Here at Countertalk you can create a profile tailored to you and your skill set without needing a CV to apply for a role. You can of course attach your CV to your application if you want to as well, that’s totally cool and some employers do prefer it! Plus, having an up to date CV is always handy.

A few of you have reached out wanting a few CV tips. It’s amazing to see so many of you applying for roles and wanting to take the next step in your career, so we’re here to help by laying down some CV pointers that could help you find your next dream job.

Let’s dive in!

Remember, your CV serves to sell you and your skills. Start by opening up your CV and looking at it. Objectively what does it say about you?

Bear in mind, when you send a CV to an employer, typically they will be looking at multiple CVs at any one time. Help yours to stand out by refining the information given at the top. Here’s what we suggest:

Header:

• Name
• Contact number
• Address

Use the same font throughout, making sure the font you choose is clear and easy to read. Keeping it black works well, too.

Align the words and content correctly and consistently, and always double check your spelling. This is going to be the only exposure to you that a potential employer will have until you meet, so make sure it’s perfect!

Keep it concise: 1-2 pages maximum, detailing the most relevant experience to the role. If you have extensive amounts of experience you can always chop bits out, and tailor the information to each job role that you are applying to. Yes it’s a bit more work, but as you climb in your career it’s a really good idea to consider adapting your CV to each role that you apply for.

The personal statement:

Make it punchy and to the point. Use this as an opportunity to make clear assertions about yourself. Try not to use too many clichéd descriptors, the best course of action is to be honest and to describe yourself sincerely. Don’t be afraid to add some personality too, hospitality is a people business after all…!

Use this as a guideline: Who are you? What are your career goals? Outline your attitude. Why should someone employ you?

Work history:

Use the correct dates

Job role

What did the role entail

Skills learnt

When detailing work experience, use bullet points to explain each skill. For example ‘Organising the orders and deliveries on a daily basis’ – think about adding in how you did this and how it applies specifically to you.  ie: ‘To make sure all of the orders were made I had to stick to specific timings and set up organisational systems to make sure it ran smoothly within a team of 15 others.’ Detailing what you enjoyed about working for each employer is usually a good idea too. Not only does it show you take positives from previous jobs but it could also help to explain the types of places you’ve worked in, if the company you’re sending your CV to hasn’t heard of them.

Hobbies & Interests:

We are big on these and think that these really help to give the employer a good sense of who you are outside of work. Definitely include them!

Cover letter or no cover letter?

This is usually quite a divisive point and most people will advise that in hospitality it’s not crucial. However, a personalised message for your future boss can add a level of personality and interest in their business that will set you apart from the competition.

Think about things like
– What you ate/drank if you’ve visited their establishment
– Something you admire about their business
– What their reputation is like within your network
– Anything that gives you a reason to want to work there!

And finally, do not let a NO stop you moving forward. We’ve all had them and it does not define you or your career journey!