GETTING BACKTO WORK

• Your experience and interests should reflect the job you’re applying for - show the employer why you would be a good fit

• Free from spelling and grammar errors - use spell check!

• You should make the layout clear and easy to read

• Make sure that the experience you include is accurate and up-to-date

It is a good idea to get someone else to proofread your CV before you use it. You could ask friends, family or even us, at backtoworkhub@shipley.ac.uk

• Personal contact details
• Personal Profile
• Education and grades
• Work experience/employment
• Other achievements/awards
• Hobbies
• References

• Don’t use an over-the-top or hard to read font
• Don’t use an inappropriate email address!
• Long, waffly paragraphs should be avoided
• Slang or a tone that is too chatty - you want to sound professional
• Do not include incorrect or misleading information
• Don’t include images
  
  

• Think about what you enjoy doing
• List your skills and qualities that could apply to the role
• Match your CV to fit the job requirements
• Are there skills gaps that are holding you back? (maybe Shipley College can help with them?) 
  
  

• Don’t hesitate to contact the company for help if you need more information on the job you’re applying for
• Always proofread your application - and get someone else to as well!
• Be clear and to the point when giving examples
• Remember S.T.A.R- Situation - brief description what was happening- Task - describe the tasks you were given- Action - describe action you took, and the skills you used- Result - explain how your action created positive results!
  
  
  

• Research the company and industry, so you have things to say about them
• Make your reasons for wanting the job clear - and tell them what they would gain from taking you on!
• Think about your greatest achievements - and tell them
• Prepare for common interview questions, like a time that you have been part of a team
• Think of examples of your relevant experiences for the role
• Arrive in good time, be well presented and have positive body language
• Speak clearly and slowly, and give yourself a moment to think before you answer a question if you need it