The Advantage
The Challenge
There are pros and cons to having a history of self-employment. On the one hand, it shows an entrepreneurial spirit, an aptitude for business, and a 360-degree responsibility for all areas of commerce - and it does. However, in some cases, unless your CV is well written, employers may be dubious about the lack of evidence to support your achievements.
Hiring managers can find it hard to verify information you have given. With no direct employer references to call on, they rely solely on their “gut instincts.” If you can find reputable references from suppliers or clients, it would help your cause. Finally, they may be wondering what has gone wrong for you to now be seeking employment, so it is critical to relay accomplishments and explain why you are looking to change direction.
Golden Rules for the Self-Employed CV
Written correctly, your CV could easily get to the top of the pile. There is a wealth of experience, skill, and ability to be shown in freelance career histories. Here are some golden rules to be mindful of:
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Identify Your Expertise
Although you are the owner of your business, there are key skill areas where you excelled. Find your area of expertise (Management, Sales, Finance) and lead with that in your job title.
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Provide Technical Specifics
Provide enough technical detail so employers can see you possess deep industry knowledge relevant to their specific role.
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Make Achievements Quantifiable
You set up a business from scratch. Even if you faced hardships, at one point the business was viable - show those metrics and growth figures clearly.
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Show 360-Degree Skills
Highlight your ability to carry out market research, sales, and financial management. This includes details on your intellectual property, customer base, and company structure.
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Use a Cover Letter
This is your opportunity to explain the "Why." Highlight your desire for a new challenge or the need for a collaborative corporate environment.
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Be Transparent About Transitions
If business failure is the reason for your return, explain this openly. Highlight your desire for stability and a more challenging corporate position to eclipse the negatives.
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Maintain Standard Structure
Ensure your profile, core skills, and employment history remain concise and bullet-pointed, followed by education.
Confidence without the "Dragons' Den" Trap
Your CV should scream achievement, confidence, strategy, and business acumen. Once it has secured you an interview, these traits must be relayed face-to-face. Lastly, don’t make anything up. We’ve all seen people fall apart on Dragons’ Den because their information didn’t stack up. Be truthful and be proud of what you have achieved.
Read next: CVs for Contractors Following Changes to IR35.
Quick Answers: Self-Employed CVs
Should I list myself as 'CEO' of my own business?
Unless you are applying for C-Suite roles, it is often better to use a title like 'Principal Consultant' or 'Strategic Manager' to align with the role you are targeting.
How do I prove my achievements without an HR department?
Use testimonials from clients, reference your LinkedIn endorsements, and provide quantifiable data (revenue growth, project delivery dates) as your verification.
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