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Writing the Personal Statement

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This handout provides information about writing personal statements for academic and other positions.
The personal statement, your opportunity to sell yourself in the application process, generally falls into one of two categories:
1. The general, comprehensive personal statement:
This allows you maximum freedom in terms of what you write and is the type of statement often prepared for standard medical or law school application forms.
2. The response to very specific questions:
Often, business and graduate school applications ask specific questions, and your statement should respond specifically to the question being asked. Some business school applications favor multiple essays, typically asking for responses to three or more questions.
Questions to ask yourself before you write:
- What's special, unique, distinctive, and/or impressive about you or your life story?
- What details of your life (personal or family problems, history, people or events that have shaped you or influenced your goals) might help the committee better understand you or help set you apart from other applicants?
- When did you become interested in this field and what have you learned about it (and about yourself) that has further stimulated your interest and reinforced your conviction that you are well suited to this field? What insights have you gained?
- How have you learned about this field—through classes, readings, seminars, work or other experiences, or conversations with people already in the field?
- If you have worked a lot during your college years, what have you learned (leadership or managerial skills, for example), and how has that work contributed to your growth?
- What are your career goals?
- Are there any gaps or discrepancies in your academic record that you should explain (great grades but mediocre LSAT or GRE scores, for example, or a distinct upward pattern to your GPA if it was only average in the beginning)?
- Have you had to overcome any unusual obstacles or hardships (for example, economic, familial, or physical) in your life?
- What personal characteristics (for example, integrity, compassion, and/or persistence) do you possess that would improve your prospects for success in the field or profession? Is there a way to demonstrate or document that you have these characteristics?
- What skills (for example, leadership, communicative, analytical) do you possess?
- Why might you be a stronger candidate for graduate school—and more successful and effective in the profession or field than other applicants?
- What are the most compelling reasons you can give for the admissions committee to be interested in you?
General advice
Answer the questions that are asked
- If you are applying to several schools, you may find questions in each application that are somewhat similar.
- Don't be tempted to use the same statement for all applications. It is important to answer each question being asked, and if slightly different answers are needed, you should write separate statements. In every case, be sure your answer fits the question being asked.
Tell a story
- Think in terms of showing or demonstrating through concrete experience. One of the worst things you can do is to bore the admissions committee. If your statement is fresh, lively, and different, you'll be putting yourself ahead of the pack. If you distinguish yourself through your story, you will make yourself memorable.
Be specific
- Don't, for example, state that you would make an excellent doctor unless you can back it up with specific reasons. Your desire to become a lawyer, engineer, or whatever should be logical, the result of specific experience that is described in your statement. Your application should emerge as the logical conclusion to your story.
Find an angle
- If you're like most people, your life story lacks drama, so figuring out a way to make it interesting becomes the big challenge. Finding an angle or a "hook" is vital.
Concentrate on your opening paragraph
- The lead or opening paragraph is generally the most important. It is here that you grab the reader's attention or lose it. This paragraph becomes the framework for the rest of the statement.
Tell what you know
- The middle section of your essay might detail your interest and experience in your particular field, as well as some of your knowledge of the field. Too many people graduate with little or no knowledge of the nuts and bolts of the profession or field they hope to enter. Be as specific as you can in relating what you know about the field and use the language professionals use in conveying this information. Refer to experiences (work, research, etc.), classes, conversations with people in the field, books you've read, seminars you've attended, or any other source of specific information about the career you want and why you're suited to it. Since you will have to select what you include in your statement, the choices you make are often an indication of your judgment.
Don't include some subjects
- There are certain things best left out of personal statements. For example, references to experiences or accomplishments in high school or earlier are generally not a good idea. Don't mention potentially controversial subjects (for example, controversial religious or political issues).
Do some research, if needed
- If a school wants to know why you're applying to it rather than another school, do some research to find out what sets your choice apart from other universities or programs. If the school setting would provide an important geographical or cultural change for you, this might be a factor to mention.
Write well and correctly
- Be meticulous. Type and proofread your essay very carefully. Many admissions officers say that good written skills and command of correct use of language are important to them as they read these statements. Express yourself clearly and concisely. Adhere to stated word limits.
Avoid clichés
- A medical school applicant who writes that he is good at science and wants to help other people is not exactly expressing an original thought. Stay away from often-repeated or tired statements.
For more information on writing a personal statement, see the personal statement vidcast .
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- November 2, 2020 (Updated October 4, 2022)
How to Write a Personal Statement for a Job (with Examples)
Take this one personally
If you need to write a personal statement, here's your guide. We'll cover:
- What a personal statement is
The 3 essential parts of a personal statement
- Tips for writing a personal statement
- Examples of a personal statement
What is a personal statement?
A personal statement is a brief description of why you’re qualified for and interested in the job you’re applying for. Your personal statement should tell employers why your training, education, experience, and career goals make you the best fit for the job.
You may include a personal statement at the top of your resume (similar to an objective statement or resume summary ) or the employer may request that you attach a personal statement to your application (though this is not the same thing as a cover letter , which is longer and more detailed).
When writing your personal statement, start by telling the employer who you are as a professional. Maybe you’re a marketing consultant with five years of paid media experience, or maybe you’re a teacher with in-depth knowledge of diverse learning styles and the Montessori method.
2. The what
What skills, abilities, or qualities do you have that would be useful in the position?
Do you have a relevant degree or hold an industry certification ? Do you have soft skills —like public speaking, mentorship, or adaptability —that are particularly relevant to the role?
Use this section to share why you want the job you’re applying for or why you’re passionate about the industry or the population you will serve in the role. For example, if you’re applying for a social media manager job, you could mention that you enjoy running a platform that helps people stay connected and that you like coming up with new ways to engage online followers.
The why is particularly important for those pursuing a career change or career shift.
Read ore: How to List Work History on Your Resume
Tips for writing your personal statement
Do use a professional tone.
Don’t include personal information, like your marital status, ethnicity, or age.
Do include relevant skills, such as project management or data analysis, or qualities, like collaborative or flexible.
Don’t use the personal pronoun I if the personal statement appears on your resume. If it is a separate part of your application, you can use the first person I.
Do adhere to word count requirements if the employer stipulates them. Otherwise, keep it brief—roughly three to five sentences (or fifty to sixty words).
Example #1 - Personal statement that does not appear on resume
I’m an experienced copywriter with 10+ years of experience writing quality digital content and adept at conveying the unique tone of a brand across channels. In my previous role, I increased clients’ social media followers from 15K to 30K in less than three months. I’m excited about using my writing, editing, and content management skills to fulfill the senior marketing copywriter position with XYZ Marketing.
Example #2 - Personal statement that appears on resume
Web developer with wide-ranging knowledge of programming languages, including Java, HTML, Python, and SQL. Proficient in creating, maintaining, and improving user-friendly websites for B2B companies. Able to translate technical language and concepts to non-technical user groups. Eager to bring experience in UX/UI design, testing, and search engine optimization to a forward-thinking startup.
Example #3 - Personal statement for a career change, does not appear on resume
I’m a tenacious customer service professional who can balance competing tasks while maintaining service quality. I’m empathetic, focused, and detail-oriented, and I’m skilled at training customers on products and services and increasing client adoption. I am seeking a role in product management where I can use my experience in customer service, product use cases, training, and client retention to build tools that drive business.
Example #4 - Personal statement for a career change, appears on resume
Certified electrician with more than seven years in the field and five years as a manager seeking a role in maintenance project management. Experienced in contract work as well as staff positions with private companies and government agencies. Strong attention to detail that is useful when completing wiring installations, reviewing contracts, and performing quality checks. Prepared to bring a team-oriented approach to your organization.
Read more: How to Ace a Panel Interview
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How to write a personal statement for a job
All the tips you need to write a CV personal statement that makes you stand out from the crowd.
Contains 16 personal statement examples.

What is a personal statement?
A personal statement, also known as a personal profile, summarises what you can offer an employer in relation to the job you’re applying for.
“It needs to convince your audience that you’re a good fit for the role in hand” says McGuire, Founder of Giraffe CVs.
Senior HR Business Partner at Amazon , Lucy Ventrice agrees “It’s your opportunity to sell yourself and highlight what sets you apart from others”.
The personal statement shouldn’t be confused with a supporting statement, which is similar to a cover letter.
The functional, chronological or hybrid styles of CV all require a personal statement.
Writing a personal statement can be challenging.
You have to condense your experience and skills into a few sentences.
The advice in this guide will help you produce a first class personal statement on your CV.
Writing a personal statement
Recruiters and employers like personal statements as they can easily see if you are a match in skills, experience and attitude to their job.
With over 100 applications for some vacancies this is a brilliant time saver. Recruiter will only read the rest of your CV if you’re personal statement signals you’ll add value.
You need to be able to sell yourself succinctly in your personal statement to stand out from the crowd.
Sharon Xenophontos, Senior HR Manager at Macfarlanes LLP sees it as “an opportunity to summarise your unique selling points and allow employers to quickly read ‘between the lines’ of your CV.”
Lucy Ventrice, Senior HR Business Partner at Amazon agrees “in a very competitive market you must focus on what experience, skills or attributes you have that would benefit a future employer?”
How long should a personal statement be?
Sharon Xenophonotos, Senior HR Manager at Macfarlanes LLP recommends you “use proper sentences, a short paragraph of two to three sentences should be sufficient”.
Sally Whiteside, Head of HR for Tesco Online agrees “It should be short and sharp, representing your tone of voice to set you apart”.
Remember, the personal statement is a summary. You can expand on your successes elsewhere in your CV.
How to structure a personal statement
A personal statement should answer the question “why are you the best person for the job?” says Lucy Ventrice Senior HR Business Partner at Amazon.
She suggests “Start with a mind map. Put yourself in the middle and [write down] your experience, skills and attributes. Do the same with the future employer in the middle, what are they looking for in the job advert? Then compare the two and build from there.”
McGuire, a Professional CV Writer adds “while it may seem logical that your personal statement should be all about you, to be effective, it should be about your target employer and how you can meet their needs”.
Break this down into:
- Number of years of experience in the field.
- What specialist or transferable skills can you offer?
- What areas of expertise do you have?
- What relevant industries have you worked in?
- What personal qualities relevant to the role can you offer?
- Do you have any relevant qualifications or interests?
- The answers to these questions will determine the structure of your personal statement.
Sally Whiteside, Head of HR for Tesco Online agrees “The statement should be structured around your history of achievements, linking them all together to tell a compelling story of what it would be like to work with you and what value you will add to the company.”
How to start a personal statement
While introducing yourself in a career summary format, your opening sentence needs to “hook your reader, compelling them to read the next sentence, and the next” says McGuire, Founder of Giraffe CVs.
The opening sentence of your personal statement should include:
- Your job title.
- Number of years’ experience.
- A particular expertise you have.
- Active positive words or verbs.
Example personal statement opening
Innovative Project Manager (Prince II Practitioner and Certified Scrum Master) with over 5 years’ experience managing complex IT projects for a FTSE 100 company operating across the UK, Europe, India and South Africa.
How to end a personal statement
There are two ways to end your personal statement.
Senior HR Manager at Macfarlanes LLP, Sharon Xenophontos, finds it helpful if candidates let employers know what they are looking for. “It’s all part of the matching process” she says.
If you’re at a relatively early stage in your career state your career goal. Remember, your stated must relate to the role you’re applying for.
Example personal statement ending – entry level
My career goal is to gain responsibility for leading on a project and managing delivery successfully, actively contributing to achieving the business goals.
If you’re a bit further along in your career, state more specific goals and why you’d like to work for the employer.
Example personal statement ending –career developer
Hoping to join an innovative and dynamic company, and develop my social media and marketing skills further.
What should I include in my personal statement?
Here we’ve listed what to include in your personal statement, and what not to include.
Include in the personal statement
- Very little! Be concise. 150 words maximum. “Lengthy blocks of text are a turn off when you have a huge stack of CVs to get through” adds McGuire.
- Skills that are specific to the job. A good example would be ‘skilled in taking client briefs and presenting findings to stakeholders’. Avoid generic statements such as ‘possess good communication skills’.
- Skills that make you stand out from all the other applicants. Think about the unique value you can bring to the employer.
- Evidence of how your skills, competencies and experiences match the requirements set out in the job description/advert. “Think of examples that help to bring what you’re saying to life” adds Ventrice.
- Language, lingo and vocabulary comparable to that used by the employer in the job description, their website, their social media channels. Doing this will go a long way to showing that you’re a good fit for the organisation.
- The basics of good writing; “keep it simple, no jargon, correct grammar, avoid duplication.” says Ventrice.
- Your passions, as long as they’re relevant. For example, if you’re passionate about the environment and are applying for a job in a sustainability organisation it can help you stand out.
- “Your immediate career objective” says Xenophontos. It helps the employer understand why you’re applying.
Don’t include in the personal statement
- Uninteresting and uninspiring phrases. “Using clichés that could describe anyone in any role at any level is a big turn off” says McGuire.
- Generic statements that you use for every job you apply for. Employers won’t be impressed if you don’t take the time to tailor your personal statement to their job.
- Exaggerations or embellishments. Once you get to interview any untruths will be discovered.
- “Lists of unsubstantiated adjectives and “buzzwords” says Xenophontos. She recommends you “concentrate on what genuinely differentiates you from other candidates”.
- Negative language. Your personal statement needs to be a buoyant and positive introduction to you.
- Personal information. There’s no requirement to let an employer know your marital status or how many dependants you have.
- Disjointed statements. “You can’t rely on the fact the reader will join the dots between what you can offer and the results you can deliver for them; spell it out” recommends McGuire.
Personal statement examples
Since every personal statement is about one particular individual’s suitability for working for one particular employer, every personal statement should, in theory, be unique.
But we know getting started on a personal statement can be tough.
To help, we’ve curated some practical personal statement examples for you to base your personal statement on.
Half are for people in specific career stages / circumstances. Half are industry-specific. Use the links to jump to the one that suits you best.
Career stage / circumstance personal statements
Your current career stage or circumstance will have a major impact on both your employability, and how to present your employability in your CV.
We hope you can build upon the following sample personal statements to give your best representation of yourself in your next job application.
Unemployed personal statement
School leaver personal statement, graduate personal statement, career change personal statement, career break personal statement.
Industry-specific personal statements
Your skills, competencies and goals will be shaped hugely by the industry you work in. Accordingly, so will your personal statement.
We hope you’ll be able to find inspiration from one or more of the following sample personal statements as you write your own.
Nursing personal statement
Midwifery personal statement, teaching personal statement, teaching assistant personal statement, accounting personal statement, marketing personal statement, civil engineering personal statement, customer service personal statement, economics personal statement.
It’s important to carefully manage your unemployed status in your job application.
Our first piece of advice is to play down the fact you’re unemployed. Or, in other words, don’t write anything to highlight it.
Focus on the skills and experience you’re bringing to the role and the difference you can make.
Employers may wonder how up to date you are. You can address this head on in your personal statement by highlighting volunteering, attending training courses or reading trade journals or blogs to stay aware of industry trends.
Don’t worry too much about the gap on your CV. These days, employers are more understanding. After all, there are countless reasons why people become unemployed, for example redundancy or caring for dependants.
Unemployed: Sample CV template and guide
Unemployed personal statement example
Successful Sales Manager with over eight years’ experience in the Telecoms industry. Proven track record of success, including leading the top performing team in the region, and developing a sales training programme for all new staff. Now looking for the right opportunity to bring my skills to a dynamic IT software company in a management position.
School leavers worry they don’t have anything to put in a personal statement.
Jon Gregory, Editor of Win that Job.com , who advises parents and teenagers to find work, has this advice:
“Employers are usually not recruiting school leavers for knowledge or experience. They want to understand why you’re interested in a particular job. If you ‘care about the environment’ or perhaps ‘love working with animals’, it’s that relevant individuality that counts.”
Gregory adds “Talk less about what you want and more about what you can give in the future. Show you are positive, proactive, determined and in it for the long haul”.
Think widely about how your hobbies or interests could be relevant. Gregory recommends that “if you have employability skills developed from other work, projects or interests, use them to demonstrate your potential.”
First job: Sample CV and guide
School leaver personal statement example
Motivated and enthusiastic student with a passion for design technology, especially woodwork. I am interested in completing a construction apprenticeship in joinery, as I have always enjoyed making things. I am good at maths and confident when taking measurements and I recently won a school award for my chair design.
When writing your first CV after graduating, Sue Moseley, Senior Career Advisor for London University recommends that you “think of your personal statement as the headline to your CV. A good headline grabs attention because it connects with something the reader cares about. So start with what the employer cares about and work from there”.
“Change your statement for each application even if it’s just a linguistic tweak to match the employer’s voice. If the job ad asks for ‘excellent customer experience’, using those terms in your statement will increase impact” she adds.
“The vital key to impact is evidence” she goes on to say “When an employer reads your statement, how do they know it’s true? Use examples and numbers, based on things you’ve done”.
Graduate: Sample CV template and guide
Graduate personal statement example
Customer experience: As a student ambassador I welcomed a group of 30 sixth formers and their families onto campus and received positive feedback about the clear and helpful way I handled questions.
Lis McGuire, Founder of Giraffe CVs says “show how your transferrable skills can be applied to your target career and convey energy, enthusiasm, and commitment ”. She adds “don’t fall into the trap of over-explaining yourself and the reasons for your transition”.
If you’re changing careers to move into HR, for example, highlight the relevant parts of your previous career such as people management, recruitment or inductions, training, and exclude the other less relevant areas of your roles.
Career change: Sample CV template and guide
Career change personal statement example
Experienced manager with 5 years’ experience in recruiting, inducting and training staff. Recently delivered change management and restructuring programme for two departments, sensitively managing redundancies and redeployments. Passionate about employee engagement and enabling staff to contribute fully to achieve business aims. Now looking for challenging HR role in the retail sector.
“When your CV lands on a hiring manager, or recruiter’s desk, the first questions they’ll have are, ‘Why did this person take a career break?’ and, ‘can they do this job?’” says Fay Wallis, founder of Bright Sky Career Coaching . “Your personal statement is the best place to answer these questions and explain away any concerns” says Wallis.
She warns “don’t make your career break the focus of your CV though. Instead, make your experience and relevance for the role leap out at the person reading it”.
“Follow this with a brief reason for your career break. And end the personal statement with another reason that you are right for the role” Wallis adds.
Returning to work: Sample CV template and guide
Career break personal statement example
An experienced Communications Officer, with proven media relations, copywriting and proofreading skills within the voluntary sector. Looking to return to a communications role, following a career break to travel the world to experience other cultures. Recently qualified in social media management with a strong interest in working for a sustainability organisation.
Julie Watkins, Careers Advisor at The Royal College of Nursing suggests that “your personal statement should include the kind of sector you have worked in, any relevant clinical fields and what you’re passionate about.” She goes on to say “this could include empowering patients to take ownership of their health and wellbeing or an interest in health promotion.”
Watkins adds “in the current fast paced environment of the NHS you must emphasise your resilience and flexibility.”
She also highlights “the need for a tailored personal statement, as it’s the one thing that will really make your CV to stand out in the health sector.”
Nursing personal statement example
Caring and efficient Nurse committed to safeguarding the medical needs and wellbeing of my patients and their families. Particularly skilled at building rapport with anxious patients and focused on providing a high standard of care that lead to improved patient recovery. Experienced in a number of specialist and complex fields including geriatrics, cardiac and maxillofacial. Excellent observational and record keeping skills to ensure continuity of care and team support. Looking to now develop experience in other clinical areas within a high performing Trust.
Lynne Pacanowski, Director of Midwifery at Guy’s & St Thomas’ Hospital suggests “identifying what you have learnt from working in different areas such as antenatal, community, labour ward, or from services such as midwife led or tertiary units, and use this in your personal statement.”
Include skills that will interest the Trust, for example, advising expectant mothers on diet, exercise and medications during pregnancy.
Pacaonwski recommends you “demonstrate that you understand the population of the area the Trust serves.”
She goes on to say “you can also highlight challenging situations you have been involved with, for example, difficult births, identifying when cesareans are needed, or supporting mothers with challenging home situations.”
Midwifery personal statement example
Professional, approachable and efficient Midwife committed to providing the best quality care and support for mothers and families throughout their pregnancies. Four years’ experience and a first honours midwifery degree from University of Liverpool. Extremely knowledgeable about all aspects of pregnancy including ante and postnatal nutrition, and supporting both low and high risk women in a hospital setting. Have experience in both medical and community midwifery, particularly with women from a variety of ethnic backgrounds. Recently trained in aromatherapy to support women mentally and physically during labour. Looking for a new position within a progressive Trust with a Birthing Centre.
Jo Postlethwaite, Head Teacher of Somervale School , recommends that you get to know your target audience and says “Read everything you can about the setting. Read their vision statement. What can you say about yourself that shows you support this ethos?”
Secondly she recommends that you “Talk like a member of staff – spend a bit of time looking at the sort of language the establishment uses. Do they talk about pupils, students or children? Do they talk about ambition or aspiration? Ensure you use their words back to them.”
Additionally, it’s important to describe your teaching philosophy and enthusiasm for your subject.
Teaching personal statement example
Passionate Science Teacher striving to make a real difference to young people’s lives through engaging lessons matched to individual learning needs. Excellent behavioural management skills gained through vast experience of working in diverse academic settings. Experienced in developing lessons for a wide range of students. Now looking for a teaching role that offers more responsibility and management experience within a challenging and proactive school.
Jo Postlethwaite, Head Teacher of Somervale School , feels that “simple is best. Don’t over complicate what you write. This is your opportunity to summarise your good points. So, be succinct, but don’t forget to highlight how you work closely with teachers and parents as well as pupils.”
Postlethwaite often has 50+ applications to read through so she wants to see candidates “showing their ‘unique selling points (USP). But don’t be tempted to go for a ‘wacky’ colour or design as this can be off-putting.”
Finally, Postlethwaite recommends you “check your spelling and grammar, not just for your personal statement but your whole application. Errors in applications for teaching or support roles would end up on the ‘no’ pile.”
Teaching assistant personal statement example
A highly motivated Teaching Assistant with four years experience and a caring and supportive attitude. Through my recent studies in Early Childhood, I am up to date with developments in Early Years Care and Education, and have recent experience in Reception and Y1 classes. I have supported children with special needs and helped with behaviour management in the playground. Happy to support teachers with developing learning materials and displaying work, and am also comfortable communicating with parents and carers. Now looking to broaden my experience with Y2 and 3 children.
Ex-Accountant turned Career Coach Diana Norris of Career Balance suggests that “you should think of your CV as the first report you will write for your new employer, and your personal statement as the executive summary. Your statement should show you can write succinctly and ensure your reader grasps the essentials of your argument.”
Norris goes on to add “anything you think an employer really needs to notice should be in your profile. If you’re fluent in another European language, and the organisation you’re applying to does business in the EU, don’t leave that information languishing at the bottom of the second page of your document.”
She also recommends that you “avoid over used phrases like “good team player”. She calls it ‘CV ‘blah blah blah’ language. Employers tend not to see it when they read a CV – their eyes slide over it.”
Accounting personal statement example
Experienced and qualified Accountant with a sound understanding of financial controls and processes. A strong commercial awareness combined with the ability to analyse and produce high quality management reports to tight deadlines. Specific experience of developing cost saving practices, budget management and forecasting within the retail and utilities sectors. Now looking to broaden experience specifically in an IT firm.
Kate Kassis, Marketing Manager for Harrods has the following advice for would-be marketing executives: “Keep it concise and avoid unnecessary use of adjectives. Simple yet effective language skills are key to any marketing role.”
Kassis goes on to say: “Be honest. Don’t over-sell but, where possible, look to include a commercial angle. Creativity is key in Marketing but the ability to think strategically is even more important”.
When she’s recruiting, Kassis looks for something that tells her the applicant has the ability to ‘run with it’. This means working to deadlines, managing and presenting to stakeholders, delivering results and critically analysing.
Marketing personal statement example
Intuitive Marketing Executive skilled at increasing sales through diligent research and efficient resource allocation. Especially adept at managing complex projects while also developing key stakeholder relationships. Able to maximise profits whilst working within a tight marketing budget. Enjoy identifying client needs and delivering practical short and long term solutions. Now looking or a new role to develop my digital marketing skills.
“A good personal statement should focus on three key themes – your postgraduate experience, including details of chartership; the range of technical skills you have developed; and how you apply these to consultancy” says Rob Delahunty, Associate Director at Webb Yates Engineers .
“You’ll really stand out to an employer”, says Delahunty, “if you can show how these themes transfer to the workplace. Highlight your ability to work within a design team with architects, contractors and other specialists; show how your specialist IT knowledge or skill for analysis was applied to project challenges; and demonstrate your experience in assessing the environmental or safety impact of a project.”
Delahunty recommends: “Include any licences, industry accreditation, security clearances and certification you have, as they establish you as a recognised professional in the industry.”
Civil engineering personal statement example
An ambitious and highly motivated Civil Engineer with strong practical and technical skills, consistently finishes commercial and residential projects under budget and on schedule. Sound knowledge of designing, testing and evaluating overall effectiveness, cost, reliability, and safety of a design. Advocates for environmentally-conscious design and cost-effective public infrastructure solutions. Currently seeking a challenging professional position within a cutting edge engineering practice.
“Convey your enthusiasm for the role as employers are looking for staff who will represent them and their brand in a positive way. Highlight if you won any awards or suggested a change that benefited customers in some way” suggests Amanda Reuben, Experienced Fashion & Retail Brands Recruiter and Founder of Bijou Recruitment .
Reuben wants to see a number of personal qualities displayed in a Customer Service personal statement. She says, “you want your candidate to be friendly, warm and engaging whilst also remaining calm under pressure.” She also recommends that you show how you have managed customer expectations or dealt with difficult situations.
Think what you associate with the brand or company – are they fast paced and focused on efficient service, or do they like you to take time with customers. Show you understand and can support their approach.
Customer service personal statement example
A well-presented, patient and friendly Customer Service Advisor with a proven track record of building relationships by providing information on additional products and services and helping customers find the right ones to meet their needs. A genuine ‘can-do’ attitude demonstrated through a number of staff awards, and an excellent telephone manner combines to contribute to the growth of any business. Trained in effectively resolving customer complaints and now looking for a suitable position to take on more responsibility and expand retail experience.
For your personal statement to stand out, Dr Chris Sherrington, Head of Environmental Policy and Economics for Eunomia , an independent consultancy recommends you “show creativity in the way you’ve approached problems. This is important as there can be subject areas within specialist fields where outcomes can’t easily be quantified.”
He goes on to say “also show how you’ve offered relevant advice based on sound economic principles, and where you’ve successfully made the best use of the data that’s available.” This could be in a report you’ve produced or some analysis you’ve delivered.
Economics personal statement example
Proactive Economist with 5 years’ experience in both public and private sector, and specific expertise in healthcare trends. Extremely skilled in market trend analysis, financial modelling and business planning, having delivered a comprehensive management report on a proposed outsourcing opportunity. Enjoy developing productive industry and internal relationships to increase understanding of business needs and economic impact. Now looking for a role to further develop my strategic planning skills within the environmental sector.
Personal statement do’s and don’ts
- Do sell yourself and highlight what sets you apart from other candidates.
- Do make it relevant. Tailor it to the job you are applying for.
- Do be succinct. Max 150 words or 2-3 sentences.
- Do use a career summary format showing what you have to offer.
- Do make it engaging. It needs to be interesting to read.
- Do be specific. Avoid generic phrases that everyone uses.
- Do show some passion, as long as it’s relevant.
- Do make it about the employer. Show how you can do their job.
- Do include number of years experience, specialist skills and expertise, relevant industries and personal qualities.
- Do have a strong opening sentence to ‘hook’ the employer to read on.
- Do end your statement by letting the employer know what you are looking for.
- Do show you’re a good fit. Pay attention to the language used by the employer.
- Don’t make spelling or grammar errors.
- Don’t be negative about yourself or a previous employer.
- Don’t exaggerate or embellish what you can do. Be honest.
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- Career Planning
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- Cover Letters
How To Start a Cover Letter With Examples and Tips
Alison Doyle is one of the nation’s foremost career experts.
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- How to Start a Cover Letter
- Cover Letter Opening Sentence Examples
Personalize Your Cover Letter
- What to Write in the Rest of Your Letter
Cover Letter Sample
More cover letter examples and templates.
Theresa Chiechi / The Balance
What's the best way to start a cover letter for a job? The first couple of sentences of your cover letter are the most important ones. Recruiters and hiring managers often spend mere seconds scanning your application.
If your cover letter doesn't grab their attention right away, they may never even get as far as the second paragraph. What should these all-important first sentences say? Keep in mind that you're hoping to differentiate yourself from the competition. Your goal is to explain to the reader who you are, why you're writing, and how you can contribute to the employer's success.
This might mean highlighting a contact , providing a quick window into your relevant background and experience, or emphasizing a significant accomplishment that would make you an asset to the organization.
Think about why the hiring manager should select you, above all other candidates, for an interview, and you'll be on the right track.
How to Start a Cover Letter
Be direct. In these opening sentences, you want to explicitly let the reader know which position you're applying for. Hiring managers are often looking at candidates for several open jobs at any given time. Make sure it's easy for them to discover your intent. For example:
I am interested in the coordinator position at ABC company.
Mention a contact. If someone referred you to the position , include that information early on as well. Referrals are one of the key aspects to securing an interview, so be sure to mention yours right away. For example:
Jane Doe suggested I contact you about the job, as she feels my skills would be a good fit for the position.
State an accomplishment. Try to state an accomplishment from your previous job. If you can, show how you added value to the last company you worked for. You might even add the job title you had if it's similar to the one you are applying for. For example:
As coordinator at XYZ Enterprises, I have increased my group's output by 37% over the past 15 months.
Express excitement. Convey your passion for your work, and your excitement about the job and company. Your cover letter is an opportunity to sell yourself to the hiring manager, and to share why you're well qualified for the job. For example:
I would greatly appreciate the opportunity to meet with you to discuss what I have to bring to the position at ABC company.
Use keywords. If you can include any keywords from the job listing, do so. You can mention a skill you have that was included in the post. For example:
My track history of successfully managing teams and delivering projects on time and on budget makes me a good fit for this role.
Examples of Cover Letter Opening Sentences
- As an information technology professional with high-level management experience in the IT industry, I learned that the best way to achieve success was to utilize the resources I had by employing well-defined objectives and an attitude of empowerment.
- I am very interested in the entry-level position that is available at ABC Investment Partners. I recently graduated from XYZ college, and my courses in investments, finance, and business have equipped me with a solid base upon which I plan to build my career.
- I am writing to express my strong interest in the international marketing position open at WellCam, Inc. My colleague Janna Doling recommended that I contact you directly about this position, owing to the years I have spent developing successful campaigns for XYZ company.
- I'm writing to express my interest in the editorial assistant position listed on Monster.com. Given my five years of editorial experience and excellent capabilities, I would appreciate your consideration for this position.
- I have a very strong interest in pursuing a teaching career. With experience working at both elementary and high school levels, as well as in activities outside of the traditional classroom, I have a diverse background with much to offer.
- I have the pleasure of being acquainted with one of the counselors on your staff, Eleanor Seville. She let me know about the open position and recommended that I contact you.
- I was excited to read about the administrative assistant job opening at XYZ company. I have several years of administrative experience in a variety of fields, including insurance and finance.
- I understand that you have been deluged with resumes since Computer World released their list of the best companies to work for. Mine is one more, but I do have experience that is hard to come by.
- My proven track record of successfully performing complex analyses on various corporations makes me an ideal candidate for the analyst opportunity that you have advertised.
When you're not sure how to get started, it can be really helpful to review examples of cover letters . You can use these as a guide, but be sure to tailor your introduction to your personal circumstances and the job you're applying for.
The more closely you construct your cover letter to show that you're a match for the job requirements , the better your chances of getting selected for an interview.
What to Write in the Rest of Your Cover Letter
Of course, the rest of your letter is important too. You'll need to use an appropriate salutation , and make your cover letter closing polite and inviting. In the body of your letter , you have the opportunity to pitch your qualifications for the job in more detail than you have room for in your resume.
If there are specific events or accomplishments you feel are likely to make you stand out, you can briefly mention them and explain in more detail should you secure an interview.
Make sure your contact information is complete as well, and format your signature to match the letter style you are using.
Download the cover letter template (compatible with Google Docs or Word Online) or read the example below.
Sample Cover Letter (Text Version)
John Smith 37 Oak Street Middle Village, New York 10502 555-555-555 john.smith@email.com
March 22, 2021
Dr. Jane Doe All Smiles Dentistry 5 Main Street, Suite A Middle Village, New York 10502
Dear Dr. Doe,
My former coworker, Maria Rodriguez, suggested that I contact you to express my interest in the position of dental assistant in your office in Middle Village.
I’m a licensed dental assistant with over 10 years of experience helping dentists and hygienists make their patients smile. In my current role with ABC Dental, I have gained proficiency in the four-handed dentistry technique, as well as mastering Henry Schein Dentix software.
I also have the following skills and qualifications, as outlined in the job description on your website:
- Experience taking and developing dental X-rays
- Infection control expertise, including preparing and sterilizing instruments and equipment
- Knowledge of several different types of scheduling software
- Language skills (bilingual: English/Spanish)
- Excellent customer service skills and attention to detail
Most importantly, I love people. I consider it a great privilege to help dentists improve their patients’ lives by providing the very best support and customer care.
I’ve enclosed my resume, and I hope you’ll contact me at your convenience to arrange an interview.
Signature (hard copy letter)
Review cover letter examples for many different types of jobs, and get downloadable templates you can use to write your own cover letters.
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How to write your personal statement
For some jobs you will be asked to provide a personal statement or statement of suitability.
Your personal statement
The purpose of a personal statement is to showcase your relevant skills and experience against the job requirements. The statement is your opportunity to give examples of how you fit the requirements of the job. When writing a personal statement it is important that you:
- Read the job specification so you are clear about the job requirements.
- Outline the skills and experience that you have that are relevant to the job and use examples to help demonstrate this. Wherever possible include specific facts and figures that demonstrate the tangible results of your work.
- Keep to the word limit. If your statement is too brief it will not provide the required depth of detail and evidence to be assessed fully.
- Proof read your statement before submitting it to make sure it is clear, easy to read and relevant.

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Nursing Personal Statement Examples in 2023
In this article, we look at the best nursing personal statement examples in 2023 along with tips and advice for writing a great personal statement for a nursing program.

Table of Contents
What is a nursing personal statement, what should you include in your nursing personal statement, how to write an outstanding nursing personal statement, nursing personal statement example #1, nursing personal statement example #2, nursing personal statement example #3, related articles.
- FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
Keep reading for 3 examples of nursing personal statements and the 7 things you should include in your statement. Also, find out how taking care of her grandmother at home inspired one student to go into nursing.
A nursing personal statement is an essay or statement that is usually part of a list of requirements for admittance to a nursing program.
The purpose of a nursing personal statement is to give the selection committee information about your character and qualities so they can see you will be a good fit for the program.
The goals that should be included in a nursing personal statement are:
- Passing all of your exams and receiving an honours degree in general nursing.
- Becoming a registered nurse and securing a job as a nurse.
- Helping a certain group of people (for example children, the elderly, and vulnerable youth)
2. Professional Experience
Any professional experience related to nursing should be included in a nursing personal statement. This could include:
- Hospital, clinic and GP practice experience
- Any other relevant work with people such as volunteering or mentoring roles
- Any paid work that has given you administrative or client-facing experience
- Previous work experience in healthcare settings such as residential care demonstrates your ability to handle complex situations and care for patients.
For example, one student wrote about how working in a dental clinic helped her to start to consider nursing as a career.
3. Interests and motivation
When writing a nursing personal statement, it is important to explain your motivation for pursuing a career in nursing. Possible interests to include in your statement include:
- Your desire to help others and make a difference in people’s lives
- You were inspired by a family member, teacher or neighbour who was a nurse
- Your interest in providing care and support to those who need it most when they are at their most vulnerable
- The positive impact that nurses have on their patients’ lives, both physically and mentally
- Your desire to work as part of a team with other healthcare professionals
- Your commitment to providing high-quality, compassionate care for all patients, regardless of their background or lifestyle choices.
One of the students profiled below wrote I have a particular interest in pain management and the non-traditional methods of holistic care to support patients, such as hypnosis.
4. Qualifications
When writing a nursing personal statement, it is important to include details of the qualifications you have earned or are currently working towards. These should include:
- A degree in nursing or a related field.
- Certification in CPR, advanced life support techniques, and other relevant skill sets.
- Strong scores in High School science, math and related subjects.
5. Personal Traits
When writing a personal statement for nursing programmes, it is important to include personal qualities such as:
- Honesty and integrity – you should be honest about your abilities and experience, as well as your intentions for pursuing a career in nursing.
- Empathy – being able to put yourself in someone else’s shoes and understand their perspective is an essential trait of a good nurse.
- Compassion – having compassion for others will help you provide them with the best possible care.
- Initiative – taking the initiative when needed shows that you are capable of taking on responsibilities without being told what to do.
- Maturity – having maturity means being able to think rationally in stressful situations, even if emotions may be running high around you.
When writing your nursing personal statement, you should include the following skills:
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Strong critical thinking and problem-solving abilities
- Accuracy and attention to detail
- Knowledge of medical terminology and healthcare systems
- Knowledge of various treatments, protocols, policies, and procedures related to nursing practice.
Make it clear that you know you have a lot to learn and that you are looking forward to a steep learning curve!
7. Achievements
Achievements that could be included in a nursing personal statement include, but are not limited to:
- Awards and honours received for academic or other achievements
- Volunteer work or community service activity awards related to nursing
- Extra-curricular activities that have helped you develop the necessary skills for nursing school, such as tutoring or mentoring programs
- Accomplishments related to previous jobs or internships related to healthcare professions (e.g., certifications)
Step 1: Research the Schools
Researching the schools you are applying to can help with writing an outstanding nursing personal statement because it gives you an idea of what each school is looking for and what their requirements are.
This process will help you rank the programs in order of preference, determine which schools are reach schools and which institutions should be your ‘safety schools’, if you are not selected by your number one choice.
You could identify any specific topics or themes that each school tends to favor in their applications.
This knowledge will allow you to craft an effective personal statement that stands out from the rest.
Step 2: Get Ready to Talk about Yourself
- Start by brainstorming: Read the prompt carefully. If it asks you to talk about anything other than your motivation for nursing school (for example, a time when you helped someone) highlight it and brainstorm it separately.
- Write down any experiences, traits, or qualities that make you an outstanding candidate for the nursing program.
- Select the best stories and anecdotes: Choose those that demonstrate your strengths and show why you are an ideal fit for the program.
- Edit thoroughly: Go through each section multiple times to ensure it is relevant and well-written, then reread it with a critical eye to catch any mistakes or typos that may have slipped through in the editing stages.

Step 3: Write the Essay in free-form
- Sometimes getting started is the hardest part! If you know the examples you are going to talk about and have a rough plan for your essay, write the example that’s most important to you first.
- To begin, don’t worry about grammar or making it sound perfect. Say what you want to say, and let your passion for nursing shine through.
- Then, refine your ideas by shaping them and going back in to shape them further if needed. Sometimes, taking a break overnight will give you time to subconsciously improve your ideas.
- Ensure that your essay is captivating by giving yourself adequate time to go through this process thoroughly before starting on the final draft of your essay.
Step 4: Revise and Revise Some More
- Read through the entire essay carefully and make notes of any areas that need improvement.
- Make corrections to grammar and sentence structure issues, as well as any other minor mistakes or typos you find along the way.
- Re-read your essay multiple times to make sure it flows smoothly from start to finish without any awkward transitions or sections that need further clarification or expansion. Ask trusted guidance counsellors, teachers or study partners to read it and give you some feedback.
- Read it through again after making changes if necessary, double-check that you have completed the whole application and attached your supporting documents, then submit your application when it’s ready.
In 2023, an example of a successful nursing school personal statement might look something like this:
“The week after I turned 16, I was walking backwards down a hill, my arms supporting the weight of the wheelchair as its wheels rolled slowly in reverse.
Sunlight danced through the trees around us and shone in my grandmother’s hair as she sat inside the wheelchair.
I couldn’t see my grandmother’s face from that angle, but I could hear her laughing with joy as she enjoyed the outdoors for the first time in weeks. My exhausted parents were finally trusting me as a caregiver and it changed my life.
My grandmother came to live with my family two years ago after breaking her hip. She completed much of her recovery at our home, but Nurse George came by every day to perform personal care tasks, monitor vital signs and assist with physical therapy exercises.
George also taught me some basic patient care practices such as how to support a wheelchair correctly while going downhill and emphasised the importance of positive mental health in patient recovery.
I am excited by this opportunity to apply to Seaton’s College of Nursing because I appreciate your program’s specialization in rehabilitation nursing; it is exactly what inspired me pursue a career helping people recover from injuries or medical surgery!
Additionally, your focus on assisting patients to regain their independent skills will help me achieve these professional aspirations I have set for myself.
“I grew up close to a hospital, where I watched patients go through the double doors for a variety of ailments. From a young age, this drove me to develop a strong interest in the field of medicine. I knew that I wanted to pursue a career in the future that would allow me to take care of those in need.
Through my courses in the natural sciences as well as social studies, I have continued to develop my knowledge in the field and prepare for my future education.
Listening to my mother talk about her patients and their families at Jackson Pediatrics Center has taught me the value of empathy and communication.
Frequently, they simply want someone to listen; I do my best to give them a judgment-free space where they can share their stories.
Whether it’s an emotional or physical issue they’re facing, patients appreciate working with flexible and considerate people like myself who understand how important it is for them feel comfortable talking about their struggles or concerns without fear of judgement or criticism from others around them. I want to be that kind of nurse in the future.
Additionally, being able to help young people overcome their challenges and navigate their way back towards recovery is something that excites me about pursuing this career path.”
“I first thought of nursing and a career in health when I started a part-time job at a local dental practice. My job was secretarial but almost immediately I was spending some time interacting with patients and became interested in working in the healthcare industry.
I have a particular interest in pain management and the non-traditional methods of holistic care to support patients, such as hypnosis which was used successfully at the practice to help patients with phobias and extreme anxiety prepare for treatment.
This experience helped inspire me to apply for nursing school with the goal of becoming an RN someday because it showed me how rewarding it could be helping people access healthcare.
Since then I have volunteered at our local drop-in health clinic at the community centre; there is no feeling comparable when they offer you their sincere thank yous! Furthermore, these experiences have taught me the value of community support when trying to encourage members of minority communities to access healthcare.
If they know someone who has had a positive experience at the clinic they are much more likely to attend. Going forward, I would like to focus on pain management in the community because I think there is huge scope for development in this field.”
What should be included in a nursing personal statement?
When writing your nursing personal statement, make sure to include:
- Why you want to become a nurse
- What inspires you about nursing
- The experiences you’ve had that have taught you about nursing
- Program-specific reasons for your interest in the school
- How you intend to contribute to the program and field of nursing
What format should be used for a nursing personal statement?
The outline of the format should include:
- Half-inch indentations for each paragraph
- Left-align or justify your essay
- Double spacing between sentences and paragraphs
- One-inch margins all around
- Times New Roman font style (12 points) with no title or headings.
Note – the nursing school may provide more specific guidance. Use the above if they do not include formatting advice.
What topics can be discussed in a nursing personal statement?
Topics that can be discussed in a nursing personal statement include:
- Why you want to study nursing and what sparked your interest in the field.
- Your skill sets, such as patience, empathy, teamwork and communication.
- Any experiences that have shaped who you are today or influenced your decision to become a nurse (e.g., an unwell family member).
- Any personal details that are relevant to why you should be accepted into the program (e.g., life experiences).
- Any personal challenges that may impact your ability to access the course, like severe financial hardship or a disability and the specific suppport you would need.
How do I write a great nursing personal statement?
- Determine your purpose
- Research the school
- Brainstorm ideas
- Write down key points
What is the difference between a nursing program and a nursing school?
The difference between a nursing program and a nursing school is Nursing programs are the courses that individuals take to earn their nursing degree. Nursing schools are institutions that offer these programs and provide education and training for students.
Nursing schools typically require applicants to submit a personal statement as part of the application process.
Additionally, nursing schools often have a broader focus than just providing education in the field of nursing, such as offering classes in related subjects like biology or chemistry.
How do I find admission requirements for nursing school?
Research the different nursing schools you are interested in, and find their website. All the information you need about admissions should be on the university website
Once you have decided that nursing is for you, you can also schedule an appointment (in-person or online) with an admissions counsellor for each nursing school you are considering to get a better understanding of their personal statement requirements and other criteria they look for in applicants.
What are the different types of nursing careers?
There are many types of nursing careers, including:
- Registered Nurse (RN): Registered nurses are licensed professionals who provide direct patient care, educate patients about their conditions, and administer medications.
- Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN): Licensed practical nurses are also licensed professionals who provide direct patient care but do not have the same level of education as registered nurses.
- Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA): Certified nursing assistants assist registered nurses and licensed practical nurses with basic patient care tasks such as feeding, bathing and dressing patients in addition to other duties related to the healthcare facility they work in such as cleaning rooms or providing transportation services for patients/family members visiting the facility/homecare settings etc.
- Guide to Writing a Winning Personal Statement for University
- Personal Statement versus Statement of Purpose
- Statement of Purpose Examples: How to Write the Best One for You?
- Statement of Purpose vs. Personal Statement: Six Differences Between the Two
- How to Write a Winning Scholarship Personal Statement: With Examples
- Residency Personal Statement Examples: Top Tips for Best Length, Content, and Structure
- How to write a Resume Personal Statement That Gets You the Job – with Examples and Tips
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How To Write A Personal Statement For A Job? Employment
Personal statements are often used in job applications, but can also be used for college and university applications, too. Here, we’ll give you some hints and tips for creating a personal statement for a job that goes the distance. Read on to find out more!
What is a personal statement?
First thing’s first…what is it?
A personal statement for a job is usually a paragraph about you that goes on the top of your CV. It’s sometimes known as a personal profile, professional profile, or even a career objective – so keep an eye out for these kinds of terms too in your job hunt.
Your personal statement should be an ‘ overview of you ,’ covering things like: who you are, why you think you are suitable for the role, what you will bring to the job, and your career goals.
If you are wondering why a personal statement is important (after all, shouldn’t all that be in your CV anyway?) it’s worth knowing that recruiters get 100s of CVs sent to them every single day. And on average they spend about 6 seconds looking at a CV before making a decision on the candidate. So, having a personal statement at the top of your CV gives a brief, easy to read summary that will hook the recruiter in and make them want to call you in for an interview.
Example of a personal statement for a job:
A friendly and enthusiastic individual, currently looking to return to a retail assistant role after spending the last 3 years raising a family. I possess excellent communication and listening skills, and I work extremely well in a team, as well as being able to work confidently on my own. I have recently volunteered at a local charity shop, as a sales assistant, to refresh my skills, and I am committed to continuing my career on a full-time basis.
How to write a personal statement
Like the example above, your personal statement should be short and sweet. Remember, your aim is to catch the attention of the recruiter so they read your CV in more depth before inviting you to interview.
Before you start, it’s best to sit down with your updated CV and make a list of all of your relevant skills and experience. Examples of skills you could include are:
- Communication
- Numeracy (i.e. good at working with money)
- Problem solving
- Organisation
- Creativity
- Confidence
Once you have a list of these things, it should be a lot easier to pull together an effective personal statement.
What if I have no work experience?
Having no work experience doesn’t mean you can’t write a good personal statement. There are plenty of other ways you can demonstrate your skills. Do you have a hobby or an interest? If you do, it’s likely you use key skills to do this and the best part is you can put this in your personal statement. Similarly, if you were involved in any clubs, teams or projects at school.
The key to writing an effective personal statement is keeping it relevant to the role you are applying to. So make sure you read the job advert and any accompanying information thoroughly to understand what the employer is looking for!
What do I put at the start of my personal statement?
Many, many people struggle to write about themselves. So, if this is you, don’t worry! To kick off your personal statement, see if you can come up with a short, sharp statement (no longer than one sentence) that describes you accurately.
This could be one that highlights your previous work experience:
‘A flexible construction worker with three years’ experience in bricklaying, roofing, plastering and plumbing.’
Or one that shows skills and experience you have from hobbies, interest or education:
‘A hardworking individual with a passion for creativity alongside a Distinction in Level 3 Graphic Design.’
Again, keep it short. And don’t forget to big yourself up a little bit! Make the recruiter believe that you are the best person for the role you are applying for.
What goes in the middle of a personal statement?
When it comes to writing your personal statement, it’s best to have at least a loose structure in mind to help you get everything down that you need to. You could include:
- Why are you applying?
- Why are you suitable for the role?
- What relevant job experience or training do you have?
- What projects or experiences have you taken part in that could show your abilities ?
- What makes you the perfect person for the job?
Use the answers to these questions to write your personal statement.
What goes at the end of a personal statement?
The end of your personal statement should make it clear to whoever is reading what your goals are professionally. For example, the construction worker above may put:
‘Looking to take on my next challenge in the world of construction, and develop my skills with a reputable local business.’
Or, for the aspiring graphic designer:
‘Looking for a start in the exciting world of graphic design, where I can learn from the best with a creative and innovative company.’
Remember: keep it brief!
Do’s and Don’ts for your personal statement
To help you on your way, here is a list of the do’s and don’ts for your personal statement.
- Make sure your tone is polite, friendly and (most importantly) professional.
- Keep it short and sweet. Your personal statement should only be around 3 or 4 sentences long.
- Include relevant information, such as previous experience.
- Highlight your key skills.
- Make it clear what kind of role you are looking for – this will help highlight your suitability for the one you are applying for.
- Use the job advert, person specification and any other information you have about the company to inform your personal statement.
- Make your achievements clear! Blow your own trumpet!
- Use slang words or be too conversational
- Include any personal information that’s not relevant. For example: how many children you have, whether you are single or married, etc.
- Be negative!
- Lie or exaggerate the truth.
- Take a template from online without personalising it!
Need a bit more help?
If you need help in writing your CV or personal statement, we can help. For a detailed and private 1-2-1 with one of advocates who can advise, please call 01902 96228 or fill in the form below to request a callback.
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CV Personal Statement Examples and Tips
Your personal statement is the first thing a recruiter or hiring manager will read when flicking through what will usually be a huge pile of CVs. With so much competition, you need a personal statement that grabs their attention for all the right reasons. But how do you write one? Here’s our guide along with a couple of personal statement examples for inspiration.
What is a personal statement?
A personal statement is a concise paragraph that sits at the top of your CV just below your name and contact details and tells the reader why you would be a fantastic asset for their company. It should include a summary of your most relevant skills and experience and give the recruiter an insight into your ambitions and character.
Your personal statement should explain:
- Who you are
- Your suitability for the role and the value you can add
- Your career goals
Conveying all that information in just a few sentences is certainly not easy, but with research suggesting that recruiters spend an average of just six seconds reviewing each CV before deciding whether the applicant is a good fit, you must get it right.
How to write a winning personal statement for your CV
No one has your specific skills and experience, so your personal statement must be unique. However, there are some universal tips you can follow.
- Length, formatting and tone of voice
Probably the biggest challenge you’ll face when writing a personal statement for your CV is keeping it between 50 and 150 words, or around four or five lines of text. It should be clean and concise, formatted consistently and written in the same font and point size as the rest of your CV.
Personal statements can be written in the first (“I am a marine biologist”) or third-person (“Marine biologist looking for”), but whatever voice you choose, keep it consistent throughout your CV.
Recruiters read so much hyperbole and waffle that being honest and understated will help you stand out. This is not The Apprentice, so buzzwords, empty promises and meaningless metaphors should be avoided at all costs.
- Back up your claims
Cliches like ‘hard worker’ or ‘experienced’ are just empty words that recruiters see hundreds of times a day. Instead, establish your credentials with relevant vocational qualifications or professional memberships you have and quantify the level of experience you have. For example, “I am a RICS qualified surveyor with eight years’ experience working for a property development company”.
- Include statistics from your career
Including specific data or statistics in your personal statement will immediately make it stand out from the hundreds of others recruiters read every day. Metrics of success are far more memorable than simply listing your achievements. For example, “I introduced a new lead qualification tool that increased sales by 15 percent”.
- Remove pronouns in the third person
The personal statement on your CV is the one place where it’s okay to talk about yourself in the third person. However, using pronouns, for example, “he is a conscientious worker with 12 years of experience...” is a step too far. Instead, drop the pronouns, so that would become “A conscientious worker with 12 years of experience…”
Personal statement examples
Here are a few examples of personal statements to keep you on the right track and hopefully provide a little inspiration.
Written in the first person by a graduate looking for their first professional role.
I am a recent graduate with a first-class degree in economics, specialising in econometrics and international trade. I have commercial experience in the finance sector courtesy of an internship with a UK corporation, where I developed the technical data engineering skills you are looking for. I have a proven ability to meet deadlines and produce consistently high-quality work, as evidenced by my degree, and would relish the chance to develop my skills within your organisation.
Written in the third person by an experienced purchasing manager looking to climb the ladder.
Purchasing manager with 12 years of experience who wants to progress to a more senior role within the aviation industry. Has developed strong and lasting relationships during previous managerial positions in the sector and wants to put this strong network to good use to add value to your business.
Time to get hired
Writing a winning personal statement that you’re happy with and that summarises your skills and experience effectively in just a few lines will take time. However, using these tips and examples as a guide and editing your personal statement for every role is an important piece of the puzzle.
To hear Guardian Jobs reader Elia’s story and how her Personal Career Management programme helped land her ideal job watch the video .
Personal Career Management can offer you a free review to assess your needs and to see which programme is right for you.
To book call Personal Career Management on 01753 888 995 or fill in the contact form .
Personal Career Management are Career Management Partners for the Guardian and are a specialist career coaching and outplacement company.
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How to Write a Powerful Personal Statement
A personal statement is a short essay that highlights the best qualities of the writer, usually in the context of school or job applications. Somewhat autobiographical, personal essays delve into the talents, skills, passions, ambitions, and accomplishments of the writer.
Something to know when applying to schools, scholarships, or companies for a job is that the institution wants to know what kind of person their candidate is. Personal statements enable the evaluation of applicants, not just of what they say about themselves, but also of how they say it.
Give your essays extra polish Grammarly helps you strengthen your academic writing Write with Grammarly
That makes writing personal statements a useful skill for getting accepted at your top school or dream job. Unfortunately, writing about yourself isn’t always easy—it’s quite a personal topic! So in this guide, we explain everything you need to know about how to write a personal statement, including some personal statement examples.
What is a personal statement?
As mentioned above, a personal statement is a resource used to evaluate candidates, especially for school applications, employment, scholarships, and some types of grants. It typically explains a candidate’s relationship with the relevant field, such as an academic discipline or job position.
Take a look at this personal statement example from Uni Compare . Notice how the writer, a prospective law student, discloses their passion for and understanding of legal matters, while also mentioning their relevant experience and achievements.
In another personal statement example from a would-be English literature student , the writer links their favorite books to their interest in the subject, even sharing personal stories of watching famous plays live at a theater, before listing off their academic accomplishments.
>>Read More: How to Communicate About Your Achievements
There are no set rules for how to write a personal statement—a lot of your writing choices depend on the assignment and reader—but they typically fall between 400 and 1,000 words, rarely exceeding a single page.
Personal statements can be either open or prompted. Open personal statements are when you, the writer, get to choose the main topic. These are often more difficult because it requires astute decision-making: How do you choose which parts of your life to write about?
Prompted personal statements narrow down the focus. This format usually offers a specific question as a prompt, or at least sets some guidelines for what you should cover.
How to write a personal statement
When writing a personal statement, follow the normal guidelines to essay writing ; after all, a personal statement is often just a short specialized personal essay.
As with all serious writing, we recommend the six-step writing process . First and foremost, you need to understand the assignment, in particular the necessary topic(s) and target word count. Once you’re sure you know what you need to do, it’s time to begin.
1 Brainstorming
The brainstorming phase is when you come up with the different ideas to mention in your personal statement or decide what the main topic will be if the prompt is open.
For example, if the assignment asks you to write about a significant life event that influenced who you are, you could start by writing down all your most influential life events so that you could pick your subject from the list. The best choice is not always obvious: In this personal statement example, a student uses a conversation with their grandmother to transition into their interest in economics.
If you already know the most significant life event, you could then brainstorm the different ways it impacted you. Later, you can choose the best ones from the list to include in your personal statement.
What if you don’t know what to include in your personal statement? Here are some introspective questions to ask yourself to help you find personal topics to write about:
- What was the greatest challenge you’ve faced in your life? How did you overcome it, and/or what did you learn from it?
- What are you most passionate about? If you had a billion dollars, what would you choose to do all day?
- What skills, talents, or expertise do you have that your peers do not? What quirks or traits make you stand out?
- How does your background or identity affect your life? Do people treat you differently because of who you are? How does it change your behavior?
- Who are your personal heroes? How has their story changed your life?
Sometimes it’s hard to accurately reflect on yourself, so feel free to ask friends or loved ones for advice. Find out what talents and skills they admire most about you. What would they say are your best traits?
Once you have enough ideas to satisfy the requirements of the assignment and meet the word count, you can get started on outlining in the next step.
2 Preparing
The preparation, or outlining , phase is when you take all your ideas from brainstorming and organize them into a basic framework for your first draft.
Before you start structuring everything, however, ask yourself whom you’re writing for. Your reader determines not just your tone, but also what you choose to talk about in your personal statement (and what you choose to omit).
For example, if you’re writing a personal statement for a college application, the school’s admissions officers will probably be interested in your academic achievements, such as landing on the honor roll. However, if you’re writing a personal statement for a job application, academic achievements like the honor roll might not be worth mentioning.
Try to glean what your reader wants to know before you begin formulating your personal statement. University recruiters want to know if you match their school or program, so include facts about yourself that demonstrate you’re a good fit. Job recruiters want evidence that you’ll do the job well, so include proof of your work ethic and skill mastery.
With your specific reader in mind, reread your list of ideas from brainstorming. Choose which ones to keep and which ones to leave out.
From there, organize your ideas into the three sections of your personal statement: introduction, body, and conclusion. In this stage, you don’t need to worry about the details just yet. For now, just make sure all the required ideas are included and sequenced in the right order.
3 Drafting
When first learning how to write a personal statement, remember that the drafting phase is usually the longest and most involved—it’s the part of writing your personal statement where you actually write your personal statement.
Your rough draft, or first draft, doesn’t need to be perfect. Writing a rough draft is just about getting your ideas down; the next stage, revising, is when you focus on the fine details. For now, just write whatever comes to mind and worry about improving it later.
Just as when you’re writing a college essay , start strong with an opening hook, then expand on that idea in the following paragraphs. In this personal statement example from a chemistry applicant , the writer starts off with a seemingly unrelated personal anecdote, stoking the reader’s curiosity:
Swimming from a young age always made me ponder the thought, who cleans the pool and how do they do it? As I grew older I realised it wasn’t a case of who, it is a case of what. Essentially, chemistry held the answer.
The writer then connects the opening anecdote to the main parts of the personal statement—what the reader wants to know. In this case, it’s why they’re a good fit for the school’s chemistry program.
Writing objectively about yourself is not easy; you can’t always see the forest for the trees. If you feel stuck, it might help to try freewriting , a technique where you just write down everything that comes to mind, no matter if it’s unusable in the final draft. Freewriting is often the push you need to overcome an initial writer’s block.
Because the topic is your life, feel free to write openly and honestly. A lot of times, your readers want to hear your story in your own words —they can get the facts from your school records or résumé/CV, but they can only get your interpretation of these facts from you. Don’t disappoint them!
Choosing the perfect words and rearranging the structure is much easier when you already have a rough draft in front of you. Now, you can reread your personal statement and fix any areas that need improvement.
During the revision stage, follow these tips for self-editing , which include watching out for the passive voice, unnecessary words, repetition, long sentences, and a few other red flags. Don’t worry too much about spelling and grammar mistakes for now; you can handle those later when proofreading .
For personal statements, make sure everything would be clear to a reader who’s never met you. Because the topic is yourself, you may have forgotten to mention some key detail that a stranger wouldn’t know.
5 Proofreading
With your personal statement polished, you can begin proofreading . This is when you fix all the technical problems like spelling and grammar mistakes, as well as other general issues like formatting.
Before you start proofreading, it’s a good idea to take a break from working on your personal statement. For one thing, it’s healthy for you to take some time to relax, especially if you’ve been working on it for a long time. Moreover, returning to your draft after you’re refreshed can help you notice small problems you hadn’t seen before.
If you’re not confident with your knowledge of English spelling or grammar, you can always get help. Grammarly’s writing suggestions find and highlight any mistakes you make while typing, so you can go back and fix them whenever you like. On top of that, Grammarly’s tone detector helps with your phrasing, letting you know if your language is appropriately formal for a personal statement.
Those features are all available in Grammarly’s free offering, with even more in Grammarly Premium . Download Grammarly now to see how your writing improves.
6 Submitting
The last step is an easy one: Turn in your personal statement. Double-check that you’ve fulfilled the requirements, including word count, and make sure it’s in the requested format (PDF, Word document, etc.).
What comes next, though, is truly the hardest part of writing a personal statement: waiting for a response back!

Search advice
Personal statement examples.

by Michael Cheary
OK, so putting a personal statement together is never easy…
But even if you’ve written one before, how you write a personal statement will always depend on your current situation. In other words, what you write as a school leaver will look a lot different to someone who has many years of previous work experience.
To help you find the right one for you, here are some real personal statement examples – and how you can use them to make your CV stand out:
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University personal statement
First things first: personal statements aren’t just for your CV.
They’re also a key part of the UCAS application process, and a way to sell yourself to prospective universities. However, they will be much more detailed – and longer – than the one you write for a job application.
We’ve covered everything you need to know about personal statements for university here .
School leaver personal statement example
All personal statements should be tailored to the role in question. No exceptions.
Start by answering the following three questions: Why do you want to work in this industry? What skills make you right for the role (hint: use the job description)? And where do you want to go in your career?
However, school leavers should always focus on the latter – and what you can bring to the business, as well as focusing on the knowledge and skills gained through education, rather than employment history. Soft skills are also a great place to start.
A highly motivated and hardworking individual, who has recently completed their A-Levels, achieving excellent grades in both Maths and Science. Seeking an apprenticeship in the engineering industry to build upon a keen scientific interest and start a career as a maintenance engineer. Eventual career goal is to become a fully-qualified and experienced maintenance or electrical engineer, with the longer-term aspiration of moving into project management.
School leaver CV template
Graduate personal statement example
Similar to a school leaver personal statement, but with extra attention paid to specific things you’ve studied during higher education.
Once again, try and explain why you’re applying and where you’d like to go in your career, as well as the specific skills or knowledge you can offer. But try and drop in a few more details on your degree (projected grades are fine), as well as particular modules that have inspired you to work in this profession – if possible.
And remember: a personal statement written for a CV differs greatly from one written for a university application. If you haven’t written one before, you should start by reading our tips on how to write a personal statement.
A recent business economics graduate with a 2:1 honours degree from the University of X, looking to secure a Graduate Commercial Analyst position to use and further develop my analytical skills and knowledge in a practical and fast-paced environment. My career goal is to assume a role which allows me to take responsibility for the analysis and interpretation of commercial data for a well-respected and market-leading leading company.
Graduate CV template
Unemployed/redundancy personal statement example
Dealing with redundancy is never easy. But when dealt with in the right way, it needn’t be a hindrance when making applications.
Put the main focus on your employment history, and provide further information for your break in your cover letter . You don’t even necessarily need to mention it again, if you’ve already explained it elsewhere.
Remember, your personal statement is intended to sell yourself. So emphasise your positives rather than apologising for a negative.
Driven Retail Manager with over ten years’ experience in the fashion industry. Proven track record of success, including managing the top performing store in the region, and having the lowest staff turnover rate of all UK outlets. Currently out of work due to company closure, looking for the right opportunity to bring my expertise to a well-established fashion brand in an upper management position.
How to: Deal with redundancy
Redundancy CV template
Career break personal statement example
There are many good reasons someone may need to take a career break.
Some possible examples could include parental leave, caring for a family member, plans to travel or long-term illness. However, whatever the reason for your own break, it’s never something you should feel the need to justify to a prospective employer.
In fact, knowing how to explain a gap in your CV is mostly about confidence. So leave any extra explanation for your cover letter and focus your personal statement on your career before the break – and any skills learned during your time off which may be applicable to the role.
A highly motivated and experienced PA, currently looking to resume my professional career after dedicating the last five years to raising a family. Excellent admin skills, thorough knowledge of all Microsoft Office programs, as well as proficiency in minute-taking and extensive experience liaising with clients . After volunteering for one day a week with a local charity to refresh my skills, now fully committed to continuing my career on a full-time basis.
Career break CV template
Career change personal statement example
If you’re changing industry completely, think about any transferable skills and applicable to the sector you’re moving into.
Any numbers you can give to demonstrate your success could be crucial – even if you’re moving into an area where your expertise may seem slightly different. So always aim to back up your claims with real examples.
Focus on one or two achievements, demonstrate the impact they had, and you’ll instantly start adding value to your application.
As an experienced sales manager, my tenacious and proactive approach resulted in numerous important contract wins. My excellent networking skills have provided my team with vital client leads, and my ability to develop client relationships has resulted in an 18% increase in business renewals for my current organisation. After eight years in sales, currently seeking a new challenge which will utilise my meticulous attention to detail, and friendly, professional manner.
Final thoughts
If you’re still not sure of what to write, don’t panic.
Crafting a winning personal statement will take time, especially if you haven’t written one before. Use these examples as a loose structure to follow, and you’ll be able to add to them as your experience grows.
And remember: you should always aim to edit your personal statement for each role you apply for. That way, you can ensure you’re really selling yourself to their role, rather than simply sending the same generic statement for each application.
It should only take a few more minutes to complete. But if it’s enough to attract an employers interest, it will be time well spent in the long run.
How to write a personal statement
Personal statement dos and don’ts
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4 comments on “ Personal statement examples ”
they all sound fake and unoriginal…
I agree with previous comment. I have read more interesting personal statements that have a life in them
This is probably the hardest and most difficult task you will ever have to get right in your life. Unless you have the proof and evidence to prove that you have either saved or made considerable financial credits or profits on the accountancy, balance sheet of every organisation or company you have ever worked in. You are just another overhead, liability or financial risk they consider may be worth investing in which they may have to liquidate at a later point in your career unless you move on first.
Is the personal statement and objective mean the same thing?
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How to Write a Personal Statement
Last Updated: February 24, 2023 References
This article was co-authored by Christopher Taylor, PhD . Christopher Taylor is an Adjunct Assistant Professor of English at Austin Community College in Texas. He received his PhD in English Literature and Medieval Studies from the University of Texas at Austin in 2014. There are 7 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been viewed 129,726 times.
A personal statement lets an academic institution, organization, workplace, or potential client know more about you and your career or academic goals. Every personal statement will be a little different, but each one should highlight why you're the right fit for the program or position. You should also use your past experiences and accomplishments to support your statement.
Developing Your Statement

- If you're writing a personal statement for undergraduate schools or scholarships focus on how your interests developed, your high school achievements, and your community involvement.
- If you're writing for an undergraduate transfer, focus on your academic and community record with your current school and describe your reasons for wanting to switch universities.
- If you're writing for graduate school, focus on the specific course you want your graduate project or studies to take, your reason for pursuing graduate school, and the undergraduate experiences that have prepared you.
- If you're writing for a job, portfolio, or to gain a particular client, focus on your past work experiences, your relevant academic accomplishments within the past 5 years, and your positive character traits.
- If you've been given a prompt for your personal statement, make sure you have a clear understanding of what it's asking for and what you should write.

- Every institution and organization will look for content specific to their mission and goals in a personal statement. Don't send the same personal statement to different organizations, but instead personalize each statement you write.
- For example, if you're applying to a university that emphasizes community service and involvement, you'll want to emphasize your service work in that statement. Another school may value academics first though. For that school, talk about your coursework and grades.

- How will this university/academic program/scholarship/job position/client directly impact my future?
- What project do I plan to undertake to complete this degree or job opportunity?
- What is my ultimate career goal?
- Where do I see myself in 1 year? 5 years? 10 years?
- What are the steps I need to take in order to reach my ultimate goal?
- What are other goals I hope to accomplish along the way?

- What personal qualities (leadership skills, organizational skills, self-control, etc.) do you possess which make you a valuable asset?
- What experiences and beliefs have shaped your present character?
- What accomplishments make you the proudest?
- Have you had any turning points that redirected your life in a positive way?
- Why would you choose yourself over other candidates? Why should anyone else?

- Academic degrees and certificates
- Scholarships, fellowships, and grants
- Awards or honors from academic institutions (e.g. summa cum laude, manga cum laude, departmental honors, Dean's List, etc.)
- Workplace promotions, reviews, and evaluations
- Speaking at a conference, convention, or workshop
- Published works in your field of expertise
- Official recognition for community service or contributions

- When did you originally develop an interest in your field of choice?
- What do you love most about your field of choice?
- Why do you think your field of choice is important?
- What experiences have you had that have provided you with experience in the field?
- Have you given up any other dreams or expectations in order to chase after this one?

- Financial difficulties
- Social disenfranchisement
- Learning disabilities
- Physical disabilities
- Family problems
- Medical problems
- Unexpected tragedies
Putting Your Personal Statement Together

- Often, these questions will be listed directly on the application, or otherwise on the job posting or program web page.
- If you're not sure if your application needs to address specific questions, reach out to the program coordinator or the contact person listed on the posting.

- Prioritize the purpose of your statement in your outline. For example, if you're applying to a graduate program, your graduate project should be your main focus.
- Write about what interests you. You will be able to write more convincingly and more passionately if you write about events, goals, experiences, or ideas that you already feel passionate about.
- Address issues specifically brought up by the institution or organization. If there are any topics that the reader demands to see, then make sure that those are included in your personal statement.

- Avoid starting with common or cliché phrases like, “The most important moment in my life was when...”
- A better way to introduce that “important moment” would be to simply start describing it. Explain that, “When I first started working at XYZ Company, I didn't know the first thing about widget manufacturing.” Directly break into the narrative instead of alerting the reader that you intend to do so.
- Provide as much detail in the first paragraph as possible. Introduce the main idea of your personal statement and describe how it connects to your narrative. Save any elaborate details or related notes and experiences for the body of your essay, though.

- For example, for a graduate program statement, your second paragraph could focus on your undergraduate career. Frame your undergrad research, your relevant coursework, and your achievement as tools that helped prepare you for your graduate project.
- Do not be vague or general.
- Do tell the reader about experiences, goals, and ideas unique to you.

- Avoid uncertain or weak phrasing like, “I'm not sure but I think I would probably be a good fit for your program.”
- Even when discussing challenges or difficulties you faced, focus on your triumphs over those problems.
Revising Your Statement

- When expanding your personal statement, look for ways to elaborate on the information you already have. Include more specific detail to create a fuller picture. Alternatively, you could introduce another point that contributes to your overall statement purpose.
- While it's not advisable to submit a statement that's too short, you also shouldn't add information just for the sake of having it. If your statement is a paragraph short of a full page but covers all your relevant information, you don't need to expand it.
- Avoid telling the reader why something is important to you. Instead, explain what you've done to show and develop the skill.

- You may also consider reducing your number of main points if one point does not seem especially significant.
- Unlike a short statement, a long statement can't be left long. Many application programs won't allow you to press the submit button until your statement is the correct length. That means that if your statement is too long, it needs to be cut down.

- While listening to your statement, ask yourself if it sounds like your natural voice. If you were describing these things in person, would the way you speak sound like what you wrote?

- Accept constructive criticism graciously and try not to take anything personally.
- When asking for constructive criticism, first go to professional sources like a high school teacher, a university professor, an internship supervisor, an academic adviser, or a trustworthy colleague.
- After your professional sources have been exhausted, ask friends and family for their thoughts. They may offer great insight regarding the “every-man” opinion, since not all your readers may be familiar with your program or industry.
- It's common to receive conflicting feedback. Think about each of their perspectives to see what may have influenced what they told you. If their experiences don't match your goals, consider if their advice is worth taking.

- Once you fix these problems, your personal statement is ready to submit.
Community Q&A

- Give yourself plenty of time to write your statement. If possible, start the writing process at least 3 months from your proposal or application due date. ⧼thumbs_response⧽ Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
- Vary your content for each personal statement to match each individual organization or institution. You may be able to use many of the same points in each statement, but you should still write individual statements for each organization. ⧼thumbs_response⧽ Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
- Unless the program or job directly deals with them, avoid talking about controversial topics such as extreme religious or political opinions. ⧼thumbs_response⧽ Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

You Might Also Like

- ↑ https://writingcenter.uconn.edu/personal-statements/
- ↑ https://www.careereducation.columbia.edu/resources/creating-undergraduate-cv
- ↑ https://grad.berkeley.edu/admissions/steps-to-apply/requirements/personal-statement/
- ↑ https://www.careercenter.illinois.edu/instructable/write-your-personal-statement
- ↑ https://www.cmu.edu/hpp/apply-to-schools/personal-statements/tips.html
- ↑ https://www.e-education.psu.edu/writingpersonalstatementsonline/p3_p7.html
- ↑ https://writingcenter.gmu.edu/guides/advice-for-writing-personal-statements
About This Article

To write a personal statement, start with a strong beginning such as “When I first started working at XYZ Company, I didn’t know the first thing about widget manufacturing” to introduce your theme and grab the reader’s attention. Then, write 2-4 paragraphs to support your statement, highlighting things like your experiences, achievements, and goals. Make sure that you focus each paragraph on a single point, relate each point back to your theme, and keep the tone of your writing positive and confident. For more tips from our Education reviewer, like how to revise your personal statement, read on! Did this summary help you? Yes No
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Writing a personal statement for your CV
Also known as a personal profile or personal summary, a personal statement is essentially a blurb for your CV. Discover if they're really necessary, how to write one and how to make it stand out to employers
What is a personal statement?
A personal statement is a concise paragraph or summary, which details what you can bring to a job or company. It's also known as an opening statement or executive summary.
Sitting at the top of your CV, it's your opportunity to really sell yourself to employers and to highlight the relevant skills and experience you possess.
While effectively and succinctly convincing recruiters that you're a good fit for the role, a personal statement gives you the chance to show off your strengths and share your career goals.
'The personal profile is essentially a snapshot about you that should excite and entice the employer to want to pay closer attention to your CV,' explains James Corbin, head of the careers and employability service at the University of Kent. 'It's the sales pitch that highlights your best features.'
Do I need a personal statement on my CV?
Traditionally, almost all CV types include a personal statement but in recent years there has been some debate about whether you need to include one.
Some believe that personal profiles are one of the most important parts of a CV as they provide an easily accessible overview of a candidate's ability, while others feel that personal statements are a waste of valuable space and time.
This latter belief is often the case with graduate CVs as some recruiters feel that those just stepping onto the career ladder don't have enough knowledge or experience to warrant a personal statement. Because of this, a graduate's personal profile runs the risk of being bland and generic, which is why some employers believe that they are best suited to more senior professional CVs.
Fiona Stubs, careers manager at the University of Glasgow explains, 'I'm not in favour of writing a profile as it is hard to get right. Many students' profiles tend to include a list of common strengths without a context, in some cases stating things that should be a given, for example, hardworking and organised. I feel that profiles can be more helpful when you are more senior as you can be more specific about your skills, specialisms and successes.'
While your CV doesn't necessarily need a personal statement, employers spend only seconds looking at CVs. With this in mind a personal statement can give you an invaluable opportunity to make your application stand out to employers and to set yourself apart from the competition.
If you'd like to include a personal statement on your CV it might be best, as a graduate, to focus on your educational background and the career path you'd like to embrace. If you have relevant experiences use these to make your personal statement unique.
'Work with your careers or employability advisers to hone what you are writing. Start this process early as it can take more time than you expect,' adds James.
What does a personal statement include?
In terms of length, a CV personal profile should be no longer than 150 words. Aim for a few short sentences, four or five should do the job.
If you're struggling with what to write, break your personal statement down into three parts. Focus on:
- who you are
- what you can offer
- your career aims.
Start by introducing yourself. For example, 'A recent graduate with a 2:1 in English literature from the Hillview University' or a 'Highly-skilled physiotherapist looking to progress into…'
Next, detail what you can offer the company. Ask yourself why you're suited to the particular role and cover any relevant skills or experience. If you lack practical work experience instead draw attention to your academic achievements such as contributing to university publications, which developed written communication, attention to detail and team working skills.
Conclude your personal statement by highlighting your career goals. For example, 'I am looking to start my career in the exciting world of publishing and to develop the skills learned through my university studies and internships.'
'Avoid using empty statements like 'I work well independently and as part of a team' - it's bland and tells employers nothing about what you’re capable of,' says James. 'On the other hand 'experienced event manager, who led a team to organise a charity ball for 150 people, raising £5,000 - a 20% increase on previous years' sounds dynamic and demonstrates your experience.'
It's up to you how you present this information; there is no hard and fast rule. However, personal statements are generally displayed as a single paragraph, without a title or subheading. You'll need to keep it consistent with the rest of your CV formatting, meaning that the font size and type will need to be the same throughout your document.
Also, consider the voice you'd like to use. Personal statements can be written in either the first or third person but you'll need to maintain this voice throughout - don't switch between the two.
Take a look at how to write a CV .
How can I make it stand out to employers?
- Tailor your personal statement (and CV in general) to each application.
- Be honest. Untruths are easy to uncover and lying on your CV is a criminal offence.
- Provide evidence of skills and experience but remember to keep it brief.
- Use the job description to help form your profile.
- Stick to the word limit.
- Check for spelling and grammar mistakes. The personal profile sits at the top of your CV so any errors will be immediately apparent.
- Read it aloud once you've finished writing to make sure it flows.
- Copy and paste from your cover letter .
- Include unnecessary personal information such as your age, marital status etc.
- Use clichés, slang or jargon.
- Overuse buzzwords.
- Include quotes from previous employers.
- Ramble. Recruiters don't have time to read through waffle to get to the point.
'Too many people stop sounding like themselves when they write cover letters or profiles,' says James. 'Employers aren't looking for some archaic scholar or someone who only writes in jargon, they are recruiting a real human and this is your chance to give them an insight into your experiences and personality.
Think about the connotations of the words you use - 'currently studying' implies things might change, 'trying' implies failure. The words you use have significant power, and should be chosen carefully to paint a positive and engaging picture.'
Find out more about the top 7 CV mistakes .
CV personal statement examples
To help you get started take a look at the following CV personal profile examples.
As a recent graduate from the University of Townville, with a 2:1 honours degree in marketing, I have undertaken internships at industry-leading agencies such as Beyond Imagination and Noah Freemans. These placements have allowed me to develop sector knowledge and gain hands on experience, as well as expand transferable skills such as commercial awareness, communication and negotiation and analytical skills. My career aim is to gain a role which allows me to further my expertise and take on increased responsibility at a market-leading digital marketing agency.
I am a highly motivated 2:1 forensic science graduate from Groveshire University, looking to secure a graduate position that enables me to use and develop my analytical, attention to detail and communication skills. I have gained relevant experience in both scientific and hospital laboratories, which allowed me to build on my problem solving, concentration and team working skills. My career goal is to assume a role that enables me to analyse and interpret forensic data and to eventually move into crime scene investigation.
Remember; avoid copying and pasting ready-made examples. Instead use them as a guide to craft your own, tailored CV personal statement. Take a look at our example CVs .
Find out more
- Learn more about applying for jobs .
- Get more advice on CVs and cover letters .
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Follow these steps to a good personal statement: 1. Craft a strong opening Begin with an opening sentence that interests your audience and makes them want to read more. Use your words to introduce the main idea of your response. You can start by describing a scene from your past or sharing a thought about what something means to you.
Here are examples of personal statements for your business career: 2. Technical writer personal statement "I am a senior technical writer with 10 years of experience writing software documentation, templates and user manuals to explain highly complex systems and processes.
The personal statement, your opportunity to sell yourself in the application process, generally falls into one of two categories: 1. The general, comprehensive personal statement: This allows you maximum freedom in terms of what you write and is the type of statement often prepared for standard medical or law school application forms. 2.
A personal statement is a brief description of why you're qualified for and interested in the job you're applying for. Your personal statement should tell employers why your training, education, experience, and career goals make you the best fit for the job.
A personal statement should answer the question "why are you the best person for the job?" says Lucy Ventrice Senior HR Business Partner at Amazon. She suggests "Start with a mind map. Put yourself in the middle and [write down] your experience, skills and attributes.
In your personal statement, you want to make a connection between yourself and the position. Think of this as a three-part process: Share Some Details About Yourself: Who are you? You may say things like "Highly seasoned production manager" or "Recent graduate with honors."
A personal statement or professional summary is a written explanation of who you are, what interests you and what your goals are in life. For job application purposes, a professional statement is a brief paragraph that summarises your professional accomplishments.
How to Write a Personal Statement—Template Target the job in question and never be generic, employers will see right through it. Introduce yourself in the first sentence. Offer value to the employer with relevant achievements, experience and skills. Optimise for ATS. Include your career goals. Match those goals with passion.
You might even add the job title you had if it's similar to the one you are applying for. For example: As coordinator at XYZ Enterprises, I have increased my group's output by 37% over the past 15 months. Express excitement. Convey your passion for your work, and your excitement about the job and company.
When writing a personal statement it is important that you: Read the job specification so you are clear about the job requirements. Outline the skills and experience that you have that...
A nursing personal statement is an essay or statement that is usually part of a list of requirements for admittance to a nursing program. The purpose of a nursing personal statement is to give the selection committee information about your character and qualities so they can see you will be a good fit for the program.
Example of a personal statement for a job: A friendly and enthusiastic individual, currently looking to return to a retail assistant role after spending the last 3 years raising a family. I possess excellent communication and listening skills, and I work extremely well in a team, as well as being able to work confidently on my own.
A personal statement is a concise paragraph that sits at the top of your CV just below your name and contact details and tells the reader why you would be a fantastic asset for their company....
If you are applying for a job, you can include your relevant previous work experience. Your achievements: Your personal statement should tell your potential employer what kind of accomplishments you've achieved in your professional life. As a general rule, be sure to include all your academic achievements and your relevant training certifications.
3. Expand on relevant skills, experiences and achievement. Keep your personal statement short and powerful. After writing the above two sections, you can focus on your skills and achievements and how they can contribute to your success in the new role. Express the value you can bring to the organisation.
1. Write an introduction that introduces yourself and your goals. Write an introduction that introduces who you are and why you applying for the job or university program. Note why your interests align with the role or degree and any experience you have with this type of job or the course topics.
Ideally, your personal statement should be no more than around 150 words (or four or five lines of your CV). Any more than this and you run the risk of rambling and taking up valuable space. Remember: it's a summary, not a cover letter. So keep it concise, pertinent and to the point.
I am seeking a compelling and professional writer to write my personal statement based on my personal history and academic achievements for a professional profile. The text does not have to be too long, 2-4 pages are enough, and I would like to have it in two weeks. ... Find the best freelance jobs. Growing your career is as easy as creating a ...
That makes writing personal statements a useful skill for getting accepted at your top school or dream job. Unfortunately, writing about yourself isn't always easy—it's quite a personal topic! So in this guide, we explain everything you need to know about how to write a personal statement, including some personal statement examples.
And remember: you should always aim to edit your personal statement for each role you apply for. That way, you can ensure you're really selling yourself to their role, rather than simply sending the same generic statement for each application. It should only take a few more minutes to complete.
1. Expand your statement if it's too short. Your first draft can be as long or short as you need it to be, but many institutions and organizations have a word count or page count limits on personal statements. If your statement is not long enough, you have space to add more supporting information. When expanding your personal statement, look ...
A personal statement is a concise paragraph or summary, which details what you can bring to a job or company. It's also known as an opening statement or executive summary. Sitting at the top of your CV, it's your opportunity to really sell yourself to employers and to highlight the relevant skills and experience you possess.
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