By Xena Stevens – currently in the final year of a BA (Hons) Marketing degree and gained a year of experience in industry as a Brand Marketing Intern at EA. Xena is also a Careers Associate at Manchester Met

CVs and cover letters

CVs

  • Include links to portfolios or social media channels (if you’re running them as a brand/your own brand) at the top
  • Use the STAR framework to describe your experience and skills
  • First time making a CV? Check out Careers Service’s CV builder
  • Made a CV but not sure if it’s good? Run a check through the Careers Service’s CV360 tool
  • Want someone to check over your CV and give you further advice? Drop into our Jobs Hub in Geoffrey Manton
  • Helpful subject-specific advice guides at the bottom of the dedicated page

Cover letters

  • Even when they’re optional, try to write one for the role that you’re applying for
  • Personalise the address (and if possible/known the person)
  • Split it into three main paragraphs:
  • First paragraph about why you want to work for X company and your career goals
  • Second paragraph about applicable past experience and skills you have that the role has asked for (using STAR framework)
  • Final paragraph about a project that X company has done which has inspired you or a personal goal the company would help with