CV and interview guidance
Get clear, practical advice to help you present your skills effectively and prepare confidently for every stage of the application process.
CV writing
Your CV should be a clear and simple document showing your experience and training. It should be easy to read and show you in the best possible light to potential employers. Below are some useful hints and tips when creating your CV.
Use the same font throughout. Employers look through countless CVs so you want yours to be clear and easy to read.
Make sure there are no spelling or grammar mistakes and that your CV is up to date. If you are able to it’s always worth getting someone else to look over your CV.
Make sure your CV makes sense for the job you are going for. As you are going for a job in care you make sure employers know you are kind, caring, patient and reliable.
You can set up free email accounts to have an email address with sites like gmail.com or outlook.com. We’d advise making sure the address you choose sounds professional and try wherever possible to include your name or initials.
Leaving gaps without explanation can often lead employers to presume the worst. If you were unemployed for six months or you were caring for a relative full time, simply put that. You do not have to go into great detail but having a brief explanation can make the difference between getting and not getting an interview.
A CV should be no more than two sides of A4 paper. Keep information brief and to the point.
For more information and guidance on CV writing, visit the Job Centre Guide website.
Interviews
Interviews can be nerve-wracking. The best way to stay calm before an interview is to be well prepared. If you have been invited to attend an interview here are some useful tips:
To put yourself in the best possible place for success it’s important to gather some information about the company you have applied for and take time to prepare answers to common interview questions so you can be at ease wherever possible. Most companies have their own website which can be a great place to find out information. In addition it’s worth looking on the CQC website which is a good way of gathering more detailed information.
It’s always better to be over dressed than under dressed for an interview. It shows the employer you have made an effort and you are taking the interview seriously. Be confident, be courteous, address the interviewers by name whenever possible and don’t forget to smile!
Plan you journey, make sure you know what time you need to leave. You should look to get to your interview 10-15 minutes early. If there is some reason you are running late make sure you ring the employer and let them know as soon as possible.
After your interview, write to the employer and thank them for their time in seeing you. This is a courteous thing to do and will also confirm to the employer that you are still interested in the position. Whether successful or unsuccessful in getting the job always ask for feedback as this will be vital to you in your career journey for the future.
For more information and guidance on preparing for interviews, visit the Job Centre Guide website.
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