Preparing Your CV and Application Form

1. Preparing Your CV and Application Form Lecture 8

2. Making Effective Applications: “Past behaviour is really the best indicator of future behaviour. That’s what application forms and CV’s are all about” (A graduate employer)

3. General Advice : • Expect to spend several hours on an application • It takes on average 2 minutes to read! • Know yourself • Know the employer – target CV to the job/employer • Make your application/CV focused • Clear presentation/layout • Use appropriate language – avoid jargon • Seek advice – get it checked • Keep copies

4. CV’s : When to use them • Only use when requested • For speculative applications • When asked for “applications in writing” • To register with employment agencies • As an introduction at fairs or in networking

5. CV’s continued : • 3 types : Chronological, Skills-based/ Functional, and Targeted • Many law firms prefer Chronological • Expect to adapt your CV for different applications • Keep to 2 pages – prioritise your information

6. CV’s - What to include : • Personal details • Education and Qualifications • Personal Statement ? • Work Experience • Skills • Activities/interests • References

7. Types of CV: • Chronological √ Standard and familiar × Gaps are obvious √ Progression is clear × Skills can get buried • Skills Based √ Skills are highlighted × More difficult to write √ Matches Person Spec × Can be difficult to follow • Targeted √ Evidence of exp/strengths × More difficult to compose √ Matches employers needs × Difficult to follow

8. Covering Letters : • Briefly introduce yourself; what job you are applying for; where you saw the advert, etc. • Give reasons why you are applying for this job in this organisation. Demonstrate your enthusiasm and understanding of the job/employer • Explain why you are a good candidate; highlight important points from your CV; add any relevant information or explanations not in the CV. • If necessary explain any gaps or anomalies in your CV. Explain how these have helped you in a positive way. • Tell them when you are available for interview, and finish on a positive note, eg “look forward to hearing from you”.

9. Read through the whole form before you begin Photocopy the blank form Keep to the prescribed format – read the instructions! Use the space provided Complete all sections – even if N/A Download the form and word process if possible Do each form individually- don’t cut and paste from your CV Use positive language Check spelling and grammar; language and tone Application Forms :

10. What do employers want to see ? • A well-structured application that lists examples from across your work, life and study • Relevant (transferable) skills and experience – provide evidence and examples of achievements in education/work • That you ‘fit’ the job and organisation • Information about your career motivation – why have you applied ? • Detail : responsibilities; successes; outcomes; what you gained

11. On-line Applications : • A growing number of larger firms use online application procedures • The rules generally are the same • Drop-down boxes may not always offer relevant options • Download the form if you can • Remember it is a formal application • Look at : www.selectsimulator.com for help with online forms

12. Resources : • OU Careers Advisory Service : www.open.ac.uk/careers Career Planning and Job Seeking Resource Pack OU Study and Your Career • The college of Law : www.college-of-law.co.uk • Graduate Prospects Website : www.prospects.ac.uk Making Applications Prospects Planner Legal Sector Briefing Postgraduate Study Options with Law etc • Law Careers Advice Network: www.lcan.org.uk • Law Careers : www.lawcareers.net • Institute of Legal Executives : www.ilex.org.uk

13. Careers Advisory ServiceThe Open Universitywww.open.ac.uk/careers