[This is an excerpt from my Get a Job Fast programme]

The job searching road you’re on may have started out smooth and free flowing. But likely it deteriorated fast. And now you’re stuck in traffic with no end in sight. Is there an exit? Is there another way?

In job hunting, there are two roads. Road A. And Road B. Here’s a quick synopsis of what they are. Try to figure out 1) which you’re on; and 2) which one you should be on. One leads to frustration. Another to freedom … or at least another job options, sooner, quicker, faster.

Job Hunting Road A:

Road A has a dedicated lane for perfect people (qualifications, experience, race, age, etc). For everyone else, it’s congested, slow, frustrating, with plenty of breakdowns along the way.

Road A is the world of employment agencies, job adverts and junior HR people filtering you out in a pile of many other similar looking people. It has a tick-box mentality and if you don’t immediately appear to meet a few criteria, you’re don’t get a look in. It’s known for poor service.

On Road A, people easily become demoralised. Even angry. It’s a congested, frustrating road. So use path A, but be warned. What’s your experience been?

Job Hunting Road B:

Very few know about it. But with it you always have a way forward, you can get unstuck. You have more control – it’s not a passive “apply and wait and hope for the phone to ring” type approach.

You can decide what to target. You can go after what you want. You can take ‘massive action’. You can take the initiative. You can follow up. You can set your own schedule. You can make things happen. You can land dream interviews.

But of course it takes guts. And preparation. And focus. And willingness to step outside some comfort zones. Road B is what Get a Job Fast is all about. It’ll give you alternative strategies. So instead of the helplessness of Road A, you’ll be equipped with smart, ‘guerrilla’ style, highly effective tactics to put to work. And they work fast.

[Get a Job Fast is a learning programme which will help you discover the ‘ins and outs’ of a job hunt in which you take control, where you don’t sit, wait and hope, but in which you make things happen. The end result is more job interviews, more job offers, faster. It’s an approach that cannot fail. Visit www.careerandsuccess.info to apply.]

A cover letter for job applications is critically important. It can hit hard – getting you an interview even when you’re NOT the best applicant! It’s true. In this article I’ll show you why and how. And I’ll give you some examples of cover letters for job applications.

Why a Cover Letter for Job Applications?

A few good reasons:

1) It guides the mind of the reader – tells them immediately how to ‘file’ and respond to what’s in front of them.

2) It’s a chance for you to be quick, concise and confident – a good message.

3) It’s a chance to put your ‘best foot forward’ – to powerfully show that you’re “the one” for the job, to present your case.

How to Write a Cover Letter for Job Applications

Here are some cover letter principles:

Be quick. Get to the point. Use short paragraphs. Use bullets.

This is not the place to write about how hard working you are.

This is a place to immediately satisfy the reader that you have what’s required for the job.

Cover Letter for Job Application Examples

Here are some examples to learn from and use:

+++++++++++++++++++++

Dear [find and use the personal name of the recruiter]

Re. Accountant Position Advertised in The Star Workplace (June 15, 2009)

“Accountant – available to organise, streamline, and get things back on track.”

My suitability is as follows:

• NDip in Financial Accounting
• 5 Years experience in Accounting roles
• Strong skills in reorganising, getting up to date, and creating “order out of chaos” in an accounting department
• Rated by KPMG external auditors in 2007 as “super organized”

Please see CV attached for further details.

Available for interviews with immediate effect.

Regards,
Joan Smith
[Contact Details]

+++++++++++++++++++++

See how short it is. See how it got to the point? No going on and on with irrelevant details. Just a concise, confident, powerful message.

Here’s another cover letter for job applications.

+++++++++++++++++++++

Mr Abel Modiba
Human Resource Manager
XYA Industries

Re: Application for Bookkeeping position.

Dear Mr Modiba

I am applying for the position of BOOKKEEPER as advertised in The Star, Workplace (01.01.2009).

My qualifications match your needs very closely and I believe could be of immediate impact for you.

Your requirements VS. my qualifications are as follows:

• “3 Years Experience – bookkeeping” : I have 4 years in total with good companies.
• “Matric” : I have Matric, with a distinction in Maths (SG)
• “Advanced Pastel” : I have  2 years experience with Pastel and have completed an advanced course.

I’m 100% confident I can quickly slot into the role, but also I look forward to discussing the specific challenges of the role with you and the employer.

I have very positive and contactable references. I will follow up with you on Wednesday January 20.

Yours sincerely,
Richard Jones

+++++++++++++++++++++

Examples of a CV can be a big help. They can give you fresh ideas of how to ‘power up’ your CV.

What I’m adding here with these CV or resume templates or examples is my commentary on what works, why I’ve written them the way I have. This provides insight into how you can adapt yours in order to improve it.

Example of a CV – Downloads to Study

Just note: a CV is a notoriously difficult document to write for yourself. If you get stuck and feel you need professional help, I’m here for you. See my “Professional CV Writing” page or contact me directly at gerard at jobsearching.co.za

Example of a CV #1 PDF

 Example of a CV #2 PDF

You’ll notice that these CV examples are different to what you’ve ever seen before. I’m a big believer that you need to differentiate yourself with your CV. So instead of doing things the same way you’ve always done them, perhaps it’s time to try a  new approach.

Do I write every CV the way I’ve written these? No. But the principles hold true.

Examples of a CV – Templates to Write Your CV

CV Template #1 (conservative approach) – click and download. Open up in MS Word and add your details – you can also adapt your approach using the principles learned in the examples of a CV above.

CV Template#2 (more international / advanced approach) – click and download. Open up in MS Word and add your details – you can also adapt your approach using the principles learned in the examples of a CV above

Contact me on gerard at jobsearching.co.za if you need my personal help.

A CV template (Word / MS Office) can be helpful! Especially when you just have to submit that CV NOW! So, this is where you’ll find some CV templates in Word that you can use and be guide by.

Quick CV Template Warning

You’d better be careful! Writing a CV – a good CV, one that demands attention and gets more job interviews for you, even twists the arm of the employer to call you – IS NOT about the ‘neat and pretty’ layout. It’s not just about adding your personal details.

Over the last 10 ideas I’ve developed creative, innovative, mind twisting ideas for a CV to grab more attention and demand attention (even if the person behind the CV is pretty average!) So contact me if you need personal help, I’m on gerard at jobsearching.co.za.]

CV Templates Word

Here are some easy-to-use CV/resume examples to help you. They include sample data and a few tips and ideas from me on how to use them effectively.

CV Template Word #1 You can’t get more basic than this. This CV/resume example allows you to quickly add your details in a table. Your CV/resume will be neat, organized, well spaced and professional.

[Click the link above, a box will pop up asking you to save the document to your PC. Once you’ve downloaded the CV template, you’ll be able to edit it in MS Word, or in any other word processing package.]

CV Template Word #2 This is a more progressive approach. And a bit more ‘international’. It also allows you to sell yourself a little better, but with this CV template, it also adds the requires more skill from you – both in using words and in using MS Word for formatting.

[Click the link above, a box will pop up asking you to save the document to your PC. Once you’ve downloaded the CV template, you’ll be able to edit it in MS Word, or in any other word processing package.]

With these MS Word based CV templates you can of course change they way they look to suit yourself – change the font, change the headings, etc. But be careful of getting too elaborate. Keep it simple.

When a CV Template Doesn’t Work

If you get frustrated, if you feel your CV is ending up still a bit weak, not powerful enough to distinguish you from all your job market competitors, I can help you personally. See link/tab “Professional CV Writing” above or contact me directly at gerard at jobsearching.co.za. I’m here for you.

Got an question via Facebook today:

I need your advice. Am looking for practical work experience to graduate and I have been asking companies for such an opportunity in their company, mostly I email and call but I either dont get a respose or they can not assit me. What advice would you give me to get a better my chances?

Here was my answer … as you know it won’t involve sitting and waiting and hoping that someone either cares or will answer. It’ involves taking the bull by the horns and swinging it around a bit. THEN one can expect response. Only THEN.

Hi Rachel – start working for them (your targeted employers) right now. You may say “what?!”

Yes, research 5 companies that operate within your industry of interest. Research them thoroughly, use their website. Discover what they’re working on that you can contribute towards in line with what your qualification is. Here are some examples:

Engineer – draw up a set of calculations for that bridge the co. is building and present it to them;

Sales – search the net and provide them with a list of key decision makers in their industry of interest;

Marketing – draw up a new marketing, advertising and communications plan for that new product they’re launching;

Graphic Designer – rework their logo that seems outdated and old;

Customer Service – draw up a customer survey that will help them get to grips with what their customers are saying about them;

Administration – draw up a presentation on efficiency in the office and any new methods/technology you discovered during your studies.

When you start working for them before they even know you like this, what does it tell them? You’re committed. You’re useful. You have initiative, you’re a go-getter. AND you approach them with something of value instead of as a beggar, as one of many.

Now, the only thing is this: do you have the hunger & desire to do this?

To all job hunters and their supportive friends …

Just launched:

6 Job Market Attack Strategies
-Job Search Coaching & FREE Support Group

Here’s what it’s all about.

Many job hunters feel helpless, stuck, frustrated. They seem to be bashing their head against a brick wall. And yet they’re not sure what to do differently. So they keep doing the same things and getting the same demoralizing results.

But now, with 6 Attack Strategies …

• You’ll have practical, fresh ideas to reignite your job search – from South Africa’s only Guerrilla Job Search Coach. These 6 strategies are designed to help you get back on the attack, to give you an organized, fresh, bold and smart, guerrilla-type approach.
• It includes coaching – you’ll have definite, clear instructions and follow up from me. No more wondering “what can I do differently?” or “am I doing this right?”. You’ll know.

And also – this is critical – you’ll have …

• Support. Within the LinkedIn.com based members only support group, you’ll be part of a crowd of supportive friends – anonymously if you like – who are facing the same challenges as you. You’ll be able to share ideas and discuss job search methods that work, with people who care and can really help.

Here’s what’s you’ll get and discover …

1) The 6 Attack Strategies Guidebook, with instructions and examples. You just want a job. And you want it fast. These strategies are what will take you from helpless to ‘on the attack’. With them, overnight, you’ll be distinguishing yourself, standing out. From ‘no response’ to more job interviews, more job offers, more often. Guaranteed*.

Here’s a quick look inside:

a. Strategy #1 explains a simple principle of business and marketing that you can turn to your advantage. And the incredible thing is this: 99% of other job hunters have no clue what it is, they don’t use it. Once you do, you’ll immediately see better results. I guide you through it, and I give you 12 examples you can follow.
b. Strategy #2 will help you transform your CV into an attention demanding tool. And get this: you don’t have to sit for hours fiddling with your CV to use it. It’s my 100% original creation, it’s persuasive, it’ll distinguish you, it’ll twist employers’ arms into inviting you in for interviews (yes, even if your current CV is boring and ‘average’.)
c. Strategy #3 is a unique tool you can use in an interview. It’s something (I’m not telling you what yet) you can hand to your interviewer after an interview that will stop the interviewer dead in their tracks. In a good way! Suddenly you’ll stand out, they’ll now view you as a superior candidate. It’s totally professional and you’ll feel proud using it.
d. Strategy #4 is a tool for networking. Networking is awkward – and yet it has massive power to help you find your next job. Is there an easy tool you can use? Is there an easy way? YES! Again, this strategy is nothing you’ve seen before. I’ve developed the idea from scratch to help you connect with people get them working to find work for you.
e. Strategy #5 talks you through the kind of cover letter you need – again, this will not be like any other cover letter you’ve seen. It’s created to make an impact and hit all the right notes in 3 seconds or less. You’ll have a detailed example and template.
f. Strategy #6 addresses how to find employers. Most job hunters get stuck using job websites, job ads in newspapers and agencies (often rude!) etc. to find their next employer. Only, these approaches often don’t work very well!
So what else can be done??!! I’ll introduce you to 4 simple but effective strategies to reach employers. And they’ll be easy to do for you.

Then there’s …

2) 6 Attack Strategies Coaching. Via e-mail you will be prompted to take action. You will be pushed, guided, encouraged. I’ll be a constant presence, providing fresh ideas and the spark you need. I want you to try some new things, I’ll support you in it.

And …

3) The Support Group. Having positive support makes all the difference in both your mindset AND in giving you the practical help you need. You’ll be able to ask questions and have them answered. Job hunting can be demoralizing. You need support and advice. You’ll get it here.

I’m not going to overwhelm you with information. The technology is easy. All you’ll need is e-mail and Internet access and a free LinkedIn.com account to join the support group.

What you need is a fast solution. You don’t need a 300 page book. You need easy to read, quick, easy to apply lessons. You need expert guidance. And you need these strategies to start working for you immediately (or tomorrow at the latest!).

Most people market themselves in a haphazard, weak, ill informed fashion. That doesn’t have to be you. There are more powerful ways to do things. One person on the program tried just one idea, and guess what? Within a day they had an interview. Within a week they had the job.

For the last 12 years I’ve been in the newspapers (The Star, Cape Argus, Pretoria News, Business Day, etc), on radio (Cape Talk, 702, SAfm, KayaFM, Radio2000, etc), I’ve been a guest speaker at UCT GSB, I’ve been writing my free weekly e-column (Job Search Success) and I’ve written a few books and been a contributing author to “Guerrilla Marketing for Job Hunters 3.0” by David E Perry and Jay Conrad Levinson.

All of this has been to help job hunters be smarter in their search, all to help them get more job options, more often and faster.

That’s what you’ll get with 6 Attack Strategies, guaranteed*. Yes, “guaranteed*”.

* If you’re not blown away by what you get, or if you don’t get better job hunting results, you get your money back. No questions.

Now, pricing is next. And I have some exciting news.

Pricing and Application

The investment is a once off R750.00.

(You can pay in smaller installments – contact me directly about that.)

But for DECEMBER 2012 only, I’m holding an inaugural “BOOT-CAMP BETA” version of “6 Job Market Attack Strategies”. And because it’s the first time, it’s bound to be a little rough around the edges, so … for that I’m discounting it heavily, down to just R375.00 from today.

Who is this “BOOT-CAMP BETA” for? It’s for you IF you’d like to use the first few weeks of December focusing intensely on getting your job search revamped, re-organized, re-invigorated. There’ll be 11 lessons – each with practical assignments. Each assignment will take a little time to complete and will require quality attention (but it’s certainly not a full time thing. For some it’ll only take a few minutes.)

BUT it’s also for you if you just want the lower price – you can always tackle the course content later, there’s no time limit.

Is this the answer to all your career problems? No. The job market and life are complicated. Sometimes we’re our own worst enemy. But other times all we need is the spark of an idea which goes on to ignite a wildfire of success. I’m hoping this will be that for you.

“AND THAT’S NOT ALL” – in addition to benefitting from this program, I’m also going to be giving you access to the Career & Success INNER CIRCLE – a member’s only website which includes in its library inspiring books, articles, videos such as “Think & Grow Rich” and 2 coaching programmes to help you set and achieve more in your life and career.

AND REMEMBER MY GUARANTEE:

* If you’re not blown away by what you get, or if you don’t get better job hunting results, you get your money back. No questions.

So, get on the 6 Job Market Attack Strategies, Job Search Coaching & FREE Support Group “BOOT CAMP BETA” now.

APPLICATION INFORMATION

There are 2 steps to your application:

1) Payment (via direct deposit or EFT): ● A/C Holder: G le Roux ● Bank: Standard Bank
● A/C Number: 072 591 498 ● Branch: Claremont, Cape Town: 025109

Send proof of payment via SMS (083 744 5454), or e-mail (gerard@jobsearching.co.za) or fax to 086 6512 455)

2) Then send/e-mail me your details: ● Your name, e-mail address & phone number.

[As soon as I have confirmation of payment and your details, I’ll register you and you’ll receive instructions. Mostly this will happen immediately. If you’re uncertain about anything, call me directly, I’m on 083 744 5454.

Where to Find Jobs?

“Where to find jobs?” is a desperate question for many. So, this page is dedicated to listing useful websites and other places that people have used to answer the questions: where do I find a job? how do I find work? what sites work for work? where are the jobs!? how can I find employment?!

Perhaps this page will provide the answers you need.

If you have any source of jobs to share – a website, a journal, a newspaper, even a recruitment company – please share it with me via Facebook comments below. Or just e-mail me on gerard at jobsearching.co.za.

Where to Find Jobs: Online Job Sites

(PLEASE vote if you’ve had a positive experience! Let’s see who’s most popular. And if your FAVE isn’t listed here send it to me and I’ll add it.)

[poll id=”2″]

Top Online Job Search Sites

www.neuvoo.co.za

www.careerjunction.co.za

www.jobs.co.za

www.pnet.co.za

www.jobmail.co.za

www.careers24.com

www.ioljobs.co.za

www.gumtree.co.za

www.careers.co.za

Top Online Aggregators*

[* Aggregators are sites that collect job ads from many online sources and present them to you when you search.]

www.careerjet.co.za

www.indeed.co.za

Please vote if you’ve had success with any of these. Also please add your comments below regarding your experience with these sites; and add any other sites you’ve had success in finding a job with.

What works, people?!

New Emerging Sites

Here’s a list of sites that appear determined to make a difference to the online job search sector – the owner’s have been in touch with me and they seem passionate about making them work.

www.myjobsearch.co.za

Where to Find Jobs: Other Internet Places

These are other Internet based tools and websites to be making use of to find employment / work / your next career opportunity.

(Feel free to add your comments below via the Facebook comments – I’ll add your ideas to the main list here.)

LinkedIn.com (www.linkedin.com)

This is a great place to control your professional presence on the ‘net. You should do that.

Here’s how to use LinkedIn.com:

But also it’s a great place to do a few other things regarding finding jobs:

1. Find, make contact with and interact with people who are working in your industry and who may know of opportunities for you.
2. Learn what’s going down in your industry via your belonging to “Groups”. Groups are where people come to discuss special interest topics – you’ll see groups for Marine Engineers, for IT Professionals, etc. Jobs are also advertised in these groups. And …
3. You stand to be found by a recruiter looking for someone like you.

Branch Out (www.branchout.com)

This is the Facebook version of LinkedIn.com. There are similar benefits, although LinkedIn.com is dominant and that’s what I would advise. Also know that you should choose one and ‘work it’ instead of flitting between different platforms.

Company Websites

Company websites are often a good place ‘where to find jobs’! (For example: ACME Manufacturers will have their own www.ACME.co.za website).

Here’s how to use company websites:

So … target a certain industry, target a few select companies in a niche (eg. “shoe manufacturers” if that’s where your expertise lies) of your choice and then visit their websites.

And once there, you do 3 things:

1. Look to see what jobs they have advertised – often you’ll see a “Work For Us” or a “Careers” link, page or button.
2. Learn about the company (look at the “News” or “Blog” pages, press releases, etc especially), what are they experiencing? what challenges lie ahead? what do they value most? what’s their business model? where do you think you can add value to their operations?.  And …
3. It’s a place to notice who the people are making the decisions – these details may be helpful to you if you’re a ‘proactive’ or “guerrilla-style” job hunter!

Facebook.com (www.facebook.com)

Okay now you’ll know this one, BUT, you’ve got to be careful. There are pitfalls. Here are a few guidelines for finding work or connecting with people who can help you in your mission to find the answer to “where do I find a job??!!”.

Here’s how to use Facebook.com:

1. It’s a proven fact. Most (ie. a percentage higher than 50%) of job hunters find jobs via their network of friends and family. So being able to easily communicate with them – and an E-X-T-E-N-D-E-D array of other people is: cool!
2. So, here’s how to do it: 1) know exactly what kind of job you’re looking for – even what company you want to work at! 2) Put a clear, simple message out there to your network of what you’re looking for (eg. “Hi friends … help me out real quick … do you know anyone at all connected with an Import/Export business? Anyone? I’m looking for a some quick advice regarding my job search in this field and want to have a quick chat. Who can you refer me to?”)
3. Notice in #2 you don’t say “I’m looking for a job desperately, please help!” It’s a turn off. It doesn’t work. Rather use the above approach, get names, call them up using the referral and ask for their guidance: “I’m looking for an Import Admin job – in my last job I had a record of 99.5% accuracy and I reduced paperwork processing time from 1 week to 2 days. Do you know anyone who’s looking?”
4. Or you can get audacious, bold, even cocky: “My next job is at ABC  Importers – but get this – THEY DON’T KNOW IT YET! Do any of you – my dear FB friends – know anyone who works there? I’d like to find out who I should be talking to (just to get them up to speed!)”
5. Keep it professional. Cut out the pics of your drunken weekend! Cut out soppy stories! Cut out your criticizing of your previous employer! Cut out bad language! Cut out your telling your tale of woe! Come across positive! Alive! Proactive! Professional! Get it?

So, Facebook for job hunting and finding jobs can be a risky business – mixing your social life with professional – but it can work, so use it judiciously in your search for your next career move.

NOTE:

1) More is being added to this page, so bookmark it. Please add your comments below.

And …

2) To get regular updates – ‘guerrilla’ job search ideas to help you get more job interviews, more job offers, more often – just send an e-mail to 12jss@getresponse.com. I’ll also send you my free e-course “12 Breakthrough Job Search Secrets”.

Your CV is critically important. So if you’re wanting professional help. Good.

But in choosing a CV writer or CV writing service, you want one who’s going to give you what you need.  A CV writer who will give you a competitive advantage in a cluttered and confusing job market.

So here are some quick guidelines, from me Gerard le Roux, professional CV writer since 2002 (yes, I’ve done a good 20 000 hours) and a Certified Guerrilla Job Search Coach.

CV / Resume Writer – 4 Criteria to Choose One

They must be a salesman. Getting  a job is a sale. You are a product, a service, a business. The employer has a need, you have a solution. You need a salesman to craft the message, to present your value, your features and benefits. Sales must be your curriculum vitae writers main skill.

They must be able to sell visually and with words. In addition to being able to sell – to identify key points, to research, to see the need – they must be skilled in using words powerfully and economically.

Sharp, hard hitting, punchy sentences is what you need. Stringing words together in a way that persuades and is easily readable. A CV or resume writer has to be great with words. And they should be able to display those word in a visual way that’s easy to scan and read.

They must be a knowledgeable advisor. You are unique. You need someone who’ll listen and work with you on your ‘marketing message’. They must act as a strategist for you and your career.

Your CV writer must be someone who will put a positive spin on your experience (not just type the words into a pretty format.) And someone who understands what it is you do and what the market looks for.

Your CV writer must have a big imagination. Why?! Because let’s be real, you may have been in Admin for 20 years. You may not have won any awards. You may have just been ‘reliable Suzie’ in Accounts. And that’s okay!

But even so, your CV needs to stand out. It needs to sell you. It needs to make an impact. It takes imagination from a CV writer to find a way.

You’d better have a CV writing service or a resume writer who has all of the above – otherwise what you may end up with is just a ‘neat’ rehash of your existing CV, there’ll be no value add.

How to Decide on Your CV Writer

Just call your CV writer or service up. Have a chat. Get some insight into how they’d tackle the project. Send them your existing CV and some idea of what jobs you’re looking for, and then before you decide to use them, insist on a phone call to discuss. Make sure you speak to the actual person who’ll be doing the writing.

You’ll quickly see if you’re dealing with an expert, a career strategist … or just a typist. Nothing wrong with a typist, but perhaps you’re looking for more?

If you’re considering using me, Gerard le Roux, give me a call, any time. I’m on +27 (0) 83 744 5454 or e-mail me directly on gerard at jobsearching.co.za. Let’s chat. Service details are here.

Common Resume Writer / CV Service Pitfalls

Here’s a list of things that are common pitfalls with the ‘wrong’ CV writing service.

• The CV writing is delegated to a junior typist.
• Your CV is formatted in a ‘cookie cutter’ fashion.
• The CV writer doesn’t know what questions to ask you.
• They don’t understand what you do.
• They work as a kind of sausage machine production line.
• They don’t have the ‘savvy’ to see what’s important and what’s not in your CV.
• They put their adverts on your CV. (My pet hate, how dare they?!)
• Your CV writer may have no concept of “guerrilla” marketing (in a competitive market, this is a key).

There’s no one CV writer who’s perfect. We all have our flaws. But the above points should give you some good ideas for your CV writer choice.

Hope it helps!

Professional CV writing may be your answer. In a tough job market, writing your own CV can be a pain. You may not get it just right. Gerard le Roux is South Africas #1 CV writer – get his personal help here worldwide.

Professional CV Writing: The Secret You Don’t Get Told

They’ll seldom tell you this. Agents especially will often rather leave you to sweat blood in your job hunt … instead of telling you: “Hey, do something about your CV. It’s your first impression. Here’s what to do, and here’s how.”

It’s not because they’re bad. They often just don’t know how to help. So they say nothing.

But the truth is: your CV is likely holding you back.

Your CV or resume may look like a million others. You may look average. You may even look long winded and ‘past your sell-by date.’  So you get little or no response. You’re just not making an impact. It’s just not working.

This when in fact, your CV could be getting “WOWs.” Sending a razor sharp message. Shining the light on the “brilliant YOU” (you have one, you are unique, let’s put it on show). It should be landing you more interviews, more job offers.

Your CV – Which of these 7 Do You Say “That’s Me” To?

• Your CV is outdated, it’s stale, you’re not proud to send it out.
• You just want personal, specialist CV help. You have better things to do.
• You’re too busy for the agony of writing it yourself?
• You have a unique situation requiring a more innovative approach?
• You’re just not getting your message across with a ‘cookie-cutter’, ‘typical’, ‘average’, ‘template’ type CV approach?
• You’re having trouble putting your ‘brilliance’ into words.
• You need to discuss your CV with a specialist, someone who’s done their “10 000” hours – or maybe “20 000” in career and CV matters. (Re. 10 000 hours, Google Malcolm Gladwell).

If you need help, I’m here for you. I’ve done 20 000 hours writing resumes and recruiting people for major corporations. I analyse every word of your CV. I write every word. And I’ve been doing it for 10 years, since 2002.

You get my personal help.

Call me, e-mail me: Ph +27 0 83 744 5454 or gerard [at] jobsearching.co.za

(Our first step in engaging is a quick personal discussion about your CV and how I can make a difference.)

If CV Writing  is a Problem, Then This is How I Can Help

You need more job interviews and more job offers. You just want it to happen, you NEED it to happen. Fast. But what are you doing differently to get that different result? Are you willing to be bolder?

Having your CV writing and online presence done by a professional often is a great help. You cut a lot of the frustration out. And you end up with a more professional document that gets better, quicker results for you.

The thing is, your current Curriculum Vitae or CV is probably boring :-(. It’s not giving you the promotional ‘punch’ you deserve. And you’re not alone. The fact is … most CVs are boring.

But really … your CV and online profile is your first impression. It can be a powerful, hard-hitting document that bashes down doors of opportunity for you. Or it can make you look really average – perhaps with a long, drawn out job hunt the direct result.

Here’s why my CV writing service may be a good choice for you:

I write Curriculum Vitae’s for Managing Directors, Professionals, CEO’s, and Engineers from all sorts of backgrounds – so I’m confident I can help you too. Here’s a quick look at my profile:

• I have a background in corporate recruiting (for Old Mutual, Shell, Caltex, Deloitte and more), am a student of advertising copywriting and sales (these are critical skills in the CV writing process.)
• My job hunting and CV advice has been published on Career Junction, PNet, and IOL. And in Financial Mail, Business Day, The Star Workplace, The Argus Job Shop and I’ve been interviewed on SAfm, 702 Talk Radio and 567 Cape Talk, and Radio 2000.
• I make a living writing CVs that sell. I don’t delegate the work. I don’t use a one size-fits-all template. I work with you personally to get your CV just right (ie give you the competitive edge, make you look really good, help you make an impact with employers, and ultimately get the job.) Read testimonials to the right here ==>>
• And I guarantee my work: I will work on your CV until it gets results for you. And if after 6 weeks of using your new CV there’s no significant increase in job interviews (unlikely!) I’ll put you on my Job Search FAST TRACK program, free. See Job Search FAST TRACK for more on that.

Curriculum Vitae / Resume Writing Service Details

Here’s what you’ll get when you enlist me to write your CV:

• My service offers you a strategic CV – where we go deeply into your background, skills and achievements in order to present the very best information to help take your career forward.
• I’ll sort through pages and pages of your past experience, reference letters, testimonials, job descriptions, personality profiles and performance appraisals and deciding what could be used to make a big impression in your CV.
• I’ll distill all that information into 2 or 3 power packed pages that represent the best of you – the content most likely to get favorable attention and response.
• And if you request it, I’ll do a review of your online presence – for eg. revamping your LinkedIn profile, or setting up your own dedicated web page, showcasing who you are and what you stand for.

Key features include:

• An analysis of performance appraisals and personality or psychological profiles – with a view to including information that adds credibility to your profile.
• Every word on the page is carefully considered and every sentence re-written to simplify and ensure a ‘punchy’ easily scanable read that makes an impact.
• In addition to that, I’ll identify any negative situations in your career and with you decide on a strategy to minimize the possible damage in perception these situations can create if not handled with care.
• We’ll also delve a little into what surrounds your professional life – your interests and personal achievements – these can often provide a freshness and interest to a sometimes dry document.
• Something else I spend a lot of time on is to come up with a clear, powerful value statement. This kind of statement provides a short, sharp, effective insight into your skill and value and importantly the benefit you provide. It conveys focus and clarity of thought on your part to a reader.
• I do background research, for example into companies you’ve worked for (who’s trusted you before?), or companies you want to work for (what do they value most?) and of course into technical terminology (to keep it simple).
• A key consideration is to be concise and to the point. This requires extensive work on my end to be brief but to still convey depth of experience and value.
• You also have access to me to help guide you in your job hunt – regarding cover letters (I’ll edit yours or even write it), what works in the job market, how to answer tough interview questions, what to expect and how to deal with the many challenges the market presents.

CV & Resume Writing Fees

I don’t offer a cheap service here – there are enough other services offering that. I work with people who are serious about their careers and who want the best help available.

The fee is based on your level of earnings and seniority. The more the earnings and seniority, the more complex the task and the higher the fee. For international / US Dollar or Euro rates please apply the daily South African Rand exchange rate.

Identify your level and the corresponding fee here [No VAT is applicable.]:

• Level 1 (If your gross salary is less than R9 999 pm): R675.00*
• Level 2 (gross salary is between R10 000 to R19 999 pm): R750.00*
• Level 3 (gross salary is between R20 000 to R29 999 pm): R975.00
• Level 4 (gross salary is between R30 000 to R39 999 pm): R1 100.00
• Level 5 (gross salary is between R40 000 to R49 999 pm): R1 300.00
• Level 6 (gross salary is R50 000 pm and above): R1 500.00
• LinkedIn.com Profile: Revamp – R350.00 / New – R500.00
• Webpage setup at about.me: R500.00

• Additional versions of a CV are R350.00 each (eg. if your primary focus is for an Engineer position but you’re also interested in a Sales role then you’ll need an additional sales version).
• Updates are R350.00 each (previous clients only).Whatever your level – you’ve got me using all my job market, corporate, marketing and copy writing knowledge to help you. And I’ll work on it until you’re happy.

Order Your New CV Here

Follow these instructions: Simply send an e-mail to me at gerard@jobsearching.co.za.

And in the e-mail please supply the following:

1. Your name and contact details (phone/email/mobile).
2. Please attach your old CV so I have some background info.
3. Indicate your current position and company if applicable.
4. Please also state the kind of job titles you’re going to be applying for.

Then wait for my contact – I try to be quick.

Please note that due to high demand and because I design and write your CV myself, I cannot offer a same-day service. When I make contact we will discuss your time constraints and I’ll discuss the time slots I have available. Currently delivery is running at around 7 working days.

Contact me now as per instructions above – or read on to get a deeper insight into what makes a great CV.

Writing Your Own CV is a Tough Job

You’ve probably spent many hours on it. Somehow, writing your CV (and getting it right) is just one of those really awkward, difficult things to do. You agonise over the details:

• “What do I include?” “What do I exclude?” “Is it too long or too short?”
• “How can I convey my true value as a person?”
• “What’s the right format?”
• “How can I sell myself without sounding arrogant?”

Or you may just be saying, “I don’t have time for this!!”

It can be confusing and time consuming.

Mike is perhaps a typical example:

He decided to find a new job. So he made a few calls in answer to adverts and all he heard was “send your CV”. In a hurry he sat down in his lunch break to quickly update his CV – and he got stuck! He seemed to go around in circles – not knowing quite how to phrase things, or how to present himself so he would stand out. He ended up shelving it. And 3 months down the line, it was the same all over again.

Like Mike, many get stuck trying to deal with stuff like this:

• They’ve got a lot of diverse experience/expertise and if they include it all their CV will go to something like 10 pages or more. Or they may be totally new to the job market.
• They’ve had 3 jobs in the last 2 years.
• They’ve had 40 years work experience.
• They’re changing career and need to break into a new field.

Getting it right is complicated! Frustrating. Difficult. And you can add the problems of getting the word processing, spelling, and grammar right. Also the understanding of how a Curriculum Vitae gets read and the psychology of the reader.

So sometimes it’s the best choice to get professional help. It can be a turning point in your search for a better job. Your CV can literally bash down doors of opportunity OR just get you lost in the crowd.

CV Writing Benefits I Promise to Help You Get

• Your CV will be concise, clear – not cluttered with too much information.
• Your CV will sell you as a ‘brand’ – someone who delivers a specific benefit.
• Your CV will be ‘different’ – more professional and crafted to grab attention.
• Your CV will reflect a little of who you are – why you’re special.
• Your CV will be easy to read, easy to scan and after just half a page the reader will know what you can deliver and why you’re a great candidate.
• Your CV will smooth the way for better more focussed interviews. Yes, here’s a often forgotten fact: all the way through the hiring process your CV paves the way before you. It sets the tone. It can mean the difference between being treated positively and being treated as “just another candidate.”

Ok. That’s it. See the ordering instructions above to take it further or just contact me directly: gerard@jobsearching.co.za

Professional CV Writing WARNINGS!
If you’re considering a professional CV writing service then here are just a few additional considerations for you to think on – I’ll call them “CV Health Warnings.”

CV Writing Testimonials
What others have said about my CV writing services.

CV Writing Tests
Check the status of your existing CV.