Caroline MatthewsCareer Advisor

042 93 95889 .t087 225 1545 .m

carolinematthews@optimumcareer.ie .ewww.optimumcareer.ie .w

All available for download at www.optimumcareer.ie

Boom! I have arrived!

The unfortunate stark reality is that nowadays Job Seekers need to sell themselves to an employer.

Your CV must now become your Sales Brochure.

You need me!

SELLING YOURSELFJobseekers need to change their focus when thinking about their CV.

If you are thinking “story of my life” you are in trouble.

Start thinking “sales”, “sales brochure” and “customer”. When you make this transformation you will transform your results.

I’m one in a million!

Your Unique Selling Point (USP)Whatever job you are in and whatever job you want, it is crucial to identify and highlight your own personal USP (Unque Selling Point).

Just hire me!

A snapshot from my own cv

Strong Communication Skills: Verbal and written developed through all work experience, in particular through Careers Advisory role where open clear and approachable communication style is key.

Proven ability to confidently present workshops to students on a weekly basis on various topics.

Previous experience presenting to Corporate Clients

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SUBHEADINGS

1. Name /Contact Details/ LinkedIn Address2. Personal Statement / Career Aim (optional)3. Education & Qualifications4. Work Experience / Career History / Employment History5. Key Skills / Other Skills / Additional Information (optional)6. Professional Training / Professional Development (optional)7. Interests / Activities / Positions of Responsibility8. References / Referees

CV LENGTH

MORE TIPS

Consistency The style and format of your CV should remain the same throughout. This includes font used, heading size and arrangement of text. When using tabs, keep the positioning of these uniform throughout.

Use bullet pointsRecruiters will have hundreds of CVs to look through and they don’t have time to search for information in long paragraphs and blocks of text. You want your CV to be scannable so the main points can be identified quickly. Using bullet points in your CV will help you to write concise sentences and will focus the readers attention.

Use good quality, white paper  If you are sending your CV by post, ensure that you use good quality, white paper. Unless you are applying for a design job – there is no need to print your CV on coloured paper. 

1. Never Lie

2. Don’t be too wordy(or longwinded)

3. Don’t use jargon or abbreviations

4. Don’t include a photo unless asked

5. Don’t mix yourtenses

6. Avoid writingIn the first person

7. Don’t include date of birth, marital status or health status

WRITING A COVER LETTER

Writing a cover letter often seems like a particularly daunting task.

However, if you take it one step at a time, you'll soon be an expert at writing letters to send with your CV.

A cover letter typically accompanies each CV you send out. Your cover letter may make the difference between obtaining a job interview and having your CV ignored, so, it makes good sense to devote the necessary time and effort to writing effective and RELEVANT cover letters.

1. Application Letter2. Prospecting Letter3. Networking Letter

DO NOT DESIGN A GENERIC COVER LETTER AND SEND IT TO EVERY POTENTAIL EMPLOYER!

GUIDE TO WRITING AN EFFECTIVE COVER LETTER

1st Paragraph: Clearly communicate the reason why you are writing, the position for which you are applying and explain how you heard of the opportunity

2nd Paragraph: State why you are interested in working for this company (demonstrate that you have done your research) and specify your interest in this type of work. If you have had experience, point out what particular achievements you have accomplished.

3rd Paragraph: Describe your major strengths as they relate to the position you are seeking. The idea is to create interest and show how your skills and qualifications can be of value to the reader – to make them want to know more.

4th Paragraph: Express enthusiasm and ask for an interview

Competition is rife

Selling your skills

CV structure & strategy

Getting through the short-listing process

Fact versus Fiction

Job hunting success

Caroline MatthewsCareer Advisor

042 93 95889 .t087 225 1545 .m

carolinematthews@optimumcareer.ie .ewww.optimumcareer.ie .w

THANK YOU

Questions?