Are you looking for a job? If so, you’ll need an impressive, well-written CV. But how can you write one?
On this podcast, you’ll learn what to include in a good CV, and what not to include, so that you can give the best impression possible before the interview.
Clare from smartenglishcoach.com is a CV expert and the perfect person to help you create an effective CV or resume that will get you that important job interview.

If you’ve listened to the podcast before, you’ll know that occasionally my regular co-host, Reza, has a rest and I bring onto the podcast someone with a particular set of skills to help you with your English.

On this week’s podcast, Clare, from The Smart English Coach is joining me to talk about CVs.
Clare has a passion for CV writing and I’m sure you’ll learn a lot from her advice and suggestions.
It’s your CV that helps you get past the first post or hurdle in your job application process and gets you in the door for that important job interview.
It’s a good idea to take CVs seriously!

But before you listen to Clare’s advice, I want to tell you about my next online conversation course that is starting soon.
If you’re writing your CV in English, there’s probably a good chance that you’ll need English in your job.
I’m sure you’ve been studying English and learning grammar for many years, but how is your fluency, your pronunciation, and your confidence when you speak?

If you want to improve that, come and join me and a small group of motivated students on Zoom and we’ll take your speaking to the next level.
If this sounds interesting and you’d like more information, send me an email to craig@inglespodcast.com and I’ll give you more details.
I hope to see you on the inside!

And now, sit back with your favourite drink and enjoy my conversation with Clare from smartenglishcoach.com.

If Clare’s voice sounds familiar, it’s because she has been on the podcast before.
Clare and I spoke about pronunciation and word stress in episode 446
Go to https://www.inglespodcast.com/446

Today we’re here to talk about CVs. Why are you passionate about CVs?

Many people hate writing their CVs because it’s hard to stand back objectively and write about yourself.
However, you are writing your story and writing your CV gives you the chance to write about your career and boost your confidence.

What’s the difference, if any, between a CV and a resume?

There’s no difference. CV is more common in British English and resume is used more in American English.

Why is it important for employers to have a good CV?

Potential employers need to see if you are a good fit for the job (education, qualifications, experience etc.)

What makes a good CV? What should job-seekers include and leave out?

Keep your CV short! No more than 2 pages.
Make your CV relevant to the job you are applying for. Leave out anything that is not related to the position.

Should you include a personal statement, or summary, at the beginning of your CV?

Yes, included it at the beginning of your CV. Limit your summary to 3 or 4 sentences. Include some ‘stand out’ achievements.
Only put the highlights of your career in the summary.

Is it a good idea to use a layout template for your CV?

Yes, they are a good starting point. But don’t just list your skills as bullet points. Give examples of how you have used your skills in a work situation.

How should I format and design my CV?

Bear in mind that when you upload your CV to websites like Totaljobs (https://www.totaljobs.com/) and Indeed (https://es.indeed.com/?r=us), it goes through a filter so use the same headings and format as they do on the website.
Don’t include graphics on your CV because many companies use algorithms to filter CVs. Only use text on your CV, don’t use graphics and follow the standard headings.

Having said that, if you give your CV to a person you can be a lot more creative.

Don’t include a photo, your date of birth, your marital status or your full address. This avoids any possible discrimination.

What typical mistakes do English learners make with their CVs?

Be flexible with the layout of your CV.
Be careful of not translating your CV accurately into English.
Don’t write your whole life story on your CV! Don’t include irrelevant, personal information on an English CV:
Start each sentence with a verb. For example, “Promoted to manager”.
Make sure you adapt your CV to the job you are applying for.
Include achievements and quantify them with a number.

What should job seekers bear in mind when it comes to a LinkedIn profile?

You should include a photograph.
A Linkedin profile is written in the first person. For example, “I help students get to advanced level.”

With some professions, like journalism, for example, it’s a good idea to have a website where you can send people to see your work. You can link to this at the top of your CV and on your Linkedin profile.

Summary

1. Keep it short.
2. Keep it relevant.
3. Make it powerful.
4. Be flexible.
5. Write a master CV. Keep it updated and adapt it for the job you want to apply for.

Clare’s CV course – English For Your Career
https://smartenglishcoach.com/cv/

Clare’s website: smartenglishcoach.com

Clare’s LinkedIn profile:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/clarewhitmell/

American award-winning resumes
https://careerdirectors.com/award-winning-resumes/

…and now it’s your turn to practise your English. Are you looking for a job in the English speaking world? We would love to hear your experience. Do you have a CV in English? Have a had job interviews in English?
Send us a voice message and tell us about it. You can practise your speaking and we’ll inlcude your voice message in a future episode. https://www.speakpipe.com/inglespodcast
Send us an email with a comment or question to craig@inglespodcast.com or belfastreza@gmail.com

This podcast is sponsored, in part, by mansionIngles.com. Visit the online store: https://store.mansioningles.net/

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The music in this podcast is by Pitx. The track is called ‘See You Later’