As the saying goes, 'first impressions count', and this certainly applies to job searching. Your CV is often one of the first things a prospective employer sees. A strong CV clearly shows your skills and experience, helping you make a positive first impression.
Your CV bio, or personal statement, is a short introduction at the top of your CV. Think of it as your opportunity to capture the reader’s attention and give them a reason to keep reading.
What is a CV bio?
A CV bio is a short, 3-6 line paragraph that highlights your expertise, strengths and skills. It can also showcase relevant education, experience, project and systems or applications you’re proficient in. This small but mighty introduction can help a hiring manager quickly see your suitability for a role.
How to write a CV bio
A personal statement should be short and concise but getting it right can take some thought. Here are a few tips from our team.
1. Customise CV bio for every job
Just like the rest of your CV, your CV bio should be tailored to each role. Focus on the skills and experience that make you a strong candidate and be specific about what you can offer. Think about what separates them from others and use keywords that will attract the readers’ attention. These keywords will also stand out if not being read by the human eye. A Harvard Business School report found that of employers are using ATS (Application Tracking Systems) in their hiring process. Consider using the job description to help configure a CV bio that utilises the keywords mentioned by the hiring managers.