How to…get the job that you want…get the right job for you…in Bermuda!

You’ve already started on the path to finding that job that you want, whether it is your first job, a new job or a job to get you where you want to be, you’ve made the choice to start that search.

Building the right CV or Resume

What is the difference? And what should you use?

Bermuda is unique in that there we are a British dependant territory but we have many American companies doing business on the island. The words CV and Resume are used interchangeably in Bermuda with both being accepted, although typically British companies will expect a CV and American companies a resume, however it is best to read what the application requires, and if in doubt then ask.

CV

Curriculum Vitae or CV in Latin means course of life. Typically a CV is a detailed two page or longer document that chronicles your life achievements. This will range from education to past and current jobs and any other accomplishments for example awards won, publications received or awards and honours. A CV is usually in chronological order making it easy for the person reviewing to see your early education up to latest achievements.

RESUME

Is a clear and concise portrait of your abilities and is normally one page long. The document can be tailored to a specific job or skill set  required so is normally more flexible than a CV as you may want to have several copies ready for different types of jobs. The interviewer is not going to dwell over your resume for long so the aim is to differentiate yourself from the other candidates you are up against.

HELPFUL TIPS FOR WRITING A CV OR RESUME

Everyone has their own opinion on what a CV/Resume should look like. Some employers will prefer one style, whilst others will be completely different. If you follow the basic tips below and then tailor to your specific needs  you will be well on the way to your first job.

  • First of all, do not lie! This will eventually catch up with you and it is not worth the consequences later on in your career if you are found out.
  • Proofread, proofread, proofread. Get your friends, parents, or anyone to read it over and check it for you. If you walk into an interview and there are spelling mistakes or it’s poorly formatted, this looks highly lazy to your future employer and does not set the right impression.

Rather than reinvent the wheel, here are a few helpful links to CV and Resume writing websites from the UK and US which can help you achieve your goals:

CV writing Advice (UK)

CV writing tips (UK)

Resume writing (US)

Resume myths (US)

 

Interview Do’s and Don’ts

DO

  • Show up on time! This may sounds obvious, but late arrivals occur more often than you think. Always arrive 10 minutes early so you do not feel rushed or flustered by the time the interview begins;
  • Dress appropriately for the industry you are interviewing for, or be conservative if you are unsure of how you should dress;
  • Know the exact time of interview, how long it takes to get there so as to be prepared for any unforeseen events. Do a practice run to the location so as to familiarise yourself with the route;
  • Make sure to research the company/industry you are interviewing for. Prepare some questions to ask and try to determine what questions you may be faced with;
  • Be polite to everyone you meet within the company, first impressions count;
  • Find out your interviewers name before and make sure to get the correct pronounciation;
  • When meeting your interviewer make sure to look them in the eye and give them a firm handshake;
  • Make sure to bring your cv/resume and extra copies in case needed;
  • Be positive during the interview and exhibit good posture and maintain eye contact throughout;
  • Sell yourself to the company without being arrogant, tell them why you would be a great benefit and asset to work with;
  • Once the interview is finished offer another firm handshake and thank the interviewer by name before leaving; and
  • Write an e-mail or thank you letter immediately after your interview.

DON’T

  • Don’t exhibit a negative attitude, try to be positive about yourself;
  • Don’t lie during the interview, it will be catch up with you eventually;
  • Make sure you are not overly keen and don’t give the impression you would take any job;
  • Don’t chew gum, fidget or slouch;
  • Don’t be negative about your previous company or boss, if there were issues with your previous employment say there was a difference in opinion, you don’t want to give the impression you are difficult to work with;
  • Don’t be taken by surprise for a question you were not prepared for, interviews are wide open and a variety of questions/topics may be asked or covered;
  • Do not discuss salary or benefits until they are brought up by the person giving your interview; and
  • Don’t be passive during the interview, be engaged and attentive, willing to speak clearly with confidence, never respond to questions with, “I don’t know.” Being prepared mentally for the interview will assist with this.