3.4. Getting ready for a job interview

In this section, you will learn how to compile a CV, to write a personal statement and a covering letter. All of them are a must-have at a job interview.

Curriculum vitae

Task 1. Compiling a CV.

CV stands for curriculum vitae - a Latin expression meaning ‘life story’. In American English it is called a résumé. It summarizes your education, achievement and job story for prospective employer and so it should be carefully prepared. A CV is usually sent with a covering letter.

Look at the following stages in the preparation of a CV.

The following sentences represent the different stages of compiling a CV, but in each sentence the words are in the wrong order. Re-arrange the sentences putting the words in the correct order.

1. about the involves. Think what job

2. sort of chosen about Think it. be what person would to do

3. your job Identify the that skills description. match

4. a Decide on layout.

5. previous your experience. Review

6. describe Find language your suitable to experience.

7. the CV. version first of Draft your

8. for your CV Check mistakes.

Task 2. Organizing information on a CV.

Although there are different views on how to organize a CV, most prospective employers would expect to see the following headings:

Education	Referees	Personal Details	Profile
Additional Skills	Interests	Professional Experience

Jasper Bergfeld, a German graduate, is compiling his CV. He has collected the relevant details but now he must organize them. Look at the following points and decide which heading Jasper should put them under.

Example: University of Stuttgart - degree in Business Information Management = 'Education'

1. Fluent in English

2. Nationality – German

3. Concept AG - Assistant Project Manager

4. Excellent communication skills

5. Full driving license

6. Diploma in English with Business Studies

7. Skiing and windsurfing

8. Computer literate

9. Able to work on own initiative and under pressure

10. Responsible for customer service

11. Dr H. Mayer, University of Bath

Task 3. A sample CV.

Here is Carmen’s CV. Read through it closely and then try to answer the following questions about Carmen and her experience.

Carmen Lopez Duran

Profile

I am keen to follow a career in Tourism or Hotel Management. I am well-organised, highly motivated and have excellent communication skills. In addition I am reliable, flexible, and quick to learn.

Personal details

Address	Avenida de la Plata 47 Grenada 18 752 Spain
Tel	123 456 789
Email	Carmello@ etc.com
Date of birth	25 Nov 1980
Marital status	Single

Education

1998 - 2000	Universidad de Granada Diploma in Business Studies with Tourism
1990 - 1998	Instituto Cervantes, Granada Bachillerato (A Level equivalent) Grade B

Professional Experience

2000 - present	Hotel Xyz, Notown Assistant to Conference Manager Responsible for providing administrative support, answering enquiries, taking bookings, arranging catering. Employee of the Year, 2001.
Summer 2000	Company Xyz. Notown Social/Sports Officer In charge of escorting groups of foreign students, Arranging schedules, planning social events, Organising sports activities, managing a budget.