Applying for Jobs

Writing your CV 

You know more about yourself than anyone else. This is your opportunity to present yourself in your own way and tailor your message to focus attention on your strengths and why you are right for the job.

 

 

What is a CV?

A CV (curriculum vitae) is a document that tells a prospective employer about you, your qualifications, work history, skills, experience and personal interests. Your CV is usually the first impression an employer will get of you, so it pays to invest time and thought into its content and formatting.

Your CV should:

• be short - between 2 - 3 pages long
• be neat. Ideally your CV should be typed and set out in a clear and easy to read way
• be tailored for each specific job you apply for, this might mean slightly adjusting your CV for each new position

What to include

Your details

• your name
• your address
• your phone number
• your email address (if you have one)

Personal profile

This is a short statement at the beginning of your CV to sell yourself, summarising your skills, experience and personal qualities. This should include the areas you want to move into and a summary of what you have to offer an employer eg "I am currently looking for an office-based position where I can develop my computer and administration skills. I am highly organised, work well with others and I am happy to undertake any necessary training that may be required."

Key skills

Ideally you should list 4 or 5 skills relevant to the job being applied for. A short sentence can be included to help explain how they have been developed or where they have been used in previous employment, eg. Information and Technology - I have a working knowledge of computers and have recently updated my skills by passing the ECDL examinations.

Education and qualifications

List where you were educated, starting with the most recent first. Only include secondary school and beyond. Also include any training courses / certificates achieved at work / night class etc.

You should make sure that you are giving accurate information about your educational and professional qualifications. You may be asked to produce evidence of your qualifications.

Example:

Dates attended	Name of school or college	Level	Subject	Grade
1999 - 2005	ABC college	GCSE	Art	B

Employment history

Put your most recent job first and include dates. Employers will be more interested in what you have done recently.

Example

Dates worked	Name of employer, job title and brief description of the job / role
Jan 2006 to Sept 2009	XYZ Sales Ltd, Sales Assistant Responsibilities & achievements X Y Z

Additional information

Include other relevant information not already noted in the above sections, eg "I have recently completed a First Aid in the Workplace training course".

You can also include awards you have attained, services you have carried out in the community, achievements and hobbies / interests.

References

It is sufficient to state 'references available upon request'; there is no need to enclose copies.

Before you send off your CV

• does you CV answer any questions a potential employer might have about you?
• have you checked for spelling mistakes?

 

 

Writing a cover letter

When applying for a job most employers will expect you to include a cover letter with your CV.

 

A cover letter should draw together all the facts in your CV and communicate your enthusiasm for the position. The letter must be well presented and produced on plain paper using black ink as this produces a clear photocopy. Ideally the letter should be typed but above all the letter should be brief and concise.

You cover letter should:

• introduce you
• confirm your contact details
• highlight relevant qualifications
• register your interest in the specific vacancy
• demonstrate your written communications skill
• convince the employer to offer you an interview

APPLICATION FORMS 

 

What to consider when you complete your application form

Presentation

Presentation is extremely important so take great care when completing the application form. You should write clearly and legibly, and check for any spelling or factual mistakes.

Use a good quality ball point pen or fountain pen and remember the form may be photocopied or scanned, so black ink is preferred.

Keep it concise

A common error is supplying too much information. If you need to add an additional sheet remember to head it with your name as it could always become separated.

Make it informative

Read the form thoroughly. Understand what you are asked to do under each heading.

Everything you include should relate first and foremost to the job being applied for. Ask yourself if this is what the prospective employer requires or wants to know.

Be honest

You should make sure that you are giving accurate information about your educational and professional qualifications. You may be asked to produce evidence of your qualifications.

References

References are used by employers to find out if you are suitable for a job and are a reliable employee.

Most companies will not hire you without checking your references first, but they will usually contact you before they do this.

Always ask your referees for permission before you provide their names and check that you have accurate contact details. After you send in an application, it is a matter of courtesy to contact your referees to let them know they may soon be contacted by a potential employer.

Application form checklist

• always check the instructions for filling in the application form - for example: whether you have to write in capitals or fill in the form in black ink only
• take a photocopy of the blank application form
• using a pencil complete the copied form in the manner requested
• when completed, read what you have written thoroughly and check for any errors
• take a photocopy of the completed application form, attaching the advertisement for future reference
• write a covering letter
• use a good quality A4 or A5 envelope, addressed properly, never folding the form more than once
• post it in good time before the closing date for the application