CV Do's and Don'ts

When creating a CV, it is good to consider and follow these rules set out below:

Do	Don't
Your CV should match what you can offer	Any work gaps need to be explained
Your CV should change according to the job - the most relevant bits to the job you are applying for	Errors are not ok
Include positive things you have done or achieved - skills/prizes/awards/voluntary work/work experience/IT skills/Responsibilities/Language skills/Training courses
Your CV should be word processed and about two pages long, maximum
The first half is what the employer will read first
It should be written by you
It should be professional

Example Job Application Form

Below is a PDF containing an example of what a student should expect to see when filling out their first job application form.

Creating your Personal Statement

Your personal statement should be about 4-5 lines long and state your main strengths and skills.

These are the characteristics that companies look for:

Organisation Skills	Reliability	Good Communication Skills
Trustworthiness	Teamwork	Enthusiasm
Work well under pressure	Punctuality and good time keeping	Ability to work alone
	Motivation

Click on this link to find a support page for writing a personal statement and a helpful video that can be used for clear help.

Reed Career Advice: How to write a personal statement

Finding your Dream Job

Key Interview Tips

• Dress for success wearing professional attire
• Arrive early for your appointment
• Be polite to everyone you encounter in the company
• Shake hands and thank people for their time
• Try to relax and show your natural personality
• Be confident but not cocky!
• Avoid fiddling
• Sit up straight and show confidence
• Demonstrate enthusiasm and a positive attitude
• Take some time to think about questions and answer thoughtfully
• Do your research on the role and the company - prepare, prepare, prepare
• Evidence and reiterate your motivation for the role and the company
• Sell yourself and your strengths
• Observe basic good manners
• Use regular eye contact
• Practice answering common interview questions
• Prepare some questions to ask at the end of your interview - it shows interest
• Leave on a positive note so that you leave a great impression