Writing a personal statement

What is a personal statement?

A Personal statement provides you with an opportunity to showcase your skills, knowledge and experience to potential employers. Most online applications will ask you to submit a personal statement as part of your application.

Why do employers ask for a personal statement?

If you have the qualifications an employer has asked for, an employer will use your personal statement to shortlist candidates, this is why your personal statement is really important to get right.

How do I write a personal statement?

Employers will usually provide you with a job description and a person specification. It is important for you to read each thoroughly and use the person specification to form the basis of your personal statement. Make sure you provide examples of how you meet each point. If you do not meet or answer each point you may not get shortlisted.

Points to remember:

• Use positive language and wherever you talk about having experience or a particular skill.
• Always provide an example and explain how it is relevant to the job you are applying for.
• Write a draft first using ‘Microsoft Word’ before transferring it to your online application.

Useful links

• What You Should Include in a Personal Statement