Why do I need a CV?
Michelle Ansell
Project Management in start ups with hypergrowth experience, Partnerships management in sport
After 20 years of professional employment I am preparing my first CV and for my first interview(s), and would welcome advice.
Having recently been made redundant from a company and group of people who I very much enjoy working with and on a project that was full of potential and new challenges for me, I'm now looking for a new role where I can offer up my experience, capability and interests.
In the last year I have worked with and managed all manner of sponsors, partners and challenges in wonderful places from Mexico to China.
I'm not sure what I need to put in a CV, so I called up a few clients - new and old - some colleagues and people I've met who I thought would be straight with me so I could get some feedback. Comments included:
People really like working with you
You get on with it…and I don't have to worry
You treated us very well, and we loved working for you.
It was a tough deal to get over the line….we got there
Strong blend of common sense, commercial nouse and personal connection
You have a great way of joining the dots to maximise resources and impact
Exacting high standards, brings out the best in suppliers and partners
Given your experience, you ought to be more confident in how you sell yourself
Lovely personality. Quietly competent. Could be more assertive
Leading 30 staff to look after all the boats, facilities and 400 clients, over 9 days is impressive
So where does this leave me and my CV. People don't seem to see my skills, they see and value the outcome, sponsorship and the developing relationships. Funny thing is, I'm not even sure I know how I join the dots or get things over the line sometimes, I just do.
My Vision has been ‘optimising resources to meet (and out perform) clients expectations', and whilst I am not entirely clear on my Purpose, its something around creating moments of Joy for others or creating an environment where others can be at their best, where we can be at our best?
How do I put in a CV that my abilities and capabilities outweigh my paper qualifications? I have no certificate that states a good grade in Negotiating with Mexican Businesses and Agents or Getting on with it in China, and yet I have.
This is not to say that I wouldn't value and accept the opportunity to update my learning and qualifications whilst working. I really would. My husband has recently written 60,000 words on a topic to update his learning and personal development, and has loved the challenge and the opportunity to gather his knowledge in one place whilst expanding his thinking.
So hear I am, twenty years of working experiences. A mum of two. A lover of sport. An eye for detail. If you are into Belbin, I'm a completer finisher / team worker, with a decent dose of specialist, and in SDI language, I'm a green/blue…. details and people…. A joiner of dots, a creator of joy…. Is that a job? Do I need a cv?
Thanks for your suggestions and advice.
Connector of Dots | Empowering SMEs with AI | People Whisperer | Partnering with Tech Founders | Securing Your Future | Strategic Business Consultant and Investor | Founder of Marla Investments |
6 å¹´What a wonderful piece. I have been there and it is hard to put down what you have done and what your strengths are in a traditional CV. My work history looks chequered on paper but has taught me how to look at any problem and find solutions - generally they are not the accepted norm because I have not been blinded by being in that industry forever. I think your article does you justice and in itself is a fantastic CV.
Head of Talent and Engagement at Welcome Break
6 å¹´Personally I love a good cover lever, brings everything to life!
Keeping your fuel flowing
6 å¹´Hi Michelle - I think your Linkedin profile is a brilliant CV. You should be proud of all the personal recommendations you've been given on there. I think you would do a great job in any business.
Project Management in start ups with hypergrowth experience, Partnerships management in sport
6 å¹´Thanks for the like Alex Lenoel?any advice?
Global Head of Multi Asset at Fidelity International
6 年I try not to read a CV when interviewing people. I prefer to sit down and say tell me about yourself? How did you get here? But I guess a CV is something that gets you into that room via an HR department. I wonder if a letter like the one you just wrote would do better? I think it was wonderful. I think you’re right, there must be a better way to communicate who you are and what you bring. I’m going to think about it! Best of luck Michelle. Shout if I can help. Matt