What skills are recommended to go onto a skills-based CV?

Monday, May 11th, 2009 - CV format, CV Help, how to make a cv, How to Write a CV, job search, tutorial

Skills-based CV

photo credit: Hello Turkey Toe

Andrew asks: I’m currently writing my CV for a summer job. I have experience with working in an off-license and I currently work in Ikea, but from what I’ve heard, I should be writing a skills-based CV. I’ve already got:

• Communication
• Teamwork
• Problem Solving
• Languages
• Excellent communication skills
• Dealing with customers queries and requirements
• Handling money and operating a till
• Teamwork and problem solving
• Knowledge of many Microsoft programmes
  

Are there any others I can put on? How could I make them better for my CV, even if I have to lie? For instance, I am thinking of adding “Learning swiftly and transfer learning to practical situations.”

In answer:
Firstly, never, never ever lie on your CV. It creates stress for you, will be found by the employer, and hence you will be dismissed instantly from the process – whatever your capabilities or suitability

Secondly, do you have a copy of the Job Description, or a copy of the Job Advert? The advert will be derived from the Job Description, but both will contain the key skills and competences that are required by suitable applicants. Having a list of these means that you basically take the requirements in the same order, and then write your skills/competencies against that list. For instance, for shop and retail work, it is important that you have good communication skills, so as you have done, that should be listed first.

For older job applicants using skills based CV’s, and for those like yourself Andrew, add at least one example or verifiable experience of your skill in that area. This should ideally be written in a SAR (Situation, Action, Result) format.

Good Luck!

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