1. Writing a CV for Physicists
Rachel Howlett
Careers Adviser

2. Contents When to use a CV What to include (and what not to)
Style and format
Presenting weaknesses
What makes physicists special?

3. “Hi. I want 2 get a job with U.”

4. When to use a CV In response to a vacancy advert ‘Apply in writing’
Speculative applications
Careers Fairs
Recruitment agencies

5. “Here are my qualifications for you to overlook”

6. What to include Name and contact details Education and qualifications
Work experience
Referees
Anything else
Highlight relevant skills

7. When applying for a role at United Biscuits –
“My life-long love of chocolate biscuits, is the main reason for my interest in the company.”

8. Two things…
1) Credible evidence that you have the skills to do the job
2) Genuine motivation for the job role and the employer

9. From a student member of a sky diving club –
“Skills include dealing with fear and being able to follow orders under terrifying conditions.”

10. Top 10 Skills Communication Teamwork Leadership Initiative
Problem-solving
Flexibility
Self-awareness
Motivation
Numeracy
Commercial awareness

11. Size of employer: about 5’ 10”

12. Review the CVs as if you were a recruiter
What works well?
What doesn’t work?

13. “I have a criminal record, but I am not in jail at the moment.”

14. How could you present… Poor academic results Lack of work experience
Too many/ varied jobs
Gaps in CV
Career change ?

15. “Being a Virgoan, my sense of assertiveness and resilience has prompted me to continue with my ambitions to be a solicitor in a major city law firm…I am also a seventh generation descendant of a Chinese princess and a Sulawesian warrior, which makes me…both an amiable and energetic person.”

16. What makes scientists special?
Specialist as well as transferable skills
Technical language
1st person or 3rd person?

17. “I loathe filling in application forms so much that I'll give you details at the interview.”

18. For further help…. Application workshops
1:1 CV and application form review
Handouts
Website
Reference material eg DVDs
Careers Service events programme