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A CV is your first chance to promote yourself to a potential employer and if well written and tailored to the role for which you are applying is more likely to increase your chance of securing a job interview.
Within your CV include your contact information, a professional summary statement, your work experience (in chronological order, with the most recent experience first), key skills, relevant achievements, educational attainments and qualifications. You can also include a section on Hobbies and Interests and References too.
Tailor your CV to the role for which you are applying by looking at the job advert, the job description and person specification to see what knowledge, experience and skills you will need and the typical things you will do in that job.
In the relevant sections described below, highlight the skills you have that match what the employer is looking for; highlight relevant achievements and experiences, the work and relevant education/qualifications and the personal qualities that make you right for the role.
If you have an existing CV – make sure it is up to date with any new achievements, experiences, skills or qualifications you have gained.
It is normal to have some gaps between jobs and work experience when life events happen. Here is some advice about how to explain a gap in employment.Explain a gap in employment | National Careers Service
Keep it short, concise and focused – ideally no more than 2 A4 pages
Choose a clear, professional font such as Arial, Times New Roman or Calibri in Size 11 or bigger. Be consistent with this throughout your CV.
Use headings (similar to those above) and bullet points to make it easier to read
Ensure there is sufficient “white space” between headings/ words – this also helps with making it easier to read.
CV layout: dos and don’ts | reed.co.uk
CV Templates | reed.co.uk CV Template: Create a Free CV in Minutes
Save and send as a PDF: Always save your CV as a PDF before you send it. That way, the formatting won’t change when someone opens it on their computer.
Start your cover letter by addressing the recruitment manager or team for the role you’re applying for or if it just a generic application to the organisation.
The opening paragraph is your chance to catch their attention, introduce yourself and enthusiastically tell the employer why you’re applying for the job/or why you want to work for this organisation. You’ll want to make this paragraph specific to each job listing you apply for/or the type of work you are interested in doing. Include why you’re excited about the job and/or the company, and how the job or type of work lines up with your career goals.
Now that you’ve introduced yourself and established your enthusiasm, it’s time to dig into your most relevant experience and talk about the specific qualifications and skills that make you the perfect candidate. In one or two paragraphs, make the connection between your previous knowledge, skills, experience and accomplishments that match the type of work you are looking for. Think of these paragraphs as a way to pitch yourself as the ideal match for the role. Reference your CV but try not repeat the bullet points. Instead, include details that more deeply illustrate those highlights.
The main goal of your closing paragraph is to thank the employer for their time and consideration. You also have the option of making any clarifications. For example, you can justify any major gaps in your employment history. You can also use this space to sum up your qualifications for the role and express an interest in continuing to the next stage in the recruitment process. If you are willing to undertake placement or voluntary type work you could indicate this here too.
Choose a complimentary closing that is friendly yet formal, followed by your first and last name – e.g. Thank you for your consideration and I look forward to hearing from you.
_________________________________________________________________________________
Here is a link with further information about writing a cover letter – this includes a template that you can amend online to fit your knowledge, skills and experience in the type of work you are applying for
A job application is the formal process where you apply for a job demonstrating your suitability for the role. Successfully completing the application form can give an employer a sense of your experience, abilities and personality.
Taking time to complete this thoroughly demonstrating how you meet the criteria for the role, will provide you with the best possible chance of getting an interview.
Preparation is key; before you begin completing the form take some time to prepare and gather together all the information you may need:
Some of the above may already be contained in your CV if that is up to date.
Research is also very important – it will help you understand the organisation and the role and also demonstrate your commitment:
Finally, read the instructions carefully to ensure you complete the correct sections of the form and are clear what date you need to submit the application by.
A job application form is often more standardised with specific sections to a complete than a CV.
Typical sections of an application form include:
If you have gaps in your employment, then explain them, for example, relocating and settling into the UK.
Role-related questions – some application forms will ask you to give examples that demonstrate you have the skills or experience they are looking for. Give specific examples of when you have demonstrated the skills required for the role. To structure your examples in the best way possible, see how to use the STAR method in an application. Avoid being vague, and don’t waste space writing about skills you have that aren’t relevant.
Some common questions might include:
Why are you the best person for this position?
Why are you interested in this role?
Tell us about a time you faced a problem at work and how you solved it.
Explain a situation where you have contributed positively to a team.
Tell us about a time when you had to work to a tight deadline and how you met it.
Please provide an example of when you have provided exceptional customer service.
There might also be some industry specific and/or technical questions. Take your time to answer these questions thoroughly. They may also be referred to in the interview where you can expand more fully on your answers.
If you have the opportunity to provide further information, you can use this space to set out a well structured and reasoned case why you are the right person for the role –referring to the information in the person specification, job description and advert.
You could also include information that you have not referred to anywhere else in the application as long as it is relevant to the role e.g. volunteering work, research/publication and/or presentation experience.
Most application forms will also require you to provide details of at least two people who can provide references. References provide evidence of your work experience and skills. It is a good idea to contact them in advance to ask their permission before listing them on your application form. If your direct line manager no longer works for the organisation, the HR department would still be able to confirm your employment dates and role.
Proofread your application – check for spelling and correct grammar. Use brief sentences and clear paragraphs. Ask someone to proof read it for you.
Use the STAR Method – this will help you keep your examples from your past experience, clear, concise and relevant.
Customise your responses based on the job description and Person Specification – use the job description and person specification and use relevant terminology and phrases relevant to the role and organisation.
Use power verbs – such as transformed, delivered, achieved etc.
Demonstrate enthusiasm for the role and the organisation.
Remember to complete all parts of the application form and read the instructions in the advertisement or on the website.
When making an application, it’s important to remember that you’re not obliged to give details of any of the nine characteristics protected by the Equality Act (2010) These are age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnerships, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion, sex (gender) and sexual orientation.
It is unlawful for recruiters to discriminate against applicants on these grounds. You might be asked to provide these details on a confidential equal opportunities form, usually the last page of an application, or on a separate form. This is used solely for monitoring the employer’s commitment to equality and diversity. It shouldn’t be seen by people involved in recruitment or used in the selection process. If you’d prefer not to answer some or all of these questions, there is usually a ‘prefer not to say’ option you can select.
While there’s no legal obligation for you to disclose personal information to your employer, it’s entirely up to you if you choose to do so. If you don’t feel comfortable disclosing on an application form, there will be other opportunities to do so, such as during an interview, after a job offer has been made or once you’re in the workplace.
You can use artificial intelligence (AI) to help with your job application and many people do. You can use it to:
It’s important that you use AI sensibly. Don’t copy generic AI responses without editing them, as you need to make sure your personality and real experience shine through. Don’t use AI to fabricate skills or experience, as this could backfire in an interview or on the job. You also need to be mindful of confidentiality if you’re uploading CVs or any documents that include sensitive information.
Most employers know applicants use AI tools, and some actively scan for AI-generated content to ensure candidates genuinely represent their skills and experience.
Recruiters may use software to spot AI-written text, compare your application with your interview responses, or rely on their own knowledge to spot language that feels out of place.
It’s best to use AI to enhance or edit your documents, not to create them entirely. Personalising your CV and cover letter with your own voice and experiences helps you stand out and prepares you to confidently discuss your experience in interviews.
Authenticity and trust matter – not just for securing the job, but for succeeding in it. If your application doesn’t truly represent you, this often becomes clear later.
The biggest risk is getting hired based on information that doesn’t reflect your actual skills or abilities, which usually leads to poor performance and a bad fit – for both you and your employer.
Learn more about using generative AI in job applications.
The majority of your job application forms will be done online. On most employers’ websites, registering your details means you can save your work as you go, meaning you don’t have to finish the form in one sitting.
You may wish to consider typing your answers into a Word document, before copying and pasting them into the application form, this can be easier than typing directly into the web browser.
However, make sure you double-check your formatting as you copy and paste – for instance, if there is a word count and you have gone over this, the online form may simply cut off the ends of your answers – but going about your application this way means you won’t risk losing your progress if your logged-in session times out.
If you can, print the completed application form and read it through before you submit. It’s much easier to spot spelling and grammatical errors on a printed page than on screen.
Finally, ensure you have attached any requested documents, such as your CV, and then submit your application. You should receive an email confirmation that it has been received.
How do I focus on the job description when applying for a vacancy
Read the details in the job description of what the role requires and in your CV and or application form describe the experience you have this is relevant to these requirements. Emphasise the skills you have and/or skills that are transferable to the type of work you are applying for too.
How to manage the perception of employers that I may be “over qualified”
Explain what your priorities and motivations are right now. Be clear about the things that are important to you and why this job would fit in with that. Focus on the value that you can bring and emphasise the skills and experience you have that would be most relevant to working in this type of role at this level.
Before and during an interview, focus on preparation, presentation, and engagement to make a positive impression and demonstrate your suitability for the role.
1 Research the Organisation: Understand the company’s mission, values, and recent developments. This knowledge will help you tailor your responses and you’re your genuine interest.
2. Review the Job Description and Person Specification: Familiarise yourself with the specific qualifications, knowledge, skills and behaviours required for the role. Think about how your experience, knowledge, skills and behaviours align with these requirements and prepare some examples from your past experiences that you can provide in the interview.
3. Look over your CV or application form and think about what the interviewer
might ask you. Think about the value you would bring to the role and the organisation.
4. Practice Common Questions: Anticipate common interview questions and practice your responses. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers, especially for behavioural questions.
Also, think about any gaps you might have where you may not meet the criteria – are there examples of how you have been working on these areas or how you would approach bridging the gap?
Here are some helpful video clips to watch and further information to read:
The STAR method | National Careers Service
Don’t assume the interview panel will have read or remembered all the information on your CV and/or application form. Your job is to bring it to life – it is ok to repeat the information on there and add more detail to it in the interview.
By considering these factors, you can enhance your interview performance and increase your chances of securing the job. Good luck!
Here is a video clip to watch
Bing Videos – Top 10 Tips for Effective Interviews
In advance of your interview the organisation will confirm to you the date, time and venue (or the on line link if the interview is virtual)
You may be interviewed by a panel of at least 2 people, sometimes this is more. The lead interviewer will welcome you and introduce the people on the interview panel and explain how the interview process will work.
They will explain the structure of the interview which is generally that:
The interviewer will then explain the timescales for making their decision and how they will communicate the outcome of the interview with you.
It is fine to ask for the question to be repeated. Equally, you could ask for the person to speak slightly slower or clearer.
You could also check your understanding by clarifying back with the person what you think you are being asked.
You could write down the key words to help you work out the understanding.
Attend conversation clubs that will help develop your practice in listening and understanding to increase your confidence in responding.
This really depends on the nature of the role. Study the job description and person specification and the job advert – it will describe the essential criteria for the role. You can then prepare examples of when you have demonstrated that criteria previously to show your value to the role and the organisation.
Generally speaking, employers will look for candidates who can demonstrate positive behaviours in relation to working with others – both team colleagues and customers, communication, adaptability, positivity, reliability and organised.
The more senior the role, the more personal characteristics regarding leadership, influencing and a strategic approach are likely to be required.
Here’s an example of some qualities that employers could look for: – Top 10 Qualities Employers Look for in Candidates Today – HR News
In 2022, the Government recognised that some people from Hong Kong with HKBNO Visas may have encountered some difficulties in securing work and accommodation due to a general lack of understanding from organisations about their rights to work and live in the UK. A letter was written from Lord Greenhalgh as the Minister of State at the time to clarify the situation, and this may be useful to share if you encounter such a difficulty. You can access it here:
It is a legal requirement for employers that they gain assurance that potential employees have the legal right to work in the UK.
You’ll need to prove your right to work in the UK to your employer before you start working for them. You can get a ‘share code’ which shows employers that you can work in the UK if you are a BN(O) Visa holder:
Prove your right to work to an employer: Get a share code online – GOV.UK
Employers usually ask candidates to provide names of individuals they can contact to ask for a reference. It is usual that the reference is provided by a current and/or previous employer, as their experience and knowledge would be most relevant. Employers usually understand that you may not want to have your current employer contacted for a reference until the final stage of a selection process.
If you don’t have a current employer, you may approach someone who may be able to provide a useful reference – for example, a tutor at a language club you attend, or a tutor if you are undertaking some other form of study. You may find it helpful to consider volunteering. This will give you the opportunity to gain relevant experience in the UK and the organisation you volunteer for would be able to provide a reference.
For some jobs in the UK, the employer will need to carry out a security check to find out if a potential employee has any criminal convictions or has been disbarred from certain professions. This is known as a DBS check.
For HKBNOs, this would mean asking the Hong Kong Government for a ‘Certificate of No Criminal Convictions’ (CNCC). The UK government understand that this may be difficult, and they have provided the following letter which some employers have accepted instead.
Applying for a ‘CNCC’ Letter on Certificates of No Criminal Conviction
Employers will usually specify what qualifications are needed in order to be considered as a suitable candidate for a job. This is often included in a job advertisement or in the person specification. The employer may sometimes also say that equivalent qualifications or experience would be considered.
Some qualifications may be requested because that is what the employer is looking for, and in other cases, the qualification may be necessary in order to comply with legal requirements. For example, jobs in Early Years, legal professions, healthcare, driving.
To find out about how your international qualifications and compare to UK qualifications, and to have your international qualifications and skills recognised, you can contact the UK National Information Centre (UK ENIC, previously UK NARIC).
UK ENIC is the official organisation for the recognition and comparison of international qualifications and skills. It works with the Department for Education (DfE) to help individuals and organisations in the UK and internationally. You can access their website through the following link: Homepage | UK ENIC
You can apply to UK ENIC for a Statement of Comparability. This is a certificate that shows how international qualifications compare to the UK’s education systems. The Statement gives international qualifications context when applying for jobs, studies or professional registration in the UK.
There is a charge for this service to cover the costs of assessing your qualifications. The service can be used for academic, vocational and some professional qualifications that are recognised nationally at a specific level within the country’s education system, as well as comparisons and credit information for some incomplete or partially documented qualifications and short courses.
This service does not cover proving English language skills for applications to the Home Office or other institutions for employment or study purposes. Also, it does not cover those who want to work in the early years sector in England (see below) or proving English language skills to other institutions, for example for employment or studies.
To find out more about doing a secure English Language Test, click the following link:
For those wishing to work in the early years sector (working with children from birth to 5 years of age), if you have an early years qualification from outside the UK you can apply for an Early Years Statement. This shows how your international early years qualification matches the criteria set by the Department for Education. This is free of charge. See the link below for more information:-
Instead of the overseas recognition route, you might be eligible for the Department for Education’s experience-based route (EBR) (opens in a new tab). This lets early years practitioners without an approved qualification gain status to work at level 3 staff-to-child ratios.
Talk to your employer if you want to take this route and think you might be eligible.
The EBR gives you a status, not a qualification. It is not automatically transferable between settings. The ENIC international qualification recognition route is transferable. Take this into consideration when deciding which route is most suitable for your circumstances.
The information below provides a guide for nurses from Hong Kong via the Hong Kong BNO Visa route. Source: https://www.hknauk.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Information-for-Hong-Kong-Nurses-about-working-in-England.pdf
There are a number of ways that you can search for jobs in the UK – here are some helpful ways to do it.
Helpful job websites:
The services that an agency provide are free to job seekers and offer access to vacancies, CV advice, interview support, and guidance on landing the right job.
For Job Seekers (agencies refer to job seekers as candidates):
REED have local offices in Nottingham and Leicester and recruit for a wide variety of jobs across Nottinghamshire and Leicestershire and beyond.
https://www.reed.com/offices/reed-recruitment-nottingham
https://www.reed.com/offices/reed-recruitment-leicester
Hays have local offices in Nottingham, Leicester, Lincoln, Chesterfield and Northampton and recruit for a wide variety of jobs across these local areas.
https://testsg.hays.co.uk/contact/offices-near-me
There are many other agencies that you can contact and search for jobs with. They are all easily available to find by doing an online search.
Depending on your profession, there are a number of specialist magazines that advertise jobs, most of which can be found online. You may have to become a member to access some of the magazines.
Here are some useful websites:
The magazine for Human Resources professionals: https://www.peoplemanagement.co.uk/magazine
The magazine for Finance professionals:
https://www.aicpa-cima.com/resources/landing/financial-management-magazine
The magazine for Nursing professionals:
https://www.rcn.org.uk/magazines
The magazine for people who work in UK local government:
The magazine for Social Work and Social Workers professionals:
https://basw.co.uk/about-social-work/professional-social-work-magazine-psw
Sometimes you will find that a job is advertised on both Indeed and on the website of the company that is recruiting to the job. When this happens, it is usually better to apply through the company website, as your application will been seen directly by the manager recruiting for the job or the Human Resources team who will make sure that your application is given to the manager for shortlisting.
The best thing you can do when you are new to the UK and applying for jobs is to make sure that your CV is up to date and relevant. To help with this, see the resource page on CVs and Cover Letter.
To help with improving your English and building your confidence when speaking, you may want to consider a job that is not customer facing. This will mean that you are still interacting with colleagues and taking instruction, which will help with your language skills, but you will not have to speak directly to members of the public.
You may also want to consider volunteering to improve your English language skills. Volunteering can be flexible and you usually have a say on how much of your time that you can. Therefore, this can fit around your job search. See the resources page on Volunteering.
‘English for Speakers of Other Languages’ (ESOL) classes can be a useful way of improving English language skills and confidence. East Midlands Councils’ SMP Website will be updated with any new ESOL resources and news of funding support.
There are also free resources available online to help you improve your English and we have links to these on our Welcome Hub:
English Language – East Midlands Councils SMP
North Notts College has ESOL classes in Worksop for Hong Kong BN(O) Visa holders. You can register for ESOL courses with this college and others in Nottinghamshire by contacting ‘Begin’:
Working on a voluntary basis can be a good way of gaining work experience and building confidence in speaking English and learning language and vocabulary that is work-related. This can be a useful stepping stone to gain paid employment.
The Occupational English Test (OET) is designed to assess the English Language skills of international healthcare professionals wanting to work in an English-speaking environment.
The Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) are the independent regulator for nurses and midwives in the UK. The NMC require you to gain an OET test result that is a minimum of Level B in speaking, listening, and reading and Level C+ in writing.
You can book your test online at: https://www.occupationalenglishtest.org/book-oet/
You can visit the OET website where you will find lots of preparation materials and sample tests that you can use to help you study. Please see links below:
• Preparation Portal: https://www.occupationalenglishtest.org/preparation-portal/
• Study Guide: https://www.occupationalenglishtest.org/l/oet-study-guide/
The FAQ page may also be useful: occupational-english-test-oet-faqs.pdf
You can also like the Facebook page @OfficalOET for regular preparation tips and advice. Recruitment and nursing agency contacts will also be able to advise you on review centres.
There may be local private tutors who can also support you with OET preparation. Support can also be purchased from on-line providers, such as Klik2learn: Destination OET – Klik2learn
There are so many ways that you can volunteer your time, skills or enthusiasm to help make a difference.
Volunteering can help you:
If you are looking gain new skills and want to build your confidence then there are lots of organisations that would appreciate your time. You can find out about local volunteering opportunities and how to apply by visiting these websites:
Notts Volunteer Centre:
https://notts.getvolunteering.co.uk
Rushcliffe Borough Council:
https://www.rushcliffe.gov.uk/community-and-living/community/volunteering
Nottinghamshire County Council:
Gedling Borough Council:
https://www.gedling.gov.uk/resident/parksandgreenspaces/volunteering
Bassetlaw Community and Voluntary Service:
https://www.bcvs.org.uk/volunteer
Volunteering in and around Northamptonshire: https://communityactionnorthants.org.uk/
Derbyshire Community Action:
https://volunteer.communityactionderby.org.uk/volunteers/search
Lincolnshire Community and Voluntary Partnership: https://lincscvp.org.uk/
You can also add volunteering experience to your CV as this will demonstrate your skills in communication, problem-solving, and teamwork, which are valued by potential employers.
Being a volunteer allows you to have the flexibility to fit it around your existing commitments and family life while helping your community.
Steps Towards Work – Employability Training for HK(BNO)s is a programme ran by Transform Training across Nottingham City and Beeston
There are lots of employment opportunities with local councils including Social Care work.
Hear from Alvin Lo, a Senior Infrastructure Officer in the ICT Department at Bassetlaw District Council, whose role involves delivering vital technical support and helping maintain robust digital systems across the organisation.
Originally from Hong Kong, Alvin shares how he adapted to a new professional environment and built a fulfilling career in the UK local government. From navigating cultural and structural differences to embracing a collaborative, community-focused work culture, Alvin’s story offers valuable insight for others considering a similar move.
His journey shows how skills developed overseas, particularly in IT and digital transformation, can translate into real impact in UK local government.
For Alvin, working in local government offers a great mix of job satisfaction and personal well-being. He especially enjoys the strong team spirit and collaborative atmosphere.
“Working with a team of dedicated professionals who share a common goal of serving the public is highly motivating. The collaborative environment fosters creativity and innovation, making it a great place to work.”
Read Alvin’s full story here: https://hkbno.emcouncils.gov.uk/employment/building-a-career-in-uk-local-government-after-moving-from-hong-kong/
The East Midlands Jobs site allows you to search for jobs advertised by a number of organisations; it only features genuine employers and real opportunities
Find opportunities to work within local authorities near you. This website uses a postcode search to identify your nearest local authorities and signposts you to their latest opportunities.
Find opportunities across the public sector on Jobs Go Public – This site is especially useful for roles in teaching and social work
The UK Government’s ‘Find a Job’ service can help you to search and apply for public and private sector jobs near you.
This site is useful for those looking for a job in the National Health Service, such as a nurse or doctor
If you are struggling to get a job in the public sector or in healthcare, please contact us and we may be able to support you. Email us at hkbno@emcouncils.gov.uk.
There is a really useful pack for Hong Kong nurses who want to work in the UK here:
If you are applying for a job in the UK which needs criminal checks, you will need to apply to the Hong Kong Police for a Certificate of No Criminal Convictions. You can find the UK Government guidance here:
Letter on Certificates of No Criminal Conviction (publishing.service.gov.uk)
Volunteering in the community can not only help with your integration, but also provide valuable experience for your CV. Some of the benefits of volunteering include:
The following Community Voluntary Support (CVS) organisations can advise you of volunteering opportunities in your area:
If there is nothing suitable for you, please contact us and we may be able to link you with opportunities in your area.
Interested in Teaching English? We can help!
Flying Cows
Discover more about East Midlands Councils’ pilot project to help Hong Kong BNO into NHS jobs in the Midlands.
In 2022, EMC funded 20 nurses to sit a preparation course with Klik2learn to help them to pass the Occupational English Test (OET) which is the first step in their pathway to employment.
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