Just the Job: How CV walk-through can be a winner
Q: At the start of the interview, they asked me to “walk us through your CV”. I probably rambled on. It’s not today or yesterday that I started in the workplace. Eventually they cut me short before I’d even got to my current role. I realised then I’d probably made a hash of it. The interview never recovered. I got the Dear John email a few days later. It was almost an ease to me. How can I do better next time? (JL, email).
A: In interviews, focus more on relevance than chronology. A chronological presentation of one's CV can be a passion killer – it’s predictable and can lead to discussions of irrelevant details that don't interest the interviewers. Instead, skim through any irrelevant parts and focus on the two or three roles that are most relevant to the job you’re chasing.
Before the interview, take some time to think through the key points you wish to make about each of these roles. What did you learn there? What did you achieve? How did you develop? Having these points at the ready will get you through the answer without having to fumble around in the dark hoping you’ll land on something good.
Another important aspect of your CV to consider is what's missing. The ‘walk us through’ question is a good time to talk about upcoming training or development needs related to the job. Showing you're aware of your own need for development can be a positive thing, as it demonstrates your willingness to learn and grow.
Finally, consider highlighting one aspect of your personal, community or voluntary lives that may interest the interviewers. This could be anything from captaining a sports team to a personal accomplishment, such as breaking three hours for the marathon or reaching the base camp of Mount Everest. These details can help to give the interviewers a better sense of who you are as a person.
In short, this question is a great opportunity to score points in a job interview. Use it wisely by focusing on relevance, preparing key points beforehand and highlighting any personal or professional achievements that make you stand out.
Q: In my CV, should I highlight stuff away from my work – for example, I’ve been part of a community group that has won a few national awards? Or are recruiters really interested in that? (DG, email).
A: Recruiters differ and candidates die. My bias tends to be in favour of including items of that nature.
Highlighting personal accomplishments and interests can give the employer a better sense of who you are as a person. Your resume is not just a list of your job experience and education – it's also an opportunity to show who you really are to the employer.
Flagging personal accomplishments and interests can also help to demonstrate your skills and abilities. Many personal accomplishments, such as winning a national award, require dedication and perseverance. By bringing attention to these accomplishments, you can show the employer that you possess the skills and qualities they're looking for in a candidate.
In conclusion, don't be afraid to mention your personal accomplishments and interests – they could be the key to landing your dream job.