Paul McGee - How to Write a Cv That Really Works

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All rights reserved. No part of this work may be reproduced or stored in an information retrieval system (other than for purposes of review) without the express permission of the publisher in writing.

2009 Paul McGee

Second edition 1997

Reprinted 2000

Reprinted 2001

Reprinted 2002 (twice)

Reprinted 2003

Third edition 2006

Reprinted 2007

Fourth edition 2009

ISBN 978 1 84528 377 3
eISBN: 978 1 84803 591 1

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Cover by Baseline Arts, Oxford

There are not many certainties in life death and taxes are probably the main ones. Now there is another. At some time, we are all likely to need a Curriculum Vitae, or CV for short. Whether were leaving school or college, wanting a career change, experiencing redundancy or returning from a career break, our first priority is to get a CV written.

Not only is a CV necessary for the benefit of the intended reader, but as this book will illustrate, compiling one can provide a great insight for you personally. Rather than relying on someone who doesnt know you to write your personal sales brochure, this book gives you a practical step-by-step approach to creating your own.

We have all faced the frustration of knowing we can do the job, but how do we get a foot in the door? Your CV is the key to opening those doors. You will learn not just how to sell yourself, but how to tailor and vary your approach accordingly. Interviews will also take on a new meaning when we see the role our CV typically plays in that situation. Packed with exercises and case studies, this book provides insights and tips gained from helping thousands of people of all ages and from all backgrounds to successfully market themselves.

In writing this book I would particularly like to thank my mum and brother Andy for all their support and encouragement over the years. I would also especially like to acknowledge, once again, my wife Helen. By her actions she continues to provide even more definitions to the meaning of the words partner and friend. Thank you.

As for my offspring, Matt and Ruth, the time is now fast approaching when you will need a CV. I hope for once you will value your Dads advice!

Finally, I hope this book contributes in some way to the future success of all its readers. Good luck.

Paul McGee

Billions of pounds each year are spent by companies advertising their products. No matter how good the product is, no matter how well it has sold previously, businesses will continue to invest in its promotion. In America, television programmes are scheduled around commercials, and sporting events are delayed in order for the viewers to receive a message from our sponsor.

A radio programme was examining factors that contribute towards a song being successful in the charts. There were a number of factors but the most important was simply how well the song was marketed. Whether that came through television, on-line chatter or exposure via You Tube, success wasnt simply down to the quality of the song.

Thats a lesson we could all learn from.

Strange as it may seem, people can also be viewed as products. When they apply for a job or sell their services, they sell their skills, experience, qualities and potential. No matter how good a product the person is, their future success will depend to a great extent on how well they market themselves.

One of the most important marketing tools an individual can have when seeking to promote themselves is a Curriculum Vitae (CV for short) which is the Latin for the course of your life.

We live in a society where change is continuous and competition is increasing. The days of full employment are long gone and, whatever politicians say, they are unlikely to return. Advanced technology and emphasis on efficiency has led to a reduction in the labour force. Economic realities mean:

Many more women are being forced to return to paid employment in order to supplement their partners wage.

Companies are recruiting fewer graduates, which means there are plenty of qualified people, but with little or no work experience.

A job for life is becoming the exception rather than the norm.

Reorganisations within companies have led to redundancies and people who have worked all their lives in one industry are now looking for alternative work for the first time.

Increasingly there are more self employed people, working on short term projects.

People must now be prepared to work on a temporary contract, without any job security.

Working practices are changing and people are having to be more flexible in the hours they work. Whilst some are finding their home life is suffering due to the time spent at work, others are struggling to find even part-time employment.

These statements may seem stark, but this is reality and these are the circumstances people are finding themselves in.

The CV is not a magic wand. It will not suddenly be the solution to all our problems. But for those who do find themselves affected by this economic climate, or for those who simply feel it is time for a change, the CV is an important marketing tool.