Make a difference/ Budite drukčiji

In the last issue we discussed the heading of a CV, its personal profile, employment history and education sections. Before we continue with other sections a CV consists of, just a word of advice. A CV is a document each person should have in store whether employed or unemployed. However, it is necessary to modify or target your CV when you are applying for a particular job. You have to make sure that every part of your CV directly relates to the current job application and that the descriptions for skills, experience, and qualifications are exactly the same as descriptions on the job ad or application guidelines.

Apart from that, you should ensure that everything in your work history is clearly relevant to the job application. In other words, do not write about everything you have ever done but on the other hand, try to find everything relevant in your work experience even if it is not part of your formal employment history such as volunteer work you might have done and the like. In the Training section include courses, seminars and training programmes, especially those that are related to the job vacancy. Do not forget a) ……………………. training. When listing your Achievements, choose those that are relevant and b) ……………………. and that may illustrate your contribution to the company.

In the Skills section include all the required skills. Relate them to the job. A finance job will involve numeracy, c) …………….. and problem solving skills; a marketing role d) ……………………. and negotiating skills. The last section is typically reserved for your Interests and other achievements. Keep this section short and to the point. Don’t use e) ……………………. like socialising with friends and try to avoid mentioning many passive, solitary hobbies such as reading, watching TV or stamp collecting. You may be perceived as lacking people skills.

Finally, some ideas to manage a gap in employment history in your CV and lack of experience. If you were not employed for a certain period of time, openly mention that and explain what you did in that period. You might have been self-employed, helped set up a business for a friend, volunteered for some charity cause or stayed at home to look after small children and support spouse’s career. These are all valid causes for having a career break but do not make them up.

In the same way, young graduates who lack experience can highlight their skills and personality traits to match the job. They can stress their enthusiasm and willingness to work hard and long hours to gain valuable experience. Outstanding academic background can prove they are fast learners who can quickly become a valuable member of the organization. So, make a difference but not at all cost.