How to Increase your Chances of Landing the Job
Effective Follow-Up Practices After Submitting Your CV: How to Increase Your Chances of Landing the Job After you’ve sent off your CV and covering letter, the waiting game begins. It can be tempting to sit back and hope for the best, but following up effectively can significantly enhance your chances of securing an interview. Here’s how to follow up with potential employers in a way that is professional, courteous, and effective. 1. Wait the Appropriate Amount of Time Patience is key. Generally, it’s advisable to wait at least one week before following up. This gives the hiring manager sufficient time to review your application. However, if the job listing specifies a date when applications will be reviewed, wait until after this date to make contact. 2. Choose the Right Method of Communication Email is typically the most appropriate and non-intrusive method for following up. It allows the recipient to respond at their convenience. Ensure that your email is professionally formatted, with a clear subject line that includes your name and the position you applied for, such as “Follow-Up on Application – [Your Name] for [Position].” 3. Keep It Brief and Professional Your follow-up message should be concise and to the point. Start by expressing your continued interest in the position and the company. Briefly reiterate why you believe you are a good fit for the role, based on your skills and experience. Here’s an example: Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name], I hope this message finds you well. I am writing to follow up on my application for [position] submitted on [date]. I am very enthusiastic about the opportunity to join [Company Name] and contribute to your team with my skills in [mention relevant skills/experience]. I look forward to the possibility of discussing this exciting opportunity with you. Thank you for considering my application. I hope to hear from you soon. Warm regards, [Your Name] 4. Mention Any New Developments If you have new achievements or credentials since you submitted your application, briefly mention them in your follow-up. This can be a new job role, a recently completed project, or additional qualifications you’ve obtained that enhance your candidacy. 5. Be Prepared for Any Response Be prepared for three potential responses: an invitation to interview, a request for further information, or a notification that you have not been successful. If you receive no response, it’s acceptable to send one more follow-up email a couple of weeks later. After that, it’s best to move on and focus on other opportunities. 6. Respect the Outcome If the response is negative or there is no response after your second follow-up, respect the employer’s decision. Maintain professionalism and thank them for their consideration. Keep the door open for future opportunities by expressing your hope to be considered for any suitable roles that may arise. 7. Keep Applying Elsewhere While you’re waiting for a response, continue applying for other opportunities. Not only does this increase your chances of finding a job, but it also keeps you engaged and proactive in your job search. Following up on your job application shows initiative and interest in the role. It can set you apart from other candidates who simply wait passively. By taking these steps, you present yourself as a professional and enthusiastic candidate, thereby increasing your chances of progressing to the next stage of the hiring process. Recent Posts 05May CV Help How to Increase your Chances of Landing the Job Effective Follow-Up Practices After Submitting Your CV: How to Increase… READ MORE 25Mar CV Help How to Highlight Your Education in Your CV Maximising Impact: How to Highlight Your Education in Your CV… READ MORE 06Mar CV Help Mastering CV Writing for All Career Phases The Evolution of CV’s: Mastering CV Writing for All Career… READ MORE
Crafting the Perfect CV
Crafting the Perfect CV (2025 Edition) In today’s competitive job market, your CV is your golden ticket to getting noticed. It’s often the first impression an employer has of you—so making it strong, clear, and tailored is more important than ever. In 2025, expectations have evolved: employers and applicant tracking systems (ATS) are looking for specific traits, keywords, and structure. Here’s your guide to building a CV that works for modern recruitment. TL;DR: CV Writing in 2025 Open with a tailored personal statement Customise your CV to each job and use keywords from the job description Highlight achievements, not just tasks Keep the layout clean, concise, and AI-friendly Emphasise both digital and soft skills Update regularly and always proofread 1. Start Strong with a Personal Statement The personal statement is your opening pitch. It sits right at the top of your CV and should summarise: Who you are Your key skills or strengths What kind of role you’re looking for What value you can bring to the company Keep it to around 3–5 lines. This is not your life story—it’s a focused intro tailored to the job you’re applying for. Example “Motivated and detail-oriented retail assistant with over 2 years’ experience in customer service and stock control. Skilled in handling transactions, resolving customer issues, and working as part of a team. Seeking a new challenge in a dynamic pharmacy environment to support health and wellbeing in the local community.” If you’re changing careers or industries, use this section to explain that briefly and positively. 2. Tailor It to Each Job One-size-fits-all CVs rarely get results. Every job you apply for will list specific skills, responsibilities, or qualifications—and your CV needs to reflect those as closely as possible. How to tailor your CV: Match keywords from the job description (e.g. “customer service,” “stock management,” “point-of-sale systems”) Reorder bullet points so the most relevant info appears first Mention the company by name in your personal statement if you’re going the extra mile This increases your chances of getting past ATS filters and shows the employer you’ve made an effort. 3. Use ATS- and AI-Friendly Formatting Many employers now use applicant tracking systems to screen CVs before a human even sees them. To make sure your CV isn’t rejected by a robot: Use simple headings like Work Experience, Education, Skills Avoid fancy templates with columns, images, or tables Stick to standard fonts like Arial, Calibri, or Helvetica Save your CV as a .docx or .pdf file Avoid logos, emojis, or graphics unless you’re in a creative field (like design or media) 4. Focus on Achievements, Not Just Duties Instead of just listing what your previous jobs involved, talk about what you achieved in those roles. Show the results of your work. Basic Duty “Worked on tills and answered customer queries.” Achievement-focused: “Processed over 100 customer transactions daily and maintained 98% accuracy on the till. Helped implement a new returns process that reduced wait times by 30%.” Tip: Use the STAR method—Situation, Task, Action, Result—to help write strong bullet points. 5. Showcase Your Digital and Transferable Skills Even in hands-on or customer-facing roles, digital skills are valuable. Employers in 2025 want to know you’re comfortable with tech, can learn new systems, and work well with others. Include: Systems you’ve used (EPOS tills, CRM software, Microsoft Office, Google Drive, inventory apps) Skills like remote collaboration, data entry, or even social media (if relevant to the role) Transferable skills: problem-solving, communication, teamwork, attention to detail These make your CV more adaptable and highlight your potential to grow within the company. 6. Keep It Professional, Clean, and Concise Design tips: Use a professional, readable font (size 11–12) Keep it to 1 page if you have less experience, 2 pages max if you have more Use bold for job titles and consistent formatting throughout Use bullet points instead of long paragraphs Make sure there’s plenty of white space—don’t cram everything in Think of your CV as a brochure for you—clear, inviting, and easy to scan. 7. Include the Right Sections Here’s what a strong CV in 2025 should include (in order): Contact Details: Full name, town/city, mobile, email (professional looking), LinkedIn (optional) Personal Statement: Tailored, short, impactful Work Experience: Most recent first, with job title, company, dates, and key achievements Education: School/college name, dates, qualifications, and grades (if relevant) Skills: Split into soft (communication, adaptability) and hard (Excel, POS systems) Optional: Volunteering Certifications (e.g., First Aid, Food Safety, Pharmacy Counter Assistant) Languages Relevant interests (e.g. volunteering, tech, fitness—if they relate to the job) Avoid: Photos Date of birth Full address Marital status or nationality 8. Proofread Like Your Job Depends on It (Because It Might!) Typos or grammar mistakes can instantly damage your credibility. Always: Run your CV through tools like Grammarly Ask someone else to read it Read it aloud to catch awkward phrasing Also, double-check dates, formatting, and consistency (e.g., all dates lined up the same way, all bullet points in the same tense). 9. Keep It Updated Regularly It’s easy to forget to update your CV, especially when you’re not actively job hunting. But keeping it fresh means you’ll always be ready for new opportunities. Make it a habit to update: New responsibilities or achievements at work Training or courses you’ve completed New tools or systems you’ve learned Final Tip: Make It Easy to Skim Recruiters spend seconds—not minutes—on each CV. Help them out: Use short bullet points Start each point with a strong verb (Managed, Supported, Delivered, Resolved) Keep each point under 2 lines Put your most relevant experience first If you make it easy to see how you’re the right fit, you’ll increase your chances of getting that call back. Now that you’ve created the perfect CV, why not check out some Interview Tips. Use AI to Help Craft Your CV If you’re struggling to put your experience into words, or you’re not sure how to structure your CV effectively, why not use a little AI assistance? Tools like ChatGPT can help
How to Highlight Your Education in Your CV
Maximising Impact: How to Highlight Your Education in Your CV When it comes to crafting a compelling CV, the education section holds significant weight, especially for individuals who may have limited work experience. Whether you’re a recent graduate or transitioning from academia to the professional world, effectively navigating the education section of your CV is crucial for making a positive impression on potential employers. In this guide, we’ll explore what to include and how to present your educational background to showcase your qualifications and potential. What to Include: 1. Educational Qualifications: Begin by listing your most recent and relevant educational qualifications. This typically includes: Degree(s) or qualification(s) obtained. Name of the institution attended. Location of the institution. Dates of attendance or graduation. 2. Academic Achievements: If you achieved notable academic successes, such as scholarships, awards, or distinctions, be sure to highlight them. This demonstrates your commitment to excellence and can set you apart from other candidates. 3. Relevant Coursework: Include any coursework or modules that are relevant to the job you’re applying for. This is particularly important if your degree programme included specialised subjects or if you’ve taken additional courses to supplement your education. 4. Dissertation or Thesis Title (If Applicable): If your academic programme required the completion of a dissertation or thesis, consider including the title. This provides insight into your research interests and demonstrates your ability to undertake independent projects. 5. Professional Development: Mention any professional development courses, workshops, or certifications that are relevant to the position you’re seeking. This shows employers that you’re proactive about continuing education and acquiring new skills. How to Present: 1. Reverse Chronological Order: Arrange your educational qualifications in reverse chronological order, starting with your most recent degree or qualification. This allows employers to quickly see your academic progression and achievements. 2. Be Concise: While it’s essential to provide relevant details, avoid including unnecessary information that may clutter your CV. Focus on presenting the most pertinent aspects of your education in a clear and concise manner. 3. Use a Consistent Format: Maintain a consistent format throughout the education section of your CV, including the layout, font style, and spacing. This enhances readability and professionalism. 4. Highlight Relevant Skills: Alongside your academic qualifications, highlight any transferable skills you’ve gained through your education, such as research, analytical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills. Employers value these skills, especially in candidates with limited work experience. 5. Tailor to the Job Description: Adapt your education section to align with the requirements of the job you’re applying for. Emphasise coursework, projects, or academic experiences that directly relate to the position and demonstrate your suitability for the role. Navigating the education section of your CV requires careful consideration of what to include and how to present your academic background effectively. By showcasing your educational qualifications, achievements, and relevant skills, you can demonstrate your readiness to excel in your chosen field, even with limited work experience. Remember to tailor your CV to each job application and highlight the aspects of your education that align with the position’s requirements. With a well-crafted education section, you can make a strong impression on potential employers and increase your chances of securing interviews and opportunities in your desired field. Recent Posts 25Mar CV Help How to Highlight Your Education in Your CV Maximising Impact: How to Highlight Your Education in Your CV… READ MORE 06Mar CV Help Mastering CV Writing for All Career Phases The Evolution of CV’s: Mastering CV Writing for All Career… READ MORE 28Feb CV Help Addressing Employment Gaps on Your CV NEW – Press ‘Play’ to hear an audio version of… READ MORE
Mastering CV Writing for All Career Phases
The Evolution of CV’s: Mastering CV Writing for All Career Phases Embarking on the journey of CV writing can be a daunting task, especially for those transitioning from full-time education or those with extensive work experience spanning several decades. In this guide, we’ll explore the key strategies for creating a compelling CV, addressing the unique challenges faced by both recent graduates and seasoned professionals. From tackling limited employment history to presenting outdated qualifications, we’ve got you covered. Crafting a CV for Fresh Graduates 1. Emphasize Skills and Achievements: Highlight relevant skills gained during your education. Showcase any academic achievements, projects, or internships. 2. Tailor to the Job: Customise your CV for each job application. Align your skills and experiences with the requirements of the role. 3. Include Extracurriculars: Mention involvement in clubs, societies, or volunteer work. Demonstrate teamwork, leadership, and initiative. 4. Personal Statement: Write a concise personal statement outlining career aspirations and key attributes. Crafting a CV for Long-Term Professionals 1. Focus on Transferable Skills: Identify skills acquired over the years that are applicable to the desired role. Highlight leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills. 2. Chronological or Functional Format: Choose between a traditional chronological format or a functional one that focuses on skills and achievements. Prioritise the most relevant information. 3. Quantify Achievements: Use metrics to showcase the impact of your work. Highlight successful projects, increased efficiency, or cost savings. 4. Professional Development: Include recent training or certifications to demonstrate a commitment to staying current. Showcase any relevant workshops, conferences, or online courses. Addressing Outdated Qualifications 1. Create a Separate Section: Dedicate a section specifically for outdated qualifications. Mention only the most relevant qualifications to the job you’re applying for. 2. Highlight Relevant Skills Instead: If qualifications are not directly applicable, emphasise the skills gained during that educational period. Showcase how those skills are relevant to the current job market. 3. Consider Omitting: If the qualifications are no longer relevant, consider omitting them. Focus on recent education or training that aligns with current industry standards. Additional Tips 1. Professional Formatting: Ensure a clean, professional layout with consistent formatting. Use legible fonts and organise information logically. 2. Proofread Thoroughly: Eliminate typos and grammatical errors. Ask for feedback from peers or mentors. 3. Networking: Leverage professional networks like LinkedIn to complement your CV. Connect with professionals in your desired field. Writing an effective CV requires a thoughtful approach, regardless of your career stage. By emphasising relevant skills, tailoring your CV to the job, and addressing outdated qualifications strategically, you can confidently navigate the CV waters and make a lasting impression on potential employers. Remember, your CV is a personal marketing tool – make it work for you! Recent Posts 06Mar CV Help Mastering CV Writing for All Career Phases The Evolution of CV’s: Mastering CV Writing for All Career… READ MORE 28Feb CV Help Strategies for Addressing Employment Gaps on Your CV NEW – Press ‘Play’ to hear an audio version of… READ MORE 26Feb CV Help Crafting the Perfect CV Crafting the Perfect CV – A Comprehensive Guide Your CV… READ MORE
Addressing Employment Gaps on Your CV
NEW – Press ‘Play’ to hear an audio version of this article. Your browser does not support the audio element. Bridging the Gap: Strategies for Addressing Employment Gaps on Your CV Embarking on a job search journey with employment gaps on your CV can be a challenging feat. However, with the right strategies, you can effectively address and overcome these gaps, presenting yourself as a strong and capable candidate. In this article, we’ll explore practical approaches to dealing with employment gaps on your CV and navigating this aspect of your professional history. Be Honest and Transparent: Honesty is key when addressing employment gaps. Clearly state the reasons for the gap in your CV, whether it’s due to personal reasons, further education, or a job search. Being transparent builds trust with potential employers. Use a Functional CV Format: Consider using a functional CV format that emphasizes skills and accomplishments rather than focusing on a chronological work history. This can help shift the spotlight away from employment gaps and showcase your abilities. Highlight Transferable Skills: Showcase your transferable skills gained during the employment gap. Whether you engaged in volunteer work, took on freelance projects, or acquired new skills through self-directed learning, emphasise how these experiences contribute to your suitability for the role. Address the Gap in Your Cover Letter: Your cover letter is an excellent space to provide context to the employment gap. Briefly explain the circumstances and, more importantly, highlight how the time away has prepared you for the position you are applying for. Offer a Brief Explanation: When mentioning employment gaps on your CV, provide a concise and positive explanation. Avoid dwelling on the reasons and focus on how the experience has positively influenced your professional growth. Show Continuous Learning: Demonstrate a commitment to continuous learning during the gap period. Mention any courses, workshops, or certifications you pursued to stay updated in your field or to acquire new skills relevant to your target job. Use a Professional Summary: Include a professional summary at the beginning of your CV to grab the employer’s attention. This brief section allows you to highlight your strengths and achievements, steering the focus away from the chronological timeline. Networking and Referrals: Leverage your professional network and seek referrals. Personal recommendations can vouch for your capabilities and can sometimes outweigh concerns related to employment gaps. Volunteer Work and Freelancing: If applicable, include any volunteer work or freelance projects you undertook during the employment gap. This not only fills the timeline but also demonstrates your proactive approach to staying engaged in your field. Professional Development Section: Introduce a section in your CV dedicated to professional development. Outline relevant courses, certifications, and workshops you’ve completed during the gap, reinforcing your commitment to staying current in your industry. Everyone’s career journey has its unique twists and turns. Addressing employment gaps on your CV requires a strategic and positive approach. By being transparent, emphasizing your skills and achievements, and showcasing continuous learning, you can turn employment gaps into opportunities to demonstrate resilience and growth, ultimately positioning yourself as a valuable asset to prospective employers. Recent Posts 28Feb CV Help Strategies for Addressing Employment Gaps on Your CV NEW – Press ‘Play’ to hear an audio version of… READ MORE 26Feb CV Help Crafting the Perfect CV Crafting the Perfect CV – A Comprehensive Guide Your CV… READ MORE 24Feb CV Help Speculative and Covering Letters Demystifying Speculative Letters and Covering Letters in Job Applications In… READ MORE
Speculative and Covering Letters
Demystifying Speculative Letters and Covering Letters in Job Applications In the competitive landscape of job hunting, crafting an effective application is a vital step towards securing your dream position. Two common components of job applications are speculative letters and covering letters, each serving distinct purposes. In this article, we will explore the differences between speculative and covering letters, shedding light on when to use each and whether one holds an advantage over the other. Understanding Speculative Letters: A speculative letter, also known as a cold cover letter, is sent to a company without a specific job vacancy being advertised. Its primary purpose is to express your interest in the organization and inquire about potential opportunities. In a speculative letter, you introduce yourself, outline your skills and qualifications, and articulate how your expertise could benefit the company, even if they are not currently hiring for a role matching your profile. Key Points of a Speculative Letter: Introduction: Briefly introduce yourself and explain the purpose of your letter. Interest in the Company: Express your genuine interest in the company and its values. Showcasing Skills: Highlight your skills and achievements relevant to the industry. Value Proposition: Articulate how your skills can bring value to the company. Closing Statement: Express gratitude and openness to further discussions. Understanding Covering Letters: A covering letter, on the other hand, is tailored for a specific job application. It accompanies your CV and serves as a complement by providing a more in-depth narrative of your qualifications and experiences. A covering letter allows you to align your skills with the requirements of the advertised position, explaining how your background makes you a suitable candidate. Key Points of a Covering Letter: Introduction: Start with a polite greeting and introduce yourself. Reference to the Job: Clearly state the position you are applying for and where you found the job advertisement. Showcasing Qualifications: Align your qualifications and experiences with the job requirements. Highlighting Achievements: Showcase specific achievements and experiences relevant to the role. Closing Statement: Express enthusiasm, restate your interest, and include a call to action. Choosing Between Speculative and Covering Letters: The choice between a speculative and covering letter depends on the circumstances. If you are applying for a specific job with an advertised vacancy, a covering letter is the preferred choice. It allows you to directly address the requirements of the position and demonstrate how your skills match the company’s needs. On the other hand, if you are interested in a company but they have not advertised any relevant positions, a speculative letter can be a proactive approach. It demonstrates initiative and may catch the attention of employers who appreciate proactive candidates. Conclusion: In the realm of job applications, both speculative and covering letters play distinctive roles. While a covering letter is tailored for a specific job application, a speculative letter is a proactive way to express interest in a company even when no job vacancy is advertised. The effectiveness of each approach depends on the context of the job search and the preferences of the employer. Ultimately, a thoughtful and well-crafted letter, whether speculative or covering, can significantly enhance your chances of making a positive impression in the competitive job market. Recent Posts 26Feb CV Help Crafting the Perfect CV Crafting the Perfect CV – A Comprehensive Guide Your CV… READ MORE 24Feb CV Help Speculative and Covering Letters Demystifying Speculative Letters and Covering Letters in Job Applications In… READ MORE 20Feb CV Help Crafting the Perfect Cover Letter Crafting the Perfect Cover Letter: A Step-by-Step Guide In the… READ MORE
Crafting the Perfect Cover Letter
Crafting the Perfect Cover Letter: A Step-by-Step Guide In the competitive job market, a well-crafted cover letter can be the key to unlocking the door to your dream job. This document serves as your first introduction to potential employers, offering a glimpse into your personality, skills, and enthusiasm for the position. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essential steps to create the perfect cover letter tailored. 1. Addressing the Hiring Manager: Begin your cover letter with a proper salutation. Avoid generic greetings like “To whom it may concern.” Take the time to research and address the hiring manager by their name, using their title and surname. This demonstrates your attention to detail and genuine interest in the company. 2. Introduction: Start with a strong opening paragraph that grabs the reader’s attention. Briefly mention how you learned about the job opportunity and express your excitement about applying. Highlight a key achievement or experience that makes you a standout candidate. Example: “I am writing to express my interest in the [Job Title] position at [Company Name], as advertised on your company website. With a solid background in [relevant industry/field], I am eager to contribute my skills and expertise to your dynamic team.” 3. Showcasing Your Skills and Achievements: Use the body of your cover letter to showcase your relevant skills and accomplishments. Be specific and provide examples that align with the job requirements. Use metrics whenever possible to quantify your achievements and demonstrate your impact. Example: “In my previous role as [Previous Job Title] at [Previous Company], I successfully implemented a streamlined project management system, resulting in a 20% increase in team efficiency. My strong analytical skills and attention to detail allowed me to identify and resolve challenges, ensuring project timelines were consistently met.” 4. Tailoring to the Company: Personalize your cover letter by demonstrating your knowledge of the company. Mention specific projects, initiatives, or values that resonate with you. Explain how your skills align with the company’s goals and culture. This shows that you’ve done your research and are genuinely interested in the organization. Example: “I am particularly drawn to [Company Name] because of its commitment to innovation and sustainability, as demonstrated by your recent [specific project/initiative]. My experience in [relevant skill] aligns seamlessly with your company’s mission, and I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to your ongoing success.” 5. Expressing Enthusiasm and Closing: Conclude your cover letter by reiterating your enthusiasm for the position and expressing your eagerness for an interview. Provide your contact information and thank the hiring manager for considering your application. Example: “I am confident that my skills and passion for [industry/field] make me an ideal candidate for the [Job Title] position. I am excited about the opportunity to further discuss how my experiences align with the needs of [Company Name]. Thank you for considering my application, and I look forward to the possibility of an interview.” Conclusion: Crafting the perfect cover letter requires a combination of research, customization, and effective communication. By following these steps, you can create a compelling cover letter that showcases your strengths and sets you apart from other applicants. Remember, a well-written cover letter is your chance to make a lasting impression and secure that coveted job interview. Good luck! Recent Posts 26Feb Interview Tips Mastering Interview Techniques Mastering Interview Techniques – Your Guide to Success The job… READ MORE 26Feb CV Help Crafting the Perfect CV Crafting the Perfect CV – A Comprehensive Guide Your CV… READ MORE Job Support Worker – The Avenues Trust Group Latest Jobs Support Worker – The Avenues Trust Group Night… READ MORE