How to Write a Winning CV: A Guide for Those Returning to Work

Returning to the workforce after a period of unemployment, such as raising children, can seem daunting. However, with the right approach, you can craft a CV that highlights your strengths and transferable skills, showcasing your readiness to re-enter the job market. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you create a winning CV, whether you're aiming for NHS jobs, Civil Service jobs, or other opportunities like work from home jobs or part-time jobs near you.

1. Understand the Purpose of Your CV

A CV (Curriculum Vitae) is your personal marketing document. It should highlight your skills, experiences, and accomplishments to persuade potential employers to invite you for an interview. Tailor your CV for each job application, focusing on the requirements listed in the job description.

2. Choose the Right Format

For those with employment gaps, a functional or combination CV is often the best choice:

• Functional CV: Focuses on skills and experience, ideal for highlighting transferable skills gained during your time away from formal employment.

• Combination CV: Merges elements of both chronological and functional formats, allowing you to showcase your skills while also providing a clear career history.

  
  

3. Start with Contact Information

Ensure your contact information is clear and professional:

• Full Name

• Professional Title

• Phone Number

• Email Address

• LinkedIn Profile (optional)

• Address (optional)

  
  

4. Write a Compelling Personal Statement

Your personal statement (or CV profile) is a brief summary of your professional background and career objectives. Emphasise your enthusiasm for returning to work and highlight your relevant skills. Keep it concise, ideally around 4-5 lines. If you're applying for specific roles, such as NHS jobs or Civil Service jobs, mention your interest in these areas.

5. Highlight Key Skills and Transferable Skills

Include a skills section to quickly convey your core competencies and transferable skills. Use bullet points to list relevant skills, ensuring they align with the job description. Examples of transferable skills include:

• Project Management

• Team Leadership

• Budgeting

• Time Management

• Communication

• Problem-Solving

• Multitasking

• Conflict Resolution

  
  

6. Detail Your Work Experience

List your work experience in reverse chronological order, starting with your most recent job. For each role, include:

• Job Title

• Employer’s Name

• Dates of Employment

• Key Responsibilities and Achievements

For gaps in your employment history, consider including a brief note to explain the gap (e.g., “Career break to raise children”).

7. Emphasise Relevant Experience During Employment Gaps

During your time away from formal employment, you may have engaged in activities that developed valuable skills. Include these experiences to demonstrate your capabilities. Examples include:

• Volunteering: Roles in community groups, schools, or non-profits. For example, organising events or managing budgets can demonstrate project management and organisational skills.

• Freelancing: Any freelance or contract work you undertook. Highlighting these can show your ability to manage multiple clients and projects simultaneously.

• Education: Courses, workshops, or training you completed. This shows your commitment to personal development and staying current in your field.

• Personal Projects: Home renovation projects, managing household budgets, or coordinating schedules for a family. These activities can demonstrate skills like budgeting, multitasking, time management, and problem-solving.

  
  

8. Include Education and Qualifications

Detail your educational background, including:

• Degree(s) Obtained

• Institution Name

• Dates of Attendance

• Relevant Coursework (optional)

• Professional Certifications

  
  

9. Add Additional Sections (if relevant)

Depending on your experience and the job you’re applying for, you might include additional sections such as:

• Professional Development: Courses, workshops, and training.

• Awards and Honours: Recognition for your work.

• Languages: Proficiency in additional languages.

• Volunteer Experience: Relevant volunteer work.

• Publications: Articles, papers, or books you’ve authored.

  
  

10. Tailor Your CV to the Job

Customise your CV for each job application. Use keywords from the job description, and focus on the skills and experiences most relevant to the position. Highlight how your transferable skills are applicable to the role. For instance, if you are applying for NHS jobs or Civil Service jobs, emphasise relevant skills and experiences that align with these sectors.

11. Proofread and Edit

Ensure your CV is free from errors. Typos and grammatical mistakes can create a negative impression. Proofread your CV carefully, and consider asking a friend or professional to review it.

12. Keep It Concise

Aim to keep your CV to two pages. Be concise and relevant, avoiding unnecessary details.

13. Use a Professional Layout

Ensure your CV is well-organised and easy to read. Use a professional font, clear headings, and consistent formatting. Consider using a CV template to ensure a clean and professional look.

Conclusion

Writing a winning CV after a period of unemployment involves emphasising your transferable skills and any relevant experience gained during your time away from formal employment. Whether you’re looking for NHS jobs, Civil Service jobs, work from home jobs, or part-time jobs near you, following these steps and tailoring your CV to each job application can create a document that effectively showcases your strengths and increases your chances of landing an interview. Remember, your CV is your opportunity to make a great first impression, so make it count!