Starting this MA was an intentional career change. I have not been feeling confident about CV representing me in a way that would help me get a more creative role, so I arranged a meeting with graduate support to discuss the best steps going forward for making a good CV.
On their advice I have revamped my CV in line with my present career change.
It was suggested that I have I omit details from my original CV, such as work experience from longer than 5 years ago, and school results e.g. (A levels, GCSEs, anything from before I became an ‘adult’).
The advice didn’t necessarily cover my work experience as I was perviously in one company for 8 years, where I promoted further into the company works in my favour, even though it isn’t in the relevant industry.
I was advised to consider selling myself on the transferrable skills from my pervious experience, and to mention any aspects of my old job that were creative (such as creating the site safety induction animations).
I have learnt that there are 2 types of CVs – a work CV and an Artists CV. Work CVs are used for job applications, and artist CVs showcase my development as an artist, which is used to apply for residencies, exhibitions, festivals and projects I have participated in. Both types of CV’s are more successful if they have strong visual language.
I feel anxious going back into the working world again, especially with so much uncertainty. However this time around I feel more prepared to be mindful about where I want to apply myself. It’s important to go in a direction that is going to be fulfilling for me, as well as to allow myself to support myself. I look forward to applying to things such a residencies, and I’m mindful that not all jobs that I will be applying for require CVs, they with more likely require a tailored showreel/directors showreel. I am glad that I have taken this initial meeting with graduate support and I fully intend on utilising it more while I still have the opportunity.
Going forward I will continue to develop my CV, as well as build an artist’s CV. I will Highlight that I’m a recent graduate, my strengths, what I represent. Make a short bio that covers any grey areas in the CV.
My old CV
My new work-in-progress CV with an artist focus.
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