Chapter 3: This is me continued...

A CV is so powerful and I think that this is where the stigma attached to it lies.  I believe that we all avoid updating our CV because we know it's power and how important it is to get it right.  We spend the majority of our lives working so I have always had a goal to find the right job that I enjoy and a CV holds the key to finding that so no wonder it is scary.  I have been doing a bit more research to develop my key to the dream job offer. 

Firstly I have adapted my blog profile to include more detail about work I have done.  I want it to be personable and professional at the same time.  Let me know how you think I have done on getting this balance.

After looking at other blogs I particularly like how Ahmet Ahmet has created a CV that shouts about his teaching work but still includes his performing experience.  I think this style would work well for me and I will look to create something similar.  It is also very clear and to the point which I think mine is lacking. Thanks Ahmet.

I noticed that Paula Nottingham had recommended some links on her blog so I took a look.

www.kent.ac.uk/careers/cv/actorcv.htm

This page looks at a performers CV.  The key elements that are relevant to my progression in this area are as follows:

• Include spotlight and equity number - can create an online link.
• Include links to reviews and examples of work.
• Include a skills section.
• Make sure CV is only one page.

I also found this page helpful:

www.bbc.co.uk/news/business

This is relevant to my current teaching CV.  One particular element of the mentioned structure stood out to me as I feel I need to work on it. The profile, which is the first thing a potential employer will read.  I quote the above page "A personal profile sells yourself and your qualities, it should be tailored towards the job you are applying for."  I feel I can spend some time here to make sure I am selling myself to maximum capability.  It spoke of the importance of keeping your CV positive throughout and keeping all the information relevant.  It is easy to get lost somewhere in the middle and I do have a tendency to waffle on so I will work on making it to the point.  It is also looks at the importance of tailoring your CV to each and every job you apply for.  I make small changes but I feel this is something I can progress further.

I also found this page which I thought had some really great tips so take a look.

http://career-advice.monster.co.uk/cvs-applications/careers.aspx 

It had a great video that makes the tips more accessible.  It is business based but I feel it is still relevant to creative and education industries.  I particularly like the last thing mentioned "your only limitation is your own creativity."

I also had the idea to use my resources around me to help me develop my CV.  I have some friends who work in recruitment and look at CV's everyday.  I thought it would be beneficial to ask them a few questions that I would like to know.  Here is what I have so far:

• What makes a CV instantly stand out so you continue to read?
• What makes you instantly discard a CV?
• Should you always include all your experience even if you do not feel it is relevant to the particular job (if you choose not to it may lead to career gaps on CV) ?
• If you are following multiple career paths should you keep these CV's separate?
• If you practised the same skills in different jobs should you repeat them or not?
• Do your clients search potential employees within social networking platforms eg. facebook, twitter, blogs?
• Do your clients often ask for hard copy CV's or is it all done online?
• Are clients starting to use video CV's at all?
• Do you have any brief tips/biggest mistakes to share?

If you have any other questions you would like to ask please let me know. Thanks.
Hollie x