This blog was inspired by a talk by Clare Brass, Bangor University.
We have all probably wrote many CVs in our lives, but for me the most important one will be the one which will hopefully gain me my dream job.
Career planning
Before you apply to your dream job, you need to do your research and ensure that that job is right for you – as you may be there for a while!
It is essential that you understand yourself, and what you’re good and what motivates you.
You may prefer to work independently or enjoy working in a team, there are various jobs in all sectors which have different job environments, knowing which is best for you is important.
The main topics you need to research:
- roles and responsibilities of the job
- what is expected of you
- the requirements – this may be qualifications and experience
- job salary
- working hours
- family friendly – will you be able to take maternity/paternity leave
- where the job is based
- what are their main roles
All of these things are important to research when you’re interested in a particular job or field.
There are numerous websites and channels which can help you prepare for a future career, and also there are people you can speak to to gain advice from them.
https://www.prospects.ac.uk/job-profiles/biotechnologist – This is a link to a biotechnologist career on prospects, a career planning website which I use frequently when researching potential job roles.
Social media can allow you to keep up to date with potential careers and jobs available in your desired field – I talk about this in another blog .
Graduate CVs
CVs are basic, they don’t have to be over the top, just simple and easy to read.
Your CV will essentially determine whether you will get an interview or not, because if your CV is bad, employers won’t want to invite you to interview – it is so important to get this right!
You want to come across professional to your potential employers and stand out from the other candidates, as there will be a lot of competition once you graduate.
What to include in your CV:
- your education, what qualifications do you have
- your relevant experience
- why you fit the job role
- what personal hobbies you may have
Your CV will allow the employer to get an impression of what type of person you are, as this will be selection based upon not speaking to you in person, ensuring you present yourself professionally on your CV is vital.
From reading your CV employers will get an impression of who you are and whether you are right for the role based upon your qualifications and experiences.
This lecture has prepared me for when I start to look for a job once I graduate, I think it is important to do your research on the job role and ensure you prepare an excellent CV.
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