Once you have successfully passed your CeMAP exams, the next thing on your to-do list is to find your perfect job.
Getting your CV right can be the difference between being on the shortlist or ending up in the waste paper basket, so it’s worth spending time perfecting it so you can sell yourself to any employer.
What is a CV?
This might seem like an obvious question, but think about it carefully. Your CV is your way of explaining why you are the only person that the employer should think about hiring for their job. Hopefully you’re writing it because you want the job, and if that is the case then it’s important to think carefully about what the employer wants to hear from you.
This is your chance to tick every box on their list of job requirements, tell them what you have to offer, and make them know that they will be missing out if they don’t interview you.
What should be in a CV?
A CV should be no more than two sides of A4 when typed, including personal details, contact information, and a succinct but positive summary of your academic and professional achievements to date. Open with a snappy three or four-sentence overview of what you can offer and what you are like as a person.
For a mortgage advising job, include specific qualifications, such as your CeMAP results, as well as a round-up of any school and university achievements you might have. You don’t need to list every subject, but include results for ‘key skill’ topics, such as maths and English, which are both important for mortgage-related jobs.
Communication and sales skills are vital for mortgage advising too, so include any experiences you have that demonstrate these talents. Showing that you can talk to and relate to people is a brilliant skill in almost any profession, mortgage advising included.
What shouldn’t be in a CV?
It is all very well telling your employer you have a GCSE in English, but if your CV is filled with spelling and grammatical errors then they might have doubts. Therefore, check the document thoroughly and get someone else you trust to do it too.
Also, try not to include too much detail or information about your achievements. The last thing you want is for the employer to get bored, and they will know they can always ask you more when they interview you. Finally, although you have to sell yourself strongly, don’t be tempted to lie or mislead people, as you might just come to regret it later on in the process.
