Applications for Success

Sell yourself Get a job Build your career

www.solent.ac.uk/applicationsforsuccess

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Contents
Selling yourself
4 5 6 7 8 9 10 The big picture Know your employer Competencies Convincing evidence Dynamic language Disclosing a disability Winning applications audit

Welcome
From the Vice-Chancellor
Southampton Solent University is a place where talented people, whoever they are, can achieve extraordinary things. Our prime focus is on you, your intellectual and personal development and your future career. We regularly achieve above benchmark graduate employment figures but recognise that the outside world is becoming more uncertain and challenging. Therefore, we have introduced a number of additional initiatives to help you. These include: Work-related experience integrated within the academic curriculum Expanded graduate internship opportunities Improved careers and enterprise support. This publication forms one part of the package of support available to you. I strongly advise that you read and make good use of Applications for Success. It contains expert advice and concrete examples that provide you with simple, practical, effective help in getting that vital first job.

Application forms
11 12 Types of application forms Competency examples

CVs
13 15 17 18 20 22 Your CV questions answered What to put in your CV Creative CVs Chronological CV example Competency/skills CV example Academic CV example

Covering letters
24 25 26 27 28 29 Write a great covering letter or email Example layout of covering letter Response to advertisement Speculative application Disclosing a disability Targeting a placement
Professor Van Gore Vice-Chancellor

Further support
30 31 Social media networking Careers, Employability and Enterprise

Applications for Success > Contents

Welcome
From Employability and Enterprise
We extend a warm welcome to all Southampton Solent University students and graduates as well as anyone else viewing our online edition. Please note that Applications for Success is aimed at university students and recent graduates. We are grateful to students and graduates who, by contributing their CVs or extracts from applications, have brought this guide alive. Contact information for contributors and referees has been changed. Southampton Solent University students can access face-to-face feedback on their draft CV, covering letter or application form by dropping into the Employability and Enterprise Centre (RM050). For a comprehensive grounding, why not consider the CV and Career Building Curriculum Plus unit? We wish you every success.

Advice
Don't believe all you read. There are jobs out there but to be in with a chance you have to find them and apply. Learn how to articulate what you have to offer, both in writing and verbally. If you don't put your case across convincingly, you could be beaten to a job by someone less well-qualified but who has written a stronger application or comes across better at interview. ______________ Association of Graduate Careers Advisory Services

From Enterprise Rent-A-Car

Over the years Enterprise Rent-A-Car has forged a strong business relationship with Southampton Solent University. As a company we continue to be actively involved in many activities on campus and we hire many Southampton Solent University graduates every year, both locally in Southampton and nationally across the UK; of which I am one. The two things that always stand out is Southampton Solent Universitys commitment to encouraging and supporting their graduates into the working world and the employability and readiness of those graduates once they start their careers. Applications for Success is a great tool for all graduates as it gives realistic hints, tips and advice about how to interview and prepare for a job upon graduation. Much of the following advice comes direct from many of the regions leading graduate recruiters and portrays an accurate image of what job hunting is like in the graduate marketplace. Good luck to all of you in your future careers. Paul Hanrahan Talent Acquisition / Training and Development Manager Enterprise Rent-A-Car

eBook links
The online version at www.solent.ac.uk/applicationsforsuccess includes live web links. Web and Portal links are for everyone. myCourse links are for Southampton Solent University users who will need to sign up for Career presentations in myCourse to access additional advice and career development activities.

eBook links
Portal CV and Career Building C+ unit

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Web

Applications for Success > Selling yourself

The big picture

Advice
Narrow, one-dimensional job roles have given way to todays self-reliant, flexible, multi-skilled, IT-competent teamworker. To stay employable in the future, you need to adapt to new roles, gain new skills and master new ways of building a career.

There are some great career opportunities but its a competitive world for graduate jobhunters. This makes it even more important to sell yourself effectively. Your evidence needs to convince prospective employers that you have the skills and knowledge to do the job/s you apply for by being: Clear and concise. Who has time to waste? Compelling. Does your application send people to sleep? Targeted. How does irrelevant information help anybody? Communicate your evidence to employers during your initial application and youll get an interview. Reinforce and extend your evidence at interview or assessment centre and youll get the job.

Your career goals

Selling yourself effectively in application forms, CVs or at interview uses the same ingredients that enabled you to decide on your career goals. This involves becoming as clear as possible about your: strengths weaknesses knowledge skills qualities. Developing your self-awareness is a lifelong process. At the same time, you will find out about different employment and education opportunities and match what you know about yourself with these different opportunities to decide on your goals.

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Dr Peter Hawkins, The Art of Building Windmills

Selling yourself
This involves: Clarifying the knowledge, skills, experience and other qualities required to do the job Showing that you meet these requirements in a professional and compelling manner. Becoming familiar with the STAR approach on page 7 will improve your ability to give great examples of your competencies. The STAR approach is most often linked to answering competency questions in application forms and at interview but you can apply it to CV writing too. The STARS website uses this model to help you identify and sell your skills.

eBook links
Web STARS Process

Your career plans

Has this raised other career questions? Find out more by using: CareerBox: Designed to improve the career prospects of Southampton Solent University students Prospects: The official careers website for students and graduates.

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myCourse CareerBox

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Web Prospects

Applications for Success > Selling yourself

Know your employer

The 2011 Summer Graduate Recruitment Survey produced by the Association of Graduate Recruiters included responses from 202 private and public sector organisations that take on thousands of graduates each year. Employers remain concerned that applicants struggle to: Target their applications to the specific role Demonstrate sufficient knowledge of the company. With the same survey showing an average of 83 applications for each graduate position, you can draw your own conclusion about what happens to people not demonstrating high quality research into both the role and the employer.

Advice
Be yourself, but at your best. Do your homework on the company, the role and what they are looking for. Ultimately, let your skills and experiences do the talking. Do not try to be someone you are not. We will know!

Employer research example

Application forms, covering letters and interviews give you the chance to demonstrate your considered and genuine interest in the organisation. Give specific examples to evidence your research. Dont make general statements that anyone could make. Here is part of a covering letter, adapted from Real World magazine, which shows a good level of research: I read in the February 2011 issue of PR Monthly that The PR Shop is looking to broaden its base of international clients. I am convinced that my industry experience, educational background and enthusiasm could help with these goals. I am also particularly excited by the diversity of clients that The PR Shop represents, ranging from commercial to voluntary organisations, and your commitment to training as shown by the recent Investors in People award. The applicant, David, talks about new developments in the company that he found in the PR Monthly publication. This same information may have been available on The PR Shops website, but by referring to PR Monthly, he is showing how serious he is about this profession. Employers often switch off if you say I want to work for you as you are well known and provide great training. David is not saying this. He is interested in the fact that PR Shop has a diverse client base. He is also showing that he has researched them by linking their commitment to training with their Investors in People award. Potential improvements to build Davids credibility include: Making a comment about one of their clients. What interested him about the client? Is there anything about the work completed for the client that caught his interest? Giving names/dates/places where he spoke with someone who works in the company. While he can say I like the fact that your website says an enthusiastic attitude is really important, he could make more impact if he said When I spoke to John Smith at the November careers fair, I was really struck by his enthusiasm. I want to work with positive people like him. Network. Go to careers fairs. Get faceto-face time with your potential future co-workers.

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Paul Hanrahan, Enterprise-Rent-ACar

eBook links
myCourse Is there life after graduation? Are your expectations realistic? Dr Stephen Fry, Hounslow Chamber of Commerce

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Web Real World Magazine

Applications for Success > Selling yourself

Competencies
Advice
At Lloyds Register and other organisations where I have worked, competencies are an important part of the selection process and staff development. We use them rigorously to assess candidates on areas like teamwork, communication and motivation. They will always form an important part of what we do.

Skills do not exist on their own. We apply skills and knowledge to solve problems. Employers use the word competencies to refer to the application of skills, knowledge and attitudes to do a job well. Employers sometimes clearly describe the competencies they are seeking when selecting graduates. What does building productive relationships mean? This is an extract from the KPMG website: Teamwork is a big part of what we do at KPMG. Whichever area of our business you join, youll work as part of a team on a regular basis. This means we are looking for people who enjoy sharing ideas and discussing issues with others, and who value the input of other team members. In addition, client contact is a big part of what we do, so being able to build relationships with them is also crucial. Ask yourself the following questions: Have you ever successfully completed a project as part of a team? Do you try to get everyone involved when you're working with other people, supporting and helping when necessary? Do you avoid blaming individuals if things go wrong, but help the team to learn from its mistakes? This is how the Civil Service Fast Stream describes building productive relationships: Uses inter-personal skills to build rapport with others Shows integrity in relationships Uses understanding of the motives, concerns and situations of others to encourage them to give of their best and achieve goals Values diversity and seeks opportunities to advocate its benefits. Use this type of information, plus the job description and person specification (page 11) to ensure that your evidence shows you meet the required competencies.

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Gillian Burton, Lloyds Register

Matching your skills and knowledge to a job

Use a table like the one below to assess whether you meet specific job requirements. With further thought, you can build on evidence in the right-hand column to develop great examples of your competencies. Knowledge & skills required Competent? If Yes: Summarise evidence Yes or No If no: List steps to develop competency

eBook links
myCourse Competency advice

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myCourse Job matching worksheet

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myCourse STAR worksheet

Applications for Success > Selling yourself

Convincing evidence
Some assessment centre methods provide observable evidence of your performance, such as how well you communicate in a group exercise to complete a task. However, interviews, CVs and application forms ask you to give examples of past achievements as evidence of your current abilities and future potential.

The STAR approach

How can you give good examples of your achievements? Devised by Development Dimensions International, the STAR approach arranges evidence into: Situation The who, where and when. The names and places of the people you were with whilst in a particular employment, educational or other role. Task The what. The particular problem that needed to be solved in the above situation. Action The what you did and how you did it. The steps you took to solve the problem. Result The what happened as a result. The facts and figures that prove the problem was solved. When using STAR: The situation, task and result need to be short and concise. The action section needs to be most detailed as this is the core of your evidence which describes what you did and makes your example come alive. Employers focus on this when assessing you.

Using STAR in different application methods

In a CV, the situation could be a heading for a job role with a particular employer. In this job, you addressed multiple tasks by taking a wide variety of actions. As you have two pages maximum in a CV, you will probably need to edit and summarise your content more than in any of the other application methods. When completing an application form, you may need to give evidence that you meet a long list of competencies outlined in the person specification. If you use each competency as a heading, you could write one or two brief STAR scenario examples for each competency. Be concise. Use a maximum of five to eight lines for each competency. To prevent your personal statement turning into a novel, experiment with grouping together similar competencies. Some application forms ask you to give one example when you used a specific competency. A word limit may be provided or you may just be given a space to fill. Being able to go into greater detail presents its own challenges, such as: Answering the question you hoped to be asked rather than the one you are really asked Focusing too much on the situation/task and not enough on your actions Filling all available word count rather than using concise, dynamic language.

Applications for Success > Selling yourself

Dynamic language
Use a variety of action words to energise your skills and achievements. Here are some examples to get you started.

Skills
Achieved Adapted Analysed Designed Developed Enhanced Evaluated Facilitated Identified Implemented Initiated Marketed Motivated Negotiated Networked Organised Participated Persuaded Prepared Presented Progressed Represented Solved Supervised

Personal qualities
Analytical Approachable Assertive Capable Committed Competent Creative Determined Diligent Efficient Energetic Enthusiastic Flexible Focused Intuitive Perceptive Persuasive Positive Problem solver Productive Resourceful Responsive Successful Team worker

Communication and customer service

Corresponded with individuals internationally within the bank. Clearly conveyed information to other team members, suppliers and customers. Demonstrated communication skills through group presentations. Experienced in all aspects of retail sales and customer service.

Research and skills development

Trained in a range of IT software applications. Researched patent information and file histories from patent databases. Wrote reports and produced statistical information. Analysed, compared and evaluated the results of my research.

Initiative and problem solving

Creative problem solver who has suggested several improvements at John Lewis. During university I started my own business. Initiated a regular meeting of students to plan project work together. Designed and implemented an electronic spreadsheet to record recruitment.

Teamwork
At Recess Hotel I learnt to be effective in large teams in a fast-paced, aggressive environment with an emphasis on verbal communication. At the bank I developed team skills within a more formal business environment, and built good working relationships in order for the team to achieve its objectives.

Leadership and management

Effectively delegated running my website in order to concentrate on my studies. Delivered training to staff members and facilitated CRB checks. Managed up to 15 volunteers who were accountable to the Students Union. Co-ordinated the staff rota and delegated a range of tasks.

Examples of success
Promoted to bar supervisor. Succeeded in organising a group trip to Alton Towers. Proven track record in coaching primary school children at football. Instrumental in setting up a committee to redesign the local park. Adapted easily and effectively to different tasks and roles. 8 Applications for Success > Selling yourself

Disclosing a disability
Disclosing a disability is your choice. Give honest answers on medical questionnaires asking about disability and general health. Your answers are not usually available to interviewers. If problems arise later due to an undeclared disability, it could be grounds for dismissal. Whether or not, when and how to disclose can be complex decisions. Disclosing your disability, produced by Skill, the National Bureau for Students with Disabilities, clearly sets out the issues and legal situation. The covering letter may be a suitable opportunity for disclosure as it can cover information not in your CV, such as gaps in education or employment. It is important to be positive and not to make your disability or health problem the focus of your letter. Instead, emphasise any strengths, skills or insights you have gained and what you can contribute as a result of dealing with your disability. You can also insert this type of evidence in an Additional information section of an application form or within your personal statement.

Advice
For those applying to the NHS, it is essential that your supporting information covers the key areas identifiable from both the job description and the person specification. Always draft in a word document, spell check and grammar check and then submit via the application process. Please ensure you consider each job and application individually - there is not a one size fits all approach to jobs in the NHS.

Positive examples of disclosure

My recent two-month placement within the Customer Service division of HSBC developed my ability to deal effectively with people from a wide variety of backgrounds, in an organisation which places high value on customer service. Additionally, my own experiences as a customer and someone with a visual impairment have developed my awareness of the need to treat everyone as an individual with individual needs. I have a high degree of flexibility and adaptability developed largely as a positive consequence of my disability, which has never restricted my ability to provide an excellent service to my employers and their clients. I have experience and expertise in using a range of complex IT applications which were initially developed through the need to overcome my disability at an early age, and have developed further at college and university while completing reports and assignments. Im really looking forward to this interview and am checking to make sure that the interview room can accommodate my wheelchair. I gave a presentation at a national conference of physiotherapists on My experiences of physiotherapy in the community. I can lip read in face-to-face interaction but will require TTY services and devices when using the telephone.

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Carol Clark, Southampton General Hospital

eBook link
Web Skill.org.uk Disclosing your disability

Applications for Success > Selling yourself

Winning applications audit

Why not check out how you apply some of the key ideas covered in Applications for Success? Tick or cross each entry. Rate it out of ten. Be creative.

All types of applications

Targeting 1: Based on my research, I know why I want this role with this company Targeting 2: I am confident that I clearly show how I meet all the role requirements My spelling and grammar are as good as I can make them I have sought advice to help me to communicate what I want to say

Online application forms

I have completed all sections of the online application I have answered the questions asked, not the questions I hoped to be asked I have used the STAR approach to develop quality answers to competency questions If I have edited content from other applications, I have double checked this for relevance

Person specification/personal statement application forms

I have completed all sections of the application form My evidence proves that I meet every essential requirement in the person specification I clearly show that I meet as many of the desirable requirements as possible I have applied the STAR approach to give concise examples of my competencies

CVs
I have emphasised evidence that is relevant to the type of work I am applying for I have given sufficient detail by applying the STAR approach to write concise examples There is a good balance of text to white space with sufficient space between sections I use a clear font and tabs, or tables with their lines hidden, to align my content

Covering letters/emails
I have made clear links between myself, the company and the role requirements I have professionally communicated my in-depth research into the company I have made the most of this additional opportunity to market myself My covering letter/email could get me an interview if my CV was lost

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Applications for Success > Selling yourself

Types of application forms

Online application forms
Often used by multinational organisations, these may form part of a broader, online application process. For example, you may be asked to self-assess your suitability for a particular role or to complete online psychometric tests. Typical questions include: Standard competency questions along the lines of Tell me about a time when you used such-and-such skill. Revisit the bottom of page 7 now if you need to remind yourself about the STAR approach or the common mistakes to avoid. Questions asking why you want to work for, or complete a placement with, the company. This key motivational issue involves knowing your potential employer and is discussed on page 5. Questions exploring why you want to do the particular job. A lot of organisations using online applications have impressive websites with case studies of graduates doing the roles you hope to do. Use this and any other information you can find to ensure that you make clear links between yourself and the role requirements. When writing your online application: If you adapt evidence from other applications, edit it to maximise relevance. Can you believe that people include the wrong company name when cutting and pasting? Yes, this happens. Practise a typical online application form using Select Simulator.

Advice
Demonstrate that you meet the person specification in your application we wont take it for granted that you do.

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Paul Juan, Southampton City Council

Person specification/personal statement application forms

Popular with many larger public and private sector employers, the first part of these application forms usually asks for various information, for example, your education and past employment experiences. Give all the information the employer asks for: fill in all the boxes! Download the form and word process your responses if possible. Get your facts right. Your personal statement. After completing the above sections, you will be asked to provide evidence that you meet the role requirements: Read the job description which lists tasks to be performed, job purpose, main accountabilities and responsibilities. Carefully consider the person specification as this forms the basis of selection. It usually has essential and desirable requirements. Employers use essential criteria when shortlisting. If you cannot meet one or two essential requirements for the job it may still be worth applying, but we advise you to check with the employer. Ensure that you clearly show you meet all essential criteria and as many of the desirable criteria as possible in your personal statement. One option is to use each competency as a heading. Write one or two brief examples of when you used that competency under the heading. Use the STAR approach but be concise. Consider writing a short summary pitching what you have to offer and why you want to work for them to introduce your evidence. If you do not use the competencies as headings option, ensure that your writing makes clear links to the job requirements. If not, the employer will downgrade your application in favour of those that clearly meet the person specification.

eBook links
myCourse Online applications advice from JP Morgan

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Web Select Simulator

Applications for Success > Application forms

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Competency examples
Here are some examples of good competency answers given by Caroline, a graduate working at Southampton Solent University. See how she has applied the STAR approach from page 7.

Describe a time when you were part of a struggling team. How did you respond?
I was part of a four-person team preparing a pitch for a documentary as part of a group project on my degree. One of the team, Jon, was not pulling his weight and my colleagues started complaining about him. I suspected Jon was struggling to understand what he needed to do. I therefore suggested to Ann and Phil that I draw up a task plan for the whole team as this may help Jon without singling him out. They had mixed feelings about this and tried to persuade me to complete the project without Jons help. However, I negotiated with them and eventually convinced them to try out my proposal first as working together was central to this group project. I drew up the plan which we all discussed at the next team meeting. Jon felt a lot happier when he knew what he needed to do and quickly got on with his tasks. Ann and Phil also found my plan useful. We got 78% for our project which was the top score in our year. In this teamwork question, Caroline shows how she communicated with other team members to solve this people problem. Her example focuses on negotiation and persuasion. She is not in a leadership position but shows strategic awareness (it is a group project), empathy (to Jons confusion) and resilience (she does not give up on the group and its goals).

Tell us about a time when you werent successful.

The first time I took my driving test, I felt ready but when we started going down a different test route to the one I was used to, I started to panic, made some mistakes and failed. I talked through my experience with my instructor. We concluded that I had all the right technical skills but I recognised I was underprepared. I had not practised all the possible test routes and was also surprised at how stressed I got on the test as I am normally a calm, level-headed person. I therefore practised driving on the other test routes with my driving instructor and regained my confidence. I also felt more prepared to deal with driving test stress. When I retook the test, I felt a lot calmer in spite of the fact that the driving examiner was also being assessed by another driving examiner at the same time. However, I took this unexpected event in my stride and successfully drove the same route I had initially failed on. This is a learning and improving competency question. Many people find talking about their weaknesses difficult but a weakness can also be a learning opportunity. Caroline uses confident language to show how she turned her driving test failure into a positive success.

Describe a time when you came up with an innovative solution to a problem.

When managing a team of six, I had ongoing problems with two people who were very negative. They always found objections to new ideas, especially in team meetings, and this was bringing down all our motivation. I thought back to a management course where I learned about Edward De Bonos six thinking hats, a useful technique for considering ideas from different perspectives. In our next group brainstorm, I told all members that for the first five minutes we were going to wear our yellow hats, which basically meant we were only going to suggest positive ideas. Only having completed that did I ask everyone to wear black hats and come up with all the reasons why our initial ideas wouldnt work. By taking a risk and putting classroom theory into practice at work, I enabled the negative thinkers to be more constructive. This generated many more positive suggestions for solving marketing problems (which contributed to increased attendance at an open day) and it also helped the team to become more motivated. I repeated this strategy in the future with similar positive outcomes. Caroline shows how she successfully applied what she had learnt on a training course to solve a problem. Competencies interact, so while her example is about problem solving, we can see how her actions also helped improve teamwork. 12 Applications for Success > Application forms

Your CV questions answered

With application forms, employers tell you exactly what they want. With CVs, there is more uncertainty as you have to figure out what recruiters want and then clearly communicate this to them. You may wish to consider our responses to typical questions we are asked as people work out what to put in their CV.

Advice
Put yourself in the employers shoes. Does your CV create a good enough impression to get you an interview?

OK, so targeting is vital but how do I do this?

One way is to give more space to parts of your career history that are more relevant to the job applied for. So, if applying for a job in marketing and you did a marketing module in your degree, go into more detail about this than your school exam results. Similarly, give more space to relevant experience compared with other experiences. Ordering is also important. What to put in your CV (page 15) shows you some options for moving around your content to increase impact.

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Doug Patterson, Maritime and Coastguard Agency

What are the main ways to structure my CV?

There are arguably four main types of CV: Chronological CVs arrange content by time with most recent experiences put first. See the example in this guide for typical headings. They are the traditional approach to CV writing. Competency or skills CVs organise content by skills and knowledge headings. The first step in writing a competency CV is to decide on these headings. Creative CVs are often produced if you want to work in the creative industries. See page 17 for more advice. Academic CVs emphasise professional academic expertise. The academic CV example on page 22 includes a competencies section. Some people include this specific information as a separate page rather than integrating it into the CV: - Dissertation/research/areas of expertise - Teaching/administrative experiences - Publications/presentations/conferences attended - Professional memberships/fellowships and awards. What to put in your CV, which starts on page 15, shows how to change different sections to make a chronological or competency/skills CV.

Any more guiding principles for writing a CV?

Two pages maximum (academic CVs can be longer) A good one-page CV is also worth considering Write in a clear, professional and positive style Use a standard font and format Use headings to separate the main sections Follow employer guidelines for a CV if given (see Google example) Send a covering email/letter with your CV unless asked not to The official Europass standard for CVs in EU countries is a two-page chronological CV with a skills section. You may or may not get on with its two-column layout. Some data, such as date of birth, is generally not required in the UK due to equal opportunities legislation.

eBook links
Web Googles CV template

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Web Europass CV examples

Applications for Success > CVs

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Your CV questions answered

Advice
A CV is your own personal marketing brochure; it needs to show how your strengths and achievements can be transferred to the position on offer. Everything in your CV could be discussed at interview so you must be able to elaborate on everything.

Thats all very positive but what must I NOT do?

Use poor spelling and grammar Make it difficult for employers to find the evidence they need Not submit an up-to-date, targeted CV, for example, focus too much on old qualifications and ignore skills and knowledge developed in your degree that clearly relate to the opportunity.

Any other advice on how to design my CV?

How does your CV look when held at arms length or minimised on your computer, so you can only see content shape rather than words? White space means ensuring sufficient space between sections so that they do not merge into a huge block of information. On the other hand, do not spread a small amount of text over two pages which gets lost in a sea of empty background. Align your content using tabs. If you use tables to align content, hide the lines so they do not spoil your CVs appearance. Use a standard font and generally just one font in a CV. Some CVs can be transformed by just changing the font. Experiment.

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Ben Rowe, British Gas

What about emailing, online hosting and video CVs?

We suggest emailing CVs as PDFs, unless employers say otherwise. Sending a PDF ensures that your CV will look how you designed it. You can create PDFs easily in OpenOffice and Adobe software. Microsoft users can save files as PDFs using a PDF Add-in. If PDF does not appear as a Save As option, get the free Add-in. If you are reading Applications for Success online, a quick search of Issuu reveals many CV examples. Consider what information you are happy for anyone to know about you. You could host your own video CV on YouTube or online multimedia CV sites. At present, employers see video as an inefficient way to communicate CV information. Harriet Marshs article tells you more.

Im stuck! Can you tell me what to write please?

Good try but lecturers dont write your essays! Get and consider feedback but you need to write your CV/covering letter/email/ application form in your own words. Getting the right words will help you talk more confidently about your written evidence at interview.

OK. Fair enough. How about a CV writing action plan?

eBook links
Web Microsoft Add-ins

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Web The Guardian Harriet Marsh, April 2009

At the risk of being too prescriptive, you could: Read What to put in your CV on the next couple of pages Critique the CV examples in this guide Target your CV: The exercise at the bottom of page 6 may help Use a chronological or competency/skills structure and apply the STAR approach (page 7) to give great examples of achievements Ensure that you pull out relevant evidence from your degree Get feedback from a friend Edit and experiment with section order and content Bring your draft to the Employability and Enterprise Centre (page 31) Edit again Celebrate!

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Applications for Success > CVs

What to put in your CV

Some CV content is essential but beyond your name and contact details, you can choose: Which sections to include The order of sections The level of detail in each section. Target your CV to emphasise relevant content. For example, if you have relevant work experience, you could boost overall impact by putting this before your qualifications. However, this strategy works in some peoples CVs and not others. Experiment to see what works for you.

Advice
Your CV may only have 20 to 30 seconds to make an impression and so a good, well-written profile is essential. Be sure that your profile is focused and doesnt waffle or become irrelevant.

Personal details
Essential details: First name and family name (middle name/s optional) Address (include term-time address if appropriate) Telephone and/or mobile number Email address. Keep it professional! If you host your CV in an open, online environment, consider which of these details you are happy for any web user to know. Optional details: Nationality is optional indicate if you need a work permit. Current legislation does not require your date of birth, gender or marital status as they are not related to your ability to do the job. Photos are not required for most UK CVs with the exception of some creative CVs (see page 17). Check international variations, for example, it is common to add a photograph in China.

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Mike Minnis, STR Group Training Academy

Profile or career objective

This optional section is a positive and concise summary of between two and five sentences or bullet points. It gives a broad overview, highlighting what you are looking for and your skills, knowledge and experience related to the position. It is often the hardest section to write. If your profile does not add value to your CV, leave it out.

Competencies or skills
The advert, job description and person specification describe the knowledge and skills needed. Identify your most important skills linked to that job. Organise them into headings, then give examples of when you used the skills. Give evidence of relevant knowledge as well. Review the STAR approach on page 7. Give sufficient detail but write concisely. Need more information about the job to help with this? Go to Types of work on the Prospects website. Typical work activities covers the skills and knowledge required in that job. Ensure that you cover specialist technical skills and knowledge, for example, expertise with 3D design software for engineering jobs. If you are writing a competency CV, this is the most important part of your CV so ensure that it is a sizeable section. We generally suggest that you put it on the first page. While this is an optional section for other types of CV, dont just write a list of skills without supporting evidence. Applications for Success > CVs

eBook links
myCourse Profile advice

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Web Prospects occupational information

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What to put in your CV

Qualifications
An essential section. Start with your most recent academic experience and include university, college and secondary school details with qualifications obtained/expected. Embolden course names and grades as they are selling points. Dont just list course units. Give examples of skills and knowledge developed within your degree/specific units/dissertation linked to the type of work you are applying for, for example, project management skills or commercial knowledge.

Employment and work experience

Focus on your relevant and recent experiences: Include paid and unpaid work and indicate levels of responsibility Highlight skills and responsibilities directly related to the job To avoid long lists of short-term positions, you can group together similar jobs Highlight job titles and names of employers as they can be selling points Bullet points can help but experiment to see what works Summarise key duties, responsibilities and achievements Apply the STAR approach to writing this section. This is the central section for chronological CVs. While people usually put most recent experiences first, if you have particularly relevant experiences, you can often make more impact by putting these before additional, important, but less relevant, experiences. While this is an essential section, for a competency CV this could be very concise with just the names of employer, dates and role titles. Dont duplicate content in your competency section.

Achievements
Another optional section. Achievements can communicate important messages about how you approach work. Experiment with seeing whether, for your particular CV, this makes more impact at the start, maybe under your profile, or later, maybe after your employment section. Like profiles, less is more.

Interests
This is also optional and usually goes towards the end of your CV. A concise section, this can market attributes not shown elsewhere such as interests relevant to the job. Many people use team sports activities to demonstrate commitment to a team and interpersonal skills. Giving details, such as your level of involvement and specific outcomes, can increase impact.

Additional skills/training
An optional section: Examples of topics include specific professional training courses, IT proficiency, foreign language level and fluency for speaking and writing, and driving licence. Dont duplicate what is covered elsewhere, especially when writing a competency CV.

Referees
An optional section, you can: Provide referees. One academic and one employer referee is usually sufficient. Put Available on request. This is really the same as the third option below. Leave it out altogether. Recruiters will tell you when they want references. Be polite and check with referees before giving their details. Choose people who know enough about you to make informed comments on your abilities. Note that some organisations only allow referees to provide facts such as dates of your employment. Most references are sought by email so include email addresses with other referee contact details. 16 Applications for Success > CVs

Creative CVs
Art, design and communication graduates can use a creative CV to demonstrate their innovation and creativity, and to make an impact. Consider typography, layout and your visual style. Visuals must retain their quality, complement the overall look and not obscure content. Use quality paper and printing. Email as PDF (see page 14). For further advice, check out Dublin Institute of Technologys 98-page guide.

Advice
Present yourself as the perfect candidate for interview, with your knowledge of the company and an opinion about its superiority amongst competitors. We like informed opinion but not empty compliment. Sell me your skills. What are they? No lying here, tell me about what you can do really well and why this will be of value to me and how it will help my company. Make me feel that you have singled me out and that I am not one of 50 others you are contacting.

Essential information
Name, professional email, mobile and web link to portfolio. Consider the content and layout for visual impact.

Optional information
Performance CVs: can include Spotlight and Equity numbers, agents details,10x8 black and white head shot photo for acting and colour full-length photo for presenting jobs. Artists personal statement: short clear description of your work and philosophy as an artist. It can refer to the following aspects of your work: main themes, materials, skills, directions, influences, personal reflections, meaning, professional beliefs/ethics, intended market and ambitions. Career profile: a short overview of three to four lines, it highlights your strengths and career plan. It can emphasise specific skills, experience and suitability for the job. Be concise and give evidence later in your CV to support claims made.

Education and qualifications

Put qualifications under the institution where you took them and work backwards chronologically. Give relevant information about content of degree and modules studied, your final-year dissertation, your degree show contribution, collaborative work with employers and details of all competencies developed.

___________
Caryn Franklin, Graduate Fashion Week 2010

Employment/work experience
List most relevant and recent experience first, highlighting achievements, roles and responsibilities. Give a brief description of your key tasks and the skills you developed. For short work placements, give an insight into what you learnt about yourself or how the experience influenced your career direction.

Skills
Divide your key skills, attributes and competencies into broad areas, such as visual/creative, time/project management, organisation/ administration and IT. Provide evidence of how you have used these skills to achieve a successful outcome, drawing from different areas of your life. List further training, including software training, short courses in DTP or web design, and language and driving skills.

Achievements/awards/exhibitions
Include where relevant: exhibitions, degree shows, awards obtained, prizes won and competition successes.

eBook link
Web Dublin Institute of Technologys Creative CV Guide

Applications for Success > CVs

17

Chronological CV example
LesleyBeat
Address: 12 Elm Drive, Woodsville, Swampton, SO15 3BH Mobile: 07123 456789 Email: lesbeat@drumsmail.com

Seeking position as an Events Co-ordinator or Events Organiser. Achieved BA (Hons) Human Resource Management. Developed skills in event facilitation, marketing, research and report writing. Successful experience in corporate events, security, hospitality and customer service. Gained high-level communication, leadership, organisational and sales skills. Responsible for training schedule for 80 recruits in Combined Cadet Force.

Education
BA (Hons) Human Resource Management: 2:2, 20092012 Southampton Solent University Business-based degree with in-depth understanding of personnel functions, including: economics, general law, essentials of management, introduction to psychology, research methods. Final-year dissertation investigated personnel in the events industry, and the importance of project management skills in relation to fulfilling policies and procedures. BIIAB Level 2 National Door Supervisors Certificate, 2011 (Licensed Premises) First Aid Certificate, 2009 2 A Levels and 1 A/S Level, Woodsville College, Puddleton, 2008 Biology: E, English Literature: D, A/S Level Physics: E 10 GCSEs B and C grades, Lostjane Community School, Puddleton, 2006 Including English Language, Mathematics, Double Science and Modern Languages.

Present Employment
Assistant Head Door Supervisor, Big Security, Totton, May 2011present Undertook work in various venues: clubs, offices, bars, restaurants and a casino. Recorded and prepared relevant paperwork. Adhered to and implemented health and safety, first aid and customer care procedures. Responded to customer queries and concerns in a sensitive and efficient manner. Responsible for effective deployment of staff and training of new part-time staff. Careers Events Assistant, Southampton Solent University, August 2011present Created booking sheet and marketing materials for Careers Employer Events. Sent invitations to more than 300 employers by email and mail. Promoted the event and other employer services delivered by Careers and Employability. Input and collated responses into an employer spreadsheet. Prepared delegate packs and papers, including post-event evaluation. Liaised with conference centre to organise facilities and co-ordinate employer requirements.

18

Applications for Success > CVs

Chronological CV example
Previous Employment
Event Crew, Conifer Corporate Events Centre, Gosport, July 2010 and 2011 Created and distributed event publicity materials and co-ordinated bookings. Organised and facilitated events such as quad-biking, jet-skiing and go-carting. Used clear communication, common sense and took initiative when necessary. Bar Supervisor, Monkeez @ The Ape Bar, Swampton, October 2010May 2011 Managed and organised the work of teams, providing a responsive, efficient service. Kept the bar and seating areas clean and safe. Organised staff duty rotas. Voluntary Work Camp Maintenance and Counsel Support, USA, June 2010 Part of a team of stewards who dealt with camp maintenance and administration. Responsible for a tent of five 11-year-olds in the position of Counsel Support. Bar and Food Service, Forest Wood Caf, Swampton, FebruaryMay 2010 Greeted customers and took food orders. Recommended and explained menu specialities. Met caf timescale staff targets for service. Gap year, Australia, October 2008May 2009 Travelled and worked in Australia, undertaking a variety of jobs: food and drink service, hotel portering, food preparation and guitar instruction. Learnt how to manage money, how to deal with people in a variety of employment situations and how to live independently.

Achievements
Jujitsu: 20052009. Achieved success through my Green Belt and three years of Jujitsu with the Tenki Ryu Club. This challenging martial art gave me confidence, poise and physical balance. Rugby: 19992011. Twelve years team representation for my local club, school and Southampton Solent University. Played for my club and school at county level. This taught me to be a committed and supportive team player. Cadets: 20042008. In the schools Combined Cadet Force Army Section. Rose to the rank of sergeant and was put in charge of the section. Responsible for working out the training schedule for 80 cadets and recruits and have had many fantastic experiences with cadets. My time with the organisation has enhanced my leadership, communication and management skills, and self-confidence. Shooting: 20052008. Represented the school at county, national and international levels. The highlight for me was being selected for England schools small-bore rifle team. Music: Keen acoustic guitarist for more than 12 years. Played in several live gigs and have passed my Grade 3 exam.

Referees
Available on request.

Applications for Success > CVs

19

Competency/skills CV example
TREY INKWELL
93 Staple Avenue, Spillton, Stampshire, SO67 OLP TEL: 023 8098 7654 Email: ti@photomail.com

Seeking a position at a photographic studio Achieved BA (Hons) Photography Studies 2:1 Experienced photographer, using a wide range of camera and studio equipment Up-to-date knowledge and practice in photography techniques Competent in Adobe Photoshop, QuarkXPress, Director MX and Publisher Highly motivated, a committed team player with excellent communication skills

SKILLS
Technical
Competent user of a wide range of camera and studio lighting equipment. Skilled in processing and printing black and white, and colour photographs. Assisted Southampton Solent University technicians with the maintenance of studio equipment, in addition to training other students in photographic techniques. Confident with Adobe Photoshop and QuarkXPress. Working knowledge of Director MX. Researched and analysed background information and data for projects throughout my degree, using resources that included library reference materials, various publications and the internet. Utilised these skills in my final-year dissertation an independent study of advertising photography that developed my analytical thought, ability to effectively manage multiple tasks, and deliver results. Team skills developed in sailing crews for my Students Union in addition to course assignments, group project work, and through employment at Pizza Hut. These skills included working with others to allocate responsibilities and share skills, and provide support to colleagues in busy, demanding and stressful situations. Learnt to communicate appropriately with people in different situations, from large groups of customers in the restaurant through to sailing crews and student sporting teams. During my degree course, projects culminated in oral and visual presentations using a variety of media, including Microsoft PowerPoint and Publisher.

Research

Teamwork

Communication

20

Applications for Success > CVs

Competency/skills CV example
EDUCATION
20092012 BA (Hons) Photography Studies 2:1, Southampton Solent University Units studied include: Photography and Function, Photography and Interface, Managing Photography, Technical and Conceptual Skills. 10,000 word final-year dissertation on the portrayal of men and women in advertising photography from 1950 to 2000. BTEC National Diploma Art and Design (Merit), A Level Photography (B), Textbook College, Southampton AS Levels: Art (C), Geography (D), English (E) Spillton College, Spillton 8 GCSEs grades A*C including Maths and English Penpot School, Southampton

20072009 20062007 20042006

EMPLOYMENT HISTORY
20092012 Photographer, Students Union, Southampton Solent University Working as a volunteer, responsible for taking photographs at a variety of events, including student balls, sporting competitions and Students Union elections. My photographs have been published in newsletters, magazines, on posters, and on the Students Union and University websites. Visit my website at www.me.com. Service Assistant and Cover Duty Manager (part-time), Pizza Hut, Spillton. Greeting customers, guiding them to a table, clearly explaining menu and specialities. Serving food and dealing with queries and complaints. Processing bills, cashing up and distributing staff tips. Planning and implementing staff rotas. Taking initiative to organise and rearrange service cover during staff absence. Official Photographer, Family Events, Southampton Creating and producing albums, posters, postcards, greeting cards and framed photographs, and photographing numerous family events: weddings, baptisms, school concerts, sporting events, Christmas and birthdays. Visit my website at www.me.com.

20072010

20072012

LEISURE AND OTHER ACTIVITIES

I have sailed for Spillton Sailing Club for the past four years and often take my camera with me. I won a local competition in 2010 with a photograph that I took at Cowes Week on the Isle of Wight. See my website at www.me.com.

REFERENCES
Mr L Quill: Lecturer, Southampton Solent University, East Park Terrace, Hampshire. SO14 0YN. 023 8031 1234 quill@solent.ac.uk Mrs A Paper: Manager, Family Events, Southampton, Hampshire, SO33 9PL 023 8056 7890 photographer@familyevents.co.uk

Applications for Success > CVs

21

Academic CV example

Ashley Hall
156 Langdale Way, Derwent Road, Fareham, Hampshire, PO99 4AZ Tel: 01489 989898 (home) 0791 9191919 (mobile) Email: ah919@gmail.com

Research
Principal interests lie in the field of age legislation and how the Human Rights Act impacts on employment law. Future plans are to build on these foundations and undertake further research at PhD level, investigating The impact on graduate employment within a regional labour market.

Education
20112012 LLM, Southampton Solent University (SSU) Combined coursework and research to gain specialist knowledge and understanding of the essential aspects of employment law. 20,000-word dissertation investigating the effect on large employers of age legislation and employment law. Teaching in Further Education, Certificate in Teaching in the Lifelong Learning Sector, Fareham College LLB, 2:1, SSU Contract Law European Law Sports Law Constitutional Law Land Law Media Law Law of Torts Criminal Law Intellectual Property

20112012 20082011

2009 2008 20052008 2005date

LexisNexis Butterworths Certificate of Online Research, SSU Gateway Access to Learning Course, SSU Institute of Legal Executives Levels 2 and 3, Fareham College Family law, employment law and company law Training in Employment Law, Research and Representation Tribunal Representation and Appeals Centre (TRAC), Portsmouth. Voluntary work, preparing clients cases involving interviews, research and office duties. GNVQ Advanced Business Distinction, AS Level History B, Fareham College

19911993

Publications

Reconstructing the fair application form [2010] May M.J.L.S. 14 Age discrimination in an ageless society [2009] January L.E.X. 21

Teaching
20112012 Law Lecturer, Fareham College Preparing and delivering four hours a week for AS and A2 Law.

22

Applications for Success > CVs

Academic CV example
Competencies
Legal Gained solid and in-depth legal knowledge through six years of study with ILEX and Southampton Solent University, one year of legal teaching, practical experience within legal environment at TRAC, two years experience within Southampton Solent Universitys internal mooting society. Skills in legal research and communication, negotiation, representation, verbal and written reporting. Trained at Southampton Solent University and TRAC in the use and research application of legal library systems, journals, periodicals, databases such as LexisNexis Butterworths and Westlaw, and the internet. Assignments and case preparation required research. During employment, researched market trends to identify potential customers. Built effective team skills through group assignments. At Shoes Direct and Castle Estates, effective team and leadership skills were vital to allocate work, share skills and provide support to colleagues.

Research

Teamwork

Organisation Previous employment and my studies have developed my skills of organisation, time management, prioritisation and motivation.

Professional Membership
The Society of Legal Scholars The Industrial Law Society

Employment History
20042009 Property Lettings Senior Negotiator, Castle Estates, Southampton Proactively sought and negotiated new landlords and tenants, providing advice and valuations, arranging and drafting tenancy agreements, attended inspections, prepared inventories and dealt with disputes. Sales Supervisor, Shoes Direct International, Hamble Supervised 12 sales agents and undertook sales training, marketing reports, recruitment and promotional campaigns. Customer Sales and Service, Cromwell Tools Ltd, Southampton Negotiated and processed orders, used range of IT applications. Office Assistant, Monks & Crane Ltd, Eastleigh

19982004

19961998 19911996

Conferences and Courses

July 2011

Leading the way for clear legislation, Future Law, College of Law Annual Conference Critiquing applications in light of age legislation, AGCAS Regional Training, University of Winchester

March 2011

Referees

Margaret Simpson (Programme Leader), Southampton Business School, Southampton Solent University, East Park Terrace, SO14 1RY msimpson@solent.ac.uk 023 8031 7890 Stella Boyes (Manager), Property Lettings, Castle Estates, Southampton, SO16 5TY enquiries@castlelettings.co.uk 023 8086 1234

Applications for Success > CVs

23

Write a great covering letter or email

Advice
A well structured, well thought out covering letter really makes a difference.

What if you forgot to attach your CV or the employer couldnt open your CV file? Would your covering letter get you an interview on its own? For many people, it wouldnt. Please find my CV attached for the position of such and such wont do it. As you can see from my CV, my experience at This and That makes me ideally suited for the role of The Other is moving in the right direction. Combine intelligent comments about the employer (see page 5) with clear links between yourself and the prospective role and your email will start making a positive impact.

___________
Simeon Penn, Saber Powersports

Why me/why you

A covering letter or email will address two key issues: Why me: Make clear links between yourself and the role requirements. Link to and build on key CV content. Why you: Show from your research that you have a genuine interest in this particular role with this particular company.

When writing any type of covering letter

Consider and apply the template on the facing page. While some content in your covering letter could legitimately be the same for various jobs, tailor each one to the specific opportunity and company you are applying for. Be specific. Dont use generalisations such as I am a good communicator without linking it to evidence in your CV. Dont duplicate your CV. Summarise relevant aspects of your CV and consider expanding on certain points central to the role. Address the letter to a named person wherever possible. Phone the company and ask for the title, name and email or postal address of the appropriate person if necessary. End letters starting Dear Ms Smith with Yours sincerely. If you cannot find a named person to address your letter to, start with Dear Sir or Madam and end with Yours faithfully. If posting a printed letter, sign it. If emailing as PDF, scan and import your signature into your word processor before conversion.

When emailing, this also applies

Write an appropriate subject title, for example, Kate Smith, Marketing Internship Application (Ref. 12345). Follow professional email protocol, for example formal English (no smileys or lols please) and put address and contact details at the bottom. Use a professional-sounding email address. Your university email expires after you leave so use a hotmail, gmail or similar service.

Speculative applications
You can send speculative CVs and covering letters to companies who are not advertising specific vacancies. In addition to our general advice: Research into the company and potential role is even more vital as your task is to show how you could meet their unadvertised needs. Aim to raise their interest in you. So, dont just ask for a job. Work experience or speaking with a recently recruited graduate or person doing a role that interests you (this is called information interviewing) are all possible outcomes from making speculative approaches.

eBook link
myCourse Networking and information interviewing

24

Applications for Success > Covering letters

Example layout of covering letter

Your contact address, telephone and email Employers name, address and postcode

Date

Salutation Dear Ms Smith Or Dear Sir or Madam Get a contact name where possible as this builds a positive impression from the start.

Heading Job title/job reference/purpose of letter

Introduction Introduce your current situation. Indicate whether you are responding to an advertised job or, if you are applying speculatively, make clear what you are hoping to achieve. Demonstrate your enthusiasm for and knowledge of the job.

Your main strengths clearly linked to the person specification Convince the employer you are the right person for the job by highlighting relevant experience and skills. Emphasise key features from your CV. Give examples of relevant skills using examples from your coursework, employment and other interests.

Knowledge of the job and company Say why you want the job and show you have researched the company, profession or job. Communicate what interests you about the organisation. Describe how you would be an asset to the organisation.

Positive ending Restate your interest and summarise your suitability and enthusiasm for the company. Be proactive and state how you will follow up the letter. End the letter positively and remember to sign it.

Yours sincerely

Or

Yours faithfully

Applications for Success > Covering letters

25

Response to advertisement
Louise Cable 9 Monitor Close Scanner End Dorset DO5 5OD louisem7@hotmail.co.uk 01300 654 5678 Ms P C Mouse Computer Genius Inc Monitor Road Swindon SW12 3WS 30 April 2012

Dear Ms Mouse, Graduate Position for Network Engineers I am applying for the above position, which I saw advertised on your website. I have recently completed a BSc (Hons) degree in Computer Network Management and have achieved a 2:1. Your selection criteria stipulate that you require a good understanding of specific key technologies. My degree has given me the knowledge, competence and understanding of a wide range of languages, including HTML and JavaScript. A complete list is included in my CV. Having entered university as a mature student, I have several years employment experience in diverse roles including management, customer service and as an electronics technician. This has given me a wide range of transferable skills related to the job description including: technical and commercial skills problem solving skills written, oral and presentation skills customer service I am impressed by the work you undertake within technology development in inner-city schools, and I am very motivated to work for Computer Genius Inc. I enclose my CV outlining my experience and training to date and hope that I will have the opportunity to discuss at interview how I can use these to benefit your company in the role of a network engineer. Yours sincerely,

L Cable
Louise Cable Enc.

26

Applications for Success > Covering letters

Speculative application
Joe Bank 20 Sterling Road Southampton SO14 1HZ bankje@gmail.com 02380 987 789 Mrs C Balance Wallet Accountants 11 Invoice Avenue Southampton SO15 1TH 17 March 2012 Dear Mrs Balance, Trainee Accountant I am in the final year of my Criminology degree at Southampton Solent University and I am interested in joining your firm as a trainee accountant when I graduate this summer. My work experience at Field Bennett during the second year of my degree reinforced my interest in training as an accountant. I had the opportunity to shadow some accountants specialising in taxation and observed them negotiating tax settlements and giving expert advice on taxation matters to companies and individuals. As a result of this, I have become keen to specialise in taxation. Whilst with Field Bennett I was able to hone my communication skills by liaising with colleagues and writing up minutes of team meetings. In addition I organised and assisted with sales and transfers. I am aware that Wallet has a particularly large taxation department, which might provide the opportunity to pursue my interest. My CV indicates the units I have studied and the skills I have developed. During my studies at City College I became familiar with a range of financial packages such as SAGE. As a course representative I have practised some of the key skills which I feel would contribute to the role of trainee accountant, such as making presentations, using tact and diplomacy and communicating with a wide range of people. Thank you for considering my speculative approach. I will contact you two weeks from the date of this letter and hope we can discuss possible opportunities. Yours sincerely, Joe Bank Joe Bank Enc.

Applications for Success > Covering letters

27

Disclosing a disability
Tess Durber 14 Evans Way Totton Southampton SO18 2OT 02380 778 877 tessd2010@gmail.com Mrs T Hardy Wessex County Council Wessex Hall Casterbridge WE15 1TH 20 January 2012

Dear Mrs Hardy, Business Trainee ref WEX4292 I am in the final year of my Business degree at Southampton Solent University and I am interested in joining Wessex County Council as a business trainee when I graduate this summer. I believe that my degree studies and business experience have prepared me to meet the challenges as a business trainee in your organisation. My work experience at Toomer and Ball during the second year of my degree reinforced my interest in training in a business environment. I had the opportunity to work in both finance and procurement which gave me a good understanding of how the business worked and the skills needed in order to make a useful contribution to the business. I developed expertise through liaising with colleagues and writing up minutes of team meetings. I recognise how important it is to be accurate and to communicate effectively in this kind of work, something I have worked very hard at since being diagnosed as dyslexic. I now have strategies to ensure that my recording is accurate and I feel I have become more motivated and determined through needing to work harder to achieve the standards I set myself. My involvement in a project to develop new software for people with dyslexia gave me the opportunity to gain new IT skills and useful experience in training and supporting system users. I am particularly interested in working for a local authority because I want to do work which has a significant impact on the lives of people. I would enjoy working for a large organisation offering a range of different departments and opportunities for training and progression. I am also aware that Wessex County Council offers a comprehensive training programme, equipping its employees to become competent and confident professionals. I enclose my CV as requested and hope to meet with you to discuss this position. Yours sincerely, T Durber Tess Durber Enc.

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Applications for Success > Covering letters

Targeting a placement
Bill Patel 99 Runaway Road Bitterne Southampton SO19 8RR 02380 777 333 bill77@yahoo.com Mr S Adams Burton Enterprises plc Freedom Square London WC1S 2EG 14 March 2012 Dear Mr Adams, Work Placement Vacancy Post AB23/1K I am responding to your recent advertisement for a work placement opportunity. I am currently studying for a BA (Hons) degree in Tourism at Southampton Solent University. The course is a three-year degree with a strong business element and up-to-date tourism sector information. The course has a vocational bias and my enclosed CV outlines some of the topics that I have already covered. Burton Enterprises attracts me because it is one of the leading UK tour operators and specialises in personalised holidays, a field in which I would like to pursue a long -term career. The opportunity to gain work experience with the company during the summer would be a great asset to me when I graduate from university and would also help me in my final year to apply the practical experience gained to the pertinent business theories and strategies. What can I offer you? Feedback from my last unit indicated that I have honed analysis and precise reporting skills, and in addition my part-time work supervisor says I am hardworking and punctual. I keep myself smart and presentable in both manner and dress. I understand that business is a serious matter and recognise the need to be responsible and professional in whatever I do. Thank you for considering my application and I look forward to meeting you should you decide to call me for interview. Yours sincerely,

W Patel
Bill Patel Enc.

Applications for Success > Covering letters

29

Social media networking

eBook links
Web

Everyone exchanges support and information. In addition to colleagues on your degree, friends, tutors and existing professional relationships, you can build contacts and understanding through social media networking. Here are some sites to consider.

Linkedin
GJS Group Linkedin has more than 100 million global members and is the top professional networking site. After creating your profile you are able to link with your existing networks and their networks. Linkedin includes a job search function but many organisations have groups which you can join. If you have a passion or an interest in a specific industry, then join associated groups that often have job postings too.

@SSU_getajob Social media

Facebook
Facebook has over 750 million active users. It is widely used as a personal networking site, so consider whether you would want an employer to view your Facebook profile. You can join job search applications and organisation groups. For example, the Facebook icon on the left in the eBook version takes you to the Graduate Jobs South Facebook group.

Twitter
Twitter offers a great way to find out about an organisations culture and whether it is a place you would want to work. You can share your own knowledge and passions about your areas of interest via your tweets, becoming an active participant in industry-related discussions and making useful contacts.

YouTube
People watch 3 billion videos a day on YouTube. It is the second largest search engine after Google and hosts a lot of careers advice. Depending on your filming abilities and the industry you are applying to, you might upload a short twoto-three minute video highlighting key aspects of your CV. See page 14 for additional advice on video CVs.

Think first!
If you are signed up to groups, and in particular on Facebook or Twitter, please remember that they can also see you. So think about this when uploading profile pictures or tweeting about how many interviews you have or how much you dislike your current boss.

30

Applications for Success > Further support

Careers, Employability & Enterprise

We empower you to build a great career by providing individual guidance and advice, organising employer events and promoting the range of employment opportunities. We work to enhance your employability and develop your enterprising potential.

One-to-one advice and guidance

Drop-in daily for individual advice at the Employability & Enterprise Centre: - CVs, application forms and covering letters - Volunteering and part-time work - Placements and work experience - Graduate work and internships - Finding opportunities Book one-to-one, confidential, careers guidance appointments with a careers adviser Talk with the Enterprise team about setting up your own business or social enterprise.

Events
We run a range of events in partnership with employers, faculties and the local community, advertised on our events page: www.portal.solent.ac.uk/careers > Events We work closely with lecturers to provide tailored support on many degrees.

Opportunities and jobs

Access two great jobs boards advertising graduate work, placements, part-time jobs, work experience and volunteering opportunities via: www.portal.solent.ac.uk/careers - Jobshop Online: Local, national and international opportunities - Graduate Jobs South: Graduate opportunities in the south Work part-time on campus by enrolling on the Campus Jobs myCourse page.

Resources
Find the information you need through www.portal.solent.ac.uk/careers Search the library catalogue for over 1000 careers books and videos Pick up graduate opportunity directories and magazines in the Centre CareerBox is your key career development resource located in myCourse: - Access videos, presentations and self assessment software such as SkillCheck live - Research careers directly related to your degree.

Contact us
Make contact at the Employability & Enterprise/Students 1st Centre (RM050), Monday to Friday. 023 8031 9427 www.portal.solent.ac.uk/careers careers@solent.ac.uk

Copyright: Southampton Solent University, October 2011. All rights reserved. All content is the intellectual property of Southampton Solent University. Applications for Success is freely available for educational purposes. Please cite any content used. Information and advice is provided in good faith.

Applications for Success > Further support

31

Graduate Jobs South (GJS)

GJS works with the universities of Southampton Solent, Chichester and Winchester to deliver a recruitment service to students, graduates and employers in the South. Register with us to find graduate jobs and internships Use the GJS website to find employers in the Business Directory.

www.graduatejobsouth.co.uk
GJS worked well for me. It was an easy application process and the fact that it was advertising jobs in the South suited me perfectly. I applied for Enterprise Rent-A-Car via GJS and received an offer for the job which I gladly took. I would certainly recommend this site to other students and graduates looking for a great career. Leanne Wilson Management Trainee Enterprise Rent-A-Car

Whichever way you look at it, Enterprise is a huge and hugely successful international car rental company. Weve come a long way from our humble beginnings in America way back in the 50s. We now have a turnover of more than $12 billion, and provide jobs for more than 68,000 people in over 7,600 locations across the UK, Ireland, Germany, the USA and Canada. And with over 375 offices in Britain and Ireland alone, we can offer you a great deal of freedom as to where youd like to start your career. www.enterprisealive.co.uk

East Park Terrace Southampton Hampshire SO14 0YN T: +44 (0)23 8031 9000

www.solent.ac.uk