Louise Harrison Employment Adviser

Careers and Employment CV Builder What is it and what impact has it made?

Student CVs Student CVs often lack depth, structure & critical information

Key Problems first time writing a graduate-level CV CVs have changed in past 5-10 years first time writing a UK CV lack of work experience lack of understanding of relevant skills to include

Pressure on Placement Teams ACES Placement Team

CV Builder to the rescue

What is CV Builder? A software tool that can help students create and structure a CV Access through SHUSpace Employability Tab → Careers and Employment → Help with CVs → CV Builder Software

CV Builder: Virtual Tour

CV Builder: Why is it Good? Help with layout –Great way for students to get started –More 'subtle' support for those that may not think they need help –Provides layout for key sections - multiple professional CV formats –Students can download into MS Word for further editing –Checklist to avoid common CV mistakes Helpful Tips –Multi-media video advice throughout, including from employers –Step by step help and examples –Audio podcasts and prompts –LinkedIn profile template Solid encouragement to ‘get involved’ e.g. Work experience, volunteering, societies 

CV Builder: What are the Issues? Only a starting point –Doesn't produce a ‘perfect CV’, just a starting point –First draft CV only –Students still need to tailor sections themselves after downloading Layouts are not unique –Frequently used templates will be noticeable –Students still need to use their own style Encourage them to see an adviser to check

How have we used it? Imbed in Curriculum e.g. L4 employability sessions Training sessions with staff Promotion within Careers Team Total unique users = 1072

Potential Impact "Disorganised CVs reflect a disorganised mind" HSBC starting point for students in creating CV more professional looking, structured CVs less work for Placement & Careers Teams easier process for students more CVs in earlier = more students able to apply for top placements

CV Checklist

New Careers Central Website Launching 15 th September

Your Careers Service Careers advice and job seeking support appointments Drop in CV Service (Daily12-1pm) Careers workshops Practice interviews Employer presentations LinkedIn surgeries Careers Fairs Support for international students Support for self employment through Research and Innovation Office (RIO) Employment Advisers appointments in Faculty Placement support in Faculty

Any Questions?