English for academic cvs resumes and online profiles adrian wallwork

What's the buzz?

A) Decide which of these statements are myths (i.e often believed but not true in reality).

1 The main aim of your CV is to persuade an employer to offer you an interview.

2 You need to exaggerate your skills and experience in order to attract the best jobs.

3 You need to have had lots of experience in order to get a job.

4 Your CV has to be at least two pages long.

5 Your CV should be contain many adjectives designed to highlight your skills and impress the reader.

6 The information that you provide must be quantifiable.

7 Your CV is likely to be scanned, so key words are of paramount importance.

B) How would you answer the following questions?

• Am I more interested in a career where I can use my skills or one which will satisfy my interests?

• How would I describe myself in one sentence?

• What are my greatest skills and how might they match the job I am looking for?

• What are my major accomplishments? How might these be relevant for a particular job?

• Do I like working independently or as part of a team? Would I make a good team leader?

• Do I mind (enjoy) working long hours? How well do I deal with deadlines?

• What are the most important factors I am looking for in my ideal job?

Your answers to these questions should help you first decide what kind of job you would like, and secondly to decide the content of your CV.

C) Below are 20 typical questions asked in interviews Choose 10 questions and then discuss how you would answer them.

1 Why did you decide to continue in research rather than go into industry?

2 How did you choose the university you attended and why did you pick your particular degree?

3 Would you choose the same course again?

4 Apart from what you have learned from an academic point of view, what other skills have you learned from being at university?

5 What parts of your course did you find the most interesting / difficult

6 What contribution did you make to tutorials, seminars, and workshops?

7 How do you prepare for examinations?

8 What obstacles did you face during your time at university?

9 What personal qualities did university help you to develop?

10 What would your supervisor / professor say about your strengths and weak- nesses? How would your fellow students judge you?

11 How do you cope with deadlines? What type of deadlines have you had to deal with?

12 What teaching experience have you had?

13 How did you cope when papers were rejected or experiments did not pro- duce the expected results?

14 What is your greatest achievement so far / to date?

15 What kind of team member are you?

16 What was the most satisfying aspect of writing your thesis / dissertation?

17 What do you think are the differences between a job in research and a job in industry?

18 Have your research interests / career interests changed much over the last few years?

19 What difficulties did you encounter with your professor / supervisor? How did you deal with them?

20 Given that English is not your first language, how would you cope with a job outside your country?

For a unique and ironic take on crafting CVs, explore the poem "Writing a Curriculum Vitae" by Polish poet Wisława Szymborska-Włodek A simple search using her name along with the poem's title will lead you to this insightful piece.

This chapter emphasizes the importance of a CV while guiding you in identifying your desired job type You will discover what research institutes and companies truly seek in candidates It is crucial to maintain honesty in your CV, as recruiters often verify information against your social media profiles like Facebook and LinkedIn Additionally, sending the same CV to multiple employers is not an effective strategy.

Note: Unless otherwise stated, the terms CV and resume are used interchangeably in this chapter.

What is the purpose of a CV / resume?

The aim of your CV or resume is to encourage a recruiter to contact you regarding a possible job.

When crafting your CV, it's essential to adopt the perspective of the reader, whether it's a recruiter from an agency, an HR professional at a company, or a professor in a research team Focus on highlighting your most relevant skills and experiences that align with the job requirements, ensuring clarity and conciseness Use industry-specific keywords to enhance visibility in applicant tracking systems, and emphasize measurable achievements that demonstrate your impact Tailor your CV to showcase how your background and expertise can contribute to the organization's goals, making it easy for the reader to see your potential value as a candidate.

To enhance readability and user experience, it is essential to utilize a familiar format that aligns with standard templates This approach allows readers to easily navigate the content, as they know where to find the information they seek By modifying established formats rather than creating a completely original design, you can ensure that your audience can effortlessly engage with your material.

• only include details that are relevant to the job you are looking for

• clearly highlight your skills and qualifications

• be honest and accurate, and as objective as possible

A CV is thus not an opportunity for you to:

• write every single detail of your career history, education history and per- sonal history

• experiment with your design skills

What are research institutes really looking for? And companies?

Research institutes and companies seek candidates whose CVs demonstrate both relevant education and work experience, as well as proof of qualifications for the specific position available.

• have a strong work ethic and that you work to deadlines

• are both proactive and flexible

• have the technical, emotional and analytical skills for problem solving

• can write reports and other kinds of documents

• are enthusiastic and passionate about what you do

• would fit in well with the company / institute – both in terms of the environ- ment and the core values

You need to inject each section of your CV with evidence that you have the above attributes The following chapters will tell you how.

Here is an extract from an email from an HR manager to a recruiting agency:

Adrian Wallwork

- Analytical thinking - be able to build patterns from raw data

- Be able to write succinct reports in English to tight deadlines

- Be a go getter, self motivator, who can work fairly independently to me

If you were applying for the post indicated in the email above, your CV would need to demonstrate that you have such qualities.

Having 12 research papers accepted at international conferences demonstrates your ability to write technical documents, showcases your experience in presenting your work, and suggests a high standard of English proficiency.

Instead of explicitly stating "I have good communication skills" in your CV or cover letter, focus on demonstrating these abilities through concrete examples in your education, work experience, and personal interests This approach allows recruiters to assess your communication skills based on the evidence you provide, as discussed in Chapters 6, 7, and 8.

1.3 What are research institutes really looking for?

Is it a good idea to send the same CV to different

You need to tailor (customize) your CV for the specific post you are applying for.

Begin by creating a comprehensive CV that includes all relevant and interesting details, which may span several pages Then, tailor this draft CV to ensure it appears specifically crafted for the target company or institution, focusing on the adaptation process.

To enhance your resume, focus on deleting any irrelevant information while maintaining essential details in your Education and Work Experience sections This approach allows you to emphasize key qualifications that align with the job you are applying for, ensuring that your resume is tailored and impactful.

• modifying the text to make sure that it includes evidence of the skills that you will need for the post you have applied for

• changing the layout and/or font so that it reflects the same graphic style as the company or institute where you want to work

Do I need to be honest?

CVs may be checked for detail using special software Any discrepancies will be identified immediately In any case, experienced recruiters can spot a lie very quickly.

Even without CV-checking software, potential employers often compare your CV with your LinkedIn profile and other social media accounts Therefore, it is essential to ensure that your online presence reflects the truth and maintains consistency across all platforms.

A single discrepancy on your CV discovered during an interview can lead the interviewer to question the validity of your entire application, significantly eroding their trust in you.

Making unsubstantiated claims on your CV can lead to serious consequences during an interview, including the possibility of the company notifying the recruiting agency, which may result in your removal from their database.

Will recruiters access my Facebook, Instagram

The content you share online, including text and images, reflects your personality, social behavior, and communication style Additionally, HR professionals often exhibit a natural curiosity about potential candidates, prompting them to search for information beyond what is presented in a CV.

To protect your privacy, restrict access to your online pages and avoid sharing content that you wouldn't want a potential employer to see.

Should I used LinkedIn?

Yes, although LinkedIn used to seen primarily as a means for getting jobs in indus- try, it is also becoming increasingly used by academics.

Academics create a LinkedIn profile to:

2 boost their chances of finding a job

3 create a network of useful contacts

Should I consider a video CV?

Video CVs are relatively uncommon across various job sectors, and relying solely on them may lead to your application being overlooked Additionally, reviewing a video can be more challenging than skimming a written resume, which means it requires more effort from HR professionals.

When recruiters review a CV, they focus primarily on the information presented, whereas a video CV introduces additional factors such as presentation, attire, voice, and body language These elements can overshadow the actual content, leading to first impressions based on superficial traits like movement, tone, and facial expressions It's important to reserve these impressions for in-person interviews, where they can be evaluated more appropriately.

If video CVs are standard in your target industry, take the time to review examples from others You can find numerous video CVs on YouTube and various professional recruitment websites.

Watch them and decide what you think works well and what you should avoid. The ones that often work the best tend to be the simplest They:

To create a professional impression during a video interview, ensure there are no distractions in your background Ideally, position yourself in front of a plain white background while seated, mimicking the clarity of a high-quality Skype call This setup allows HR personnel to focus on you without any interruptions or unnecessary actions.

• are shot in one session, i.e not in a series of different locations at different times

A major issue is your skills in the English language If you are a non-native speaker:

• ensure that you have your script (i.e what you say in your video) corrected by a native speaker

• use short sentences (long sentences are more difficult to say)

• only use words that you can pronounce correctly

• enunciate clearly and do no speak too fast

Is it a good idea to have my CV on my personal website?

Yes If someone takes the trouble to access your personal website, they will proba- bly also be motivated to read / download your CV.

To maximize your chances of attracting various potential employers, it's essential to craft your CV to appeal to a broad range of positions within your target fields However, if you are focused on a specific area, ensure that your online CV clearly highlights your expertise and experience in that niche.

A Wallwork, English for Academic CVs, Resumes, and Online Profiles,

English for Academic Research, https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-11090-1_2

Leonardo da Vinci crafted one of the earliest resumes, highlighting his diverse skills and qualifications He boasted of his innovative mortars, which were portable and capable of launching small stones to instill fear in enemies Additionally, he expressed confidence in his architectural abilities, stating he could excel in both public and private building designs, as well as in water management.

The average boss looks at a CV for three minutes.

Byte London, a marketing technology agency, has launched a new chatbot named Space Gentleman on Facebook Messenger to streamline its employee recruitment process This innovative tool replaces the traditional application method by engaging candidates with a series of 10 questions, including inquiries about their right to work in the UK.

In 2014, Google received over 20,000 resumes weekly, averaging two applications every minute Today, that number has surged to two million applications annually, making it ten times more challenging to gain admission than Harvard University.

Since 2013, the number of Google search results for 'CV templates' has skyrocketed from approximately 3 million to 122 million Today, users can access a plethora of free downloadable templates to create personalized CVs Additionally, there are sample CVs available that cater to specific professions, including mechanical engineers, teachers, chefs, financial analysts, and aspiring medical or marketing professionals.

What's the buzz?

A) How many pages should a CV have?

• content is more important than the number of pages

B) What sections does a CV typically have? e.g education, work experience

C) Imagine you are a recruiter whose job is to assess CVs and resumes Look at the nine factors below - which do you think would be the top three?

This chapter highlights the findings of a survey conducted among recruiters in the USA, focusing on their insights and preferences, particularly noting that the respondents were not primarily engaged in recruiting recent graduates.

1 Which for you are the most surprising results of the survey?

2 What do the results highlight in terms of choosing a template for your CV?

3 In your CV, did you use a standard template (which one?) or did you create your own?

4 What are the pros and cons of creating your own template?

5 Which of the following would you not use in your CV? Why?

• logos of the institutes or companies where you have worked

6 How quickly do you think recruiters read a CV?

This chapter covers essential aspects of crafting an effective CV, including the optimal page length, standard information order, and the quick reading habits of recruiters It explores various CV templates, such as Europass, and offers guidance on customization Additionally, the chapter highlights the differences between LinkedIn profiles and traditional CVs, detailing what potential employers seek on LinkedIn and how recruiters utilize the platform to identify candidates.

How many pages should a CV be?

A well-crafted CV showcases your most relevant skills and qualifications concisely If your CV exceeds two pages, HR may perceive you as unable to communicate clearly and succinctly, which could deter them from considering you for a position.

For high-level academic positions, it's advisable to use multiple pages to adequately detail your project involvement If you have numerous publications, consider creating a separate document or providing a link to your website, allowing the reviewer to access them as needed.

What is the typical order of information in a CV?

The most common order is outlined below.

There are of course variations in this order Some people put point 3 before point 2

For academics, it's advisable to include publications in a separate document, while those with work experience should prioritize their professional background over education The skills section can be organized into subsections, such as technical skills and languages Although personal interests are often overlooked, they are important to highlight Additionally, not all candidates choose to include references in their resumes.

If you are not applying for a job in academia, then your publications will be of little interest to the recruiter.

Not all templates will include all the nine points above.

What is a template? Should I use one?

A template is a structured document that presents a layout and sample content, organizing essential information in a specific sequence Downloadable templates are available in the appendix of this book.

To enhance your CV's effectiveness, it's essential to adopt a familiar template that simplifies the recruiter's review process This approach allows for quick comparisons with other candidates' CVs However, feel free to adjust the format to ensure your CV stands out among the many that recruiters evaluate.

As LinkedIn's prominence grows, CVs increasingly mirror the structure and content of LinkedIn profiles To enhance your CV, consider reviewing LinkedIn's current layout and adapting it to fit your own professional narrative.

When applying for a job, it's common for employers to provide their own templates for you to complete It is essential to follow their instructions precisely and avoid modifying the template to suit your preferences In some instances, you may also be asked to utilize a specific standard template.

When writing a CV for a specific company or institute, find the CV (e.g via LinkedIn) of someone who already works there and model your CV on theirs.

How fast do recruiters read CVs? Do all recruiters read CVs

Recruiters typically take around 6 seconds to make an initial evaluation.

The image displays two different versions of the same individual's CV, highlighting areas of interest through patches that represent the duration of a recruiter's gaze Darker patches indicate points where the recruiter focused attention for a longer time, illustrating the effectiveness of each CV version in capturing interest.

A comparison of the two CVs shows that the recruiter lost interest in the first CV before finishing it, while the second CV captured their full attention This raises the question: what made the second CV more engaging?

The layout of your CV significantly influences its readability and the likelihood of capturing a hiring manager's attention A well-structured CV, with information divided into manageable sections, is more likely to be fully read compared to one that presents large blocks of text To increase your chances of being shortlisted for a job, ensure your CV is visually appealing and easy to navigate.

It's important to remember that while many recruiters typically read resumes from top to bottom, some may choose to start from the bottom and read upwards Therefore, regardless of where the reader begins, the content must be clear and coherent to ensure effective communication.

To effectively engage a recruiter, focus on creating a CV that is easy and quick to read rather than trying to impress them Consider the reader's perspective and ensure that your content is clear and straightforward.

• understanding and facilitating the priorities of the recruiter (i.e their top pri- ority is to find the right candidate in the minimum time possible with the minimum effort)

• avoiding big chunks of text

• avoiding unnecessary information (e.g if you are a PhD student applying for a job in industry, the recruiter will probably not appreciate seeing the long list of papers that you have published)

For more information about the heat map (including a color version) shown in the picture see: https://www.fastcodesign.com/1669531/how-to-redesign-your-resume-for-a- recruiter-s-6-second-attention-span

2.5 How fast do recruiters read CVs? Do all recruiters read CVs in the same way? (cont.)

Isn't the information contained in my CV more important

important to a recruiter than the layout?

Recruiters typically concentrate on the left side of a CV, as this area commonly features essential information such as dates, job titles, and the names of companies and universities, which are crucial for evaluating candidates.

Recruiters are naturally attracted to white space and initial capital letters, which leads them to pay more attention to the beginnings and ends of sentences rather than the middle Consequently, CVs featuring large blocks of dense text are often overlooked, while those with shorter, well-organized sections capture more interest.

So, your CV may be quickly discarded if:

• key achievements are hidden within a big blocks of texts

• you deviate from the standard presentation, i.e if your dates and key words do not appear on the left

The way your CV is laid out is thus crucial if you want a recruiter to look at it for more than a couple of seconds.

How can I help recruiters understand what the most important

important information is on CV?

Highlight the importance of particular achievements or skills by giving them more space (i.e more words, more lines of text).

Balancing the emphasis on work experience in a shop with that in a professor's laboratory can mislead readers into thinking both experiences hold equal significance.

How does a LinkedIn page differ from a traditional CV?

Your LinkedIn page will differ from your CV in the following areas:

1) Your connections and endorsements: these are things that you cannot build over- night and which may help the recruiter to see:

• how good your networking skills are

• who you are connected to (there is a chance the recruiter may have common connections with you)

• who has endorsed you and for what However, recruiters are aware that LinkedIn invites members to endorse each other and that such endorsements may be given without much thought

When someone takes the time to recommend you, it signifies that they believe you have made a valuable contribution in a specific area However, recruiters are cautious, as they know that some individuals may write their own recommendations for friends and colleagues to share.

3) Your photo Although photos are frequently found on CVs (see Chapter 3), they are even more frequently found on LinkedIn as the site encourages you to post your photo.

What do potential employers want to see on my LinkedIn page?

Recruiters typically begin by examining the high-level details of your profile, such as your employment history, job titles, and responsibilities, much like they would with a CV This information helps them assess how each role has contributed to your overall career trajectory and whether you are pursuing a clear professional direction.

How do recruiters and HR use LinkedIn?

Active recruitment involves utilizing LinkedIn to identify potential candidates who may not be actively seeking jobs Recruiters input specific keywords, such as "Master’s in xxx" or "three years' experience in yyy," to locate suitable individuals They then reach out via email to introduce the company and aim to schedule interviews with these promising candidates.

2) Recruitment via an advertisement The company or institute places an ad on LinkedIn and then receives CVs from potential candidates.

Do recruitment agencies ask candidates to use a

Recruiters often require candidates to use specific CV templates, limiting customization options However, you still have the freedom to choose the wording within each section of the template.

Do not compile your CV or answers to any questions directly online.

1 First print off the template.

2 Analyse your existing CV and decide which parts could go into the template.

3 Modify these parts so that they are completely relevant for the position.

4 For those blocks in the template that remain, write your answers offline.

5 Put all the text that you plan to use into one file Re-read it several times and then do a final spell check.

6 Copy and paste the text into the relevant places.

To enhance your CV's visibility, identify the key terms that potential employers use in their advertisements and on their websites Incorporate these keywords strategically into your CV to align with their expectations and improve your chances of being noticed.

Not every recruiter requires candidates to utilize their specific templates Monster.com, a leading job search engine and employment website globally, offers a variety of downloadable resume templates to assist job seekers in crafting their applications effectively.

I want to be different Should I create my own layout and style?

To understand why, try this experiment Find five examples of CVs from friends, family or from Google Images Ignore any CVs that follow a standard template (e.g the Europass).

Look at each CV for a maximum of two seconds Which ones do you like and not like? Why? What impression of the candidate do you get? Think about:

• how pleasing the CV looks

• what order the information is presented

• how easy it would be for recruiters to find the key information they are inter- ested in

As an HR professional faced with the challenge of sifting through 250 CVs for a single job position, the primary dilemma lies in determining which candidates to eliminate and which to invite for interviews The sheer volume of applications makes it crucial to identify key qualifications and standout attributes that align with the job requirements, while also managing biases and ensuring a fair selection process.

• the incredible variety of presentation, layout and formatting styles

• that even the name of the candidate does not appear in the same place in each CV

• that the order of information is not the same (some begin with work experi- ence, others with academic experience, and others with a personal objective)

• the massive difference in the way the candidates present their personal details and the abbreviations they use, not all of which will be familiar to all recruiters

• the different headings for the same kind of activity (e.g work experience, professional experience, employment history)

What is also interesting is that presumably the people who wrote these CVs were satisfied with what they had produced.

So what is the net result for the recruiter who is faced with a massive variety of formats? Answer: confusion.

The recruiter has to work extra hard to find the information that he / she wants and to be able to compare the same information across several CVs.

As a recruiter, receiving uniform information from all candidates simplifies the evaluation process, allowing for a more straightforward comparison of their experiences This consistency minimizes distractions caused by varying layouts and enables recruiters to focus on the qualifications that truly matter.

Creating an original CV template can negatively impact your chances of getting noticed and invited for an interview, especially in most industries and research fields However, exceptions exist in media and advertising, where a creative CV may showcase your innovative thinking.

2.12 I want to be different Should I create my own layout and style? (cont.)

2.13 What about spacing between lines, paragraphs and sections? And bullets? Fonts?

Compare these two versions - which is easier to read? The font in both cases is Calibri, 10 point. version 1: not spaced (cramped), mix of all caps and lower case, bullets

• Young Scientist award, POLYCHAR 19- World Forum on Advanced

• Best Poster Award, Fluoropolymer 2028, Mèze, France.

• Excellent Graduate of Shanghai, ECUST, China, 2027

• Prof Giulia Gestri (in whose lab I did more than 4 years of research work), Department of Chemistry and Industrial Chemistry,

University of Pisa gestri@xxx.it

• English fluent (spoken and written)

References version 2: spaced (6 pt between sections, 2 pt within sections), no caps, no bullets

Chinese: mother tongue; English: fluent (spoken and written)

Young Scientist award, POLYCHAR 19 - World Forum on Advanced Materials, Nepal, 2029

Best Poster Award, Fluoropolymer 2028, Mèze, France

Excellent Graduate of Shanghai, ECUST, China, 2027.

Prof Giulia Gestri (in whose lab I did more than 4 years of research work), Department of Chemistry and Industrial Chemistry, University of Pisa gestri@xxx.it

Version 2 offers a cleaner and more readable layout, eliminating bullets, capitalized headings, and italics to enhance visual comfort for readers For optimal readability, fonts such as Arial, Calibri, and Verdana are recommended.

For optimal readability, use font sizes between 10 pt and 11 pt; anything smaller can make text challenging to read and may give the impression of overcrowding, rather than demonstrating concise communication.

Show your CV in different formats to as many people as possible, then see if you can reach some consensus as to which is easiest to read.

Consider using the same font as is used by the company or institute where you are sending your CV - it gives the impression that you already work there!

2.13 What about spacing between lines, paragraphs and sections? And bullets? Fonts? (cont.)

What is the Europass? Why and how should I modify it?

In Europe, one of the most commonly used templates is the Europass Curriculum Vitae, which you can create online at the Europass site: https://europass.cedefop. europa.eu/

The Europass is typically the format required for students to gain positions at uni- versities and research centers in Europe.

• the Europass template is easy for you to compile and the instructions on the site are easy to follow

The CV format commonly used in Europe is familiar to academic employers, such as secretaries or professors in university departments, enabling them to easily locate specific information about candidates.

• it is easy for a potential employer to quickly compare your qualifications and experience with those of other candidates that have used the Europass template.

The main disadvantages are that it:

• typically produces a CV of more than three pages due to its wasteful use of the left-hand column (see first example below)

• has some sections that are probably best avoided e.g 'communication skills'

• does not have a section for a profile / summary section at the top of the CV

Below are two versions of identical information Note how the second version requires considerably less space.

2028-2031 PhD Thesis Title: 'Young People in the Construction of the Virtual University', empirical research that directly contributes to debates on e-learning. Brunel University, London, UK

Funded by an Economic and Social Research Council Award

Name and type of organisation providing education and training

2028-2031 PhD (ISCED 6), funded by an Economic and Social Research Council Award at Brunel University, London, UK

Thesis Title: 'Young People in the Construction of the Virtual University', empirical research that directly contributes to debates on e-learning.

The modifications made in the second version should help you to reduce a 3-4 page

CV based on a standard template into a 2-page CV.

2.14 What is the Europass? Why and how should I modify it? (cont.)

I have decided to use a template What can I customize?

When choosing a CV template, feel free to customize it if the institution has not specified any format requirements However, ensure that the final document adheres to standard norms, including the conventional order of information presentation.

When crafting a CV, it's important to adhere to a conventional structure, as certain sections consistently appear in specific locations For instance, personal information should be placed at the beginning of the CV, as recruiters typically anticipate finding it there.

The layout of your CV reveals significant insights to recruiters about your organizational skills and communication abilities, so it's important to be cautious when deviating from standard formats.

Customizing can be made in many areas. change the section titles

Instead, for example, using the term 'Personal information' you could write 'Personal Details' (note the use of initial capital letters for both words. change the order of the sections

Many candidates choose to prioritize the 'Desired Employment / Occupational Field' section over 'Personal Information' in their templates, reversing the typical order to highlight the specific job they are targeting This strategic rearrangement can enhance the visibility of their career objectives.

In the Work Experience section of certain templates, consider placing the employer's name and address at the top, especially if you have graduated from a prestigious university or completed an internship with a renowned international company.

The Europass utilizes Arial Narrow, a clear and space-efficient font, though some may find it too small for comfortable reading Suitable alternatives include Arial, Helvetica, Verdana, and Calibri, all of which are easy to read and widely accepted It's advisable to avoid unconventional fonts, as they may attract attention for the wrong reasons, and steer clear of Comic Sans or similar fonts, which are typically linked to children's materials Additionally, consider changing the color for better visibility.

Some templates are just in black and white You could use grey or blue for headers

For an effective CV, it is essential to use a single font and limit your color palette to two shades Emphasize important information with bold text, but reserve italics for titles of books, papers, or theses only The goal is to maintain clarity; excessive use of different fonts, colors, and formatting can make your CV challenging to read Additionally, consider adding a new section to highlight your key skills or achievements, enhancing the overall presentation and impact of your CV.

You can add sections that don't appear in the standard template (e.g personal inter- ests, references).

2.15 I have decided to use a template What can I customize? (cont.)

Templates and Recruiters: Do's and Don'ts

Investing time in crafting your CV is essential, as it is one of the most significant documents you'll ever create Additionally, conducting thorough research on your target organization is crucial to understand their expectations and tailor your application accordingly.

To create an effective CV, tailor it specifically to the organization you are applying to, ensuring all information is relevant and beneficial for the job Avoid personal opinions on CV structure; instead, adhere to familiar formats that appeal to the reader Write from the employer's perspective to better align with their expectations Utilize a clear and engaging layout, as a CV must capture attention within 2-3 seconds to encourage full reading Lastly, maintain conciseness by limiting your CV to a maximum of two pages, excluding publications.

A CV should not be treated as a personal narrative; instead, it should be a concise, professional document When using templates, opt for the English version of Europass to avoid leaving untranslated elements, such as headings and footers, in your native language Tailor your chosen template to ensure it fits within two pages while maintaining clarity and readability Additionally, refrain from altering any templates provided by the organization you are applying to.

• use a readable font (e.g Arial, Calibri)

• clear spacing between sections - lots of white space

• limit the use of bold and capitals and in any case always use them for the same function

• only use color if you are convinced it will increase your chances of getting a job

• ensure that you haven't left any text in your own language

A Wallwork, English for Academic CVs, Resumes, and Online Profiles,

English for Academic Research, https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-11090-1_3

Surnames in Thailand only came into existence in 1913, when every family was asked to choose their own last name.

In Iceland, surnames for boys and girls are derived from their father's first name combined with "son" or "dóttir," resulting in unique family names For example, footballer Aron Gunnarsson means "Gunnar's son," while singer Björk Guðmundsdóttir translates to "Guðmund's daughter." This naming convention leads to family members having distinct surnames.

Research shows that males perceive women with attractive names, such as Kathy, Jennifer, and Christine, as more physically appealing compared to those with less attractive names like Ethel, Harriet, and Gertrude This suggests that a name's attractiveness can influence perceptions of physical beauty.

In certain regions, such as Ethiopia, individuals may not possess a traditional family name For instance, the name Yohannes Gedamu Gebre follows the format of given name, father's given name, and grandfather's given name To ensure clarity for potential employers unfamiliar with this naming convention, it is advisable to use the third name as the surname when submitting a CV.

Many Chinese individuals adopt English nicknames to ease communication with non-Chinese speakers However, it is essential to use your official Chinese name, written in Latin characters, on your CV Using an English nickname could mislead recruiters into believing that it is your actual name, potentially leading them to assume that you have Anglo heritage.

What's the buzz?

When considering what personal information should be legally required on a CV, key elements include your full name, date of birth, gender, race, marital status, email address, and mobile phone number Understanding the legal implications surrounding these details is crucial for both job seekers and employers For further insights into the legislation governing CVs, refer to the key at the end of this chapter.

When creating a professional profile, consider including relevant personal details such as whether you have children, your postal address, and links to your personal website, LinkedIn, ResearchGate, or Academia profiles It's also important to provide your home phone number and clarify your gender if your name is ambiguous and no photo is provided, as names like Michel, Andrea, and Emanuele can vary in gender depending on cultural context.

Skype (or similar) number your fax number your personal website

Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, etc accounts whether you have completed your military service the fact that you have a driving license

C) Discuss the pros and cons of NOT including a photograph of yourself If you opt for a photo, how do you choose the photo?

This chapter provides guidance on the proper placement of your name, the inclusion of a suitable photo, and the correct format for writing your date of birth It emphasizes the significance of maintaining a professional email address and offers tips on effectively presenting yourself on LinkedIn.

How should I write my name?

In Anglo countries such as the USA and the UK, people write their names as follows:

1 given name (i.e the name your parents gave you), also known as 'first name'

2 family name (i.e the last name of your father / mother), also known as 'sur- name' or 'last name'

For example, James Bond and not Bond James.

If in your country you do not follow the same standard, then it is your decision whether you conform to the Anglo system on your English CV.

If you are from Vietnam, it's important to format your name correctly on your CV For example, if your name is Bui Thanh Liem, list it as Bui Thanh Liem at the top of your CV, following the traditional Vietnamese order This is how most people will search for you online During the interview, you can clarify that your given name is Liem.

Where should I write my name?

Your CV should prominently feature your name at the top, regardless of the template you choose This ensures that recruiters can quickly locate your application.

• write your name as outlined in 3.2

• use a bigger font size than the rest of the CV

• center your name or at least put it in a prominent position

Below are two examples The second examples reduces the unnecessary space occupied by the first example.

Surname(s) / First name(s) Caturgli Elisa

Address(es) Via Carducci 9, 56126 Pisa (Italy) Telephone(s) 0039 050 314 5750

E-mail elisa.caturgli@gmail.com Nationality Italian

Date of birth 27/01/1997 Gender female

EXAMPLE 2 (5 LINES) elisa.caturgli@gmail.com

• does not contain the term curriculum vitae or resume (there can be no doubt to the reader what this document is) Instead it contains the candidate's name

• does not contain any heading It is obvious that these are personal / contact details, so there is no need for a heading saying 'Personal Information'

• puts the given name before the family name (this is the most common order in the Anglo world)

• the personal details are minimal and occupy little space

• the qualification / role of the candidate (biotechnologist) is immediately clear

An alternative, if you decide not to put your photo:

27/01/1986, Italian, elisa.caturgli@gmail.com, 0039 050 314 5750

3.3 Where should I write my name? (cont.)

Should I include a photograph?

Choosing not to include a photo in your application can be a powerful statement of solidarity with individuals facing discrimination based on race, color, or name In academia and research, appearance should not influence opportunities; what truly matters are your skills, intellect, and talent Emphasizing merit over looks fosters a more equitable environment in educational and professional settings.

If a recruiter requests a photograph for your CV, it's important to comply with their requirements, even if you have reservations about including one Prioritizing the hirer's expectations over personal preferences can enhance your application, so be sure to include a photo if it's requested.

If the employer requests that you refrain from including a photograph in your application, it is essential to comply with this request This may be due to Equal Opportunities legislation that prevents discrimination based on gender or other factors in the hiring process.

Otherwise there are no clear guidelines to follow.

Some HR people find the photo distracting, particularly when they are totally indif- ferent about whether to employ a woman or a man.

Small companies and research groups may be interested in your appearance and age, as you could become a future colleague or supervisor for the person reviewing your CV or interviewing you If you choose not to include a photograph in your application, they might search for one on social media platforms like Facebook or other professional networks.

If you believe your potential employer might be interested in seeing your appearance, consider adding a professional photograph to your profile Additionally, ensure that your Facebook page is free of any compromising content that could negatively impact their perception of you.

I have decided to include my photo What kind of photo

Your photo is your image It could potentially tell the recruiter a lot about you:

• your personality - are you smiling? is it a sincere smile?

• your attitude to your appearance - the clothes you are wearing

• your level of professionalism - how much trouble you have taken to choose an appropriate photo, e.g not a photo that was clearly never intended to be put on a CV

In order not to distract the recruiter, your photo should be as 'neutral' as possible This means:

• a professional passport type photo that has been taken recently

A black and white photo tends to look more professional and also photocopies / prints better than a color photo.

When selecting a photo for your page, ensure it is aligned to the left or right rather than centered, as it should complement the content without being the focal point.

3.6 What are the qualities of a good photograph?

When reviewing the photos of your LinkedIn connections to select the most suitable ones for your CV, you will likely observe common traits among the chosen images.

• the background is white and empty

• the candidate is in the exact center of the photo, there is not too much space above the head or below the shoulders

• he / she looks professional (smart clothes, neat hair style)

• he / she has a friendly expression (probably smiling)

• the photo would look good even if photocopied in black and white

choose?

What are the qualities of a good photograph?

When reviewing the photos of your LinkedIn connections for CV suitability, you'll likely find that the selected images share common characteristics that enhance professionalism and appeal.

• the background is white and empty

• the candidate is in the exact center of the photo, there is not too much space above the head or below the shoulders

• he / she looks professional (smart clothes, neat hair style)

• he / she has a friendly expression (probably smiling)

• the photo would look good even if photocopied in black and white

How should I write my date of birth?

The simplest way to write a date in a CV is the day as a number, the month as a word, and the year.

Visually, this is the least confusing layout for dates.

Another standard way, often used in the USA, is:

The first system is more straightforward as it presents the two numbers distinctly, eliminating the need for a comma This approach can also be applied when formatting dates in letters, such as in your cover letter.

How 'professional' does my email address need to look?

Your email address is a key indicator of your professionalism To maintain a professional image, steer clear of addresses like lordofdarkness@yahoo.com, which reference personal interests such as favorite bands or movies, and andrew1999@hotmail.com, which combines your name with numbers or birth dates Additionally, avoid emails like verwhite@gmail.com that merely merge your first and last names.

Instead, clearly differentiate your first name from your last name Here is my address: adrian.wallwork@gmail.com

It looks professional and no one is going to get a negative impression from it Also it will be easy for someone to find your address within their email system.

Finding a Gmail address using your first and last name is nearly impossible today unless you have a unique name A practical solution is to incorporate a descriptive word, such as 'author,' into your email address, for example, adrian.wallwork.author@gmail.com.

How should I present myself on LinkedIn?

When creating your LinkedIn profile, avoid using titles such as Dr or Professor, and refrain from including qualifications like MSc or PhD; simply list your first and last name To enhance your profile, refer to section 3.6 for guidance on selecting an appropriate photo Additionally, provide a contact email address for inquiries, as some users may reach out via LinkedIn while others might prefer email; this address can be a dedicated one for LinkedIn communications rather than your regular email.

On LinkedIn, what should I put under 'Advice for contacting'?

You can write anything you want here Typically you can tell people:

• what you would like to be contacted about (e.g jobs, projects)

• how you want people to contact you (e.g your email address)

My section is as follows: adrian.wallwork@gmail.com

I am interested in writing textbooks in the fields of scientific and business English.

My company is also specialized in revising, editing and proofreading scien- tific manuscripts written by non-native English researchers.

I also offer courses in how to write and present scientific work.

So I have given my email address and advertised my three skills / services: book writing, editing and English courses.

Personal information: Do's and Don'ts

Invest time in crafting your CV, as it is a crucial document in your career journey Use a single mobile phone number for consistent contact and to simplify the recruiter's decision-making Include one email address, ideally your personal or university email, to enhance communication In Western contexts, format your name as given name followed by family name If your name features accents or diacritics and is unfamiliar in Europe or the US, consider omitting them for clarity, such as writing Trần Ánh Nguyệt as Tran Anh Nguyet When specifying dates, adhere strictly to the two formats outlined in section 3.7, avoiding any other variations.

October 11th, 2020 (you might write 11st or 11rd by mistake)

When selecting a photo for your CV, choose one that accurately represents your current appearance instead of an idealized version, and avoid using selfies While including a photo is not mandatory, a simple black and white headshot can enhance your CV and satisfy potential employers' curiosity Ensure the photo is centered on a white background, presents you in professional attire, and features a natural smile to convey friendliness.

A Wallwork, English for Academic CVs, Resumes, and Online Profiles,

English for Academic Research, https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-11090-1_4

According to a survey conducted by ORCID (the Open Researcher and Contributors ID repository) only 50% of researchers have an online profile.

Experts recommend that a personal profile should be between 50 and 200 words.

Launched in 2003, LinkedIn has become the leading platform for professional networking, boasting over 500 million users across more than 200 countries and ranking among the top 40 most popular websites worldwide.

Academia.edu is a social networking website for academics who wish to share papers and monitor how many people are reading them It has over 20 million uploaded texts.

A 2016 Times Higher Education article revealed that ResearchGate is the leading academic social networking site, with 61% of surveyed individuals who had published at least one paper maintaining a profile on the platform This survey, which included 20,670 participants, showed that ResearchGate's popularity was double that of its competitors.

Mendeley is a desktop and web program produced by Elsevier for managing and sharing research papers.

Research indicates that recruiters spend an average of just 8.8 seconds reviewing a CV Including a personal profile allows candidates to capture the attention of recruiters quickly, facilitating faster decisions on whether to delve deeper into the CV.

What's the buzz?

(A) When you write a personal profile, your aim is to tell your potential future employee about your accomplishments.

2 Can you think of some types of typical accomplishment?

3 What is the difference between an accomplishment and a duty?

(B) For each of the seven activities below, find at least two matching verbs from the box.

Now select 5-10 of the verbs that you think you could usefully insert in a profile of yourself to describe your duties, but above all your accomplishments.

Reflect on your last four to five years and identify three significant accomplishments from each academic year, both within your studies and in extracurricular activities Consider which of these achievements are most noteworthy and would enhance your personal profile.

(D) Can you spot the ambiguity in these sentences taken from an applicant's Objective (see 4.2)? Rewrite the sentences so that they would be immediately clear to an HR person.

(1) A position as a technical surveyor of seismic threats in a private company.

This position provides an opportunity to showcase expertise and advance in drafting software specifications Key responsibilities include analyzing, assembling, and calculating data, as well as contributing to the design and development processes The role involves coordinating and implementing solutions, monitoring progress, and evaluating outcomes Additionally, tasks such as diagnosing issues, improving systems, and training team members are essential for success The position also requires the ability to formulate and propose innovative ideas, ensuring that specifications are thoroughly reviewed and revised to meet project requirements.

(3) A private industry challenging training position focusing on alternative career work style development

In this chapter, you will explore the advantages and disadvantages of including an Objective statement in your CV, which succinctly outlines the type of job you seek It provides guidance on crafting and structuring a personal profile or career summary, focusing on the appropriate style and tenses You'll learn how to enhance the dynamism of your statements, incorporate relevant keywords, and tailor your profile to align with job specifications Additionally, the chapter offers valuable tips for optimizing your profile on LinkedIn, Academia, and Research Gate.

What is an Objective?

A typical resume begins with a brief summary, often referred to as an Objective, which outlines the type of job the candidate seeks This section is particularly useful when applying speculatively, rather than in response to a specific job advertisement, as it aims to attract the attention of recruiters or HR professionals who may have suitable positions available.

In a CV the Objective is located immediately under your personal details.

Note how the Objective does not require a section heading, but the word Objective should simply be inserted before the statement itself.

To enhance search engine visibility, the Objective section of a resume must incorporate relevant keywords For instance, a candidate's Objective that lacks specific terms fails to attract attention from search engines By including targeted keywords, candidates can significantly improve their chances of being discovered by potential employers.

General management position utilizing extensive expertise in a major organization.

It would be better to write:

Junior management position in a Fortune 500 company utilizing 3 years' exper- tise in financial IT.

An Objective is NOT essential - see 4.4.

Maria Alvarez maria.alvarez@virgilio.it, +68 340 7888 3455Objective: Position in translational medicine lab as a technician.

What should I write in my Objective?

A researcher in animal psychology seeking a permanent position in a university veterinary hospital.

A PhD student in Business Studies looking for a six-month internship in a com- mercial bank.

A position in a private industry as a technical surveyor of seismic threats.

A position requiring expertise as a risk analyst in an company exporting to the Far East

Ensure that you do not talk about the benefits for you of working for them Below is an example of what not to write.

NO! I am interested in a position where I can further my knowledge of x and gain experience in y.

The candidate should emphasize how their specific expertise and knowledge can benefit the lab or company, rather than focusing solely on personal career advancement Highlighting the value they bring to the organization will create a more compelling case for their candidacy.

A position that enables me to exploit my background in x and offer my experi- ence of z.

In both instances, the candidate's ultimate goal is to gain experience; however, the expression of this aim varies significantly The first approach centers on the candidate's personal aspirations, while the second emphasizes the needs and interests of the employer.

Below are some more good examples:

A career in engineering physics with a special focus on materials science and engineering.

Employment in the foodservice industry, particularly the healthcare sector.

A position in teaching, specializing in helping children with learning disorders.

A profession in veterinary medicine with emphasis on agriculture and animal production.

Is writing an Objective always a good idea?

There are two main disadvantages of having an Objective:

1 essentially you are telling the employer what you want, rather than how you might meet their needs

2 you are limiting yourself to what you think you want, but maybe the same company has similar jobs on offer but will not consider you as the similar job doesn't match what you have written on your objective

Instead of starting your CV or resume with an objective, consider beginning with a career summary or profile This approach allows you to emphasize how you can bring value to the potential employer's organization, whether it's a lab, institute, or company.

What is a personal profile / career summary?

in my CV / resume should it be located?

A personal profile or career summary concisely outlines your key career achievements and is typically utilized when applying for a specific job posting This summary provides recruiters with a quick overview of your qualifications and skills, allowing them to grasp your professional identity without having to review your entire CV.

The secret is to highlight your unique skills and achievements, i.e factors that will differentiate you from other candidates.

Position your objective directly beneath your personal information without a heading To enhance visibility, consider using a slightly larger font, a light grey background, or enclosing it in a box.

How should I structure my personal profile

Your profile should be structured so that it answers the following questions:

1) Who am I? + What kind of job am I looking for?

The aim is to give the recruiter a one-sentence summary explaining your back- ground and the kind of position you want.

A recent graduate with an honors degree and Master's in Translational Medicine looking for a position in the research lab of a pharmaceutical company

2) What can I offer the research team or company?

To effectively sell yourself to an institute or company, it's crucial to position yourself as the ideal candidate for the job If responding to a specific job advertisement, ensure you highlight your relevant skills and substantiate them with concrete evidence.

During my degree, I developed my communication skills by presenting my research at two national conferences, teaching an undergraduate class, and vol- unteering at a local hospital.

Note the lack of adjectives that add no tangible value to what you are saying, e.g extremely, extensive, excellent, driven, motivated, strategic.

What is the best format - one single paragraph

or a series of bullet points?

Below are four examples from academia From a purely visual point of view, which format do you think is:

• would be easier to highlight that your qualifications match the requirements of the institute or industry where you are applying for a job?

With five years of experience in molecular biology and genetic engineering of microalgae, particularly in fermentative metabolism and hydrogen biofuels using Chlamydomonas reinhardtii, I bring seven years of expertise in plant adaptations to low oxygen levels I possess advanced skills in rice in vitro culture and transformation, gene cloning, over-expression and silencing techniques, as well as gene expression analyses and proteomics I am adept at independently developing protocols and solving related challenges My strong communication, social, and presentation skills are complemented by a robust international background, and I am currently completing my final year of an Alexander von Humboldt postdoctoral fellowship.

Pros: takes up less space than the other formats.

Cons: not as easy to read as the two formats, difficult to pick out key information. Conclusion: only use if short of space.

Experience in syntheses of organic molecules and polymers especially fluorine- containing

(meth)acrylate monomers, macromolecular initiators and macromolecules with controlled architecture.

Good knowledge of controlled/”living” radical polymerization methods e.g ATRP, RAFT.

Future interests: Supramolecular polymers, well-architectured macromolecules by controlled polymerization, hybrid organic-inorganic nanocomposites … format 2 (headings related to experience, expertise and interests)

One of the advantages of submitting a CV is that it clearly highlights key information, making it easy for employers to assess qualifications Additionally, it provides candidates with the opportunity to express their future career aspirations, which is particularly beneficial when applying to companies or institutions without a specific job advertisement, as it opens the door for potential opportunities in their field.

Conclusion: perfect for academic positions.

Using bullet points in a resume makes key information easily accessible and enables candidates to clearly demonstrate how their qualifications align with the job requirements Organizing the bullets in the same order as the listed requirements in the job advertisement can enhance clarity and improve the overall presentation.

Cons: takes up more space than the other formats.

Conclusion: fine if you have sufficient space.

With over 8 years of experience managing an Intellectual Property department in a prominent research center housing over 700 scientists, I have successfully developed a robust portfolio of more than 200 patent applications across 20 countries.

• First-hand experience of licensing negotiations and successful technology commercialization.

• Educational background in Engineering, Management and Intellectual Property Rights.

• Consultation to several universities re establishing technology transfer offices.

• More than 70 publications, including 3 books as author or co-author, 9 peer-reviewed pub- lications, 25 journal and newspaper articles; plus 30 conference papers.

• Teaching at more than 120 workshops on Innovation and IP Management at universities, research centers, public and private companies.

• Creation of a website on IP and Innovation Management.

A creative and conscientious teacher of English as a foreign language A recent Trinity Cert (TESOL) graduate with extensive previous experience in business.

A dynamic, confident verbal and written communicator - in business and in the class room

Innovative and resourceful - an instinctive problem-solver with a flexible approach

Student/stakeholder-focused - enthusiastic and adaptable, committed to achieving results

Organised and reliable - with strong analytical and planning skills format 3 (bullet points) format 4 (headings related to soft skills)

4.7 What is the best format - one single paragraph or a series of bullet points? (cont.)

Pros: easy to see key information Allows candidate to highlight her soft skills (which are incredibly important in a teaching/learning environment).

Generic skills possessed by teachers are often too common to be effectively recognized by hiring software that scans CVs, making it difficult for candidates to stand out.

Conclusion: suitable for recent graduates with little or no work experience

4.7 What is the best format - one single paragraph or a series of bullet points? (cont.)

• Designed over 50 websites for 30 clients in local government

• Optimized internal search engines of existing websites for 10 clients

• Implemented basic monthly maintenance of nearly 100 websites

• Able to use all current web 4.0 technologies

What tenses should I use in my personal profile?

In profiles 4.7, it's often unnecessary to use verbs, which eliminates concerns about tense usage However, there are instances where candidates effectively start each bullet point with a verb, appropriately employing the past simple tense to describe past experiences in the first three bullets, while using the present simple tense to highlight skills in the final bullet.

How can I make my statements sound more dynamic?

To stand out among thousands of applicants, it's essential to provide detailed information that highlights your unique qualifications Rather than using generic phrases, rephrase your statements to convey specific skills and experiences that set you apart from the competition.

Responsible for teaching IT skills to undergraduates.

= Created a new curriculum for teaching undergraduates IT skills need to store their research, improve networking, and develop open source software.

Supervised research team in an EU project.

= Led a 4-person research team in a 3-month EU project on food waste.

How can I match my profile to the job specifications?

Let's imagine the specifications for the job (hereafter job spec) you are applying for are:

Must be 100% familiar with web 4.0.

At least three years’ direct experience.

Excellent knowledge of search engine development.

Should be prepared to carry out also routine work e.g website maintenance

Fluent English (both spoken and written)

• Able to use all current web 4.0 technologies

• Four years experience in website design: over 50 websites for 30 clients in local government

• Optimized internal search engines of existing websites for 10 clients

• Implemented basic monthly maintenance of nearly 100 websites

• Fluent English (Cambridge Proficiency, Grade A)

The profile could be written so that it exactly matches the job spec:

Aligning the order of points in a candidate's profile with the job specification enhances visibility for both recruitment software and human readers Key words from the job spec are easily identified, especially when highlighted in bold, allowing recruiters to efficiently match qualifications Additionally, including relevant skills, such as English proficiency, as specified in the job description, significantly boosts the likelihood of the CV being shortlisted.

• adapt your existing executive summary to match precisely the requirements of the job spec

• put the items in your executive summary in the same order as they appear in the job spec

• add any items that are in the job spec but which were not in your original executive summary

• ensure that you insert all the key words from the job spec and highlight them in bold

4.10 How can I match my profile to the job specifications? (cont.)

How useful will my profile be for recruiters?

A profile / summary forces you to think about what you kind of position you really want and what skills you possess to obtain such a position.

It is also useful for

1 a hiring manager to immediately see who you are, what you want, and how you might fit in with their hiring plans

2 a recruiting agency to paste into an email to a company who the agency thinks might be interested in you

Below is an email from Simon, a recruiter, who thinks that Carmen, who is a hiring manager in a company, might be interested in a candidate called Juri Nizik.

I think you might be interested in Juri Nizik, a very strong candidate:

With nine years of development experience, I specialize in high-performance multi-threaded server development using core Java/J2SE I possess extensive knowledge of FIX and messaging-based connectivity applications Currently, I am in the final year of my PhD in Virtual Robotics at the University of Krakow and have three years of professional experience at Lorien Engineering Polska.

All Simon has done is to paste Juri's executive summary (the part in italics) into the email This saves Simon a lot of time.

So by including a profile or summary in your CV, you may increase your chances of a recruiting agency sending your curriculum to a firm.

What key words should I insert in my profiles

In theory, the higher the word count, the more instances of a key word a search engine will find.

Key words tend to be of two types: a) technical, b) skills.

Type A key words are typically nouns or adjectives or combinations of the two (genetics, genetic engineering; Java, Java script; cryptography, cryptographic programming).

Type B keywords refer to specific skills that companies seek, often expressed in the -ing form of verbs such as presenting, managing, and problem-solving Additionally, these keywords can include combinations of adjectives and nouns, like software analysis and performance reviews.

Let's imagine you are trying to encourage recruiters and hirers to contact you for a job.

1 On company or institute websites, find 5-10 descriptions of the type of jobs you would be interested in.

2 Underline the key words in each job description Remember to include both types A and B.

3 Compile a list of the most frequently used 10 keys words.

4 Think of one or two synonyms for each of these words and add these to the list

5 Choose the top 3-5 key words in your list and insert them into your heading.

6 Use as many key words in as many other places in your profile as possible (with the exception of the Personal Interests and Causes sections) Try to insert them in a natural way, so that a human reader will not feel they are being bombarded by key words - remember that you are writing both for search engines and humans.

To enhance your visibility to potential employers, it's essential to incorporate various synonyms and forms of your key terms in your profile For instance, when describing your role in revising manuscripts for scientific journals, you should include words like revising, editing, proofreading, and correcting Additionally, use different variations such as revise, revision, and revising Don't forget to specify the types of documents you work with, including papers, manuscripts, research, and theses, to ensure a comprehensive and keyword-rich profile.

As an English teacher, I frequently encounter various acronyms such as EFL, ESL, ESOL, CPE, FCE, and BESIG Therefore, it is essential to incorporate both the acronym BESIG and its full form, which is Business English Special Interest Group, to enhance understanding and clarity.

Using synonyms and different forms of the same words also makes your profile sound more natural.

In certain instances, specific keywords are essential, and they may lack synonyms However, utilizing various grammatical forms—such as infinitives, gerunds, nouns, adjectives, and adverbs—can introduce diversity while maintaining the core meaning.

4.12 What key words should I insert in my profiles and how can I insert them? (cont.)

How do I write a profile on LinkedIn,

Your LinkedIn profile should reflect the essence of your CV but avoid simply copying and pasting from it; instead, embrace a more dynamic and engaging style, as LinkedIn allows for greater length and detail Focus on showcasing your achievements and skills in a way that captivates your audience throughout the profile.

• catch the attention of search engines by using appropriate key words

• showcase your achievements and make yourself sound unique, i.e different from other people searching for the same kind of job

As on a CV, don't fill your profile with:

• adjectives that could be interpreted as being an exaggeration (e.g above aver- age, amazing, cutting edge, highly)

• expressions that are typically found in millions of profiles (e.g proven track record, results oriented, team player, hard worker, good communication skills).

To enhance your profile's effectiveness, focus on factual and accurate content, as search engines do not prioritize adjectives or embellishments Such expressions can distract recruiters from the key elements of your qualifications, ultimately diminishing the impact of your profile.

Unlike a CV or bio where some people only use the third person, nearly everyone uses the first person on LinkedIn and on academic networking site.

If you want to write a profile for LinkedIn or any other service:

1 Search for someone you know who has the type of position you are looking for, e.g if you are a PhD student now, then look for someone who did the same PhD as you in the same institute but from a previous year.

2 Look at their profile - note the length, structure, use of key words, number of paragraphs etc.

3 Compare this profile with two or three other people in the same field who are preferably native speakers - note down any differences.

4 Compile a list of the best features from your analysis at points 2 and 3.

5 Use those features to produce your own profile Don't post it immediately Show it to your professor and colleagues Alter it on the basis of their feed- back and do a spelling check.

6 Send the profile to a native English speaker to correct Given that this profile is the first thing that a potential employer may look at, it needs to be perfect.

7 When you are happy with the profile and you have had it checked by a native speaker and done a final spelling check yourself, then post it.

Where should I place my profile online?

To enhance your academic visibility, explore various platforms that host academic profiles, including Academia.edu, ResearchGate, Mendeley, and Google Scholar Citations Detailed guides can be found at UBC Library and other resources, providing insights on how to create and manage your online presence effectively These services allow you to showcase your research, track citations, and connect with other scholars, ultimately strengthening your academic career For comprehensive support, consider attending workshops or utilizing the resources available through these platforms.

To enhance your research profile, consider downloading samples from researchers in your field, especially those who have taken similar courses in previous years Use these examples as a model for crafting your own profile, applicable to both academic platforms like Academia.edu and professional networks such as LinkedIn.

Objectives and Profiles: Do's and Don'ts

I am seeking a dynamic role that allows me to leverage my skills and experience in a collaborative environment, contributing to team success while driving innovative solutions that align with organizational goals.

Craft a concise profile that captures the recruiter’s attention by highlighting your skills and experience Use bullet points to align your qualifications with the job specifications, ensuring clarity and organization If not applying for a specific position, summarize your qualifications in a single paragraph Maintain consistency in grammatical person by sticking to either the first person (I) or third person (he/she).

To enhance your application, incorporate relevant keywords from the job specification and tailor your content to the specific organization Ensure the text flows well by reading it aloud, and seek feedback from a native speaker to refine your writing.

A Wallwork, English for Academic CVs, Resumes, and Online Profiles,

English for Academic Research, https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-11090-1_5

Personal Statements, Bios, and Publications

Extracts from personal statements (all genuine) written by university applicants in the UK.

1 What is physics? I don’t know; that’s why I want to take it at university.

2 I've been intersted in literature since my mother read Shakespear to me in the womb.

3 Thanks for considering my application and I hope I will here from you soon.

4 I am hoping to pass my driving test so I can drive to -insert uni name here- everyday!

5 Economics is a diverse subject, as economics can be related to anything, espe- cially during economic crisis, which forces to think economically, whereas maths has been long one of my favourite subjects, as mathematics can be applied everywhere, moreover, mathematics is useful in everyday life.

6 I have a black belt in karate and enjoy marital arts.

7 I really want to be a doctor Please give me a place My friends think I'll be good.

8 On the 20th of April a great figure in history was born It was me, who will go on to make great changes in history as we know it.

9 I am a dynamic figure, often seen scaling walls and crushing ice I have been known to remodel train stations on my lunch breaks, making them more efficient in the areas of heat retention I write award-winning operas, I man- age time efficiently.

10 I am very good with people because I myself am a person.

11 If I could liken myself to anyone in history it would be Martin Luther King.

12 When I was younger I wanted to be a unicorn.

What's the buzz?

A) Read the quotes on the previous page Find: a) three that contain spelling mistakes b) one that is more ridiculous than all the others c) two that state the obvious d) one that reveals that the candidate was probably using a template e) two that show that the candidate has a giant ego

B) Below are two drafts of the same personal statement The student, from France (and not a native English speaker) had been asked by a university in the UK to write "a statement regarding why you wish to study the Film Studies side of the programme and the areas that most interest you in this subject area." What are the main differences between the first and final drafts. first draft

I am passionate about studying cinema due to my fascination with how angles and framing convey precise meanings, making every choice significant in expressing ideas within mere seconds I believe your course structure will enhance my critical thinking and skills in film studies and filmmaking My goal is to become a director focused on social issues, and I am convinced that studying in a multicultural environment will help me develop my unique filmmaking style and explore my artistic boundaries I am eager to deepen my understanding of cinema's history, recognizing how it reflects societal changes I firmly believe that a logical approach, effective communication, and solid techniques are essential for translating creative inspiration into fully realized concepts I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to the world of cinema through your program, which promises to equip me with the technical skills to expand my artistic potential.

I am passionate about studying cinema due to its ability to convey precise meanings through every angle and frame, highlighting the significance of each creative choice My focus lies in how cinema represents concepts and opinions, as this medium can illuminate the evolution of modern societies and challenge contemporary values and perspectives.

I am particularly drawn to your film program for its unique blend of analysis and practical application, which aligns with my desire to think critically and express my insights on various issues As an organizer of my school film club, I conducted interviews with local directors and collaborated with peers to create short films, receiving guidance from industry professionals in our region of France Additionally, I had the invaluable experience of directing a scene I had written during a course with a French director and actor, working closely with actors and a cameraman.

I am eager to deepen my understanding of cinema history, as it vividly reflects societal changes, needs, and opinions Growing up, I observed how French cinema showcased cultural and social development, significantly shaping my artistic perspective I believe that studying at your university will allow me to compare French cinema with international cinematography and explore their diverse structures.

I hope my experiences in France resonate with my fellow students, as studying in a multicultural environment will help me discover my unique filmmaking style while also challenging my boundaries and values.

This chapter provides an overview of personal statements, motivational letters, and statements of interest, offering essential tips for crafting and structuring an academic biography in both concise and detailed formats, as well as a version suitable for a homepage.

What is a Personal Statement? What are the elements of a good

A personal statement is an optional section, typically written by candidates who have finished their education with a normal degree without doing an MSc, a PhD or a post-doc qualification.

Personal statements (generally of a maximum of 4000 characters) are also used by school leavers when applying to university.

The aim of a personal statement is to show that you:

• have the right qualifications for the place / position you are seeking

• have the right skills - both technical and personal (i.e soft skills)

• can describe yourself and your achievements concisely

Below is a personal statement written by a young British graduate who wishes to secure a job in teaching English as a foreign language (TEFL) in a language school

It highlights some of the good and bad points of a typical personal statement.

Having a BSc degree has given me the skills required to use language to a high stan- dard and write and communicate with many different people Among the modules I studied were:

• Information Technology and Quantitative Biology

With extensive experience in customer service roles, both in retail and on campsites, I have developed strong teamwork and customer service skills Completing a TEFL course enhanced my abilities in planning, listening, and group communication, leading to further teaching qualifications and successful employment My teaching journey has been well-received by students, fellow educators, and course organizers Recently, I have focused on TEFL teaching in Bristol and Prague, and I am eager to expand my experiences by teaching abroad, particularly in your city, where I have fond memories from a previous visit.

I am committed to finding for myself a career, but I need an opportunity I hope than you will give me an opportunity to start a career with you and within the industry.

The article highlights her clear layout, utilizing bullet points to effectively outline the main topics she studied at university She emphasizes her strong writing and communication skills as relevant to TEFL However, several issues arise from this presentation.

The statement, while lengthy, reveals a tendency towards repetition and redundancy despite the claim of strong writing and communication skills For instance, mentioning the completion of a TEFL course followed by the intention to teach English is unnecessary, as the TE in TEFL already implies teaching.

TEFL, which stands for 'Teaching English as a Foreign Language', emphasizes the importance of including key terms like TEFL, teaching, and English in your CV This repetition enhances the likelihood of your resume being recognized during automated screening processes by recruiting agencies.

The statement lacks personalization, as it generically references "your city" instead of specifying the exact location of the language school and the time of the visit This vague approach suggests that the writer may not have genuinely engaged with the location, leading readers to feel that the writer is indifferent and would be willing to work anywhere To enhance credibility and connection with the audience, it is essential to provide specific details that reflect a genuine effort in addressing the reader.

In her concluding remarks, she expresses a sense of urgency in her job search, stating, "I need an opportunity," which may come across as desperate Additionally, the phrase "I am committed to finding for myself a career" feels somewhat unusual, as securing a career is typically the goal of most graduates This wording suggests that she might be open to positions outside of her intended TEFL field, rather than focusing specifically on teaching English as a foreign language.

Below is a revised version The main differences with respect to the original version are highlighted in italics.

My BSc has provided me with the skills required to use language to a high standard and write and communicate with many different people Among the modules I stud- ied were:

• Information Technology and Quantitative Biology

5.2 What is a Personal Statement? What are the elements of a good Personal Statement? (cont.)

• is 20% shorter All the repetition and redundancy has been removed, but no content has been lost

• has more paragraphs - this makes it easier to read

• has removed ambiguity (e.g acquired teaching qualifications, rather than undertaken - undertaken sounds like the courses were started but not completed)

• mentions references to give her more credibility, i.e what she says can be sup- ported by the people she has worked for

In her personal statement, she specifies her desire to work in Moscow, demonstrating a targeted approach that sets her apart from candidates who use generic terms like "your city." This tailored focus not only highlights her genuine interest in the position but also enhances her appeal to recruiters, indicating that she has crafted a unique application rather than sending a standard statement to multiple English language schools.

• has deleted the rather strange final paragraph

The integration of these changes gives the impression that the candidate invested significant effort in crafting their statement, while also portraying them as more dynamic.

I have worked primarily in the customer services area both in shops and campsites

This has given me valuable experience of working with people in teams and offering an appropriate quality of service to customers.

During my TEFL course, I enhanced my skills in planning, listening, and speaking with groups to ensure effective communication Since completing the course, I have obtained further teaching qualifications and gained valuable experience in Bristol and Prague My attached references demonstrate that I have been positively received by students, fellow teachers, and course organizers.

I would really like to extend these experiences to working abroad, especially in Moscow, to which I have a particular attachment - my maternal grandmother was born in a village near Moscow.

I very much look forward to having an opportunity to meet you.

5.2 What is a Personal Statement? What are the elements of a good Personal Statement? (cont.)

A Personal Statement should not be confused with a Research Statement, which summarizes past research achievements while proposing future research goals It encompasses both current aims and findings as well as future objectives For guidance on writing a Research Statement, refer to the resources available at Cornell University and the Association for Psychological Science.

5.2 What is a Personal Statement? What are the elements of a good Personal Statement? (cont.)

What is a motivational letter? What is a statement of interest?

A cover letter, motivational letter, and statement of interest serve a similar purpose: they allow you to elaborate on key aspects of your CV and explain their relevance to the hiring manager.

Crafting a dynamic letter can set you apart from other candidates by highlighting your achievements and experiences Address key questions such as the targets you achieved, the success of your projects, the lessons learned, and how these experiences relate to the position you're applying for This approach not only showcases your qualifications but also demonstrates your potential value to the employer.

From an employer's point of view, these letters / statements are demonstrations of

• how much you care about getting the job

The key differences are that a motivational letter or a statement of interest tends:

• not to be in response to a specific job advertisement

• to be used in academia rather than business

• to be longer than a cover letter

There is no real difference between motivational letter and statement of interest - they mean the same thing.

When a research institute or university asks for a motivational letter or statement of interest, it’s essential to expand on the suggestions provided in this chapter, ensuring you include more detailed information Consequently, you should anticipate writing a document that exceeds one page in length.

What is a bio? When would I need one?

A bio is a biography, i.e the story of a person's life, or in the context of this book, their academic career.

A 4-5 line bio might also be called 'About' on a university webpage or social media site Bios are typically used by people in academia and research, for:

When presenting at an international conference, organizers often request a brief summary of your career and key achievements This biography will be utilized in the conference proceedings, highlighting your professional background and contributions to the field.

• Books and book chapters If you are asked to contribute to a publication, you may be requested to provide a bio.

• Your personal home page or blog, or your institute's home page.

• Social/professional networking sites, including Twitter

Bios are typically read by:

• colleagues/academics in your department or discipline

• undergraduate students in your department who may be taking a course with you

• academics in other fields who may be attending the same conference as you

If you place a bio on your home page (either your personal one or your institutes), you may consider using more than one format:

• 'About' - where you describe in a couple of sentences who you are: name, position, department, institute, research interests.

I am an academic with a diverse background in [Your Field], holding a [Your Degree] from [Your Institution] My research interests include [Research Interest 1], [Research Interest 2], and [Research Interest 3], which I have explored through various projects and publications With a commitment to advancing knowledge in my field, I have contributed to [specific contributions or achievements], and I am passionate about mentoring students and collaborating with fellow researchers to foster innovation and discovery.

The extended academic biography highlights a robust academic career, detailing degrees earned, significant research interests, and notable projects undertaken It showcases awards received for outstanding contributions to the field and lists key publications that reflect expertise and commitment to advancing knowledge This comprehensive overview underscores a dedication to academic excellence and a passion for research.

An example is given in the next subsection.

• 'CV' - in this case you simply provide a link to your full CV

By providing several versions of the same info you can let your 'audience' (col- leagues, undergraduates, conference goes etc) choose what kind of information they are interested in.

What is the structure of an extended bio?

Bios for conference proceedings and books are typically composed in a formal tone, utilizing third-person language (e.g., he/she, his/her), and are generally structured as a single cohesive paragraph.

Typical things to mention include:

4 what projects you have worked on

5 what project you are working on now

6 your plans for the future

7 the number of first author publications

8 the number of conferences attended where you gave a presentation

9 committees that you are on

Things that you might write on your CV but probably would not include in your bio are:

Below is an example The numbers in square brackets correspond to points 1-10 above.

Volmar Thorgaard, a physics graduate from the University of Copenhagen, Denmark, joined the Danish National Research Council's KNUT in 2024 He furthered his expertise by spending 18 months at the IBM Scientific Center in Cambridge, Massachusetts, starting in early 2026, focusing on computer networks Thorgaard has since led numerous national and international projects, including xxx, yyy, and zzz.

In 2028, he became an assistant professor at the University of Helsinki's Department of Information Engineering, focusing on the design and performance evaluation of PMAC protocols for wireless networks and quality of service in integrated networks He is also planning a collaborative project to connect research centers across Scandinavian countries to Finland's Mars space station Thorgaard is recognized as the first author of significant research in this field.

The researcher has published 10 papers in international journals and has actively presented at major Mars technology conferences over the past decade Additionally, he serves on the editorial committee for two leading space technology journals in Scandinavia He is also a co-author of multiple patents in collaboration with Danish Telecom and Nokia, focusing on scheduling algorithms.

• Volmar avoids beginning every sentence with he by occasionally beginning with a date, using his, and using his name (both his full name, and his family name alone)

• present simple to refer to present situations: holds a degree in physics, is co- author of several patents;

• present perfect for situations that began in the past and are still true today (Volmar still directs projects): he has since directed several national and international projects

• past simple for finished actions: In 2028 he joined the Department of Information Engineering

5.5 What is the structure of an extended bio? (cont.)

How do I write a bio for a home page?

When creating a personal home page, it is common to use first-person language (such as "I" and "my") In contrast, university or research institute home pages often employ both personal and impersonal forms, with the choice reflecting the desired level of formality.

Below is an example from a researcher's personal home page.

Note how she structures her bio into several paragraphs:

3 indication of where she lives and where she works

4 reference to a pdf version of her CV and list of publications

You also need to give all your contact details.

• uses the first person pronoun (i.e I, my) but still maintains quite a formal style

• inserts a lot of key technical words - this should increase her chances of being found by a search engine

• is very succinct, she only gives essential information - she doesn't waste the reader's time with unnecessary words or information

I am a postdoctoral fellow at the European Space Agency and a visitor in physics with Caltech.

My primary research focus is on detecting astrophysically unmodeled gravitational wave bursts from sources like core collapse supernovae, binary compact object mergers, and gamma-ray burst progenitors, as well as potential unforeseen sources I aim to leverage the global network of interferometric gravitational wave observatories, including LIGO in the US and GEO and Virgo in Europe, to enhance detection capabilities and deepen our understanding of these phenomena.

I currently live in Pisa, Italy, and work at the nearby European Gravitational Observatory.

For a list of publications, please see my curriculum vitae (pdf).

Can my academic biography include personal information

Many researchers choose to include personal information in their bios, as it offers valuable insights into their personality and work style that go beyond a mere listing of academic qualifications and achievements.

Incorporating humor into your writing can be appealing, but for non-native English speakers, it poses risks as what you find funny may not resonate with others and could even offend Therefore, it's crucial to have your biography, CV, and other important documents reviewed by a native speaker experienced in academic writing to ensure clarity and appropriateness.

Professor Dan Grossman is an esteemed academic known for his significant contributions to his field His biography highlights his extensive research, teaching experience, and dedication to advancing knowledge With a strong reputation in academia, Professor Grossman has garnered respect and recognition from peers and students alike His commitment to education and innovation makes his biography a valuable resource for understanding his professional journey.

The bio is written in the third person (Dan, he, his) and is structured as follows (the numbers refer to the paragraphs).

1 key info about his current role

6 humor (unexpected info revealing that Professor Grossman must be a fun character)

The penultimate paragraph also provide readers with information that they could use on a social occasion if they happened to meet Dan at a conference.

Dan Grossman is a Professor at the University of Washington's Paul G Allen School of Computer Science & Engineering, where he has been a faculty member since 2003 He holds the prestigious J Ray Bowen Professorship for Innovation in Engineering Education and serves as the Deputy Director of the Allen School.

Dan Grossman is a Professor at the University of Washington's Paul G Allen School of Computer Science & Engineering, where he has been a faculty member since 2003 and serves as Vice Director He earned his Ph.D from Cornell University and completed his undergraduate studies at Rice University His research focuses on programming languages, encompassing theory, design, and implementation, and he has collaborated with experts in various computer science disciplines, particularly in computer architecture.

Dan has extensive experience in academic leadership, having participated in around thirty conference and workshop program committees Notably, he was the Program Chair for PLDI 2018 and has contributed to the ACM SIGPLAN Executive Committee Additionally, he played a role in the Steering Committee for the ACM/IEEE-CS 2013 Computer Science Curriculum and is a member of the ACM Education Board Currently, he serves on the CRA Board, further highlighting his commitment to advancing computer science education and research.

Dan is the instructor for a popular MOOC on undergraduate topics in programming languages and functional programming.

Dan resides with his partner, an international public health researcher, and their two sons, born in December 2013 and September 2015, along with a lively puppy born in October 2016 Before embracing fatherhood, Dan had a passion for ice hockey, bicycling, hiking, and indulging in non-fiction literature, good food, beer, and live theatre Currently, he typically reads one book each month.

Dan has never had a cavity.

5.7 Can my academic biography include personal information and humor? (cont.)

How should I report my publications?

When applying for a job in research or academia, consider placing your publications on a separate page if your CV is already substantial Alternatively, you can include them under 'Other Skills' or 'Hobbies and Interests.' Additionally, organizing your publications into subsections can enhance clarity and presentation.

• Selected Refereed Publications - these are the ones you want the reader to focus on

• Other Refereed Publications - these extra ones help to highlight the quantity of research that you have had published

• Pending Publications - these are ones that either you have submitted (and are awaiting confirmation) or that are currently at the press

• Technical Notes - these are short articles outlining a specific development / modification, technique or procedure

You should list your publications in the same way as you would normally list the publications at the end of a paper With regard to pending publications you can write:

The term to appear in means that your paper has already been accepted for publica- tion, whereas submitted to means you are waiting for the outcome.

If you are applying for a job in industry, you don't need to have a list of publications or a separate section dedicated to publications.

However, the fact that you have published your research is still important, even to an employer in industry Publishing your work means that you have certain skills:

• writing in English about technical matters

• communicating with referees and editors, so you will have written many for- mal emails and letters

• presenting your paper / research at international conferences

A Wallwork et al “Detailed comparison of word order in Modern and Old English” To appear in Annals of Ling Rev.

A Wallwork et al “The subjunctive in Old English texts” Submitted to Int Lang Rev.

So the solution is to add a short subsection to your Education or Work Experience section in which you write something like this:

First author of five papers on civil engineering, published in international journals Presented three of these papers at international conferences Papers available at: www.blahblah/blah

5.8 How should I report my publications? (cont.)

Do's and Don'ts: Writing a Bio

Be concise, accurate and factual.

• previous, present and future projects

• third person (i.e he/she developed rather than I developed) for conferences and book chapters

• first person for home pages

A Wallwork, English for Academic CVs, Resumes, and Online Profiles,

English for Academic Research, https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-11090-1_6

Nobel Prizes: Between 1901 and 1960 a woman received a Nobel Prize on average once every 4.2 years; 1961-2000 once every 2.4 years; and since 2000 every 0.75 years.

China: When Yingying Lu, Ph.D., was made a professor at the College of Chemical

At just 27 years old, she became a professor in Biological Engineering at Zhejiang University, potentially making her the youngest professor globally In China, the representation of female educators in higher education institutions ranges from 43% to 52%.

Despite Iran's population of approximately 65 million being smaller than the UK's 78 million, the country boasts over twice the number of female university students, with 2.1 million in Iran compared to just 0.9 million in the UK.

An investigation into a prestigious medical school in Japan revealed that during the 2018 entrance exams, all applicants' first-stage test scores were reduced by 20%, with male candidates receiving an additional 20 points This practice, aimed at limiting the number of female doctors, had been ongoing for years, driven by the belief that women would shorten or end their careers after becoming mothers.

Korea: More than 75% of Korean girls go to university Yi So-yeon was the first Korean woman to go into space and is probably Korea's most famous female scientist.

Latvia: Holds the world record for the highest share of women amongst scientific staff and the highest share of women with a PhD (Latvia 60%, USA 53%, Germany 45%)

In Spain, women represent about one-third of researchers, yet they occupy less than 20% of leadership roles in the field Among Spanish women aged 55-64, only 18% possess a university degree or PhD, while this figure significantly increases to 47.5% for those aged 25 to 34.

Cambridge University, established in 1209, saw its first male graduate in the same year, while the first female graduate achieved this milestone in 1948 Additionally, the Royal Society, the world's oldest scientific institution, welcomed its first male fellow in 1600, with the first female fellow being appointed in 1946.

In the United States, female graduates significantly outnumber male graduates in fields such as health professions (85% women), public administration, education, psychology, and languages In contrast, the representation of women in math and statistics, architecture, physical sciences, computer science, and engineering is notably lower, with only 17% of graduates in these areas being female compared to 83% male.

What's the buzz?

A) Look at the factoids on the previous page, most of which appeared in my book

English for Presentations at International Conferences Decide which fact you find most surprising and discuss the situation of women in education in your country.

B) To what extent do you think the following quotation from 1881 is still true today: Let the ‘environment’ of women be similar to that of men and with his opportunities, before she be fairly judged, intellectually his inferior, please

Caroline Kennard, an American amateur scientist and advocate of women's rights.

• How long does a typical degree last?

• At what age do people generally finish university?

• Is a Master's worth the expense?

• What are the most difficult aspects of doing a PhD?

• Which is the best university in your country?

• What kind of job are you looking for - a) academia b) industry?

When considering a job, it's essential to identify specific requirements and desirable attributes Three essential requirements might include opportunities for professional development, a collaborative work environment, and a clear career progression path On the other hand, desirable attributes could encompass flexible working conditions, a focus on innovation, and a strong company culture Ultimately, the most important factor for many is the opportunity to apply what they've learned in university, as this allows for both personal growth and skill enhancement while fostering a connection with colleagues who share similar interests.

If you want to work in academia / research:

• should the research institute be (a) state-funded or (b) private

• should it be in a (a) small or (b) large town

• in (a) your country or (b) abroad

• focused on (a) what you studied at university or on (b) a different research area

When considering a career in industry, it's essential to evaluate the type of company that aligns with your goals You may prefer a startup for its innovative environment, a large, well-established company in your own country for stability, a small to medium-sized company for a close-knit culture, or a multinational for global opportunities Each option offers unique advantages that can significantly impact your professional growth and job satisfaction.

This chapter discusses the importance of structuring your education and work experience sections to present a cohesive career narrative It provides guidance on how to format the education section, what essential details to include, the appropriate tone to use—whether personal or impersonal—and the optimal placement of this section within your CV for maximum impact.

Should I make my education and work experience look

as if I have always been following a well-defined path?

Your CV serves a crucial purpose: to secure a specific job Essentially, it functions as a proposal where you present yourself as the ideal candidate To strengthen your case, the details in your Work Experience and Education sections should be tailored to highlight relevant information that supports your qualifications for the position.

• special activities or projects that could be seen as relevant for the job you are looking for

• research studies that match the job description

• experience in other labs or work placements that are relevant for the lab / institute / company where you want to work

It's important not to solely focus on what you deem relevant when crafting your CV A non-linear career path can actually showcase your diverse experiences and willingness to explore new fields You may not fully understand what your potential employer values, and seemingly 'irrelevant' experiences could highlight traits that are beneficial to them Embrace your varied background as it may resonate positively with employers.

Where should the Education and Work sections be located?

If you finished your education several years ago, the Education section should appear after your Work Experience section and should contain fewer details than in the Work Experience section.

For recent graduates or those nearing the completion of their education, it's common to have limited work experience Therefore, it is advisable to position the Education section before the Work Experience section on your resume.

The sections on education and work should include the:

• start and end dates; everything should be in reverse chronological order

• name and location of the institute / place of work

• type of degree / position at work

• brief details of coursework / your role at work

What is the typical layout?

Here is an alternative layout Note how:

• the information is in reverse chronological order - this is mandatory in a CV

• the candidate has begun directly with her university education

The candidate earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Bolivia, completing a rigorous five-year program, which highlights her advanced education compared to the typical three-year curriculum.

• she has just written her thesis titles, without describing any details - this is because in both cases her thesis title is self-explanatory

Doctor of Philosophy in Information Engineering

Research focused on greening the Internet explores advanced communication service paradigms, protocols, and algorithms aimed at optimizing energy consumption The elective coursework emphasizes enhanced Internet architecture, while the dissertation titled “A Radical Energy-Aware Application for Wireless Energy Reduction” is supervised by Professor Giuseppe Verdi.

Bachelor of Science degree (5 year course) in Electrical Engineering

The engineering coursework encompassed a range of topics, including continuous and discrete systems, signal processing, analog and digital circuit design, and computational theory As part of my studies, I completed an undergraduate thesis project titled “Wireless Enabled Context Awareness for the Future Internet.”

Which is better I developed a system or Developed a system (i.e with or without the personal pronoun)?

a system (i.e with or without the personal pronoun)?

Verbs can be used without a subject at the beginning of bullet points, such as "secured," "architected," "developed," and "controlled." However, if the verb does not start the bullet point, it is advisable to use a personal pronoun before the noun, as illustrated in the example below.

Note that the verb underlined (secured) has no subject as it is implicit because it is within the same sentence as I also standardized.

Resumes tend to avoid the use of personal pronouns (highlighted in italics below).

In this project, I created a Java stream processing application on the S5 platform to identify algorithmically generated domain names in DNS queries Additionally, I established standardized procedures for Scalable and Elastic Event Processing (SEEP) and enhanced application security by implementing Information Flow Control policies within the middleware.

In this project, I developed a Java stream processing application on the S5 platform to detect algorithmically generated domain names in DNS queries Additionally, I established standardized procedures for Scalable and Elastic Event Processing (SEEP).

How should I write the date in the Work Experience

Normally the year will suffice:

You only need to write the month in two cases.

1 if it refers to a very recent date (i.e of this year, or the end of the previous year) For example, if we are now in May 2029, you might write this range of dates to describe an internship: Jun 2028 - Mar 2029 All months are abbrevi- ated with the first three letters: May, Jun, July etc.

2 if the period of time was very short and goes from the end of one year to the beginning of the next year:

The format in which you present dates on your CV significantly influences its overall aesthetic, particularly evident in the Education section Inconsistent date formats can create an impression of disorganization, potentially reflecting poorly on your professional habits.

The example above is bad because:

• The dates are not in reverse chronological order.

• The dates appear both at the beginning and the end of the sentences, so they are difficult to locate.

Improperly formatted dates not only create a messy appearance but also fail to meet standard writing conventions, which can negatively impact how recruiters perceive your application.

◦ 2020-2022: Erasmus student at the University of Turku, Finland.

◦ M.A in Language Science at the University Ca’ Foscari of Venice, Italy, 2023.

◦ Since October 2025 - PhD student in Cognitive Sciences at the University of Siena, Italy.

I am not sure whether my degree has an equivalent outside

outside my own country What should I do?

Each country has its unique system for naming and classifying academic degrees Comprehensive descriptions of various degree types, including Bachelor's, Master's, and PhD, are available on Wikipedia for both the UK and the USA.

The equivalents between first degrees in the UK and the USA are listed in table below, which comes from the University College London website (www.ucl.ac. uk/).

First-class Honors GPA (grade point average) 3.6/4.0

Upper second-class Honors GPA 3.3/4.0

Lower second-class Honors GPA 3.0/4.0

When listing your academic qualifications, it's essential to clarify the equivalent of your degree in the country where you're applying For instance, if you completed your first degree in Mexico and are applying to institutions in the USA and Germany, research the closest equivalent of your Mexican degree, which is recognized as a Bachelor's degree This information can be found on resources like Wikipedia Consequently, you should prepare two tailored CVs—one for each country—ensuring that the description of your degree aligns with the respective educational standards, particularly when detailing your scores for the CV intended for the USA.

To prepare a CV for Germany, refer to the Wikipedia entry on bachelor's degrees, which states that the German equivalent of your degree is either "Bakkalaureus" or "Bachelor," typically requiring three years of study If your degree took five years, it's important to clarify this difference in duration on your CV.

If you cannot find a direct equivalent for your degree, consider adding a link next to your qualification that directs to a website with a comprehensive description of your degree in English.

The Bologna Process aims to have a common description of degrees / standards inside Europe, see http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bologna_Process.

6.7 I am not sure whether my degree has an equivalent outside my own country What should I do? (cont.)

What about additional courses that I have attended?

In addition to your primary degree, consider adding relevant courses that align with the job you're applying for, as these can enhance your qualifications and benefit your candidacy for the position.

Below is an example from a recent graduate:

The candidate emphasizes not only the components of the course but also the valuable skills gained, such as time management, by balancing work and study This showcases his ability to effectively manage responsibilities, making him a strong contender for the job.

He uses a personal style throughout If you choose to adopt such a style, then be very careful as you are more likely to make errors in English.

Manchester Academy of English – CELTA (Pass)

The course emphasized the significance of understanding the learner's perspective to enhance English teaching methods Participants engaged in six hours of assessed teaching practice, observed six hours of experienced instructors, and completed four assignments Balancing part-time study with two jobs significantly improved my time-management skills and taught me effective workload management strategies.

Education: Do's and Don'ts

When detailing your education, use the term "Education" instead of "Formation." List your achievements in reverse chronological order, emphasizing your most recent accomplishments If you are seeking your first job after completing your education, including your high school information is acceptable, especially if you have since earned a Master's or PhD, in which case high school details may be unnecessary Include test scores only if they are meaningful to those unfamiliar with your country's education system, and provide context for your scores For instance, if you scored 89%, explain that this score is achieved by only one in twenty students for clarity Lastly, include your thesis title only if it is self-explanatory; otherwise, provide a brief description to clarify its significance.

Thesis on new methodologies for extracting gold from recycled plastic The pro- cedure involved three steps

When describing your thesis, keep it concise with a maximum of two lines Avoid including the exact date of your defense unless it’s very recent, and refrain from altering dates to eliminate gaps—address any gaps in your cover letter instead Only mention the year of your graduation or thesis, or the month and year if it’s recent Use standard three-letter abbreviations for months, such as Jan, Feb, Mar, etc., without inventing your own or adding periods at the end Examples include Nov 2020 - Feb 2021 and May - Jun 2023.

A Wallwork, English for Academic CVs, Resumes, and Online Profiles,

English for Academic Research, https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-11090-1_7

In the UK around 1 in 3 students and graduates 'embellish' their CVs: 11% falsely claimed to hold a degree, 40% had inflated their grade.

Employers who neglect to verify job applications face a significant risk, with one in three candidates potentially being unqualified This oversight can expose businesses to fraudulent or dishonest behavior A recent survey indicated that nearly one-third of CVs from job seekers contained discrepancies, including outdated qualifications or memberships, and in some cases, qualifications that were never held.

Studies have shown that 95% of US college students are willing to lie to get a job.

A survey conducted by Experian revealed that 37% of job seekers had lied about their previous experience, 21% lied about their qualifications, and 19% had not been honest about their current salaries.

A Yale student submitted a unique video CV to UBS, a prominent financial services firm, which was then shared across Wall Street with the eye-catching subject line, "What NOT to do when looking for a banking job."

A 12-year study of the career paths of over 650 business professionals revealed that one of the most common mistakes in choosing a career was basing choices on aptitudes rather than interests.

In a survey by Powerchex, a UK pre-employment screening company, discrep- ancies were found in 43% of the job application forms of students from low- ranking UK universities (14% in top universities).

Before hiring candidates, companies often engage a professional third party to verify qualifications and experiences, ensuring consistency between the information presented in resumes and profiles on platforms like LinkedIn, ResearchGate, and even Facebook.

What's the buzz?

1 Which are three most difficult professions to get into: a) space exploration b) the music business c) an advertising agency creative department d) judge in a high court e) computer software engineer

2 What do the jobs below have in common? kitchen porter, waitress, catering assistant, laundry worker, supermarket shelf- filler, cleaner/domestic, bar staff, childcarer, retail check-out operator, hairdresser

3 Which three of the following perks would you most like to have at work? six month sabbatical every 15 years, b) use of company plane for family emer- gencies, c) 24 hour fitness center for workers and families, d) 50% discount on all company products and services, e) free subscription to Netflix, f) free mas- sages, g) free lunch and dinner, h) four-weeks unpaid leave per year to do what- ever you want

4 Which of these jobs may actually make the world a worse place? a) lawyers b) accountants working in mergers and acquisitions c) politicians

5 In which of these fields are people most likely to say their job is highly meaningful? a) clergy b) military c) education d) media e) sports f) sales g) social services

6 Which of the following are not 'acceptable' practices at work? a) going on Facebook b) flirting with colleagues c) regularly taking extra long lunch breaks d) clocking in for someone else e) taking home office stationery

B) According to researchers at the University of Hertfordshire, whether you are successful comes down to the specific words and phrases used on your form Look at the 20 words below and decide which 10 should be avoided.

◦ Bad ◦ Hate ◦ Never ◦ Transferable skills

This chapter addresses essential questions regarding the layout of the Work Experience section, effective keyword placement without being overly intrusive, and the best ways to describe internships and research experiences It provides guidance on how to align your work experience with the job you are applying for and suggests key terms to incorporate Additionally, it offers strategies for including jobs that may not traditionally fall under the 'Work Experience' category.

Note: The Work Experience section has many similarities with the Education sec- tion See the following sections in Chapter 6 Education:

• where to locate the Work Experience section (6.3)

• whether the Work Experience section should give the idea of a logical pro- gression in your career (6.2)

• use or not of personal pronouns in the description of what roles you carried out (6.5)

How should I lay out the Work Experience section?

You can lay out this section in exactly the same way as the Education section (see 6.4).

Here are alternative examples of organizing work experience in a CV that do not follow the Europass format The candidate's approach is detailed below.

• first line: dates + name of company

• second line: her position within the company

• bullet points: each indicating key roles that she carried out

The amount of detail depends on how much space you have available.

2026 - present: Zed Engineering Group, Kuala Lumpur

• Secured $500,000 of funding for research into MegaData stream processing architectures.

I developed a Java stream processing application on the S5 platform to detect algorithmically generated domain names in DNS queries Additionally, I standardized procedures for Scalable and Elastic Event Processing (SEEP) and enhanced application security by implementing Information Flow Control policies within middleware.

• Architected and developed innovative security architecture, wrriten in core Java, for a test-bed sharing coalition Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance data at different classifications.

• Controlled the software architecture for real-time embedded systems in the Driver Information product line.

• Reviewed work products: implementing critical features (using object-oriented C and Java),

Specifying the development methiodology and processes, and troubleshooting problems.

We have successfully secured new business partnerships with leading automobile manufacturers, showcasing our ability to drive growth and innovation in the automotive industry This concise resume highlights essential information in a clear, two-column layout, utilizing minimal punctuation for enhanced readability.

DE-EN Interpreter for Expert

Spanish – Native Speaker English – Native Speaker

TOEFL-ITP 670 Points (2025) Trinity College London -ISE III

Do I have to call this section Work Experience? Are there

In the realm of research, you might not view your research experiences as traditional work Here are three examples showcasing a different format from those outlined in section 7.2.

CURRENT RESEARCH SUBMITTED AND IN PREPARATION

2028 - now Swiss National Research Council

2026 - 2028 Mechancial Engineering Department - University of Indonesia

• Research and development of DNA sensor based on capacitive monitoring

• Research and development of Mini/Micro Direct Methanol Fuel Cell

• Nanofludis Stabilization for Heat transfer Medium

• Electroplating Process Based on Turbulence Controlled of Mass Transferred

2021 - 2024 Chemical Engineering Department - Gadjah Mada University, Indonesia

Institute for Energy and process Engineering - Fuel Cell Project

• Membrane Electrode Assembly (MEA) Improvement

• Developing a mathematical modeling for kerosene extraction in a continuous column

• Modelling of SO3 conversion in H2SO4 plant at PT Petrokimia Gresik, IND.

• Investigation on smart scaffold for cell growth sensing example 2

Projects Design of RAMHORMOZ diversion dam in southern Iran.

Flood plain and flood control systems design for the river Karun.

Determination of density current in DEZ dam.

Investigation into sediment budget and sediment balance for the river Karun.Rivers and Reservoirs Bathymetry. example 3

Postdoctoral scholar, currently Visitor in Physics

The recipient of a prestigious postdoctoral fellowship from the Italian Istituto Nazionale di Fisica Nucleare (INFN) is conducting research at the Virgo gravitational-wave detector in Pisa, Italy This research emphasizes the advancement of coherent analysis techniques aimed at detecting, validating, and recovering gravitational-wave bursts from data collected by the emerging global network of interferometric gravitational-wave detectors.

The article focuses on gravitational-wave data analysis, highlighting the development and implementation of algorithms designed to detect unmodeled bursts of gravitational radiation from interferometric detectors It discusses the application of these burst algorithms for detector characterization and emphasizes the author's involvement in the LIGO Scientific Collaboration (LSC) as a co-chair of the LSC glitch working group and a member of the LSC Burst analysis group, as well as participation in the LIGO/Virgo joint data analysis working group.

7.3 Do I have to call this section Work Experience ? Are there any other alternatives? (cont.)

How can I highlight how my work experience fits

in with the post I am applying for? What key words should I try to insert?

Many companies and recruiters utilize applicant-tracking systems to scan resumes for specific keywords These keywords typically match those found in the job description, ensuring that applicants highlight relevant skills and experiences.

When applying for a job, it's essential to carefully analyze the job description to identify key words and phrases Incorporate these keywords naturally into your CV to enhance its relevance and improve your chances of standing out to potential employers.

Basically, the more matches the system finds between the job description and your

CV, the more likely your CV will be read by a real person.

How can I make my key words stand out, yet not be

To advance your career in web management, it's essential to optimize your CV and LinkedIn profile with relevant keywords that reflect your expertise in the field, while maintaining a natural flow Incorporating terms related to web management subtly throughout your professional experience can enhance your visibility to potential employers and showcase your skills effectively.

The candidate emphasizes important terms by capitalizing key phrases, such as "Web Producer," which enhances visibility for human readers, although it does not affect automated CV scanning.

The word "web" appears seven times in the extract, including variations like "website." This strategic repetition is subtle enough to avoid being intrusive to readers while enhancing the visibility of the candidate's CV in recruiter's software, ultimately boosting their chances of selection.

Head of Digital: July 2029 – present

Marketing Media plc, 15-25 Newton Street, Manchester, UK, M1 1HL

Leading a team comprising a Web Producer, Web Developer and a Film Producer/ Editor, responsible for the planning, strategy and delivery of a careers advice and inspiration website.

• Developed e-communications strategy to grow the Creative Choices audience

• Successful negotiation with Google to sponsor a Google Adwords account

• Set and monitored quality, accuracy and style guidelines for web content

• Developed new digital tools and web services, from idea stage, through speci- fication to delivery

XYZ Legal Consulting, 17 Whitley Road, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK NE98 1BA

Developed and maintained online content; responsible for:

• research, design and compilation of legal compliance information delivered online

• the style, accessibility and accuracy of all content on the web.

I am a recent graduate My CV looks rather empty

What can I do to fill it up?

If you're a student with a sparse CV, consider adding upcoming experiences to enhance it For instance, a student from England updated his CV in May, highlighting a planned position as an English teacher starting in October of that year.

I am excited to gain teaching experience through a month-long volunteer placement with a charity in Surin, Thailand This organization provides free English lessons to tuk-tuk drivers and civil servants, significantly improving their employability in a tourism-driven economy.

Being honest is crucial when presenting yourself to recruiters, yet it's equally important to effectively showcase your work experience By incorporating relevant details, you can highlight the significance and value of your background, making it more appealing to potential employers.

A 23-year-old woman traveled to London to improve her English and gain valuable work experience During her time there, she worked as a sales assistant in various clothing stores, consistently advancing to better positions and higher salaries with each job change In her CV, she effectively emphasizes her routine tasks while showcasing the essential sales and communication skills she developed, demonstrating her ability to leverage her experiences for professional growth.

Note how she devotes more space to her most recent experience, which thus gives a sense of her 'career' progression.

October 2029 – present, Aubin & Wills, Selfridges, Oxford Street

As a personal stylist, I specialize in providing tailored styling and fitting services, with a strong expertise in vintage clothing and British textile manufacturers My role involves delivering exceptional customer service by offering personalized advice and styling solutions that cater to individual client needs I am skilled in advanced cashier operations, adept at handling customer complaints, exchanges, and refunds efficiently Additionally, I have actively participated in live music nights, magazine features, and blogger events to promote the company's product launches as a denim consultant.

March 2029 – October 2029, Nigel Hall Menswear, Selfridges, Oxford Street

As a personal stylist, I specialize in providing tailored styling and fitting services, ensuring that each customer receives personalized advice that aligns with their unique needs and preferences My expertise in formal wear and styling has been honed through dedicated experience, allowing me to deliver exceptional customer service and consistently achieve personal targets.

March 2028 – March 2029, London Levi's Flagship Store, Regent Street

As a denim expert and fitting consultant, I possess extensive knowledge of denim's history and treatment, along with expertise in vintage clothing and various styling techniques My skills include sewing and customization, offering alteration services to ensure the perfect fit Additionally, I have participated in numerous visual merchandising projects within retail environments, enhancing the presentation of denim products.

7.6 I am a recent graduate My CV looks rather empty What can I do to fill it up? (cont.)

Is it worth mentioning my teaching experience,

Yes, definitely If you have taught some undergraduate classes, you will have learned some useful skills while in the classroom, for example how to:

• stand up in front of an audience and overcome your nerves

• explain difficult concepts in a simple way

• prepare lessons and presentation slides

• work within specific time frames

These are all very useful and transferable skills that any employer either in industry or academia will appreciate.

Impersonal forms, such as "composed" and "advised," can effectively convey information in a concise manner Utilizing this style not only enhances clarity but also conserves space, making it a practical choice for candidates.

MIT Department of Physics Cambridge, MA

Taught sophomore level course on Quantum Mechanics.

Advised Anna Southern on her MIT undergraduate Physics thesis Anna developed and applied experiments for identifying

September 2025 – December 2025, Teaching Assistant, MIT Department of Physics Cambridge, MA

• Sophomore level course on Quantum Mechanics.

• Advice to MIT Physics undergraduate for thesis.

How should I describe internships and other

When detailing your work or research experience, make sure to highlight specific accomplishments that demonstrate your relevant skills and expertise for the position you are seeking.

Below are two examples of how to describe an internship, i.e a period of supervised training at a research laboratory or in a company. example 1

Summer school at NASA, Houston, Texas I worked alongside several scientists and astronauts and was trained in the following areas:

During my internship at the European Space Agency in Paris under the guidance of Dr Spock, I contributed to the standardization process of DVB-S2 by researching both theoretical and computer simulation methods for carrier phase and frequency recovery schemes My focus was on developing low-complexity synchronization solutions to address the significant phase noise from transmitter and receiver oscillators The results of my research were submitted for multiple ESA patent applications.

I managed a small group of researchers for part of the internship

In Example 1, the candidate employs personal forms and verbs such as "my research," "I studied," and "I worked." Conversely, Example 2 features a collection of nouns like "analysis," "development," and "implementation," with minimal use of verbs While both styles are common, the second approach is less prone to grammatical errors.

Experience Hitech HYTO Laboratory , Kyoto, Japan

Postdoctoral scholar, currently Visitor in Physics

The analysis of gravitational-wave data involves the development and implementation of algorithms designed to detect unmodeled bursts of gravitational radiation from interferometric detectors As a member of the HYTO Scientific Collaboration (HSC), I serve as co-chair of the HSC glitch working group and actively contribute to the PHYTO analysis group.

QTX Center for Space Research, Oxford, UK

Design, construction, and operation of an experimental apparatus to measure correlated magnetic and seismic fluctuations between the two QTX observatory sites.

I have done some jobs that don't seem to fit under

the heading Work Experience, can I call them 'Other

Ideally, you don't want too many headings in your CV So try and fit all your work experiences under one simple heading.

However, if you have little work experience and your CV looks rather empty, then you might want to fill it up with a new section Here is an example:

Many jobs you have held, even if unrelated to your career path, can be valuable to mention on your resume These positions, such as babysitting, working in bars and shops, or engaging in voluntary work, often served as a means to earn money during holidays or support your university expenses Highlighting these experiences demonstrates your work ethic, adaptability, and ability to manage responsibilities.

• a responsible person (if some parents leave their child with you they must consider you to be responsible and mature)

• able to work with all kinds of people

• independent - you don't just rely on your parents to give you money

Rather than having a separate section, you can list these jobs under Personal Interests.

Aug 2030: Research Internship at the New Policy Institute, London

During my month-long internship at a London think-tank, I contributed to a significant report addressing poverty and social exclusion in the UK, focusing on how poverty and inequality impact crime rates and health outcomes.

2028 –2030: teaching assistant, Altrincham Grammar School, UK

I served as a mentor at a Cheshire grammar school, working weekly with a group of five students aged 15-17 My primary goal was to provide guidance and a fresh perspective on their educational journeys, offering career advice and assistance with university applications for older students, while introducing younger students to various higher education options, including college and apprenticeships.

• I worked both one-to-one and with groups of students and I taught them how to use vari- ous online resources which would help them with their studies.

Work Experience: Do's and Don'ts

Experience should be clearly separated and listed in reverse chronological order, including the following details: date, company or organization, position, and key roles played Use concise grammar with verbs starting sentences without pronouns, such as "Developed" instead of "I developed." Incorporate relevant keywords from the job advertisement or similar job specifications to enhance visibility Ensure that each experience sounds dynamic and pertinent to the desired role If applying for an academic position, consider including a separate publications section, either as a standalone document or as a link to a webpage showcasing your work.

A Wallwork, English for Academic CVs, Resumes, and Online Profiles,

English for Academic Research, https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-11090-1_8

 Nearly one-third of US citizens feel that it is not too important or not important at all to speak a second language.

The decline in the number of children and students studying languages in the UK has significantly impacted language research funding This reduction in language skills has resulted in a shortage of interpreters, complicating collaboration among international anti-terrorism teams.

The CIA identifies five languages as the most challenging for native English speakers, with Japanese topping the list The other four languages deemed difficult include Arabic, Mandarin, Cantonese, and Korean.

A study by the Carnegie Foundation in 1918 revealed that technical skills contribute to only 15% of future workplace success, while a significant 85% is attributed to soft skills, such as effective communication and interpersonal relationships.

 Employers in the U.S spend almost three quarters of their training budget on hard skills, despite the fact that soft skills are six times more important than hard skills.

Research in the U.S indicates that a successful career is not determined by a candidate's IQ, technical skills, socio-economic background, or education level Instead, emotional intelligence plays a crucial role, encompassing interpersonal competence, the ability to build and manage positive relationships, self-awareness, and social awareness.

 Experts recommend NOT using the following expressions: detail-oriented, flexible, independent, motivated, multi-tasker, strong work ethic, self-motivated

Others recommend that you SHOULD use: accurate, adaptable, confident, hard- working, innovative, pro-active, reliable, responsible.

Countries that air movies and TV shows in English, such as Scandinavian nations, Holland, and Portugal, typically have populations that speak and understand English more proficiently than those in countries where films are dubbed, like France, Germany, and Italy.

What's the buzz?

A) Complete the table. adjective key qualities to have to get a job you would put in your cv as an accurate description of yourself would not look positive on a cv (yours or anyone else's) aggressive attractive competitive creative dependable generous hard working loyal objective patient proactive punctual sensitive uninhibited

B) Imagine a new person is going to join your research team What ten qualities would you want this person to have?

Over 1,000 PhD students identified the top ten qualities they value in a potential colleague Consider whether you would include any of these essential traits in your own list.

This chapter explores the effective listing of your technical and language skills while highlighting the potential pitfalls of creating a separate 'Communication Skills' section Instead, it emphasizes the importance of integrating these soft skills throughout your CV in a more subtle manner.

How should I list my technical skills?

Look at the extract from a CV below What impression do you have? What would be a good solution?

There are many problems with the example above The most obvious is the repeti- tion of 'good knowledge' It would be much more concise to do as follows:

Credibility is a significant concern when claiming expertise in multiple systems and languages It’s essential to assess whether one can genuinely possess 'good knowledge' across various technical skills To enhance your application, compile a list of the technical skills mentioned in the job specifications or identify additional skills that could be beneficial for the role you are pursuing.

To effectively showcase your technical skills, visit Monster Worldwide Inc., a leading global employment website, for valuable insights and tips on enhancing your IT resume.

Under what section should I put my language skills?

And how do I mention them?

You can either have Language Skills as a separate section Or you can have a section entitled Skills under which you put your language skills and technical skills.

If you are seeking employment in Europe, it is beneficial to reference the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) for Languages This framework categorizes language proficiency into six levels, ranging from A1, which signifies basic understanding, to C2, indicating fluency For more detailed information, visit the CEFR page on Wikipedia.

Given that the Europass format takes up a lot of space You could simply write:

Korean: mother tongue; Chinese: C2; English: spoken B2, listening B2, written and reading C1

Korean: mother tongue; Chinese: fluent; English: TOEFL (101/120)

The TOEFL exam, with a maximum score of 120, is a widely recognized English proficiency test, alongside other prominent exams such as IELTS and the Cambridge assessments For more information, visit the official TOEFL website at www.ets.org/toefl, IELTS at takeielts.britishcouncil.org/find-out-about-results/understand-your-ielts-scores, and Cambridge exams at www.cambridgeenglish.org/exams-and-qualifications/.

If you are very short of space, you can list the languages you know in your Personal Details section For example:

Note that in the US, the Interagency Language Roundtable (ILR) scale is used Below are the equivalents.

CEFR ILR CEFR ILR CEFR ILR

914 West 10th Street, Hazleton, PA, 18209, USA k.kamatchi@gmail.com (+11) 7525 446779 Languages: English (native), Bengali (native), Spanish (good working knowledge)

Should I have a separate section entitled 'Communication Skills'?

Look at the section below from a CV? Would it apply to you?

The above qualities could apply to anyone, not just to one person in particular.

Your CV should clearly demonstrate that you have these skills without you stating this explicitly.

Effective communication skills, often gained through various experiences beyond formal research or employment, are essential for the position you desire It's important to weave these skills into the Education, Work Experience, and Personal Interests sections of your CV, as well as in your cover letter and reference letters, rather than listing them separately.

In the 'Personal Skills and Competences' section, HR professionals may find that the candidate's qualifications are indistinguishable from those of other applicants The issue lies in the fact that simply listing skills lacks meaningful impact unless supported by concrete evidence.

My extensive experience has honed my ability to build strong relationships and solve problems swiftly and effectively I thrive under pressure, whether collaborating within a team or working independently Key attributes such as responsibility, punctuality, and efficiency have consistently defined my professional approach.

Incorporating soft skills into your CV is essential, particularly in the Work Experience section, where you can effectively demonstrate your abilities For instance, by emphasizing skills such as *communication*, *teamwork*, and *problem-solving* in your job descriptions, you can showcase your value to potential employers Highlighting these skills in italics not only draws attention but also clearly illustrates how they contributed to your past roles and achievements.

The candidate skillfully implies her soft skills without explicitly stating them, showcasing her teamwork abilities in the first paragraph, presentation skills in the second, and problem-solving capabilities alongside her capacity to meet tight deadlines in the third It’s unnecessary to detail every soft skill for each work or educational experience; instead, providing four or five varied examples is sufficient These skills can be further emphasized in the cover letter for added impact.

8.4 Should I have a separate section entitled

How should I talk about my personality and soft skills?

HR seeks not only your technical skills and experience but also concrete evidence demonstrating these abilities Additionally, they look for proof of strong communication skills, such as teamwork and presentation capabilities.

Would you write the following?

I hate human relationships I’m lazy, with a zero capacity for teamwork I have rarely worked during my studies and I never meet deadlines It is important for me never to finish my projects.

You wouldn't; so don't write this either:

I love human relationships I’m proactive with a high capacity for teamwork I work hard I like to complete my projects and goals.

To secure a good job, candidates must possess essential qualities that are widely recognized as important However, the individual in question has failed to demonstrate any concrete evidence of having these necessary attributes.

Instead you need to write something that is specific to you and that really demon- strates these qualities.

Companies are interested in various soft skills, for which you need to provide evidence.

Below are various examples that you could write in your cover letter. ability to work in a team

I have worked in several research teams and also during an internship at IBM in Houston in 2020. professionalism, pro-active, flexibility, meeting deadlines

During my internship I worked on several very diverse projects and managed to meet all the deadlines. problem solving skills

The two projects I worked on involved solving complex engineering problems and I very much enjoyed taking part in brain-storming sessions with the team. presentation skills

I presented two of the three projects I worked on to clients, both of whom then went ahead and purchased the product. ability to write technical documents

My duties include liaising with clients and writing specifications.

When crafting your letter, focus on the most relevant points that align with the job requirements, highlighting your practical experience to effectively demonstrate your qualifications.

When discussing soft skills, it is crucial to provide evidence of these abilities For instance, the candidate in the example fails to demonstrate proficiency in the skill they assert, specifically in their command of English.

While I may not be an expert in every programming language you require, I am eager to learn new skills and possess a positive attitude towards customer interactions, enabling me to effectively tackle complex problems.

Additionally I have good knowledge of english language, I'm spanish mother tongue and I live in Quito.

The example provided contains several English errors, such as using "even if" instead of "even though," and phrases like "not expert" instead of "not an expert." Additionally, terms like "your request" should be "you request," and "good knowledge of English language" should be corrected to "a good knowledge of English." Furthermore, "Spanish mother tongue" should be revised to "my native language is Spanish." These mistakes indicate not only a lack of proficiency in English but also a failure to proofread the letter, resulting in a negative impression of the candidate.

CV is likely to be quickly discarded.

8.5 How should I talk about my personality and soft skills? (cont.)

How should I outline my skills in a resume?

You can place a skills section either before or after your Education section on your resume Since resumes are typically limited to one page, it's essential to keep this section concise, ideally within 2-3 lines.

Many US universities require prospective students to complete the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) before enrolling in business or management programs This standardized test evaluates essential skills, including analytical reasoning, writing, verbal communication, and reading comprehension in English For more detailed information, you can visit Wikipedia.

Skills: Do's and Don'ts

 Do not have a separate section for communication skills Just have sections for technical skills and language skills

 Integrate your communication / soft skills into the other sections of your CV and into your cover letter.

 Use the most concise format possible, unless you have space that you wish to fill.

 Do not exaggerate your skills and experience You cannot be an 'expert' or have 'good knowledge' of everything.

 Do not mention languages for which you only have a basic knowledge, unless the job specification specifically states that some knowledge of that language would be 'useful'

Avoid overstating your English proficiency on your CV and cover letter, as any errors can damage your credibility If the interview is conducted in English and your performance does not reflect an advanced level, it may raise doubts about the accuracy of your other claims in the CV.

 If you are not sure of your level, then get a qualified EFL / ESL teacher (English as a Foreign Language / English as a Second Language) to give you a quick test.

Languages: Spanish (native speaker), English (TOEFL) Computer: Microsoft Word, Excel, Powerpoint Technical: excellent knowledge of QXC calibrators, good knowledge of UYT.

A Wallwork, English for Academic CVs, Resumes, and Online Profiles,

English for Academic Research, https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-11090-1_9

Business Insider highlights 13 hobbies that can enhance a resume, including yoga, extreme adventure sports, video production, endurance sports, and being a team captain Other valuable activities are blogging, mountain climbing, playing an instrument, volunteering, photography, gardening, and fantasy football Additionally, showcasing any unique hobbies can positively impact a candidate's profile.

Including a section on hobbies in a resume can significantly enhance a candidate's appeal, as many experts believe that discussing personal interests helps differentiate applicants from their competitors.

A personal interests section may help a potential employer understand the can- didate better as a person, rather than just a list of qualifications and experiences.

Students at the University of York in England drink more alcohol than any other university in the UK - the equivalent of nearly five liters of lager per week.

In the US, the average college student attends 62 parties per year.

Brigham Young University in Provo (Utah, USA) holds the record for being the

US university where you are most likely to meet your future spouse.

In the USA, undergraduates frequently join single-sex organizations known as fraternities for men and sororities for women These groups typically adopt names derived from Greek letters, such as alpha and beta, and their members are commonly referred to as 'Greeks'.

The University of Cambridge in England has over 400 registered clubs and societies for students.

Estonia holds the record for the highest proportion of female graduates - more than two thirds are women.

What's the buzz?

A) Assuming that you include a Personal Interests section in your CV, discuss what interests you have outside work and if these interests could be mentioned on your CV Think about what these interests reveal about you and how they might relate to your approach to work and study.

B) Look at the first factoid on the previous page Why do think those particular hob- bies are recommended? (To find the answer see: https://it.businessinsider.com/ hobbies-look-great-on-resume-2017-2/?r=US&IR=T)

Now discuss which of these hobbies and interests would you put on your CV and LinkedIn?

This chapter explores the hobbies and interests you should include in your CV and online profiles, highlighting how they can demonstrate your soft skills Additionally, it briefly addresses the importance of non-work-related sections, such as awards and volunteering, on platforms like LinkedIn.

Under what heading should I put my hobbies and interests?

You can use one of the following depending on the type of information you plan to give in this section.

Which, if any, of my hobbies and interests should I mention

I mention in my CV and my online profiles?

The quotation from REED highlights the importance of showcasing personal interests on a CV, suggesting that it can provide insight into a candidate's personality and skills beyond professional qualifications I agree that including a Personal Interests section can enhance a CV by demonstrating well-roundedness and cultural fit, making candidates more relatable to potential employers However, it is essential to ensure that the interests listed are relevant and contribute positively to the overall impression of the applicant Ultimately, a thoughtfully curated Personal Interests section can differentiate candidates in a competitive job market.

When submitting your application, it's advisable to omit hobbies unless they directly relate to the position Including irrelevant hobbies, such as "socializing with friends," may not leave a positive impression; in fact, having no hobbies listed can be more favorable.

Your extracurricular interests and activities play a crucial role in showcasing your personality beyond academics They provide unique insights into your character, offering HR professionals and recruiters a deeper understanding of who you are, which is often hard to convey in the rest of your CV.

Your LinkedIn interests provide valuable insights into your personality and professional demeanor, appealing not only to fellow academics but also to potential recruiters It’s beneficial to include activities that showcase your skills, passions, and values, as these elements help create a comprehensive picture of who you are and what you can contribute in a work environment.

• show you have a social conscience (e.g voluntary / charity work)

• highlight your leadership skills (e.g team captain of a sports team, sports trainer)

• are fun and have positive connotations (e.g salsa dancing, playing the saxo- phone), or interesting (e.g acting), or creative (e.g pottery, short story writing)

• indicate that others consider you to be a responsible person (e.g babysitting)

• unusual without being strange (e.g falconry, acrobatics)

What hobbies and interests should I avoid mentioning?

To create engaging content, focus on specific activities rather than general ones For instance, instead of mentioning hobbies like reading or traveling, highlight particular interests such as swimming in local lakes or enjoying hockey games at the arena When discussing travel, specify favorite destinations like the vibrant streets of Tokyo or the serene beaches of Bali This approach not only enhances relatability but also improves SEO by targeting niche interests.

Do not put activities that are political, religious, or contentious (e.g hunting, shooting).

HR people are interested in your ability to work in a team and in your social skills

So, avoid solitary or nerdy activities (e.g computer games, collecting stamps).

While many view blood donation as a noble and altruistic act, companies may see it differently due to the potential loss of productivity Donating blood often requires employees to take time off work, which can lead to additional costs for the company, as they must compensate employees for their absence This financial impact can create a negative perception of such charitable activities within the corporate environment.

To ensure a neutral stance in your content, steer clear of topics that evoke strong opinions, such as board games and role-playing games, as these can polarize audiences.

How can I use my interests to provide evidence

Below is what a PhD student in Cognitive Sciences wrote under 'Hobbies and Interests'.

Her passion for travel, languages, and sports highlights her social skills and diverse interests, showcasing a broad skill set This section effectively illustrates her unique personality and distinguishes her from other candidates.

Traveling fuels my passion for meeting new people and immersing myself in diverse socio-cultural environments My fascination with foreign languages and cultures has enhanced my metalinguistic skills, allowing me to integrate socially with ease Since the age of five, I have engaged in various sports, including dance, horse-riding, kung fu, and capoeira angola, which have significantly shaped my sense of duty, organization, and deepened my appreciation for different cultures and individuals.

Should I write a list or a short paragraph?

In the previous section, the candidate chose to include a concise paragraph of approximately 100 words, believing it would enhance her chances of being hired However, it's important to note that a densely packed CV may not allow for the inclusion of such detailed information.

So she could have listed her interests as follows:

The advantages of a list are that it:

• takes up much less space

Including a well-crafted paragraph in your application can provide HR professionals with a clearer understanding of your identity and experiences Highlighting your travels, international living, and diverse work experiences, along with your passion for sports such as dance, horse-riding, kung fu, and capoeira angola, can showcase your adaptability and unique skills.

What are the dangers of writing a paragraph?

Here is example from a young graduate (a native English speaker) who was looking for a job in teaching.

The problem with writing so much is that you:

• have to use complete grammatical sentences, and thus probably make more mistakes (even this native speaker makes a mistake: I have spend rather than

• may be prone to waffle (i.e not be very precise or concise)

• use up a lot of space

You also need to ensure that this section is organized clearly, just as in the other sections.

When applying for a job at a small organization, it's important to consider that the hirer may not have time to read lengthy applications If the position values an engaging personality and strong communication skills, the hirer might be genuinely interested in your personal experiences.

In my free time, I enjoy outdoor activities such as playing rugby, gardening, and reading As a long-time member of the Altrincham rugby team and a contributor to the Rugby Society of Reading University, I have a strong passion for the sport I also love attending live music events and playing the guitar My keen interest in travel led me to explore countries like China, Singapore, Australia, New Zealand, and the USA for seven months after my studies, enriching my life with diverse experiences and perspectives While in New Zealand, I worked on farms, gaining valuable insights into various types of work My collaborative nature has allowed me to thrive in group settings, where I have helped organize holidays for the disabled and charity music festivals, alongside personal achievements like climbing Mt Kilimanjaro and volunteering in a Tanzanian school.

A list format can enhance clarity and organization in presenting interests For example, the candidate could structure their interests into mini sections, showcasing an organized mindset and a desire to communicate information clearly and simply.

Creating a list can significantly reduce errors and enhance organization Additionally, incorporating personal anecdotes that showcase your soft skills can add depth and credibility to your narrative.

Sports and outdoor activities: rugby (I play for my local team, and founded a rugby society at university), walking, gardening.

Traveling: I have visited China, Singapore, Australia, New Zealand and the

United States of America, Tanzania (where I climbed Mt Kilimanjaro)

Volunteer work: organizing holidays for the disabled, music festivals to raise money for charity (I also play the guitar).

9.7 What are the dangers of writing a paragraph? (cont.)

Are there any other tricks for gaining the hirer's attention

attention through my Personal Interests section?

There are two simple tricks you can use:

When applying for a position as a patent examiner, it's essential to thoroughly review the job specification for any non-technical requirements that can be incorporated into your Personal Interests section This approach not only highlights your suitability for the role but also showcases your alignment with the company’s values and culture.

A European patent examiner requires a distinctive blend of scientific knowledge, analytical skills, and language proficiency, along with a keen interest in intellectual property law A passion for technology, attention to detail, and strong analytical thinking are essential traits for success in this role.

Applicants must also be willing to relocate to Munich, The Hague or Berlin

Demonstrating your skills can be achieved through your interests; for instance, a painter or someone who critiques papers showcases their attention to detail, while frequent travelers, particularly those who have explored diverse locations, highlight adaptability and cultural awareness.

Germany and the Netherlands demonstrate a readiness for relocation, often accompanied by language proficiency Additionally, individuals who design and construct their own model planes typically possess a strong interest in technology, a keen eye for detail, and an analytical mindset.

To enhance your CV's impact, research your potential reader's personal interests on platforms like LinkedIn or Facebook Identifying genuine commonalities can be beneficial, allowing you to mention these shared interests However, it's important to refrain from disclosing that you explored their online presence during the interview.

Hobbies and personal interests can enhance your resume by showcasing your personality and unique qualities, making you memorable to hiring managers While including a personal interests section is debated, it can provide an edge in a competitive job market It's essential to choose hobbies that align with the company culture and demonstrate transferable skills Avoid including irrelevant or controversial interests, and instead focus on activities that reflect your character and can contribute positively to your candidacy Researching the company and tailoring your interests accordingly can significantly improve your resume's effectiveness.

How should I talk about my interests on LinkedIn?

When discussing your interests, approach it similarly to how you would on a CV To gather inspiration on what to include or exclude, review the profiles of your connections and observe how they present their interests.

I believe that you should not design this section to attract recruiters or potential clients.

I don't have any Honors & Awards Is it a problem?

No You do not need to complete this section.

What about Volunteer Experience and Causes?

Discussing your volunteer experiences can highlight your social skills, making it a positive addition to your profile However, listing specific causes you support may pose risks, as differing political views with an HR representative could lead to misunderstandings.

Even though LinkedIn constantly encourages you to 'complete' your profile, you might consider simply leaving this section blank.

Personal Interests: Do's and Don'ts

Include a Personal Interests section in your resume to give HR professionals insight into your personality, while allowing uninterested parties to bypass it Avoid mentioning activities that could be viewed negatively by some Use paragraphs only if space permits; otherwise, opt for a list format divided into three or four mini subsections Leverage your interests to showcase your soft skills and align them with the skills outlined in the job specification.

A Wallwork, English for Academic CVs, Resumes, and Online Profiles,

English for Academic Research, https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-11090-1_10

Double meanings in reference letters

 A man like him is hard to find.

 All in all, I cannot say enough good things about this candidate or recommend her too highly.

 She could not care less about the number of hours she has to put in.

 You would indeed be fortunate to get this person to work for you.

 I most enthusiastically recommend this candidate with no qualifications whatsoever.

 I would urge you to waste no time in making this candidate an offer of employment.

 There is nothing you can teach a man like him.

 I can assure you that no person would be better for the job.

 Every hour with him was a happy hour.

What's the buzz?

A) Look back at the previous page and match 'recommendations' with the real meanings below. e.g A man like him is hard to find = this employee is always absent.

1 Better to employ no one rather than give this person a job.

B) Analyse the reference letter below for a graduate, written by her professor.

• Find at least three points why this letter is likely to make a positive impres- sion on the reader.

As a Professor of Information Engineering at the University of Manchester, I am pleased to provide a reference for Adele Tulloch, who excelled in my Computer Networking courses with scores significantly above average Following her Master's degree, Adele secured a 5-month research scholarship focused on bandwidth estimation along Internet paths During her time in my research group, she demonstrated an impressive ability to absorb new knowledge and acquire essential skills, consistently showcasing her proactive and creative approach by producing original and outstanding research results, as detailed in the attached list of her publications.

Referees and reference letters play a crucial role in enhancing your chances of securing an interview and ultimately a job This chapter guides you on selecting appropriate referees and crafting effective reference letters, including the option to draft one yourself for the referee's signature It's important to provide a balanced reference, highlighting both strengths and areas for improvement In the case of Adele Tulloch, she possesses exceptional technical skills and rare qualities for her age, demonstrating a high level of independence and the ability to work autonomously with minimal guidance Adele is receptive, communicative, and adept at elevating ideas to new levels, consistently meeting deadlines while maintaining a self-critical approach to her work I wholeheartedly recommend Adele Tulloch for any opportunity, and I am available for further details if needed.

Do I need to provide the names of referees on my CV?

In the context of a CV, a referee is someone you have worked for or collaborated with, and who can provide an objective appraisal of your technical and social skills.

In most Anglo countries it is customary to provide the names of referees This enables potential employers to contact your referees to:

• check that you are who you say you are, and that you have done what you say you have done

• learn more about your personality and skills

HR use references as part of the screening process of candidates.

So, yes, you do need to provide references.

Clare Krumpet (CELTA Tutor): Liverpool Academy of English, St Margaret's

Chambers, 5 Newton Street, Liverpool, UK, L1 1HL Tel – +44 (0)161 - 237

Jo Bloggs (Self Help Services Volunteer Coordinator): Self Help Services,

Zion Community Resource, 339 Stretford Road, Hulme, Liverpool, UK, L15 ZEE Tel – +44 (0)844 477 9971 Email – j.bloggs@selfhelpservices.org.uk

Where should I put my referees on my CV?

At the end of your CV have a separate section entitled 'References' in which you list three or four people Provide the following information:

• their email address (so that the HR person can contact them)

• their website (so that HR can learn more about them)

Professor Pinco Pallino (my thesis tutor), University of London, p.pallino@ londonuni.ac.uk, www.pincopallino.com

Professor Zack Madman (in whose lab I did a 3-month internship), University of Harvard, z.madman@harvard.edu, www.harvard.edu/madman

When submitting references, it's unnecessary to include details like the referee's postal address and telephone number, as initial contact is typically made via email Additionally, including excessive information can consume valuable space; for instance, listing five references in this format could take up to 15 lines, which is excessive.

Will HR people and recruiters contact my referees?

In the USA, UK, and other English-speaking countries, HR professionals and recruiters often reach out to your referees through email and phone calls to gather insights about your background.

What is a reference letter? How important is it?

A reference is a letter authored by a referee, such as a professor, tutor, or past employer, highlighting your skills and experiences This letter is typically provided by individuals you have collaborated with during internships or previous work experiences.

This letter provides a concise overview of your technical abilities alongside insights into your personality traits, highlighting your motivation, collaborative nature, and proactive approach.

When crafting your CV and cover letter, the portrayal of yourself is inherently subjective, making it challenging to objectively demonstrate your soft skills As you describe these abilities from your perspective, it becomes difficult to substantiate your claims within these documents.

A reference letter is authored by an impartial third party who typically does not have a personal stake in your job application This individual's purpose is to provide an unbiased perspective on your character and personality.

For the HR person, a reference letter is a kind of guarantee that you are who you say you are.

The student mentioned has applied for a PhD program in our Department and has listed you as a reference to assess her capability for advanced study and research in Physics.

Would you please let me know, in confidence, your opinion of Mr Wallwork's ability, character and capacity for postgraduate study.

Thank you in advance for your cooperation.

Who should I ask to write my reference letter?

When collaborating in a lab or company, always obtain a written reference from a colleague These references can be valuable for future opportunities, so ensure you have permission to include their names, positions, and email addresses on your CV.

When seeking a reference, consider drafting the letter yourself and presenting it to the referee for their signature and approval, as this approach can significantly save them time and effort.

Writing the letter yourself has several advantages You can decide:

• what to emphasize and what not to mention

But remember, if you write the letter yourself, you must submit it to the relevant person for their approval and signature.

When applying for a position, it's possible that your reference may be contacted directly by the employer, who may send a form for them to complete To ensure your reference provides the best possible feedback, consider filling out the form with your professor or requesting to review it before it's submitted If possible, obtain these forms in advance and strategize your responses to the questions.

write it myself?

am perfect for the job advertised?