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How to Write a Strong Personal Statement
- Ruth Gotian
- Ushma S. Neill
![good personal statement job application good personal statement job application](https://hbr.org/resources/images/article_assets/2023/02/A_Mar23_01_Writing-statement_1217994864.jpg)
A few adjustments can get your application noticed.
Whether applying for a summer internship, a professional development opportunity, such as a Fulbright, an executive MBA program, or a senior leadership development course, a personal statement threads the ideas of your CV, and is longer and has a different tone and purpose than a traditional cover letter. A few adjustments to your personal statement can get your application noticed by the reviewer.
- Make sure you’re writing what they want to hear. Most organizations that offer a fellowship or internship are using the experience as a pipeline: It’s smart to spend 10 weeks and $15,000 on someone before committing five years and $300,000. Rarely are the organizations being charitable or altruistic, so align your stated goals with theirs
- Know when to bury the lead, and when to get to the point. It’s hard to paint a picture and explain your motivations in 200 words, but if you have two pages, give the reader a story arc or ease into your point by setting the scene.
- Recognize that the reviewer will be reading your statement subjectively, meaning you’re being assessed on unknowable criteria. Most people on evaluation committees are reading for whether or not you’re interesting. Stated differently, do they want to go out to dinner with you to hear more? Write it so that the person reading it wants to hear more.
- Address the elephant in the room (if there is one). Maybe your grades weren’t great in core courses, or perhaps you’ve never worked in the field you’re applying to. Make sure to address the deficiency rather than hoping the reader ignores it because they won’t. A few sentences suffice. Deficiencies do not need to be the cornerstone of the application.
At multiple points in your life, you will need to take action to transition from where you are to where you want to be. This process is layered and time-consuming, and getting yourself to stand out among the masses is an arduous but not impossible task. Having a polished resume that explains what you’ve done is the common first step. But, when an application asks for it, a personal statement can add color and depth to your list of accomplishments. It moves you from a one-dimensional indistinguishable candidate to someone with drive, interest, and nuance.
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- Ruth Gotian is the chief learning officer and associate professor of education in anesthesiology at Weill Cornell Medicine in New York City, and the author of The Success Factor and Financial Times Guide to Mentoring . She was named the #1 emerging management thinker by Thinkers50. You can access her free list of conversation starters and test your mentoring impact . RuthGotian
- Ushma S. Neill is the Vice President, Scientific Education & Training at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York City. She runs several summer internships and is involved with the NYC Marshall Scholar Selection Committee. ushmaneill
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How to Write a Resume Personal Statement
What is a resume personal statement?
A resume personal statement expresses who you are, where you’ve been, and sometimes where you plan to go next right at the top of your resume.
Everyone has different circumstances, so the personal statement helps to orient a potential future boss in terms of what they are about to read in the resume. Think about what you would like to share that matters to you. This space is particularly useful if you are changing industries , coming back in to the employment market or looking for a promotion. Your shop window starts here. The personal statement may be the only thing than an employer reads.
The resume personal statement hooks in a reader, influencing them to read more. So, how do you write a resume personal statement that is both natural and grabs an employer’s attention? Offer them a brief insight into who you are and why you would be a fantastic hire. So what do you write in a personal statement for a job?
This guide will cover:
- The basic formatting of a personal statement: How to tailor your personal statement to give you a competitive advantage
- Personal statement examples you should (and shouldn’t) use
- Practical steps for getting started on your resume personal statement
The personal statement format
The personal statement is a short paragraph that sits right below your contact information at the top of a resume . It sums up your experience, goals and skills with confidence. Think of your resume’s personal statement like an extended tagline for your career. A resume personal statement should include:
- Between 50 and 200 words in 3 - 4 sentences
- Your title or function, for example “Junior developer” or “Passionate hospitality manager”
- An opening hook
- Soft skills and hard skills
- Impressive facts and stats
- Your short and/or long-term goals
- Job-specific slant for the position you’re applying to
This may seem like a lot to cram into 200 words but perfecting your elevator pitch shows that you have a firm grasp of why your experience, goals, and skills make you the perfect fit for the job. Go all out to make this as fitting for each role as possible. Too often candidates come up with what they see as the perfect introduction to them and forget about how a hiring manager for each specific role might read it. Be flexible with the personal statement. It might not present the very best version of you - it should present the best version of you for this particular role.
This brief introduction is only a short piece of text, it is not disruptive and in many cases even serves as a welcome addition to what is otherwise a dry and impersonal document. It should be clear to you by now how we feel about the personal statement: Include it, especially because it allows you that bit of creativity that may make all the difference. Adopt a conversational tone and consider using the first person for these few lines. Third person (past tense) is standard for resumes, but if you want to go personal, this is where to do it.
How do I start my personal statement? How do you not start a personal statement? Even with a personal statement of 3-4 lines, sometimes the first sentence is the hardest. Even the first few words can have a disproportionate effect on how your personal statement is viewed. Your starting "hook" should make your fit with the role clear and specific. Use an example that is as unique to you as possible - you have to make your future employer sit up and pay attention. The first word of your personal statement should never be "I" - a great resume explores the potential of a common partnership and should not be a uni-directional monologue.
Align your resume’s personal statement with the job description
The hiring manager delicately chose every word in their job description. Gather clues from its tone, which skills they highlight, and any hints that point toward their dream employee. One of the top resume tips from HR managers is to include relevant keywords specific to the job posting itself as well as the actual wording of the job title .
What would this job description look like in 3 - 4 sentences? What keywords, skills, and tone would the job description have?
While still sticking to the facts about who you are and your experiences, your resume personal statement should highlight as many similarities with the job description as possible. When the hiring manager reads the first few sentences in your resume, they feel like you are exactly the person they were describing when they wrote the job description.
Position of the personal statement
Recruiters still prefer to see a candidate's personal details at the top (or running along a column on either side) of the resumes that cross their desk. This allows them to quickly search through the resumes that Applicant Tracking Systems have sorted into their virtual “yes” pile. You do not want your (relatively modern) personal statement to get in the way of this tradition.
The best place to put your statement is after your personal details (if they are at the top) and before your employment history section. Remember that the length of your resume is important. If you have already been very selective and cannot possibly leave out any more information and if adding your personal statement means your resume spills over onto a third page, you may consider not including your statement for the position in question. This ensures you comply with the unwritten rule that a resume should not be longer than two pages.
What is a good personal statement length? 200 words is the maximum suggested length, but if you go with one powerful sentence that you want the hiring manager to remember for the rest of the interview process, then why not? Less is more, but you have to be confident in your application to go with this option.
Plan to write your resume personal statement last
Instead of getting stuck at the beginning trying to write the perfect statement, skip this section and jump right into your employment history first. Once you’ve added your relevant work experiences , take a look at your keywords, phrases and skills from your past positions.
Your complete work history and the job description for the job you want are the foundations for your personal statement. By writing your resume personal statement last, it should be easier to get started once you have the right inspiration.
It might be the case that you leave a certain number of lines for the personal statement on your resume and write an individual statement for each role. You will often have a public version of your resume that is accessible on job boards (etc), so there should still be an "ideal" personal statement version.
How do I write a resume from scratch? While it is good advice to write the resume personal statement after your have written the resume itself (giving your brain a chance to ponder your true highlights), starting writing a resume is a mammoth task in itself. There are many useful pieces of advice when sitting down to write a resume, but for me, the key is to think about the reflecting the combination of what you are good at, what you enjoy and how those things will contribute to the direction of your career. For sure, be honest about your experience, but there has to be a creative flavour of ensuring that your past adequately reflects where you want to go.
Check out resume personal statement examples
Before you dive into writing, get a sense for different rhythms and layouts by checking these resume personal statement examples. How do you write a good personal statement?
Let's start with the basics. Since every person is unique, all personal statements should be unique too. You should, therefore, resist the urge to (largely) copy someone else's existing statement. This is the only spot on your resume to let your voice be heard, so try to write something that would prompt a friend to exclaim, “That sounds like something you’d say!” while, of course, keeping it professional.
Example. Innovative Executive Assistant with 10+ years of experience with global financial firm assisting a team of three C-Level directors. Expertly coordinate travel, manage large-scale expense reports, and streamline communication and calendars across departments..Seeking an Executive Assistant role with the Resume.io team to expand my office management career and thrive in an environment that requires independent problem-solving skills and focus under short deadlines.
The example above does the following things:
- States their title in the first sentence
- Includes specifics such as team size and duties
- Succinctly sums up major responsibilities and skills
- Highlights hard skills —experience arranging travel and expense reports—as well as soft skills —grace under pressure, attention to detail and communication.
- Specifically tailors the final statement with the company and/or job description
Here are a few more resume personal statement examples:
Experienced Digital Marketing Manager with five years of expertise in heading up a global firm. Increased inbound leads by 500% and raised online sales from 100,000 annually to over 2 million in a three-year period. Looking to grow career by applying skills to the Resume.io marketing team.
Straight to the point and accomplishment focused, without the use of “I”. Now let’s look at a less effective example:
I have worked as a Digital Marketing Manager for five years. During this time I have been an important and hard-working member of the team and showed my ability to work under pressure to deliver on company targets. I am looking to bring my skills to a new role in digital marketing.
Generic and ignores accomplishments. Also, too many uses of “I” in a passive voice.
Next is an example of a personal statement that focuses more on career objectives . A career objective can be used as a way to get across your skills and experience, without the personal bit. It’s a good option if you’re an entry-level candidate or college graduate without a lot of experience in the industry you’re applying for. The idea is, because you don’t have the relevant experience to talk about, you pull skills and experience from other areas of your resume so you can show you have what it takes.
Keep your career objective brief — 2-3 sentences max — following the same rules as the personal statement.
Content writer with three years' experience in a large e-commerce company. Delivered content that grew brand social presence to over 700,000 across three channels and improved email open rates by 48%. Looking to further career by joining the Resume.io as an SEO Executive.
See how it uses transferable skills? Combining these with numbers makes them all the more impressive.
And a less effective resume personal statement example:
I am a content writer looking to secure a role as an SEO Executive. While I have no experience in this field and am a dedicated individual and a keen learner. My enjoyment of how search engines work will help me excel in your company.
There’s not enough here to capture attention and it doesn’t sell transferable skills. Whichever type of opening statement you go for, if you have numbers to show, make them count.
Writing your personal profile resume
Always write the first draft of a personal profile resume without editing. Don’t worry about length or word choice in the first pass. Brag about yourself, be proud of your accomplishments , and add in all of your most impressive stats.
Some of the best writing happens without editing too soon, so don’t worry about sounding over the top or egotistical, that’s what editing your personal profile resume is for. If the goal is to get 3 - 4 perfect sentences, it’s likely your first draft will be closer to 6 - 8, maybe even longer. Then consider which parts are closest to helping you get the job and cull the rest. It might seem brutal, but brevity is critical at the top of your personal profile.
Polish your personal statement and experiment
Once you’ve narrowed your focus, use the following questions to help you review your work and edit your statement:
Is my first sentence clear and concise? The opening line should state your position and use strong, enthusiastic language to hook in the reader. It often includes years of experience as well.
Is it direct opposed to passive? A strong sense of self comes through in a personal statement. Instead of sentences that begin with “I believe I am…” or “I enjoy…” be bold. Get right to the point and take ownership of your skills .
Does it include objective information? For this one, try to get inside the hiring manager’s mind. If you were filling this role, what boxes would you need to check off? The second and third sentence often include specific skills, facts or figures to support this need.
Does it read naturally? Even with all these specifics, the statement should still be easy to understand and have a natural rhythm when read aloud. Cut out any jargon that acts as filler or that changes your tone. Formality may vary from company to company, but personal statements should always reflect the type of employee or person you are.
What are three tips for writing a personal statement?
- Make sure that your personality comes across in the writing.
- Quantify any accomplishments and include financials where possible.
- If you are at a moment of career change, don't fail to mention your goals.
Common mistakes in personal statements
When writing your personal statement, beware of platitudes. These are clichéd expressions that have become meaningless from overuse. They induce recruiters to roll their eyes and move on to the next candidate. Think of such terms as “an administrative jack-of-all-trades” or “a cog in the wheel’ and being ready for a “new challenge.” Definitely avoid this list of human resources’ most hated resume phrases.
Try to be original in your choice of words and ask a friend or family member to take a critical look at your personal statement when you are done. By the way, you should always have someone proofread your entire resume when you think you are ready to send it.
Some people call their personal statements " resume objectives ." This is something else entirely. A resume objective is required when a candidate needs to project their hopes for their next role that differe from their previous experience a little. This objective can then be used to outline the motivations behind a career change and is also common with early-career professionals.
Does a personal statement need a title? Some resume templates might call the opening statement a summary and others may exclude a description entirely. Either option is fine as employers are conditioned to expect a few lines at the to of a resume to serve as a headline for your job application.
What do employers expect from your resume opening statement?
Sometimes it is useful to consider job seeking activity from the point of view of the end hiring managers. External recruiters are important people to impress, but it is the employers that will be making the ultimate hiring decision. They will be reading lots of resumes, so what would they want to read in your resume opening statement?
- They will want the resume opening statement to be written for them. When you are on the hunt for a new member of your professional family, an intensely personal connection is vital from the first lines.
- They will expect a quantifiable context to your resume opening statement. Impressive words come easily when you really need a job, but backing them up with numbers to demonstrate their scale is less simple.
- They will expect to be impressed. If you cannot impress a specific employer for a specific role with the first lines of your resume, then the role is almost certainly not for you. Nothing to shout about? Move on.
Key takeaways
Think of your CV personal statement as the first 2 minutes of an interview—whether on the phone or in person. The HR manager asks you to “tell me a little about yourself,” and you have a quick minute to set the tone for the rest of the conversation. Similarly, the CV personal statement should include:
- A natural, yet professional CV tone that reflects your personality
- The top reasons your experience makes you a unique fit for this position
- Why this role aligns with your career plans
- Facts and data on your CV that back up your earlier points
Crafting a personal statement for each role will cause some serious thought. What is your essential fit for the role that will make a hiring manager sit up and think "wow, I need to have them on my team?" What would you want to read if you were in their shoes. You will definitely have lots to say, but keep it simple and powerful.
One more good CV statement example:
Expert SEO copywriter with a decade of B2C and B2B experience across three industries. Versatile in writing social, website and long-form copy to convey each brand’s unique tone and message. I cultivated 15 new clients in two years and grew readership by over 200%. I am now seeking to expand my editing and content creation expertise in a Marketing Manager position.
Once you’ve mastered writing your CV personal statement, this clear sense of who you are and what you want will prepare you to pitch yourself during interviews.
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How to Write a CV Personal Statement [+4 Real-life Examples]
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Creating an effective CV takes time and close attention to detail. You've already included your jobs and experience , and now you want to allow the recruiter or hiring manager to understand the strategic value you can add.
This is when you need to utilize a personal statement at the top of your CV.
How to Write a CV Personal Statement [+4 Real-life Examples]
![good personal statement job application cv personal statement example](https://cdn-blog.novoresume.com/articles/cv-personal-statement-examples/cv-personal-statement-example.png)
What is a Personal Statement?
A personal statement is a few brief and direct sentences at the top of your CV. The personal statement is also referred to as a career summary or personal mission statement.
This is used to grab the attention of the recruiter or hiring manager and summarizes essential experiences or training that you can bring to this position.
Why do I Need a Personal Statement?
A recruiter or hiring manager is tasked with sorting through an enormous amount of resumes every single day. A personal statement is a way to separate yourself from the other applicants.
This statement summarizes your experience and highlights your unique talents . The CV personal statement is meant to demonstrate why you are the perfect fit for the job.
Even med students need a medical school personal statement , as it is what differentiates them from all the other students applying. Plus, it allows them to share their personal stories and objectives.
Where do I Start?
Always begin by reading the job description carefully and thoroughly.
Your personal statement should be tailored to each job description, so it explicitly states the value you’ll bring to the position you are applying. A generic personal statement cannot do that.
Once you have a solid handle on the job description, you can begin writing. It’s important to keep your personal statement brief, about 50-200 words will do.
Don’t forget that you have your whole cover letter to show some personality and include engaging content.
The personal statement should be a quick summary that highlights why you are the best person for the job.
You’ll need to decide whether you are writing your personal statement in first- or third-person. This should follow how you've written the rest of your CV.
For example, if you've already written, “I grew and developed a team of 50 salespeople,” in your CV then you will want to keep your personal statement in first-person to match the prevailing style.
No matter what you choose, make sure that you keep it consistent throughout. Do not switch between first- and third-person as that will get confusing to the hiring manager.
Writing a personal statement for your CV in first-person does not mean you need to start every sentence with “I.”
There are ways to craft your personal statement to sound snappy, concise and personal, and here are a few examples to help inspire your personal statement.
CV Personal Statement Examples
It doesn’t matter what chose as your desired career or how much experienc e you have, use these examples to drive the creation of your own personal statement.
You can take snippets from each or write something completely different. Always remember that your personal statement is a reflection of yourself and should align with your own personal goals and experience.
If these examples don’t fit your exact career, feel free to take some pointers and write yours from scratch.
#1: Personal Statement Example for Recent Graduate CV
“As a recent graduate from university, with an honors degree in communications, I held several internships within leading organizations, including Bertelsmann. These internships enabled me to gain experience in the field and learn how to serve up valuable contributions in a fast-paced, professional environment.”
Explanation: This example should be customized to include the university you’ve graduated from and any relevant internships. A compelling personal statement always highlights relevant skills and experiences.
In this case, a recent graduate does not have extensive experience in the workforce, so soft skills like experiencing success in a fast-paced work environment and becoming a trusted team member become even more critical.
#2: Personal Statement Example for Returning to the Workforce CV
“A highly motivated and experienced office administrator, I am currently looking to resume my professional career after an extended hiatus to raise my family. Proficient in all Microsoft Office programs, I can lead meetings and work with clients to keep your office running smoothly and efficiently. After spending several years volunteering as an administrative worker for a local charity, I am committed to resuming my professional career on a full-time basis.”
Explanation: After time off from a career, it can be hard to break back into the market. This personal statement outlines the reason for the break, the relevant qualifications and what the applicant has been doing in between jobs.
Any volunteer experience becomes highly relevant when there is no concrete professional experience to draw upon, to demonstrate the use of those skills.
![good personal statement job application job search masterclass](https://cdn-blog.novoresume.com/articles/cv-personal-statement-examples/job-search-masterclass.webp)
#3: Personal Statement Example for a Career Change CV
“With over 15 years as a sales manager, I have extensive experience building high-functioning sales teams that consistently achieve budget numbers. In fact, my ability to grow talent led to a 20% increase in annual renewals across the board. Now, after 15 years, I am seeking new challenges to flex my marketing muscles in a fast-paced environment.”
Explanation: When changing careers , it's essential to highlight skills that are transferable between industries.
In this case, leadership and team-building experience can apply to any industry. Homing in on concrete numbers and percentages increases credibility when applying for a position.
The applicant ends with the reason behind the desired career change. This part is not necessary but may be appealing to some hiring managers who are wondering what the impetus for the career change.
#4: Personal Statement Example for a Experienced Professional CV
“As a friendly, professional and highly trained educator, I am passionate about teaching and have an innate ability to understand student’s needs. Creating a safe and productive environment for optimal learning is my top priority. I’ve worked as a teacher for nearly 10 years in a variety of subjects and my experience and skill set make me the perfect fit for your team.”
Explanation: With more experience comes more skills and a better idea of strengths and weaknesses. Showcasing your passion for the industry is a great way to begin a personal statement, as it shows the hiring manager your dedication to the craft.
A personal statement can be written in many different ways, but it is ultimately up to you to determine what skills you want to highlight for your chosen position.
You can follow these examples or take learnings from each to contribute towards your personal statement.
If you understand the job you are applying for and know the unique skill set that you bring to the table, you will have a stellar personal statement for your CV that will get you across the table from the hiring manager in no time.
Suggested Reading:
- How to Write a CV (Curriculum Vitae) in 2024 [31+ Examples]
- 43+ Resume Tips and Tricks to Land Your Next Job
- 150+ Must-Have Skills for Any Resume [With Tips + Tricks]
- How to Answer “Tell Me About Yourself”
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CV personal statement examples
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If you want to secure job interview, you need a strong personal statement at the top of your CV.
Your CV personal statement is a short paragraph which sits at the very top of your CV – and it’s aim is to summarise the benefits of hiring you and encourage employers to read your CV in full.
In this guide I have included 17 CV personal statement examples from a range of professions and experience levels, plus a detailed guide of how to write your own personal statement that will get you noticed by employers
CV templates
17 CV personal statement examples
To start this guide, I have included 10 examples of good personal statements, to give you an idea of how a personal statement should look , and what should be included.
Note: personal statements are generally used by junior candidates – if you are experienced, check out our CV profile examples instead.
Graduate CV personal statement (no experience)
![good personal statement job application Graduate with no experience CV personal statement](https://standout-cv.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Graduate-with-no-experience-CV-personal-statement.png)
Although this graduate has no paid work experience, they compensate for it by showcasing all of the skills and knowledge the have gained during their studies, and demonstrating how they apply their knowledge in academic and personal projects.
When you have little or no experience, it’s important to draw out transferable workplace skills from your studies and extracurricular work, to showcase them to employers.
Graduate CV personal statement (part time freelance experience)
![good personal statement job application Graduate with part time freelance experience CV personal statement](https://standout-cv.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Graduate-with-part-time-freelance-experience-CV-personal-statement.png)
This candidate has graduated with a degree in biochemistry but actually wants to start a career in digital marketing after providing some digital freelance services to fund their studies.
In this case, they haven’t made much mention of their studies because they aren’t relevant to the digital marketing agencies they are applying to. Instead they have focused their personal statement around their freelance work and passion for the digital field – although they still mention the fact they are degree educated to prove their academic success.
![good personal statement job application CV builder](https://standout-cv.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/CV-builder-mob.png)
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School leaver CV personal statement (no experience)
![good personal statement job application School leaver with no experience CV personal statement](https://standout-cv.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/School-leaver-with-no-experience-CV-personal-statement.png)
This candidate is 16 years old and has no work experience whatsoever, but they compensate for this by detailing their academic achievements that relate to the roles they are applying for (maths and literacy are important requirements in finance and accountancy roles).
They also add some info on their extracurricular activities and school work-placements, to strengthen this student CV further.
Top tips for writing a CV personal statement
- Thoroughly research the jobs and companies you are planning to apply for to identify the type of candidate they are looking for – try to reflect that in your personal statement
- Don’t be afraid to brag a little – include some of your most impressive achievements from education, work or personal life
- Focus on describing the benefits an employer will get from hiring you. Will you help them to get more customers? Improve their workplace? Save them time and money?
- If you have no work experience, demonstrate transferable workplace skills from your education, projects, or even hobbies
School leaver CV personal statement (part time experience)
![good personal statement job application School leaver with part time experience CV personal statement](https://standout-cv.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/School-leaver-with-part-time-experience-CV-personal-statement.png)
Although this person has only just left school, they have also undertaken some part-time work in a call centre alongside their studies.
To make the most of this experience, they have combined their academic achievements with their workplace exposure in this personal statement.
By highlighting their GCSE results, summer programme involvement, work experience and expressing their ambitions to progress within sales, this candidate really makes an appealing case for hiring them.
College leaver CV personal statement (no experience)
![good personal statement job application College leaver with no experience CV personal statement](https://standout-cv.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/College-leaver-with-no-experience-CV-personal-statement.png)
This candidate has left college with good grades, but does not yet have any work experience.
To compensate for the lack of workplace exposure, they have made their A level results prominent and highlighted skills and experience which would benefit the employers they are targeting.
Any recruiter reading this profile can quickly understand that this candidate has great academic achievements, a passion for IT and finance and the ability to transfer their skills into an office environment.
College student CV personal statement (freelance experience)
![good personal statement job application College student with freelance experience CV personal statement](https://standout-cv.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/College-student-with-freelance-experience-CV-personal-statement.png)
As this student has picked up a small amount of freelance writing work during their studies, they have made sure to brag about it in their personal statement.
They give details on their relevant A level studies to show the skills they are learning, and boost this further by highlighting the fact that they have been applying these skills in a real-life work setting by providing freelance services.
They also include key action verbs that recruiters will be looking for , such as creative writing, working to deadlines, and producing copy.
Academic CV personal statement
![good personal statement job application Academic CV personal statement](https://standout-cv.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Academic-CV-personal-statement.png)
Aside from junior candidates, the only other people who might use a personal statement, are academic professionals; as their CV’s tend to be more longer and detailed than other professions.
This candidate provides a high level overview of their field of study, length of experience, and the roles they have held within universities.
School leaver CV personal statement with and sports experience
![good personal statement job application School leaver with part time experience CV personal statement](https://standout-cv.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/School-leaver-with-sports-experience-CV-personal-statement.png)
Although this person has no work experience, they are still able to show employers the value of hiring them by selling their other achievements and explaining how they could benefit an organisation.
They expand on their sports club involvement to demonstrate their teamwork, leadership skills, communication and motivation, which are all important traits in the workplace, and will be looked upon favourably by recruiters and hiring managers.
They also draw upon their future plans to study business studies and take a part time job, to further prove their ambition and dedication.
History graduate CV personal statement
![good personal statement job application History graduate CV personal statement](https://standout-cv.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/History-graduate-CV-personal-statement.png)
This history graduate proves their aptitude for both academic achievement and workplace aptitude by showcasing valuable skills from their degree and voluntary work.
They do this by breaking down the key requirements for each and showing how their skills could be beneficial for future employers, such as listening, communication, and crisis management.
They also describe how their ability to balance studies alongside voluntary work has not only boosted their knowledge and skills, but also given excellent time management and organisational skills – which are vital assets to any employer.
Law graduate CV personal statement
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This legal graduate makes the most from their work university work placements by using it to bulk out the contents of their CV personal statement.
They include their degree to show they have the necessary qualifications for legal roles, which is crucial, but more importantly, they showcase how they applied their legal skills within a real-life work setting.
They give a brief overview of the types of legal professionals they have been working alongside and the type of work they have been carrying out – this is all it takes to get the attention of recruiters and show employers they have what it takes to fulfil roles in the legal sector.
Medical student CV personal statement
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This medical student proves their fit for the role by showcasing the key skills they have gained from their studies and their work experience placements.
In just these few sentences, they are able to highlight the vast amount of experience they have across different disciplines in the industry, something which is particularly important in the medical sector.
As they have not graduated yet and are still studying, they have provided proof of their most recent grades. This can give the recruiter some indication as to the type of grade they could be graduating with in the near future.
Masters student CV personal statement
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This masters student has started by specifying their area of study, in this case, accounting, and given details about the specific areas of finance they are most interested in. This can hint towards their career goals and passions.
They have then carefully listed some of the key areas of accounting and finance that they are proficient in. For example, business finance, advanced corporate finance and statistics.
They have also outlined some of the transferable skills needed for accounting roles that employers will be looking out for, such as communication, attention to detail and analytical skills.
Finance student CV personal statement
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As this finance student has recently undertaken some relevant work experience, they’ve made sure to shout about this in their personal profile.
But more than this, they have included a list of some of the important finance skills they gained as a result of this work experience – for example, financial reporting, processing invoices and month-end reconciliations.
Plus, through power words and phrases such as ‘prevent loss’ and ‘ improve upon accuracy and efficiency’, they have also showcased how they can apply these skills in a workplace setting to benefit the potential employer.
Internship CV personal statement
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This digital marketing professional has started their personal profile by outlining their most relevant qualifications and work experience, most notably their freelance role as a content manager.
They have also provided examples of some of the key marketing skills that potential employers might be looking for, including very detailed examples of the platforms and tools they are proficient in – for example, LinkedIn, Twitter and Pinterest.
They have then closed their statement by giving a detailed description of the type of role or opportunity they are looking for. In this case, an in-house position in a marketing company.
Graduate career changer personal statement
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Switching careers as a graduate can be tough. Especially when it comes to writing a personal statement that will attract employers in your new chosen field.
This candidate is looking to move from history teaching into journalism, so they have created a statement which briefly mentions their current workplace, but mainly focuses on highlighting transferable skills which are relevant to journalism. They achieve this by discussing the writing skills they use in their current role, and mentioning their hobby of writing – including some publications they have been featured in for extra brownie points.
Business management graduate personal statement
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This business management proves their ability to work within a junior business management position by swiftly highlighting their impressive degree (to ensure it is not missed) and summarising some of the real-life experience they have gained in management during their university placements and volunteering. They do not let their lack of paid work experience, stop them demonstrating their valuable skills.
PhD graduate
![good personal statement job application PhD graduate CV personal statement](https://standout-cv.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/PHD-graduate-CV-personal-statement.png)
PhD graduate roles attract a lot of competition, so it’s important that your CV contains a personal statement that will quickly impress and attract recruiters.
This candidate provides a short-but-comprehensive overview of their academic achievements, whilst demonstrating their exceptional level of knowledge in research, languages and publication writing.
By highlighting a number of skills and abilities that are in high-demand in the academic workplace, this CV is very likely to get noticed and land interviews.
How to write a personal statement for your CV
Now that you’ve seen what a personal statement should look like and the type of content it should contain, follow this detailed guide to one for your own CV – and start racking those interviews up.
Guide contents
What is a CV personal statement?
Cv personal statement or cv profile, personal statement format, what to include in a cv personal statement.
- Personal statement mistakes
How to write persuasively
A personal statement is a short paragraph at the top of your CV which gives employers an overview of your education, skills and experience
It’s purpose is to capture the attention of busy recruiters and hiring managers when your CV is first opened – encouraging them to read the rest of it.
You achieve this by writing a tailored summary of yourself that explains your suitability for the roles you are applying for at a very high level, and matches your target job descriptions .
![good personal statement job application Personal statement basics](https://standout-cv.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Personal-statement-basics.png)
One question candidates often ask me is , “what is the difference between a personal statement and a CV profile?”
To be honest, they are almost the same – they are both introductory paragraphs that sit at the top of your CV… but there are 2 main differences
A personal statement tends to be used more by junior candidates (graduates, school leavers etc.) and is relatively long and detailed.
A CV profile tends to be favoured by more experienced candidates , and is shorter in length than a personal statement.
![good personal statement job application CV personal statement vs profile](https://standout-cv.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/CV-personal-statement-vs-profile.png)
Note: If you are an experienced candidate, you may want to switch over to my CV profile writing guide , or example CV profiles page.
To ensure you grab recruiters’ attention with your personal statement, lay it out in the following way.
Positioning
You need to ensure that your personal statement sits at the very top of your CV, and all of it should be totally visible to readers, without the need to scroll down the page.
Do this by reducing the top page margin and minimising the space taken up by your contact details.
![good personal statement job application CV margins](https://standout-cv.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/Resume-margins.png)
This will ensure that your whole personal statement can be seen, as soon as your CV is opened.
We have a Word CV template which can help you to get this right.
Size/length
Your personal statement needs to contain enough detail to provide an introduction to your skills and knowledge, but not so much detail that it bores readers.
To strike the right balance, anything between 8-15 lines of text is perfect – and sentences should be sharp and to-the-point.
As with the whole of your CV or resume , your personal statement should be written in a simple clean font at around size 10-12 to ensure that it can be read easily by all recruiters and employers.
Keep the text colour simple , ensuring that it contrasts the background (black on white is best) and break it into 2 or even 3 paragraphs for a pleasant reading experience.
It should also be written in a punchy persuasive tone, to help you sell yourself and increase your chances of landing interviews , I cover how to do this in detail further down the guide.
Quick tip: A poorly written CV will fail to impress recruiters and employers. Use our quick-and-easy CV Builder to create a winning CV in minutes with professional CV templates and pre-written content for every industry.
Once you have the style and format of your personal statement perfected, you need to fill it with compelling content that tells recruiters that your CV is worth reading.
Here’s what needs to go into your personal statement…
Before you start writing your personal statement, it’s crucial that you research your target roles to find out exactly what your new potential employers are looking for in a candidate.
Run a search for your target jobs on one of the major job websites , look through plenty of adverts and make a list of the candidate requirements that frequently appear.
![good personal statement job application Key words in job adverts](https://standout-cv.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Key-words-in-job-adverts.png)
This research will show you exactly what to include in your personal statement in order to impress the recruiters who will be reading it.
Education and qualifications are an important aspect of your personal statement, especially if you are a junior candidate.
You should highlight your highest and most relevant qualifications, whether that is a degree, A levels or GCSEs. You could potentially go into some more detail around modules, papers etc. if they are relevant to the roles you are applying for.
It’s important that you discuss the experience you have gained in your personal statement, to give readers an idea of the work you are comfortable undertaking.
This can of course be direct employed work experience, but it doesn’t have to be.
You can also include:
- School/college Uni work placements
- Voluntary work
- Personal projects
- Hobbies/interests
As with all aspects of your CV , the content should be tailored to match the requirements of your target roles.
Whilst discussing your experience, you should touch upon skills used, industries worked in, types of companies worked for, and people you have worked with.
Where possible, try to show the impact your actions have made. E.g . A customer service agent helps to make sales for their employer.
Any industry-specific knowledge you have that will be useful to your new potential employers should be made prominent within your personal statement.
For example
- Knowledge of financial regulations will be important for accountancy roles
- Knowledge of IT operating systems will be important for IT roles
- Knowledge of the national curriculum will be important for teachers
You should also include some information about the types of roles you are applying for, and why you are doing so. Try to show your interest and passion for the field you are hoping to enter, because employers want to hire people who have genuine motivation and drive in their work.
This is especially true if you don’t have much work experience, as you need something else to compensate for it.
CV personal statement mistakes
The things that you omit from your personal statement can be just as important as the things you include.
Try to keep the following out of your personal statement..
Irrelevant info
Any information that doesn’t fall into the requirements of your target roles can be cut out of your personal statement. For example, if you were a professional athlete 6 years ago, that’s great – but it won’t be relevant if you’re applying to advertising internships, so leave it out.
Generic clichés
![good personal statement job application Poor resume profile](https://standout-cv.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Poor-resume-profile-2.png)
If you are describing yourself as a “ dynamic team player with high levels of motivation and enthusiasm” you aren’t doing yourself any favours.
These cliché terms are vastly overused and don’t provide readers with any factual details about you – so keep them to a minimum.
Stick to solid facts like education, skills , experience, achievements and knowledge.
If you really want to ensure that your personal statement makes a big impact, you need to write in a persuasive manner.
So, how do you so this?
Well, you need to brag a little – but not too much
It’s about selling yourself and appearing confident, without overstepping the mark and appearing arrogant.
For example, instead of writing.
“Marketing graduate with an interest in entering the digital field”
Be creative and excite the reader by livening the sentence up like this,
“Marketing graduate with highest exam results in class and a passion for embarking on a long and successful career within digital”
The second sentence is a much more interesting, makes the candidate appear more confident, throws in some achievements, and shows off a wider range of writing skills.
Quick tip: A poorly written CV will fail to impress recruiters and employers. Use our quick-and-easy CV Builder to create a winning CV in minutes with professional templates and pre-written content for every industry.
Your own personal statement will be totally unique to yourself, but by using the above guidelines you will be able to create one which shows recruiters everything they need.
Remember to keep the length between 10-20 lines and only include the most relevant information for your target roles.
You can also check our school leaver CV example , our best CV templates , or our library of example CVs from all industries.
Good luck with the job hunt!
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CV Personal Statement Examples and Tips
Your personal statement is the first thing a recruiter or hiring manager will read when flicking through what will usually be a huge pile of CVs. With so much competition, you need a personal statement that grabs their attention for all the right reasons. But how do you write one? Here’s our guide along with a couple of personal statement examples for inspiration.
What is a personal statement?
A personal statement is a concise paragraph that sits at the top of your CV just below your name and contact details and tells the reader why you would be a fantastic asset for their company. It should include a summary of your most relevant skills and experience and give the recruiter an insight into your ambitions and character.
Your personal statement should explain:
- Who you are
- Your suitability for the role and the value you can add
- Your career goals
Conveying all that information in just a few sentences is certainly not easy, but with research suggesting that recruiters spend an average of just six seconds reviewing each CV before deciding whether the applicant is a good fit, you must get it right.
How to write a winning personal statement for your CV
No one has your specific skills and experience, so your personal statement must be unique. However, there are some universal tips you can follow.
- Length, formatting and tone of voice
Probably the biggest challenge you’ll face when writing a personal statement for your CV is keeping it between 50 and 150 words, or around four or five lines of text. It should be clean and concise, formatted consistently and written in the same font and point size as the rest of your CV.
Personal statements can be written in the first (“I am a marine biologist”) or third-person (“Marine biologist looking for”), but whatever voice you choose, keep it consistent throughout your CV.
Recruiters read so much hyperbole and waffle that being honest and understated will help you stand out. This is not The Apprentice, so buzzwords, empty promises and meaningless metaphors should be avoided at all costs.
- Back up your claims
Cliches like ‘hard worker’ or ‘experienced’ are just empty words that recruiters see hundreds of times a day. Instead, establish your credentials with relevant vocational qualifications or professional memberships you have and quantify the level of experience you have. For example, “I am a RICS qualified surveyor with eight years’ experience working for a property development company”.
- Include statistics from your career
Including specific data or statistics in your personal statement will immediately make it stand out from the hundreds of others recruiters read every day. Metrics of success are far more memorable than simply listing your achievements. For example, “I introduced a new lead qualification tool that increased sales by 15 percent”.
- Remove pronouns in the third person
The personal statement on your CV is the one place where it’s okay to talk about yourself in the third person. However, using pronouns, for example, “he is a conscientious worker with 12 years of experience...” is a step too far. Instead, drop the pronouns, so that would become “A conscientious worker with 12 years of experience…”
Personal statement examples
Here are a few examples of personal statements to keep you on the right track and hopefully provide a little inspiration.
Written in the first person by a graduate looking for their first professional role.
I am a recent graduate with a first-class degree in economics, specialising in econometrics and international trade. I have commercial experience in the finance sector courtesy of an internship with a UK corporation, where I developed the technical data engineering skills you are looking for. I have a proven ability to meet deadlines and produce consistently high-quality work, as evidenced by my degree, and would relish the chance to develop my skills within your organisation.
Written in the third person by an experienced purchasing manager looking to climb the ladder.
Purchasing manager with 12 years of experience who wants to progress to a more senior role within the aviation industry. Has developed strong and lasting relationships during previous managerial positions in the sector and wants to put this strong network to good use to add value to your business.
Time to get hired
Writing a winning personal statement that you’re happy with and that summarises your skills and experience effectively in just a few lines will take time. However, using these tips and examples as a guide and editing your personal statement for every role is an important piece of the puzzle.
To hear Guardian Jobs reader Elia’s story and how her Personal Career Management programme helped land her ideal job watch the video .
Personal Career Management can offer you a free review to assess your needs and to see which programme is right for you.
To book call Personal Career Management on 01753 888 995 or fill in the contact form .
Personal Career Management are Career Management Partners for the Guardian and are a specialist career coaching and outplacement company.
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Personal Statements: Examples, Do's and Don'ts
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As the name suggests, a personal statement is unique to everyone, but that does not mean there are not specific personal statement rules and guidelines to follow. Being able to quickly showcase your skills, personality and job fit can be challenging, so we are here to shed some light on structuring a personal statement that’ll make you stand out from the crowd.
In this guide, we will be looking at how to write a personal statement and the do’s and don’ts. By the end, you should have a better idea of how to structure a personal statement and impress your potential new employers.
💡 Note: We will be covering professional personal statements and not personal statements for University admissions in this article.
What is a personal statement?
Often confused with a cover letter or supporting statement, a personal statement is a small section on various forms of CVs. A personal statement is often no more than a few sentences where you can quickly summarise your skills, experience and job fit into a bitesize paragraph.
A personal statement gives you the opportunity to briefly sell yourself to your potential employer and showcase why you are the best candidate for the role. It is important to note that not all employers will require a personal statement, but if done correctly they can help set you apart from other applicants.
What makes a good personal statement?
As a personal statement is essentially a summary of the rest of your CV and you as a person, you want to ensure you list all the most important things from your CV that are the most relevant to the job you are applying for. You should never use the same personal statement, when applying for multiple jobs you can use a similar statement for each, but it should be tailored to each individual role if possible.
How to start a personal statement
Start your personal statement by introducing yourself and set the tone for the rest of your personal statement.
You want to capture the employer’s interest and summarise exactly why you are a perfect fit for the role. Most personal statement examples start with saying the role you are currently in, how much industry experience you have and key achievements or relevant skills and statistics.
How to finish a personal statement
A good way to finish your personal statement is to summarise your overall goal or aim when moving forwards towards this job and your career. This means you have spoken about the past, present and future, in just a few lines and gives the employer a good idea of you and your potential.
How to finish a personal statement can vary from role to role, but this is a good rule of thumb and will stand you in good stead, as with any application, tailor it to the job, some may call for this, some may not.
Personal statement do’s
- Tailor your personal statement - utilise the job description to help you highlight exactly what the employer is looking for, highlight the skills and experience it calls for. The job description is the blueprint to your personal statement for that role, so try and signpost your abilities from the exact things the employer is looking for.
- Be concise - ensure that you keep your personal statement short and relevant, aim for the maximum of a few lines or around 200 words at most. Find the most important and relevant things that you can say within that word count.
- Highlight you - candidates have a habit of being too generic and not showcasing themselves, it is called a personal statement, so keep it personal to you. Personal does not mean talking about your dog though, but how you personally can succeed at this job.
- Include tangibles - always try to give additional details that add value to your application, for instance, quantifying something always makes it sound better. ‘Increased sales by 35%’ sounds better than just saying ‘increased sales’.
- Hit key points - a good personal statement will be able to give the employer a quick summary of you and entice them to read more or move you forward to the interview stage.
- Get a second opinion - having someone else read over your personal statement can be a real help, they may spot something you haven’t or not understand something the way you had intended. This will help improve your finished personal statement.
Personal statement don’ts
- Use the same wording - you can actually hurt your own chances if you use an overly generic personal statement. You want to show that you have put effort into your application and impress the employer.
- Make it too long - candidates will often confuse their personal statement with a cover letter, this is a short rundown of you, focus on skills, successes, and statistics, things that can be quickly digested. Grab their attention with your personal statement, but do not bore them with an essay.
- Go too personal - this may sound strange, but remember you are writing a professional application, and not setting up a dating profile. Focus on what you can bring to the company, and how your skills would be perfect for the role.
- Send off your first draft - always read over your personal statement a few times to make sure it flows right and rolls off the tongue. Having a spelling or grammar mistake can ruin your chances of getting the job.
- Be too broad - showing that you understood the job description and are a good candidate for the role can be evident if you have a good personal statement, but being too broad will make you look like you copy and pasted the same response to 20 applications.
What next?
Now you have a better understanding on how to structure your personal statement to increase your chances of getting your new role, you want to start your job search . Currently at Michael Page, we have over 10,000 live jobs on the site so submit your CV today to become discoverable for new roles added in your industry.
For more CV and cover letter advice , read through our collective library of articles that’ll help you create a winning CV.
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Personal Statement Examples That Will Get You Writing
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Whether you're aiming for a job, university program, or scholarship, the value of an effective personal statement is vital to success. However, writing a personal statement that will make your application stand out can be challenging.
This post will help you put your best foot forward by providing examples and tips for crafting your personal statement. By the end, you will be able to write a standout personal statement with confidence.
What is a personal statement?
A personal statement is a written document that gives an overview of who you are, your experiences, achievements, and goals. It is typically required as part of a job, university program, or scholarship application. The purpose of a personal statement is to convince the reader that you are the right candidate for the opportunity by showcasing your strengths, experiences, and aspirations.
The content of a personal statement will vary depending on the context. Still, it generally includes information about your educational and professional background, achievements and accomplishments, skills and strengths, and goals and aspirations. It is an opportunity to highlight your unique qualities and what sets you apart from other applicants.
Personal statements are often limited to a certain word count or page limit, so it is important to be concise and focus on the most relevant information. Additionally, it is important to tailor your statement to the specific opportunity you are applying for, highlighting the skills and experiences most relevant to the role or program.
A well-crafted personal statement can be a powerful tool in the application process, demonstrating your passion, motivation, and suitability for the opportunity.
There are several reasons why you may need to write a personal statement:
- To apply for a job A personal statement is often required as part of a job application, allowing candidates to showcase their skills, experience, and personality to potential employers.
- To apply to a university Universities often require a personal statement as part of the application process, which allows the applicant to demonstrate their suitability for the program, their passion for the subject, and their goals for the future.
- To apply for a scholarship Personal statements are often required for scholarship applications. They allow the applicant to explain why they deserve the scholarship and how they plan to use it to achieve their goals.
- To promote oneself Personal statements can be used to promote oneself as an expert in a particular field or to showcase one's achievements and experience to a wider audience.
In all of these cases, a personal statement can effectively communicate your strengths and goals and make a compelling case for why you are the right candidate for a particular opportunity.
Why are personal statements important?
Crafting a killer personal statement can elevate your application to new heights! It can set you apart from the crowd and is a powerful tool to showcase your strengths, passion, and unique experiences. By weaving a compelling story about yourself, you help the reader understand what makes you tick and how you are prepared for the opportunity.
Beyond this, a captivating personal statement can provide valuable insights into your personality and values, making you an even more attractive candidate to employers and admissions officers. Trust us - a powerful personal statement is a game-changer for any successful application!
Personal statement examples
It's important to understand what to include in each personal statement. Here are some examples to consider:
Personal statement for a university application
As a passionate programmer and creative problem-solver, I am eager to pursue a degree in computer science and unleash the endless possibilities it offers me. Through this degree, I can acquire the skills and knowledge that will allow me to create meaningful solutions to real-world problems, something I strive for each day. With great excitement, I look forward to furthering my expertise in this field in a university setting and exploring the exciting opportunities ahead.
In high school, I was a dedicated student who took the initiative and maintained a strong work ethic. I earned high grades and actively participated in extracurricular activities such as the Computer Science Club and Robotics Team. My ambition has been to use my knowledge and skills to help build a better future. That is why I am confident that pursuing a career in computer science is the right decision for me.
Personal statement for job application
As a highly motivated and results-oriented professional, I am eager to contribute my skills and experience to an organization that values innovation and teamwork. Throughout my career, I have developed a reputation for being a problem-solver and effective communicator, with a keen eye for detail and the ability to work under pressure.
I have experience leading teams and coordinating tasks to ensure successful outcomes. Additionally, my communication skills enable me to effectively interact with colleagues, vendors, and customers to ensure that projects are completed on time. I am confident that my passion for my work and dedication to excellence will make me a valuable asset to any team.
Personal statement for scholarship application
Receiving this scholarship would be a life-changing opportunity for me. As a first-generation college student, I have faced many obstacles in pursuing my education, but I have never let these challenges hold me back. When my parents told me they could not help pay for my college tuition, I felt a wave of uncertainty wash over me. But I quickly realized that if I worked hard enough and never gave up, I could make my dreams come true.
With this scholarship, I can continue my studies and achieve my goals, including becoming a role model for other students in my community. I am committed to giving back to my community and using my education to impact the world positively.
Tips for crafting a personal statement
While crafting a standout personal statement can seem daunting, with the right guidance, you can create a compelling document that showcases your unique qualities and sets you apart from other applicants. This section will provide tips and strategies to help you write a powerful personal statement that effectively communicates your skills, experiences, and aspirations.
From tailoring your statement to the opportunity to using specific examples and demonstrating authenticity, these tips will help you create a personal statement that makes a lasting impression.
Here are some tips for writing a strong personal statement:
- Research: Before writing your personal statement, research the opportunity you are applying for. This will help you to understand the requirements and tailor your statement to the specific role or program.
- Be concise: Personal statements are often limited to a certain word count or page limit, so it is important to be concise and focus on the most relevant information. Ensure each sentence and paragraph adds value and contributes to your overall message.
- Use specific examples: Specific examples can be used to illustrate your skills and experiences. This will help to bring your statement to life and provide evidence to support your claims.
- Tailor your statement: Tailor your statement to the specific role or program. Highlight the skills and experiences that are most relevant to the opportunity and demonstrate how they make you a strong candidate.
- Show, don't tell: Instead of stating that you are a good fit for the opportunity, provide specific examples and evidence to tangibly demonstrate your skills and experience.
- Be authentic: Be true to yourself and your experiences. Your statement should reflect your personality, values, and motivations and provide insight into who you are.
- Proofread and edit: Finally, proofread and edit your statement carefully. Check for spelling and grammar errors, and make sure your message is clear and concise. A well-written and error-free personal statement can make all the difference in a competitive application process.
By following these tips, you can create a personal statement that effectively showcases your strengths and makes a compelling case for why you are the ideal candidate for the opportunity. Remember to tailor your statement to the specific requirements of the opportunity, use specific examples to illustrate your achievements and experiences, and be authentic to yourself. With these tips in mind, you'll be well on your way to crafting a powerful personal statement that will help you stand out from the competition.
Unlock your future
Writing a personal statement can be challenging, but it can also be a rewarding experience with the right approach. A well-crafted personal statement can be the key to unlocking exciting new opportunities, whether it's a job, a university program, or a scholarship. Following the tips outlined in this blog post, you can create a personal statement that showcases your strengths, experiences, and aspirations and demonstrates why you are the ideal candidate for the opportunity. Good luck!
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What You Should Include in a Personal Statement
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Many job application forms include a large space for candidates to write something about themselves that will convince employers to hire them. This can be quite daunting: what should you include in a personal statement and, more importantly, what should you NOT include?
What is a personal statement?
In this article, a personal statement refers to a particular type of information needed on an application form. This is required on the application form for teacher training positions and on the UCAS undergraduate and postgraduate application forms. Some CV advisers also recommend including a small ‘personal statement’ in the heading of a CV. This is rarely found on academic CVs though.
What not to include
It is very important that you tailor each personal statement for the specific job you are applying for. Do not simply copy and paste an old personal statement into your new application.
Do not simply write ‘ see my attached CV/cover letter’ . While you may find yourself repeating much of the information contained within those documents, it is essential to try to craft something novel here.
Although it is often called a ‘ personal statement ’ this section of an application form does not require you to give ‘personal’ information about things such as your hobbies or interests. While your interests might make you sound like a rounded individual (whether you enjoy the theatre, scuba diving or whatever), employers in a competitive job market do not actually care about such things. They want to know why you are the best person for the job. So, unless the form specifically requests you to do so, don’t reveal details of your life outside the world of work.
Personal statements written by those hoping to get on an undergraduate or postgraduate course are slightly different, so do not be misled by the vast numbers of websites advertising help with writing personal statements. These are aimed at high school and college students and are less relevant to you as a job seeker.
How to structure it
It is important not to make a personal statement into a dense, unreadable text block. You must write good prose in full sentences and break it up into concise paragraphs. Use subheadings to help guide the reader’s eye to the most important information. Try to write in a style that makes your statement fresh and slightly different from the formal prose of most of your application content. You are trying to sell yourself as an attractive personality as well as a professional employee.
Include such things as:
- Events from your education/career to date that are specific to the job. This can include volunteer work, mentoring, leading projects etc.,
- What attracts you to the prospective job
- The skills and knowledge base you have that is relevant to the job
- What is the unique contribution you can make to the university/company? Check online for their mission statement and refer to it when describing how you can contribute
- Refer directly to the job description using the same language and offer concrete examples of your own competence. Then, relate that to your own experiences. You might have to be creative here! Tailor your answer to the job you’re applying for and make it appear as if you are extremely keen to pursue a career in that area! However, try to make your statement as honest as possible; you want to come across as a real person and not simply parroting what you think the employers want to hear. It is a difficult balance to achieve so put some thought and preparation into this
And don’t forget!
As with all parts of your application , make sure as many people as possible proofread your personal statement. Nothing says ‘unprofessional’ like a personal statement full of typos or grammatical errors. Also, while you may think you have expressed yourself very clearly, other readers may be able to highlight sentences or words that are incorrect, irrelevant or could be more clearly expressed. A good personal statement passes through many drafts, so make sure you give enough time to the writing and re-drafting process.
We hope you find our tips on what you should include in a personal statement helpful. You can find more helpful advice here:
- How To Write A Flawless Cover Letter
- CV Cover Letters With Impact
- Writing a Personal Profile for your CV
- How To Write A Personal Statement
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Dr Denise White FRSA
Dr Denise White FRSA is a multi-award-winning intellectual disability and music expert. Having over 25 years’ experience in the field of early years, primary, post-primary, special educational needs, further and higher education, Denise is known for her innovative and creative teaching methods that transforms lives. She is an advocate for inclusive and community-based ethical learning and teaching models.
She is a passionate education advocate with the talent to develop inspiring hands-on lessons that will capture a student’s imagination and breed success.
Known as ‘The Music Doctor’, Denise is an Author at Bookhub Publishing. Her Music Doctor Series will launch in March 2019. Denise is also a Speaker, Trainer, Consultant, Mentor and Researcher.
Web: www.themusicdoctor.co.uk
Twitter: @_TheMusicDoctor
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1st March 2020 at 11:37 am
highly beneficial
7th July 2021 at 6:23 pm
Hi, thats nice post
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How to Write an Application Letter (Sample Included!)
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Whether you’re applying for a job , internship , scholarship, or volunteer position, a well-crafted application letter can help you stand out. It's your chance to introduce yourself and make a strong first impression that sets you apart from the competition.
But how do you write an application letter that’s effective? Below, we’ll explain when to use this method of introduction and give you practical tips on writing one that gets results. Plus, we've included a sample application letter and a template to help you create the perfect document for any opportunity.
Apply for the role of your dreams! One of these open jobs on The Muse could be the perfect fit »
What is an application letter?
An application letter is a document sent with your resume to provide additional information on your skills and experience. It's a crucial part of an application for work as it introduces you to potential employers and highlights your qualifications.
While some companies request it at the beginning of the application process, others might ask for it later, or not at all—but it's always a valuable addition.
Unlike a resume, which outlines your work history, a written application allows you to elaborate on your achievements and how they relate to the job you are applying for. It is a much more specific way to introduce yourself and explain why you would be a good fit for the job.
How is an application letter different from a cover letter?
Some people use the terms “application letter” and “cover letter” interchangeably, but there are subtle differences between the two.
An application letter serves as your formal introduction to a potential employer. It highlights your interest in the role, your qualifications, and why you're a good fit for the position. It's a standalone document that provides a comprehensive overview of your skills and experiences.
On the other hand, a cover letter is usually more concise than an application letter and serves as a complementary document to your resume, providing additional context to your job application. It elaborates on specific points from your resume and explains how your background aligns with the job requirements.
Also, job application letters follow a more formal structure, often resembling a traditional business letter. They include your contact information, the date, and the employer’s contact information at the top. An application letter is usually addressed to a specific individual, such as the hiring manager or recruiter. While cover letters also have a professional tone, they can be less formal in structure.
Finally, the application letter is used primarily for job applications, internship applications, scholarship applications, and volunteer positions. In contrast, the cover letter is specifically used to accompany a resume during job applications.
When do you need to send an application letter?
Application letters are typically required when applying for jobs. However, there are other scenarios where you might need one:
- Scholarship applications: When applying for scholarships, this kind of letter can help you stand out by showcasing your academic achievements and career goals .
- Volunteer positions: Some volunteer organizations require an application letter to understand your motivations and skills relevant to the position.
- Internship applications: Internships often require this document to understand your interest in the role and what you hope to gain from the experience.
- Networking purposes: Sending one when reaching out to potential mentors or industry professionals can help you establish a connection and explain your career aspirations.
7 tips on how to write a job application letter
Writing an effective application letter involves more than just summarizing your resume. Here are seven tips to write yours:
1. Research the company—at least do a quick Google search!
Before you start writing, research the company to understand its culture, values, and needs. Tailor your letter to align with the company’s mission and the job description. There is nothing better for an HR professional than feeling that you don’t just want any job; you want to work with them for specific reasons, such as X and Y.
“Address the letter to the hiring manager by name if possible,” says Mike Chappell, CEO of FormsPal , who has more than a decade of experience reviewing application letters. “This shows that you’ve done your research and are genuinely interested in the company.”
2. Use a professional format and design
Your application letter should follow a formal letter of application format. Use a standard font like Times New Roman or Arial, and keep the font size between 10 and 12 points. Include your contact information, the date, and the employer’s contact information at the top of the letter.
There are many layouts online that you can use. Find one that represents your style and complements your resume.
3. Make it engaging from the start with a strong opening
Your opening paragraph should grab the reader’s attention. Mention the position you're applying for and where you found the job listing. If you were referred by someone, include their name. Briefly introduce yourself and explain why you’re interested in the role.
4. Highlight your qualifications—what you can’t fully convey in your resume
In the body of your applicant letter, highlight your relevant skills, experiences, and achievements. “Use specific examples to showcase your accomplishments and how they relate to the job you’re applying for,” Chappell says. “ Quantifiable results can make a strong impact.”
Avoid repeating information from your resume; instead, expand on your most relevant experiences.
5. Show enthusiasm and genuine interest
Employers want to hire candidates who are enthusiastic about the role and the company. Show your excitement for the opportunity. Explain why you are specifically interested in this job and how it aligns with your career goals.
6. Keep it concise
While it’s important to provide enough detail, your application letter should be concise. Aim for one page, with three to four paragraphs. Be clear and to the point, avoiding unnecessary fluff.
7. Proofread carefully
Typos and grammatical errors can leave a negative impression on employers. Carefully proofread your letter before sending it. Consider asking another person to review it as well.
Letter of application sample
Here's a super complete example of application letter to help you get started:
August 1, 2024
Ms. Jane Doe
Hiring Manager
Innovative Solutions Inc.
456 Maple Avenue
Springfield, IL 62705
Dear Ms. Doe,
I am writing to express my interest in the Marketing Manager position at Innovative Solutions Inc., as advertised on your company’s careers page. With more than five years of experience in marketing and a proven track record of successful campaigns, I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to your team and drive impactful marketing strategies.
In my previous role as a Senior Marketing Specialist at Creative Solutions LLC, I led a team in developing and executing a comprehensive marketing strategy that resulted in a 30% increase in brand awareness and a 25% boost in lead generation. My responsibilities included overseeing digital marketing campaigns, analyzing market trends, and coordinating with cross-functional teams to ensure alignment with overall business goals. This experience has honed my skills in strategic planning, data analysis, and team leadership.
I am particularly impressed by Innovative Solutions Inc.’s commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technology to deliver innovative marketing solutions. Your recent campaign, which utilized artificial intelligence to optimize ad targeting, is a testament to your forward-thinking approach. I am eager to bring my expertise in digital marketing and campaign management to your team and contribute to similar groundbreaking projects.
My strong analytical skills, combined with my ability to lead and inspire a team, make me a great fit for this role. I am confident that my background and enthusiasm for innovative marketing strategies align well with the needs of Innovative Solutions Inc.
Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how my skills and experiences can contribute to the continued success of Innovative Solutions Inc.
123 Elm Street
Springfield, IL 62704
(555) 123-4567
Template for an application letter
You can also use the following application format to structure your application letter for a job:
[Recipient’s name]
[Company’s name]
[Company’s address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
Dear [Recipient’s name],
I am writing to express my interest in the [Job title] position at [Company name] as advertised on [Where you found the job listing]. With my background in [Field or industry] and a passion for [Specific aspect of the job or industry], I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to your team.
In my previous role at [Previous company], I developed [Specific skills or achievements]. I successfully [Describe a project or responsibility], which resulted in [Quantifiable result or achievement]. This experience has equipped me with [Relevant skills] that I am eager to bring to [Company name].
I am particularly impressed by [Company name]’s commitment to [Specific company initiative or value], and I am enthusiastic about the prospect of working with a team that values [Related value or skill]. I am confident that my skills and experiences align well with the requirements of the [Job title] position.
Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how my background, skills, and enthusiasm can contribute to the success of [Company Name].
[Your Name]
[Your address]
[Your email address]
[Your phone number]
Common mistakes to avoid
When writing a letter of application for employment, be aware of these common mistakes:
- Being too generic: Focus your letter on the specific job and company, and mention detailed information about them. Don’t default to a one-size-fits-all approach or AI-written document. “It is generally best to avoid using generative AI to write your application letters for you,” says Edward Tian, CEO of AI detector GPTZero . “Only you can write about those specific aspects of your identity and experiences in such a personal way.”
- Focusing too much on yourself: While it’s important to highlight your qualifications, make sure to explain how you can benefit the company. “You can talk about your career goals, college classes that piqued your interest in the type of job you're applying to—just make sure that they tie into why they make you uniquely qualified or well-positioned for the job,” Tian says.
- Including irrelevant information: Avoid discussing unrelated jobs or hobbies, for example.
- Using a casual tone: Maintain a professional tone throughout your letter. Avoid slang or overly casual language.
Need a bit more guidance in your job search? Read this next: How to Apply for a Job Online: 10 Tips to Stand Out and Land an Interview
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IMAGES
COMMENTS
Here are some examples of personal and professional statements: 1. Personal statement for a postgraduate programme. Joan David Personal statement for master's programme in Public Policy and Administration London School of Policy 'I held my first textbook when I was a 23-year-old undergraduate.
10. Teacher personal statement. "Elementary school teacher with 5+ years of experience managing classrooms of 20-30 students. Adept at using positive reinforcement teaching techniques to encourage student behavior and development. Looking to use my creativity and experience to engage at-risk students.".
A personal statement for a job should be concise and to the point, ideally around 150 words or 2-3 sentences. Keep it brief while highlighting your key skills and experiences that are relevant to the role. Employers appreciate concise personal statements that efficiently convey your suitability for the job.
2. Expand on relevant skills, interests and experiences. The body of your personal statement lets you share more about your relevant skills, interests and experiences. Write about personal details that relate to the job or course for which you are applying. You could write about the following elements, where relevant, in the body of your ...
Include information that describes more about you than the details in your transcript. 5. Identify your plans for the future. Part of your personal statement can include future goals and ambitions. Explain what can happen if you gain acceptance to the university of your choice or you receive the job you want.
Address the elephant in the room (if there is one). Maybe your grades weren't great in core courses, or perhaps you've never worked in the field you're applying to. Make sure to address the ...
Example #3 - Personal statement for a career change, does not appear on resume. I'm a tenacious customer service professional who can balance competing tasks while maintaining service quality. I'm empathetic, focused, and detail-oriented, and I'm skilled at training customers on products and services and increasing client adoption.
Finally, it's generally a good idea to reiterate your enthusiasm for the opportunity to be considered. 5. Proofread. When you're finished writing the personal statement, always take time to proofread and edit, looking specifically for typos and grammatical mistakes. Pay attention to the phrasing and language you're using, as it should be ...
A resume personal statement should include: Between 50 and 200 words in 3 - 4 sentences. Your title or function, for example "Junior developer" or "Passionate hospitality manager". An opening hook. Soft skills and hard skills. Impressive facts and stats. Your short and/or long-term goals.
Use a single, strong sentence to mention the most relevant aspects of your personality and interests in the role or company. Related: How To Write an Introduction About Yourself. 2. Expand on relevant skills, interests and experiences. The body of your statement lets you share more about your relevant skills, interests and experiences.
Generally, a small paragraph is enough in the body of your personal statement for an employer or recruiter. Related: 10 best skills to include on a CV. 6. Conclude your statement. End with a strong conclusion that summarises what you have already discussed and will leave a lasting impression on your reader.
Creating an effective CV takes time and close attention to detail. You've already included your jobs and experience, and now you want to allow the recruiter or hiring manager to understand the strategic value you can add.. This is when you need to utilize a personal statement at the top of your CV. How to Write a CV Personal Statement [+4 Real-life Examples]
CV templates 17 CV personal statement examples. To start this guide, I have included 10 examples of good personal statements, to give you an idea of how a personal statement should look, and what should be included.. Note: personal statements are generally used by junior candidates - if you are experienced, check out our CV profile examples instead.
The personal statement on your CV is the one place where it's okay to talk about yourself in the third person. However, using pronouns, for example, "he is a conscientious worker with 12 years of experience..." is a step too far. Instead, drop the pronouns, so that would become "A conscientious worker with 12 years of experience…".
1. Write an introduction that introduces yourself and your goals. Write an introduction that introduces who you are and why you applying for the job or university program. Note why your interests align with the role or degree and any experience you have with this type of job or the course topics.
Personal statement do's. Tailor your personal statement - utilise the job description to help you highlight exactly what the employer is looking for, highlight the skills and experience it calls for. The job description is the blueprint to your personal statement for that role, so try and signpost your abilities from the exact things the employer is looking for.
1. Write a personal introduction. The first part of your statement can introduce your background and personality to the reader. Here, you can discuss your interest in the industry and describe how it relates to your characteristics. You could also discuss previous experience you have in the field.
University personal statement First things first: personal statements aren't just for your CV. They're also a key part of the UCAS application process, and a way to sell yourself to prospective universities. However, they will be much more detailed - and longer - than the one you write for a job application.
Therefore, it should be compelling, attention-grabbing and tailored to the particular position. Here are three steps to take to create a compelling and effective personal statement: 1. State who you are. Start with a statement detailing where you are in your career. This should communicate your current position in your profession and field of ...
A personal statement is a written document that gives an overview of who you are, your experiences, achievements, and goals. It is typically required as part of a job, university program, or scholarship application. The purpose of a personal statement is to convince the reader that you are the right candidate for the opportunity by showcasing ...
Personal statement examples The following are personal statement examples you can use for inspiration: Personal statement for job application Use this employment personal statement to help you craft your own: Highly motivated accounting graduate with a first class honours degree from the National University of Singapore with two years of experience in budgeting, payroll and account reconciliation.
Example #3 - 12. Example #4 - Flying. Example #5 - Arab Spring in Bahrain. Example #6 - Poop, Animals and the Environment. Example #7 - Entoptic Phenomena. Example #8 - The Builder & Problem Solver. Example #10 - The Little Porch and a Dog (With Spanish Translation) Example #10 - Life As an Undocumented Student.
What is a personal statement? In this article, a personal statement refers to a particular type of information needed on an application form. This is required on the application form for teacher training positions and on the UCAS undergraduate and postgraduate application forms. Some CV advisers also recommend including a small 'personal ...
Scholarship applications: When applying for scholarships, this kind of letter can help you stand out by showcasing your academic achievements and career goals. Volunteer positions: Some volunteer organizations require an application letter to understand your motivations and skills relevant to the position. Internship applications: Internships often require this document to understand your ...