CVs and Interviews: Getting it Right

Having a presentable CV and preparing properly for an interview are a given. Often I see inadequate CV’s riddled with spelling errors and with the ‘tracked changes’ highlighted in red. Once you have carefully checked your CV, converting it to a PDF format which will avoid later errors slipping in, and will prevent someone seeing the track change comments.

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Personal statements at the start of the CV can be really effective if they are well written. Too often people use generic, clichéd adjectives such as “enthusiastic self starter”, “highly motivated”, and “excellent team player.” A good personal statement should be no longer than about two sentences and demonstrate your key strengths and sector experience. Think about what you would say about what you can do to someone you really wanted to work for and use that.

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You need to check your CV every time you send it out and make sure it’s relevant for the specific role you’re applying for. Getting someone else to review it is also a good idea. Send a hard copy and covering letter in the post, especially if you’re approaching a company speculatively. This can give it more prominence than an email.

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There is no excuse not to do your research if you’ve got an interview. See what other people have to say about the company: look at company reports, articles in the trade press, Google the interviewee and make sure you have as much information as possible.

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Always ask for a job description and person specification. Write down the questions you want to ask beforehand. Include some which show you have researched and understood their business. What sorts of development opportunities are there? What’s going on in the organisation? Show initiative. Have clear examples ready which show you’ve got what it takes to do the job. If you’ve never managed a large team at work but are football captain of your local team, then you can demonstrate your leadership skills that way. Make sure you know your key selling points and show enthusiasm.

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Finally, remember that an interview starts the moment you walk through the door. Good interpersonal skills, a strong handshake and good eye contact are just as important as what you say in the interview.

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Need help with your CV/ Cover letter? Uploaded your CV now in our Homepage (www.careerbalance.co.uk) for a FREE review by one of CareerBalance’s Senior Specialists.