A really useful acronym bringing your strengths and skills together and framing your achievements is to adopt the STAR format. You can download a summary of this technique with a more detailed explanation here.
In addition to framing your achievements within your CV, STAR is a valuable structure to use when you are invited to an interview. By formatting your answers using this structure, you will be giving the recruiter a succinct summary, which will be most welcome!
As it can be applied equally well for both, it’s worth investing some time now in getting these ready. This will ultimately save you some time during the recruitment process, as you will have a bank of ready-made examples to choose from.
Check:
- Achievements should be written in the past tense
- Keep them succinct and punchy – use the STAR format
- Use positive action verbs (here’s a helpful list)
- Apply the “so what” rule of 3 (above)
- Make sure your achievements have an outcome which is quantified with specific numbers, facts, data or statistics as much as possible
- Aim for 4-6 to cover the spectrum of your role. (If you have more, keep a master document and pull out the ones you need when you tailor your application)
Review your examples again using the checklist above and see if you can refine them further, adding any evidence or data to support your achievements. Make sure they pack a punch!
