1. LEAD WITH A TITLE
Lead with your professional title. This could be 'software engineer', 'visual communicator', or 'finance analyst'. If you studied it at university for however many years, this counts as experience, especially if you completed projects.
❌ I'm Daisy, a recent graduate from Oxford University where I studied Marketing and got a first-class degree
✓ A digital marketer with a year's experience in social media management
2. USE KEYWORDS
Avoid generic terminology, and instead use keywords from the job description or skills that are being prioritized for this role. Only include skills that you actually have and can provide examples of in your experience section.
❌ I am creative, hardworking, and passionate
✓ Proven record of excellent communication, content creation, and time management skills from my role of XYZ
3. BE SPECIFIC
Get specific with not only your skills but your future goals or reason for applying. Try your best to make this specific to the company or role you're applying for each time. This will demonstrate your knowledge and help you stand out from other candidates.
❌ I'd love the opportunity to develop my current skillset in a full-time marketing role
✓ I aim to work in a role where I can use my knowledge of engaging student audiences to grow a small business
EXAMPLE OF BEFORE AND AFTER:
❌ I'm Daisy, a recent graduate from Oxford University where I studied Marketing and got a first-class degree. I am creative, hardworking, and passionate. I'd love the opportunity to develop my current skillset in a full-time marketing role.
✓ A digital marketer with a year's experience in social media management. Proven record of excellent communication, content creation, and time management skills from my time as a freelance social media manager. I aim to work in a role where I can use my knowledge of engaging student audiences to grow a small business.