CV personal statement examples

A simple formula

1. Who you are: your job title or stage (for example 'Level 3 qualified electrician', 'Recent biology graduate')
2. What you offer: two or three strengths from the advert that you can prove
3. What you want: the role or direction you're applying for

Examples

These are illustrative. Replace every detail with your own — the personal statement writer builds one from facts you enter, and never adds anything you didn't tell it.

• Experienced: "Customer service advisor with four years in a busy energy contact centre. Resolves billing queries on the first call where possible and handles complaints calmly. Looking to move into a team leader role."
• Graduate: "Recent BSc Psychology graduate with research experience from a dissertation on sleep and memory. Confident with SPSS and writing clear reports. Seeking an assistant psychologist or research assistant post."
• School leaver: "Reliable school leaver with GCSEs including English and Maths. Helped run the school's charity shop, handling cash and serving customers. Looking for a retail apprenticeship."
• Career change: "Retail manager moving into HR. Experienced in recruitment, onboarding and handling staff concerns confidentially. Studying CIPD Level 3."
• Trades: "NVQ Level 3 qualified plumber with domestic heating and bathroom experience. Gas Safe registered and G3 certified. Looking for a permanent role with a heating firm."

Common mistakes

• Writing in the third person ('John is a…') — use the first person without 'I', as above
• Generic claims with no proof ('passionate, driven team player')
• Making it longer than five lines
• Using the same statement for every job

Personal statement vs NHS supporting statement

An NHS supporting statement is a different, much longer document that addresses the person specification. See NHS supporting statement examples.