to include your address when posting CVs onto online jobsites. If you have a good LinkedIn profile, add it here.

F Profile/summary/career aim/objective: Keep a profile section brief, tailored to the role and in the third person and concisely show you are the right candidate. Choose 2-4 sentences using the prompts of:

1. Who you are. E.g. Second-year history student

2. What skills you have. E.g. A competent communicator

3. Where you have developed these skills. (which role/university course etc.)

F Education or qualifications or training: Highlight the title of what you have done, and explain your degree with a few lines. Start with the most recent first.

F Employment history/work experience (paid or unpaid)/volunteering: Start with the most recent first and make sure the job and job title is clearly highlighted so at a glance a recruiter can understand what you did.

F Relevant experience: You might separate out your most relevant experience into a speciallynamed section (e.g. Writing Experience). This is especially helpful, as you can move it higher up the page to ensure it is noticed.

F Skills: These skills need to match the person specification document. You can either show the skills you have developed within the employment section or create a separate area for skills, which usually comes after your personal profile on page one.

F Interests, achievements, awards or other activities: There’s no requirement to include hobbies on a UK CV. If you want to, it can showcase teamwork, event management, leadership, or job-relevant skills such as communication and creativity. It demonstrates a life outside work. Do not include anything that has absolutely no relevance to the job.

F References: Most job applications request a minimum of two referees, the first of which is usually the most recent or relevant employer or an academic tutor. Always ask a referee’s permission so they will be ready for an approach. For the CV it is usually enough to state that ‘references will be provided on request’. If you are putting their name in, include their title and an email but not their full address.

TYPES OF CV

There are several CV formats you might want to choose from, including these 6:

1. REVERSE-CHRONOLOGICAL CV

This lays out a history of activities undertaken with the most recent first, working backwards.

2. SKILLS-BASED CV

A CV organised by examples of skills required for the job on page one. It draws attention to important skills, giving examples of where you have undertaken them. Many employers state they like this one.

3. COMBINATION CV

This is a mixture of a chronological and skills-based CV. It is presented as a chronological CV but displays core competencies or key skills on page one.

4. CREATIVE AND PERFORMING ARTS CVS

The layout always depends on the industry you are targeting. Creative CVs may include examples of your designs or images within the text and signpost the reader to a website, or blog or online portfolios or showreels. Performing Arts CVs may include your photo and performing experience.

5. ACADEMIC CV

This is used by lecturers and post-docs for academic and research-intensive positions. Include information about the research you have undertaken, professional memberships, any fellowships, awards and publications. Have different headings for these areas with conferences attended and presented at and any poster presentations.

6. VIDEO CV OR SHOWREEL

Some employers ask for a video CV to supplement Skype and Video interviews. Or you may also want to use a video CV to try and find creative work or experience.

PRACTICAL CV TIPS

1. Saving and naming your documents

Most applicants save the CV as a word document or as a PDF, always ensure you are sending it to the recruiter in the format they would prefer. There are many occasions when it has been received and the recruiter is not able to open it, make sure you are not ‘that’ person.

2.

CV sifting and the Application Tracking System (ATS)

ATS is a tracking system used by some recruitment websites which will sift through CVs to save an employer a great deal of time by scanning it for relevant words:

F The computer sorts the content into different categories such as Contact details, Education, Skills, Qualifications and Work Experience.

F The required/desired skills or keywords are matched against this and a score is given.

F Boxes, graphics and fancy logos can disrupt the layout when sifted by ATS.

F Always check any advice given by an employer on the format of the CV required.

CV APPLICATION TIPS

I have a disability. Do I have to mention it on my CV?

There’s no obligation to mention a health condition or disability when you apply for a job, and you don’t have to include it on your CV. If you do plan to declare a disability it may be easier to do so in your covering letter, rather than the CV. It can give you an opportunity to sell some of the unique skills and experiences you have gained due to your disability.

I am a mature student with a gap in my employment. Does this matter?

When producing your CV it may be worth considering the format of a skills-based one as it gives you an opportunity to positively sell your skills obtained whilst away from paid employment. E.g. your time management and organisation skills when raising a family. Have you liaised with professionals whilst caring for a family member, or gained valuable experience whilst travelling or in voluntary work?

I am an international student, are there any issues I need to consider?

The typical UK CV differs from other countries as you’re required to match your skills with those relevant for the job role, and is more than a list of your qualifications and experience. As an international student you will want to include details of your work permit, previous qualifications including the UK equivalent, and the level of your English proficiency.

A CHRONOLOGICAL CV – (BUSINESS STUDENT)

Write a short introduction about yourself detailing who you are, your skills and what you are looking for.

Isabelle Ringing

Hampshire

Adaptable and outgoing final year Business Management student, currently achieving a high 2:1. Experience within retail, tourism and fundraising, events organising and marketing. Strong organisational, project management skills, as well as communication skills developed during my degree and range of work experience.

Seeking a graduate level role, to further develop my communication and organisational skills.

Education

2017- 2020 BA(Hons) Business Management, University of Winchester, Expected result;

Put your most recent qualification first, the knowledge and skills gained

Don’t list all your GCSEs. Just state how many you have and grades in Maths and English and any relevant subjects.

2:1/1st

Modules to date have included – Strategic Marketing Management, People and Organisations, Management and Leadership and Managing Finance. Gained team work and project management skills, worked in small project groups. E.g. Presented an innovative marketing strategy for a new local florist. Completed market research assignments and received a first-class mark for my research showing how computer simulation can improve queuing systems. Communicated clearly via several group or individual verbal presentations.

2012-2017 2 A Levels and 9 GCSEs, Bellring Academy, Tooloud

2 A levels – English (B) and Mathematics (B).

9 GCSE’s (A* – C Grade) including English, Maths and Science. School Prefect Undertook playground supervision and support duties.

Employment and other experience

Sept 2019-now Volunteer, Screech Retirement home, Winchester.

• Fundraised by organising ‘A Spell in..’ for 24 hours.

• Raised £1500 towards new accessories needed for the home.

Summer 2019 Marketing Assistant placement, Singalong Insurance, Humbridge

• Created a marketing campaign with others.

• Attended events to gain client views of current materials and messages.

• Designed and implemented new promotional company leaflet.

Jan-Aug 2019 Visitor and Tour Assistant, Hip Hop World, Winchester

• Guided visitors on tours, dealt with complaints, ordered gifts for shop.

• Achieved and exceeded target for sweet sales

• Awarded Customer Service Assistant of the month

Highlight positive tasks and responsibilities from work, volunteering, placements etc. Use a brief description and examples. Think about what is required for the roles you are applying for.

September 2018 Arrivals Helpline Team Member, University of Winchester

• Trained to answer the phone and knowledge of the enrolment process.

• Spoke clearly on the phone to parents and new students

• Assisted and helped facilitated them through the enrolment process

June-Sep 2018 Customer Ride Operator, Paulton’s Park, Near Southampton

• Worked as a team to fulfil a busy rota of running over 20 different rides

• Oversaw customer enjoyment, safety and equipment

Positions of responsibility

Oct 2019-now Treasurer, Business Management External Trip Society, University of Winchester

• Responsible for the budgeting and financial management of the Society

Sept 2019 Course Representative, BA (Hons) Business Management

• Liaised between students and staff to ensure that the student’s views are represented.

• Undertook lecture “shout-outs” to gather student opinions

Jan 2018-2019 Social Secretary, Alternative Music Society, University of Winchester

• Worked in team to organise weekly meet-ups to discuss, plan and agree events

• Organised gigs and performances including the popular DISTRICT event at the Railway Inn.

Jan-May 2019 University Theatre group – Member

• Took a main lead in ‘The Witches of Eastwick’ production.

• Performed 5 performances to an audience of 350 each time.

• Helped the Group achieve a profit on the performances to benefits the next production

Additional skills and interests

IT skills Proficient user of Microsoft suite of programmes and Social Media

Driving Licence Clean and held for 5 years

Business Keeping up-to-date with business trends by reading the Financial Times, Money Week and other local and national publications

Alternative Music Following new and up and coming bands, and am especially interested in Indie Rock, Punk, and Pirate Metal.

Referees available on request

Choose some other activities or positions of responsibility to highlight other skills and experience that you have had.

A SKILLS CV – (HEALTH AND SOCIAL CARE STUDENT)

Nicole Greentea

Basingstoke BS12 9HA 07581015111 ngreentea1@outlook.com

BSc (Hons) Health and Social Care, graduating in 2020, a degree focused on improving health and wellbeing and understanding the related needs of different communities. Through employment and work experience I have developed my communication, organisation and leadership skills. A motivated and confident sports woman who has been a coach, player, umpire, Captain and Vice-Captain of the University’s netball team. Gained customer service and care experience at Together for Mental Wellbeing, Adventure Golf, Boots, the University’s HR team and with the Brownies.

Skills

Mental health interventions

Identify the skills you have from work, volunteering & study. Write a brief description and back this up with evidence and examples.

Gained knowledge and practical skills in care and especially in relation to those with a mental health issues during my degree and work at Together for Mental Wellbeing. Planned and implemented a Walking Group and supported individuals to improve their independent living.

Communication and customer service

Within care work, coaching, retail and blogging, listened and assisted with enquiries, requests and client requirements. Built a good rapport with clients so they felt comfortable and clearly explained and instructed issues of health, safety and welfare. Created a University HR Health and Well being blog and produced pages of information for staff to view on Intranet.

Organisation

Organised visitor bookings, prepared and delivered birthday parties. Facilitated activities to ensure customers moved swiftly round the course. Planned and facilitated the weekly Walking Group at Earlgrey House. Prepared prize giving events as Social Secretary of the Netball Committee.

Coach, motivator, and netball umpire

Trained as leader and coach. Took warm up exercises, training drills and skills techniques with university and college students. Supported PE sessions and umpired several netballs matches.

Employment and work experience

Relief Project Worker, Earlgrey House, Together for Mental Wellbeing 2018-present

Worked in a team and alongside residents with complex needs. Initiated and planned a walking group and lead a group of 5 residents on a local weekly walk, which has included an initial bus or train trip. Supported individuals to encourage them to develop skills and to manage their range of health needs.

Health and Well-being Blogger, Human Resources, University of Winchester, 2018

Created a Health and Well-being blog for all staff members to view on Intranet. Produced pages on Stress Management, Desk Based Exercises, Healthy Eating, Health and Fitness App Reviews and Motivation. My blog had many views and was praised for engaging and interactive content.

Grab the Employers attention with a simple centred name and basic contact details in bold/larger font.

Visitor Service and Party Organiser, Knights Realm Adventure Golf, Basingstoke 2016-2017

Gained organisation skills when running children’s parties, facilitated games and good behaviour to ensure that children had a positive experience and ran activities to ensure customers moved swiftly round the course. Dealt with all inquiries.

Volunteer Netball Coach, Vine Community School, Basingstoke, 2017

Supported the PE teacher at my secondary school, undertook warm up exercises, training drills, skills techniques and oversaw mini-matches. Umpired several matches for years 7 and 8.

Boots Customer Service Adviser, Saturday and some holiday work job 2015-2017

Greeted customers, dealt patiently with queries and complaints, managed stock control, and ordered products online. Worked in a busy team, punctual and completed tasks efficiently. 4 sessions as a Volunteer, Brownies Peppermint-tea Pack, Basingstoke, 2015

Education and other qualifications

BSc (Hons) Health and Social Care, University of Winchester, 2017-2020

In-depth knowledge and underpinning theory health and social care policy, practise, experiences and issues within different communities for families, substance uses, those with mental health issues, older, and disabled people.

Extended Diploma Health and Social Care: Basingstoke College of Technology, 2015-2017

The Council for Awards in Care, Health and Education (CACHE) provides advanced level learning in communication, equality, health, life stages development, anatomy and physiology.

Higher and Community Sports Leader Award 2017

Gained effective leadership skills and theory related sports, including planning, leading and evaluating sports for children, disabled people and older people. Undertook 10 hours of netball coaching at the Vine Community School with years 7 and 8.

10 GCSE Passes, all A-C grades, Vine Community School, Basingstoke, 2013-2015

Including English Language, Maths, Double Science and Physical Education.

Other Achievements and sports

Duke of Edinburgh Silver Award, 2015 – Undertook residential expedition, volunteering and skills development.

Netball – Played netball for the University’s 2nd team. Developed leadership skills as Team and Vice Captains. Fulfilled roles as both Media Officer and Social Secretary of the Netball Committee. Played Netball throughout my time at the University, college and secondary school.

Coaching and umpire: Coached and umpired Netball matches for secondary pupils.

Voluntary work with the Brownies Peppermint-tea Pack

Facilitated games, arts and crafts with Peppermint-tea Brownies Pack for 4 sessions.

References available on request

It is fine to place dates at the right-hand side or end of the time.

Most recent qualifications first, the knowledge and skills gained

Don’t list all your GCSEs. State how many you have and grades for Maths and English and required subjects.

Keep the CV to no more than two full sides of A4.

Note the skill areas focussed on research, statistical analysis and related software

A SKILLS CV – (PSYCHOLOGY MASTERS STUDENT)

Sam Dancer

Prance Grove, Hip-hop, North London, NW5 234 0766666666 samdancer666@gmail.com

Professional Profile

MSc (Hons) Sports and Exercise Psychology with BSc (Hons) Psychology at University of Winchester, accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS).

Gained high level knowledge and skills in critical and analytical data analysis, qualitative and quantitative research methods, with a range of applications in exercise, health and wellbeing activities.

Through experience in customer service and session facilitation, confident in maintaining customer satisfaction to a high standard and developed the ability to plan and manage workloads to deliver high standard assignments within a range of different work placements.

Skills

Research and analysis

Information Technology

Teaching Facilitation

Customer Service

Within the masters and degree, developed in-depth research methods and statistical analysis through journals, videos, online, surveys and interviews and a 12,000 word research dissertation project. Used a range of systems to undertake data quality checks, to ascertain meaningful statistical patterns and data optimisation.

Highly confident and competent with SPSS data software, proficient ICT literacy in the Microsoft Office suites, familiar with PsychoPy online data collection platform, ‘R’ programming language for data analysis and Python programming language. Confident skills in a range of social media platforms.

Supported students in their learning for statistics and research methods, answered questions. In addition, ran sessions to help students explore their attitudes to studies. Used demonstrations, mini-talks and facilitated a range of activities to aid learning.

Greeted retail and restaurant customers, answered questions, dealt with queries and complaints sessions to help students explore their attitudes to studies. Used demonstrations, mini-talks and facilitated a range of activities to aid learning.

Education and qualifications

2020 MSc(Hons) Sport and Exercise Psychology, University of Winchester

More space dedicated to explain the Master and the degree rather than earlier qualifications

Accredited by the British Psychological Society at stage 1 qualification and Registered Practitioner status with Health and Care professional Council (HCPC). Advanced, in-depth knowledge, skills and research methods of sports analysis and practice.

2019 BSc(Hons) Psychology 2:1, University of Winchester

Accredited by the British Psychological Society. Gained knowledge, critical and analytical analysis and research skills, including: Applied skills for research and practice, qualitative and quantitative methods, thematic and interpretive analysis.

2016 3 A levels, Psychology, Maths, Geography, Salsa Sixth Form College, North London.

2014 10 GCSE Passes, Maths, Triple Science, English Language, English Literature, Geography, French, Physical Education, History, St Waltz Secondary School, Kenilworth.

Associated experience

2019-to date Demonstrator, Psychology Department, University of Winchester

Assisted senior lecturers in research methods and statistics workshops for 1st and 2nd year students. Demonstrated data analysis using SPSS and answered student questions with the objective of enabling students to find the answers for themselves.

2018-2019 Changing Mindsets Workshop Leader, University of Winchester

Facilitated two sessions that looked at the attitudes of students to studying and potential interventions to change their mindset towards their studies. The role required having a good understanding of the changing mindset approach and passing it on to a new cohort, achieved by a mixture of lectures and activitybased exercises.

2018-2019 Victim Satisfaction Research Project, Volunteering Module, Hampshire Police Undertook project research, analysed the victim satisfaction surveys and was tasked with a “deep dive” to explore how Victims experienced the process and conduct received by Hampshire Police. Compiled a report and presented my findings to Head of Department.

Customer Service employment

2018-to date Team Leader, Waitrose, Winchester

Responsibilities include maintaining the smooth daily running of food counters, delivering high standards of display, upholding excellent customer satisfaction whilst sustaining high levels of food hygiene standards and health and safety procedures. Duties also included cash handling.

2017-2018 Supervisor, The Refectory, University of Winchester

As a supervisor it was my responsibility to ensure a calm and efficient environment in a busy bar/restaurant. Oversaw staff training and rotas, customer service, taking bookings, dealing with face to face enquiries, managing complaints whilst ensuring compliance with company policies and procedures, including Health and Safety.

2015-2016 Supervisor and Waiting Service, The Dancing Bear, Salsa, North London I supported managers with day to day running of the restaurant, kept the premises clean and tidy, collected plates and glasses, providing a professional and friendly service to all customers, took orders, delivered food and drinks to tables.

2014-2015 Catering and Waiting Assistant, The Dancing Bear, Salsa, North London Worked as assistant to the chef, prepared food, salads, sweets and starters. Progressed into a customer food service role, served tables, took orders and dealt with queries,question and complaints.

References available on request

An enthusiastic, detailed and capable Humanities final year student on track to achieve a 2:1, with relevant experience working in a busy Constituency Office and a strong interest in Political History. Through employment in political administration, mentoring and hospitality, I have gained vital office experience and working in an intense environment. Now seeking an entry-level position in Public Administration where I can utilise my academic and transferable skills and develop a career within the Local Government.

PROFESSIONAL SKILLS

Analytical skills: Successfully analysed and collected data for university work. Critically evaluated information and examined the reliability of historical political sources to reach conclusions and report on findings.

Written and verbal communication and research skills: Undertook research and evaluation through my degree and the Constituency Office. Produced clear and high-quality reports and presented findings to the constituency team.

Technical abilities: Competent and experienced using Microsoft Office (Outlook, Word, Excel, Power Point).

Customer service skills: Over 3 years working in hospitality, developed excellent customer service skills.

Interpersonal skills: Credible and extremally loyal with a proven record of working hard and being a productive team member.

Multicultural awareness: Passionate about cultures with an open-minded predisposition to explore the world and work with people from a wide range of cultural and social backgrounds.

EDUCATION

BA (Hons) History, 2:1, The University of Winchester, 2017-2020

• Modules included: Political Medievalism, Religion, Politics and Society, Political Structures, Public History and Soviet Communism

• Dissertation: Examined historical processes for developing political surveys and pools. Through this research I have been able to think critically when facing new arguments and points of view, developing my intellectual rigour, reporting and presentation skills.

Safeguarding Vulnerable and Young Adults (SOVA) Training, November 2018

• Subjects covered: Groups of adults and young people and who might be at risk,

• Policies and compliance, supporting those who have suffered abuse.

A-Levels, Baking Sixth Form College, Spongehampton, 2015-2017

• English Literature (D); History (D); World Development (C),

10 GCSEs, Lemon Drizzle Community School, 2015

• Including English (B); Maths (C); Business (C) and I.C.T (B), 2015

• Key achievement: Selected to be Year 11 Student Ambassador supporting the learning of younger students and being a positive role model for their academic development

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

Constituency Office (Labour), Office Assistant – Summer Internship. Jun-Sept 2019

• Frequently communicated with constituents, dealing with enquiries in person and email

• Liaised with travel firms and Westminster to organise travel arrangements.

• Assisted the constituency team with research, compiling reports and minutes.

• Responded to press enquiries and drafted press releases in an effective manner.

• Dealt with confidential enquiries in line with confidentiality policies.

Young Offenders Mentor, SOVA, November 2018-March 2019

• Completed one week’s mentoring training covering issues like confidentiality, safeguarding and mentoring skills.

• Successfully mentored a young refugee, getting him back on track professionally by helping him to apply to and resume his college course.

• Implemented safeguarding and confidentiality practices.

• Participated in mentors focus group to aid group communication and support networks

• Wrote weekly updates and final report

OTHER EXPERIENCE

Food and Customer Service Assistant, Winchester Cale Emporium, Oct 2017-Present Customer Service ║ Health & Safety ║ Applying Methodical Skills

• Ensuring the restaurant is clean and ensuring a safe work environment

• Checking the food is of the correct temperature when served

• Making sure food is labelled correctly and allergens are labelled

• Creating a welcoming and friendly atmosphere for the customers

• Applying great attention to detail during stock rotation operations

Kitchen Porter, The Chocolate Brownie Tea Rooms, Jun-Sept 2017 Customer Service ║ Food preparation ║ Food Hygiene ║ Working Under Pressure

• Kitchen/tea-room cleaning, ensuring areas complied with health and safety standards

• Assisted Head Bakers with food preparation strictly following food handling procedures

• Ensured the kitchen was plan and well organised for high efficiency performance

• Served a range of morning snacks, lunches, and Afternoon Teas

• Worked under pressure with a team of 7 others in the tea rooms.

PERSONAL INTERESTS

• I enjoy spending my spare time keeping abreast with world political developments and current affairs.

• I play football and had been part of the Flapjack Lions team finishing 2nd in the Mid-Sponge football league in 2016.

REFERENCES AVAILABLE ON REQUEST

CREATIVE AND PERFORMING ARTS CVS

If you are on a performing arts or creative course related to Theatre, Film Production, Dance, Music and Acting, creating a CV tailored to these specific areas is particularly important not least as they are very competitive. For opportunities in creative and artistic fields you can make CV’s more exciting (within reason!) and develop a more creative format, as the range of CVs in the creative industries is diverse.

See www.pinterest.co.uk/giveagradago/creative-cv-inspiration for creative CV ideas. For individual advice on producing a creative CV you can arrange to see the Faculty Employability Adviser linked to your department.

F Profile: It’s important that your profile describes your skills and experiences related to the area, be it performance, theatre, creative writing, arts administration and production.

F Portfolio: It’s vital to have a link to a portfolio of your best work and provide evidence to back up an application/CV. The link could be to your website, professional Instagram account or other social media account.

F Photo: Certainly, for performers your visual characteristics are important so a headshot/ photo would be advisable.

F Personal characteristics: As above, state these clearly at the top of the CV.

F Showreel: Have a link to website/showreel/voice reel to demonstrate further evidence of your skills, should your CV attract interest.

F Personal Profile: This is optional but if you want to add one to help sell yourself (maybe for a role/part) it may help.

F Experience should be Reverse Chronological as for a regular Reverse Chronological CV. Clearly state role type of Production Company and Director. This is all you need and you don’t have to go into further details about the production experience on the CV.

VIDEO CV

A video CV could be useful for entry to customer-facing and creative roles in marketing, sales and the media, but they may get you noticed by employers in any sector. A video CV could compliment the standard CV and cover letter but also act as a standalone application for certain jobs in the media.

Prospects offers the following advice about making a video CV:

F ‘Dress to impress – just as you would for an interview.

F Write a plan, and memorise what you can – it's fine to have notes as a cue, like a newsreader, but don't read them straight from your notepad.

F Introduce yourself – including your contact details at the end.

F Think about the background in shot – ensure it's free from posters or other distractions.

F Record the video in a quiet environment.

F Showcase your work portfolio – through a slideshow, clips or a screenshot of your website.

F Tell a story – make sure it has a beginning, middle and end.

F Come up with three unique selling points (USPs) you want to get across to employers.

F Watch it back, and edit out anything that doesn't put you across in the best possible way.

For further information see: www.prospects.ac.uk

www.vimeo.com

CONCLUSION

A CV is your “professional selling document” which hopefully will move you to the next stage in the recruitment process. Lay it out as you wish, but remember that it’s the first thing an employer will see about you!

Ensure it is a positive summary of your skills and experience tailored to the job role. Put yourself in the place of the employer and look to produce a CV that is:

1. PROFESSIONAL

Structure your CV so that it reads professionally and has a logical structure with clearly headed sections. Include “white space” so the text doesn’t look cramped. Use some active verbs and business-like language.

2. EASY TO READ

Ensure that the important information is found quickly and easily on page 1, with the Education and Work Experience in a logical order with the most recent first. Use obvious headings, clear sections, bold typeface, bullet-points or small paragraphs, all for ease of reading.

3. CLEAR AND CONCISE

Avoid slang, jargon or abbreviations. Your font size should be a minimum of 11 and two sides of A4 is the norm for CVs for placements and graduate jobs in the UK.

4. COMPETENCE-BASED

Does the CV describe evidence of your skills gained from a variety of sources, from work, academic study, achievements, clubs or teams you are involved with? Many employers like a “Skills” focused CV.

5.

TAILORED TO THE JOBS/EMPLOYERS YOU ARE APPLYING TO

You will need to amend your content and maybe the format of your CV to suit each job that you apply for.

Use this quick CV checklist

F Is the CV well laid out? Does it create a positive visual image?

F Length: Is your CV no longer than 2 pages?

F Language: Is it free from grammatical and spelling errors, with no abbreviations?

F Order: Does it showcase your most relevant skills on page 1?

F Skills: Have you provided evidence of the skills required for the job?

F Achievements: Have you added in information about an achievement of yours, either via a course project or something else?

F Tailoring: What skills or evidence have you put in to target it to the role you are applying for?

F Checked: Have you asked for feedback from a Faculty Employability Adviser, lecturers or an industry professional?

If you require more in depth one to one guidance please do not hesitate to contact one of the Faculty Employability Advisers at the university or email careers@winchester.ac.uk.