what's a personal statement on a cv

How to Write a CV Personal Statement [+4 Real-life Examples]

Creating an effective CV takes time and close attention to detail. You've already included your jobs and experience , and now you want to allow the recruiter or hiring manager to understand the strategic value you can add.

This is when you need to utilize a personal statement at the top of your CV.

How to Write a CV Personal Statement [+4 Real-life Examples] 

What is a Personal Statement? 

A personal statement is a few brief and direct sentences at the top of your CV. The personal statement is also referred to as a career summary or personal mission statement.

This is used to grab the attention of the recruiter or hiring manager and summarizes essential experiences or training that you can bring to this position.

Why do I Need a Personal Statement?

A recruiter or hiring manager is tasked with sorting through an enormous amount of resumes every single day. A personal statement is a way to separate yourself from the other applicants.

This statement summarizes your experience and highlights your unique talents . The CV personal statement is meant to demonstrate why you are the perfect fit for the job. 

Even med students need a medical school personal statement , as it is what differentiates them from all the other students applying. Plus, it allows them to share their personal stories and objectives.

Where do I Start? 

Always begin by reading the job description carefully and thoroughly.

Your personal statement should be tailored to each job description, so it explicitly states the value you’ll bring to the position you are applying. A generic personal statement cannot do that. 

Once you have a solid handle on the job description, you can begin writing. It’s important to keep your personal statement brief, about 50-200 words will do.

Don’t forget that you have your whole cover letter to show some personality and include engaging content.

The personal statement should be a quick summary that highlights why you are the best person for the job. 

You’ll need to decide whether you are writing your personal statement in first- or third-person. This should follow how you've written the rest of your CV.

For example, if you've already written, “I grew and developed a team of 50 salespeople,” in your CV then you will want to keep your personal statement in first-person to match the prevailing style.

No matter what you choose, make sure that you keep it consistent throughout. Do not switch between first- and third-person as that will get confusing to the hiring manager.

Writing a personal statement for your CV in first-person does not mean you need to start every sentence with “I.”

There are ways to craft your personal statement to sound snappy, concise and personal, and here are a few examples to help inspire your personal statement. 

CV Personal Statement Examples

It doesn’t matter what chose as your desired career or how much experienc e you have, use these examples to drive the creation of your own personal statement.

You can take snippets from each or write something completely different. Always remember that your personal statement is a reflection of yourself and should align with your own personal goals and experience.

If these examples don’t fit your exact career, feel free to take some pointers and write yours from scratch. 

#1: Personal Statement Example for Recent Graduate CV

“As a recent graduate from university, with an honors degree in communications, I held several internships within leading organizations, including Bertelsmann. These internships enabled me to gain experience in the field and learn how to serve up valuable contributions in a fast-paced, professional environment.”

Explanation: This example should be customized to include the university you’ve graduated from and any relevant internships. A compelling personal statement always highlights relevant skills and experiences.

In this case, a recent graduate does not have extensive experience in the workforce, so soft skills like experiencing success in a fast-paced work environment and becoming a trusted team member become even more critical.

#2: Personal Statement Example for Returning to the Workforce CV

“A highly motivated and experienced office administrator, I am currently looking to resume my professional career after an extended hiatus to raise my family. Proficient in all Microsoft Office programs, I can lead meetings and work with clients to keep your office running smoothly and efficiently. After spending several years volunteering as an administrative worker for a local charity, I am committed to resuming my professional career on a full-time basis.”

Explanation: After time off from a career, it can be hard to break back into the market. This personal statement outlines the reason for the break, the relevant qualifications and what the applicant has been doing in between jobs.

Any volunteer experience becomes highly relevant when there is no concrete professional experience to draw upon, to demonstrate the use of those skills. 

#3: Personal Statement Example for a Career Change CV

“With over 15 years as a sales manager, I have extensive experience building high-functioning sales teams that consistently achieve budget numbers. In fact, my ability to grow talent led to a 20% increase in annual renewals across the board. Now, after 15 years, I am seeking new challenges to flex my marketing muscles in a fast-paced environment.” 

Explanation: When changing careers , it's essential to highlight skills that are transferable between industries.

In this case, leadership and team-building experience can apply to any industry. Homing in on concrete numbers and percentages increases credibility when applying for a position.

The applicant ends with the reason behind the desired career change. This part is not necessary but may be appealing to some hiring managers who are wondering what the impetus for the career change.

#4: Personal Statement Example for a Experienced Professional CV

“As a friendly, professional and highly trained educator, I am passionate about teaching and have an innate ability to understand student’s needs. Creating a safe and productive environment for optimal learning is my top priority. I’ve worked as a teacher for nearly 10 years in a variety of subjects and my experience and skill set make me the perfect fit for your team.”

Explanation: With more experience comes more skills and a better idea of strengths and weaknesses. Showcasing your passion for the industry is a great way to begin a personal statement, as it shows the hiring manager your dedication to the craft. 

A personal statement can be written in many different ways, but it is ultimately up to you to determine what skills you want to highlight for your chosen position.

You can follow these examples or take learnings from each to contribute towards your personal statement. 

If you understand the job you are applying for and know the unique skill set that you bring to the table, you will have a stellar personal statement for your CV that will get you across the table from the hiring manager in no time.  

Suggested Reading:

• How to Write a CV (Curriculum Vitae) in 2024 [31+ Examples]
• 43+ Resume Tips and Tricks to Land Your Next Job
• 150+ Must-Have Skills for Any Resume  [With Tips + Tricks]
• How to Answer “Tell Me About Yourself”

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• CV and Cover Letter
• Craft a winning personal...

Craft a winning personal statement for your CV to stand out

8 min read · Updated on March 12, 2024

Let the personal statement on your CV speak volumes about you

You probably have a fairly good idea of how to write a CV . Your employment history, education, and qualifications are relatively easy to pull together as you just need to look at dates, your previous job specs, and what you've achieved over the years.

The personal statement is often the trickiest component of a CV to write. Thankfully, we've got this comprehensive guide to help you write a winning one.

What is a personal statement for a CV?

Your personal statement is a short paragraph that sits at the top of your CV, just below your name and contact details. Diving into three key aspects, this section offers the recruiter or hiring manager a powerful overview of you as a professional:

1.    Who you are

2.    Your suitability for the role and the value you can add

3.    Your career goals 

Why include a personal statement on your CV?

It is estimated that recruiters spend an average of less than 8 seconds reviewing a CV before deciding whether the applicant is a good fit. 

As the personal statement is the first section they will read, it must be powerful and tailored to the job you're applying for to successfully showcase your suitability. If it's not, you're unlikely to convince the recruiter you're the talent they need for the job.

5 tips on writing your personal statement

Before we look at some personal statement examples, let's take a look at the basics. Here are some expert-backed tips for writing a good personal statement on your CV.

1. Keep it short and on point

Keep your personal statement clean and concise. It's typically around four sentences long, or about 50 to 200 words. If you're overshooting that word count, see which nonessential parts can be omitted.

2. Get the layout right from the start

Make sure that your layout is consistent with the rest of your CV's formatting . That means maintaining the same font size, font type, and text justification. Recruiters will notice these minor details, and so it's smart to get ahead of the game here. 

3. Use a heading (if there's space!)

You can add a “personal statement” heading in the same way that you'd title the subsequent sections of your CV. However, if you're tight on space, you can cut the heading as recruiters will know what this paragraph is nonetheless.

4. Choose the right perspective

The first person is acceptable for a statement (“I am an IT professional looking for a job in…”) as is the third person (“An IT professional looking for a job in…”). Choose the point of view that's most comfortable to write in, but, as always, keep it consistent with the rest of your CV.

5. Cut back on unnecessary words

If you're writing in the third person, remove all pronouns. Otherwise, it sounds existentially awkward, rather than objective. For example, “She is a retail professional seeking a management role…” would become “A retail professional seeking a management role…”

How to write a personal statement for a CV

We've looked at the purpose of a personal statement, what it should include, and how it should look on the page. Now let's zoom in on exactly how to write a winning statement.

When writing, keep in mind that the personal statement on your CV is your elevator pitch; it's the equivalent of the “Tell me about yourself” or “Why should I hire you?” question in an interview. Below, we break down what you need to include in your personal statement.

Part 1: Who you are

Your opening statement needs to tell the prospective employer where you stand in your career. 

This introduction could include your current role, years of experience, and what you like the most about your career or professional field. It gives the recruiter a hint of the qualities that make you valuable to the vacancy.

Your first sentence may read like so:

As a successful digital marketing professional with five years specialising in e-commerce, I have recently worked with several global brands in the sector to improve their marketing strategy and boost their reach.

Part 2: Your suitability and value

The next part of your statement should line up with the requirements in the job description and prove your relevant and impressive qualifications.

It's always best to address here the essential job specifications to articulate from the beginning that you're the right person for the job. For example, if the role requires management experience or a certain degree and you have these, say so.

Your middle sentences may look like this:

I have experience in optimising quality digital products via my most recent role and am therefore in tune with the latest developments across the online landscape. As a result, I have devised winning branding strategies for e-commerce businesses that are robust, customer-centric and set for aggressive growth.

Part 3: Your career goals

The last part of your personal statement should be short and snappy as it's reaffirming why you are applying for this vacancy.

It might read something like so:

I am currently looking for a senior branding or marketing management role within the e-commerce sector where I can maintain my strong track record and deliver similar results.

Complete CV personal profile examples

In addition to the samples above, here are a couple of complete personal statement examples to give you an idea of what yours should look like.

For a graduate, written in the third person:

A recent graduate with a first-class BSc degree in Mathematics, specialising in analytics and statistics. Holds commercial experience within the finance sector, thanks to an internship with a corporate UK business, and has resultantly developed technical skills in data science and data engineering. Has a proven ability to meet deadlines, prioritise, problem solve, and maintain high standards having balanced a part-time job alongside studies over the last three years. Now looking to secure a place on a graduate programme that will provide exposure to data science and career progression opportunities.

Addressing a recent redundancy, written in the first person:

I am a skilled and successful Product Engineer within the automotive industry, with an HND in mechanical engineering and seven years of experience in the sector. Having worked in a number of labs handling vehicle-based testing and mentoring development technicians, I am confident in managing teams in a hands-on environment and running new development projects from briefing to sign off. Currently looking for a role that complements my skill set and experience. Available immediately.

Writing your personal statement: common mistakes to avoid  

There are some common profile errors that you should avoid. Steer clear of these popular pitfalls to keep your personal statement as powerful as possible.

Buzzword overload

Are you an extremely self-motivated, ambitious professional with extensive experience and passion for a certain industry? We thought so.

Buzzwords are great, and you'll find them in abundance in job adverts. But it's best to sprinkle just a few through your personal statement as they don't particularly provide evidence of your skill or ability. It's much stronger to show the employer how you're self-motivated and ambitious with an example.

Using a generic personal statement

You might think that your personal statement can work for every application. For the most part, it will, because, in theory, the jobs you're applying for will be similar and match your skill set.

However, you must tweak and tailor your statement (and your entire CV) so that it targets the skills each vacancy requires. Otherwise, it won't be as impactful.

Including too much waffle

As you begin to plan and write the personal statement for your CV, you'll most likely find that you have a lot more to say than you originally thought. Be careful not to overwrite as you may be left with a statement that's clogged with too many adjectives and is clunky to read.

As a rule of thumb, highlight your best bits in your personal statement and save the details for your cover letter.

FAQs about your personal statement 

Now that we've shown you some examples of a personal statement on a CV, there's just one last thing to cover. Here are some frequently asked questions on the topic:

How long should a personal statement be?

When you're writing a personal statement for a CV, your word count should be between 50 and 200 words. Be sure not to waste any space with unnecessary waffle here. 

Does a personal statement have other names?

Yes! The personal statement on your CV may also be called a personal profile, a CV summary, or a professional summary. 

Does a CV (really) need a personal statement?

Yes, most CVs require a personal statement at the top of the page. Use our guide to help you write a summary that grabs the hiring manager's attention for the right reasons. 

Stand out with a winning personal statement

Writing a captivating personal statement on your CV is a quick way to hook potential employers. Make sure that your summary showcases what makes you unique and adds value to your application. 

Still unsure about your personal statement? Get in touch with one of our career experts by requesting a free CV critique today! 

Recommended reading: 

Professional email salutations that work (with examples)

Written communication: definition and examples

How long should a cover letter be and what should it include?

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Should you put your address on a CV (with examples)

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How To Write A Resume Personal Statement (With Examples)

The Purpose Of A Resume Personal Statement

The elements of a good personal statement, the construction of a good personal statement, final words: writing a resume personal statement.

Quick Answer: A personal statement on a resume summarizes the benefits of hiring you and encourages recruiters to pay attention to your resume. It's the first section of the resume that recruiters see, so it should be brief, easy-to-read, and attention-grabbing. Your statement should include who you are, suitable skills, achievements, your target company, and what you hope to do for your new employer. It should be short and concise, mentioning only the most relevant information for your target roles.

Landing a job interview requires a memorable resume. Including a good personal statement at the top of your resume is a perfect way to do it.

Essentially, your resume personal statement is a brief paragraph that aims to summarise the benefits of hiring you and encourage employers to pay attention to your resume.

If you are wondering whether you should include it.

And you will see why. In this article, we have all the information you need on how to write an eye-catching personal statement and a couple of useful examples.

Hundreds of resumes go through the hands of a Recruiter in just a day. So, you understand how important it is to grab his or her attention in just seconds. One really effective way is to write a personal statement at the top of a resume.

By including a strong personal statement you would for sure get more attention than one without.

1. State who you are

Begin with a description showing your current position in your profession and field of specialization. You could also include what you like most about your work and any characteristics and skills that would make you the perfect choice for the position.

2. Add measurements to your achievements

After that, you should communicate how suitable for the position you are and what is your value to the organization. This section should highlight accomplishments relevant to the position you are applying for. Show that you could be beneficial for the company.

If you are wondering which accomplishments to mention, select those that directly associate with your position. If the position requires managerial experience, mention previous situations that have placed you in such a role. This way, you could quickly establish yourself as the right candidate for the job.

3. State your career objectives

The third section of your personal statement should state why you are applying for this particular position. You have already communicated your skills and qualifications in the previous sentences, so you write the last one concise and direct.

4. Keep your personal statement short

Your whole personal statement should be short, concise, and easy to read. Keep in mind to use simple sentences telling the recruiter the most important information for you.

After telling you how to structure it, see how it is done.

“An efficient, and reliable administrative professional with 8+ years of experience supporting executives, sales personnel, and managers to improve the internal operations for their businesses.

Proficient in CRM applications and design programs. Diversified skill set covering administrative support, client relations, human resources and recruiting, account management, and project management. Excellent interpersonal, phone, and digital communication skills.”

“As a recent graduate from the University of Townville, with a 2:1 honors degree in marketing, I have undertaken internships at industry-leading agencies such as Beyond Imagination and Noah Freemans. These placements have allowed me to develop sector knowledge and gain hands-on experience, as well as expand transferable skills such as communication, negotiation, and analytical skills. My current goal is to gain a role that allows me to further my knowledge and take on increased responsibility at a market-leading digital marketing agency.”

“I am a highly competent IT professional with a proven track record in networking and managing databases. I have strong technical skills as well as excellent interpersonal skills, enabling me to communicate easily with clients. I am eager to be challenged in order to grow and further improve my skills. My greatest passion in life is using my technical know-how to benefit other people and organizations.”

Resume Personal Statement for Career Changers Example

Experienced Sales Manager

“As a Sales Manager with 7 years of experience, my tenacious and proactive approach resulted in numerous important contract wins. My excellent networking skills have provided my team with vital client leads, and my ability to develop client relationships has resulted in a 16% increase in business renewals for the organization I work for. I currently seek a new challenge which will utilize my meticulous attention to detail and friendly, professional manner.”

Resume Personal Statement for Entry Level Job

Entry Level Business Analyst

“Enthusiastic Business Analyst, skilled in leadership and communication. Seeking to enhance understanding of key metrics for IPSoft. As a business report writer for Valens Securities helped grow employee grasp of key concepts by 42%. My PowerPoint presentation of GBMP’s Policy Deployment plan was turned into a webinar that got 2,300 views.”

Resume personal statement for experienced professional

Experienced Teaching Assistant

“Enthusiastic teaching assistant with 6 years of experience. Seeking to maintain a graduate teaching assistant position at St. Andrews University. Mentored 70+ students for 3 years. Delivered lectures, edited 2 books. Commended by 2 professors for research quality. Graded 1000+ student papers. Skilled in materials development and research.”

And if you are still not sure how to write your personal statement, go through our Resume Examples . They are all approved by top Hiring Managers and have helped thousands get their dream job.

Your personal statement will be totally unique to yourself, but by using the above tips and tricks we gave you, you will be able to create one which shows the Hiring Managers everything they need.

Remember to keep it short and only include the most relevant information for your target roles.

Do you have any other questions about personal statements on a resume? Give us a shout-out in the comments below!

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CV Personal Statement:  Examples and Actionable Tips

Fact: recruiters spend only 6 seconds reviewing each CV. So poorly organized CVs inevitably get discarded. 

Having an effective CV layout is the first step to attracting their attention. And the second step is topping that CV with a compelling personal statement (also known as a personal profile, personal summary, or executive summary).

What is a Personal Statement in a CV? 

A personal statement for a CV is a short and compelling paragraph that summarizes why you’re the most qualified person for the offered role. It tells the reader who you are and what valuable qualifications you will be bringing to their company.

NB : Opening statement, personal profile, personal summary, or executive summary are the other common names for a personal statement. 

Many believe that the work experience section is the most important element of a CV. Yet, it is your personal statement that can end up making or breaking the success of your job application. 

Because it provides the reader with a quick answer to one question they have on their mind: Are you qualified for the job or not? 

Remember: You’ll be directly competing with numerous other applicants with similar skills and work experiences. A compelling CV statement sets you apart by giving the reader a condensed snapshot of who you are as a person. 

Do I Need To Include a Personal Statement On My CV?

The short answer is YES! A personal statement entices the reader to read your entire CV by giving them a preview of your most valuable skills. It also helps you differentiate from other candidates by explaining your background, motivation, and personal character traits concisely. 

In essence, a personal statement helps you express why you are the right choice for the job in one condensed paragraph.

Where Should a Personal Statement Go in a CV?

A personal statement goes into the header area of your CV. Include it right under your name and contact details as a separate, highlighted area. A good personal statement is about 3-4 sentences long and occupies not more than 1/4th of the page. 

Alternatively, you can design a two-column CV and allocate the upper sidebar area for your personal statement. As a recent survey found, 77% of recruiters prefer two-column CVs to single-column ones.

Sample personal statement placement on a CV template

What Do You Write in a CV Personal Statement?

A compelling personal statement summarizes your professional and educational background; highlights the main skills and accomplishments. It can also express your career objectives and/or interest in the particular industry or subject if you’re a current student or recent graduate.  

Personal Statement Examples for CV 

To give you an idea of how to write your statement, let’s look at some examples.

Remember: You need to write a unique personal statement for your CV. Simply copying and using these examples may not be the best move because the sample CV statements won’t reflect your unique experiences and personality. 

Good CV Personal Statement Examples

Employers want to see experts. Therefore, your personal statement must speak directly to your most marketable skills. 

You should never come off sounding desperate or diminish your worth (even if you have been recently laid off ). Use a confident tone with first-person implied and strong verbs to describe your core competencies and other benefits you can bring to the workplace. 

General Jobseeker Personal Statement Example

Highly motivated, fully trained engineer with 15 years of experience in the telecoms industry. Worked with XYZ Telecoms Ltd, Cool Mobile Carrier, and Acme Telco as a field engineer and project team leader. Successfully managed large commercial telecom infrastructure installations. Currently unemployed due to the relocation of the company. Open to new opportunities in NOC. 

Personal Statement CV Example For an Administration Position 

Adaptable and resourceful facilities manager with experience in supporting enterprise-sized organizations in real estate, pharmaceuticals, and manufacturing industries. Strong organizational skillset: Six Sigma, standardized method of procedure (MOP) policies implementation. Was responsible for facilities operations on 2.4 million square feet in a 20-building chemical manufacturing campus, serviced by a 20+ people team of building engineers, electricians, HVAC technicians, and cleaners.

Accountant Personal Statement CV Examples

Below are two samples for a senior and a junior accountant. 

Chartered Accountant 

ACCA-certified accountant for mid-market and enterprise-sized companies. Conducted due diligence and tax audits for FTSE 500 companies. Commenced for a 100% accuracy track record in financial reporting, as well as fast turnaround on complex analytical reviews. Provide on-demand advisory on trust setup, company incorporation, and tax deferrals. 

Account Assistant 

Detail-oriented, certified accounting assistant with experience in payroll administration. Familiar with Gusto, Xero, and Intuit software. Effectively process payroll, benefits, taxes, and social contributions for over 1500 employees per month. Possess a strong foundation in employee classification,  tax reporting, and financial management. 

CV Personal Statement Examples for Students

Whether you’re applying for an internship or looking for a part-time job , a compelling personal is a must-have for a student CV. 

Since your work experience history may be a bit “thin”, you need to persuade the employer via other means — your transferable skills, academic interests, and personal traits. A personal CV allows you to spotlight all of these. 

Remember that you are bringing your energy, dedication, enthusiasm, and willingness to learn to the table. As you will not have any employment history, you need to make sure to get your personality and your soft skills over in your statement.

CV Statement for a Student Looking for a Full-Time Summer Job 

Junior copywriter, enrolled in a BA Writing Program at the University of Manchester (graduation date: fall 2025). Alumni of the 2022 Copywriting Bootcamp program from Matters Agency. Well-versed in target audience analysis, brand positioning, and editorial campaign planning. Writing clips for eCommerce and SaaS brands are available in my portfolio.  

CV Statement for an Internship 

Second-year mechanical engineering student at the University of Leeds, seeking to apply theoretical knowledge in safety system design. Proficient in AutoCAD and completed a series of blueprints for fire and water safety systems as part of my coursework. Fast learner, self-starter, and team player, I’m excited to contribute my technical expertise to a dynamic engineering team.

CV Statement for a Student Looking for a Part-Time Job 

Junior front-end developer (React, Angular JS), seeking a part-time programming position in the Great London area. Current availability is 10-15 hours per week, preferably with hybrid work arrangements. Solid understanding of design systems and UX/UI best practices. Past work experience in finance and eCommerce sectors. 

CV Personal Statement Examples for 16-Year-Olds

Joining the workforce straight after high school makes sense if you want to take a gap year or pursue trade education later on. The wrinkle, however, is that most employers may be wary of your age and lack of experience.

The goal of a personal statement is to dispel those doubts by showing that you’re a serious, mature, and hard-working candidate, eager to learn and hone your craft. 

Personal Statement for a Barista Position 

Genuine coffee lover and frequent guest at Maddie’s Cafe, I would love to join the barista team. As a former head of the prom planning committee, I understand the importance of good teamwork, efficient planning, and following instructions. My main objectives are to learn more about beverage prep and deliver exceptional experiences to customers. 

CV Personal Statement Examples For A Graduate

Your personal statement should focus on your main educational attainments and experiences. If you are applying before you have had your degree results, it is fine to give a projected grade. You can also mention any specific modules you have studied that are relevant to the job on offer and how much you enjoyed working on them.

Remember: Your goal is to explain why you’re interested in this role and what you could bring to the table. 

Graduate Personal Statement Example

Business administration graduate with a 1:1 honors degree from XYZ University. Interested in an entry-level merchandising position within your Commercial Sales Department to expand my knowledge in retail merchandising, procurement, and inventory management. Looking to apply my analytical and data modeling skills for merchandising strategy optimization. 

Personal Statement for High School Graduate 

Energetic and enthusiastic high school graduate (June 2023) with top A-levels grades in English, Maths, and French. Seeking an entry-level role in sales, where I can make use of and develop my language skills. My long-term career goal is to further my language qualifications and position myself as a European sales manager living and working overseas for a global company.

Personal Statement Examples for CV With No Experience

Lack of experience in a particular role or industry should never discourage you from applying. Although you may not tick all the criteria boxes, you still have transferable skills and unique work experiences to showcase.

Moreover, ongoing talent shortages are prompting employees to reconsider their hiring criteria, plus invest more in new hire training and upskilling. Four in five companies now struggle to fill in open vacancies, which is the highest number in the past 17 years. 

So take your chances and apply even if you don’t have sufficient work experience. 

Personal Statement Example with No Relevant Work Experience 

Former front-desk hotel employee, looking for an opportunity to leverage strong service orientation and organizational skills in new roles (Customer Success or Customer Support). Familiarity with appointment booking software, digital chat apps, and CRM software. With my strong commitment to personal growth and my adaptable nature, I believe I could be a valuable asset to customer-centric teams.  

Personal Statement Example with No Industry Experience 

Self-starter with a BA degree in Communication and experience in corporate event management seeking a transition to music festival management. Experienced in organizing off-site events for 100+ people (including location scouting and travel coordination). I thrive in fast-paced environments and am eager to build a strong network of new partners. 

Discover even more personal statements from our collection of CV examples . 

CV Personal Statement For A Career Change

Career change is a big decision, but it can lead to a more fulfilling professional life. Besides, you’re not completely starting anew. Many of the hard and soft skills are quite universal. There is any number of different jobs that need the same set of skills that you have developed, so always try to lead with these and use real-life examples of your experience.

Career Change Personal Statement Example:

Working for the past 10 years as a regional sales manager has allowed me to develop keen skills in building strong working relationships and lucrative networks. Communication skills I developed during my time at my current employer enabled me to win vital contract wins that increased sales revenue by 20% over three years. I am now ready to take on a new challenge and want to work in the charity sector so that I can use my skills to give something back for the direct benefit of others.

How To Write A Strong Personal Statement for a CV 

An effective personal statement summarizes your skills and experience in a relevant way i.e., it indicates how you can be of help to the employer. 

In short, a compelling CV personal statement: 

• Lists your most marketable skills and qualifications 
• Highlights your industry knowledge and work experiences 
• Mirrors some of the key phrases, used in the job description 

And here’s how to write a personal statement that makes a mark.

1. Review the Job Description Once Again 

As you go through the role description, pay attention to the words, used by the employer, to describe the candidate’s requirements, duties, and personality. Keep those in the back of your head. 

These are the keywords you’d want to use all around your CV — in the personal statement, work experience, education, and skills areas. 

2. Do a Mental Tally of Your Skills 

Try to remember the times in your previous work roles when you accomplished notable objectives, went above and beyond expectations , or otherwise did better than your peers.  

Note down everything that springs to mind including your years of experience in a similar role, challenges you took on and the positive results achieved, new projects you kick-started – anything that has close relevance to this new position.

3. Make a Draft Personal Statement 

Write down a sample personal statement. Don’t worry about the length – just put as many details as you’d like on paper. Once you’re done, revisit the job description. See how your personal statement compares to the description. Does it paint a picture of someone who would fit the role? 

4. Edit for Clarity and Briefity 

A good CV personal statement shouldn’t be longer than 3-4 sentences. Take a critical look at your draft version and condense it to the bare essentials: 2-3 main skills, a major accomplishment, and a note on your motivation and/or personal traits. 

Other things that don’t belong in your personal statement are:

• Explanation of employment gaps or present unemployment status 
• Information about hobbies or personal interest 
• Any mention of references or recommendations 
• Irrelevant skills or work experiences 

Want to stand out even more? Add a persuasive opening statement that highlights your strengths as a candidate. 

A compelling personal statement can be the key between your CV making the ‘yes’ pile or the reject bin. Take some time to get your statement right and always write a new one for each job you apply for by mirroring the employer’s language. 

Finally, to give your CV a polishing touch, try out one of our fancy, but free CV templates , coming in multiple styles: professional, modern, simple, and creative!

Elena runs content operations at Freesumes since 2017. She works closely with copywriters, designers, and invited career experts to ensure that all content meets our highest editorial standards. Up to date, she wrote over 200 career-related pieces around resume writing, career advice... more

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Writing a personal statement for your CV

CV personal statements are like the sales pitch of your CV, but not everyone thinks they're useful. Discover if they're really necessary, how to write a CV personal profile and templates for inspiration

What is a CV personal statement?

A CV personal statement is a concise paragraph or summary, which details what you can bring to a job or company. It's also known as an opening statement, personal profile, personal summary or executive summary.

Sitting at the top of your CV, it's your opportunity to sell yourself to employers and to highlight the relevant skills and experience you possess.

While effectively and succinctly convincing recruiters that you're a good fit for the role, a personal statement gives you the chance to show off your strengths and share your career goals.

'The focus of your CV statement should be to target your offer to employers - why should they hire you and how are you different to other graduates? Therefore, making your personal statement as unique as possible is crucial to ensure you stand out from the crowd,' explains Alex Proctor, careers consultant at the University of Bradford.

Do I need a personal summary on my CV?

Traditionally, almost all CV types include a personal statement but there is some debate about whether you actually need to include one.

Some recruiters and careers advisers believe that personal profiles are one of the most important parts of a CV, as they provide an easily accessible overview of a candidate's ability, while others feel that personal statements are a waste of valuable space and time.

The latter belief is often the case with graduate CVs, as some employers feel that those just stepping onto the career ladder don't necessarily have enough knowledge or experience to warrant a personal statement. Because of this, a graduate's personal profile runs the risk of being bland and generic and stating things that should be a given, such as, 'I'm hardworking and organised,' which is why some recruiters believe that they are best suited to more senior CVs.

So while your CV doesn't need a personal statement, employers spend only seconds looking at application documents. With this in mind, a CV personal statement gives you an invaluable opportunity to make your application stand out as quickly as possible.

Alex believes 'that a CV personal statement is a good idea, because employers often have so many CVs to read through and the personal statement, if clear and concise, can elevate your chances of getting through to the next stage of the recruitment process.'

If you'd like to include a personal statement on your CV it might be best, as a graduate, to focus on your educational background and the career path you'd like to embrace. If you have relevant experiences use these to make your personal statement unique. 'If you haven’t got much work experience, focus on what experience you can extract from your degree,' advises Alex. 'If you have taken part in various projects demonstrate what your role was. Alternatively, if you have written a dissertation, showcase your topic and what skills you have developed from this experience. Employers will value your individuality even if you haven't had masses of practical work experience.'

If you're struggling to give it context and get it right, make an appointment with your university's careers or employability service and ask an adviser to help you hone your writing. 

What should I include in my CV personal profile?

In terms of length, a CV personal profile should be no longer than 150 words. 'It should be short, impactful and aligned effectively with the CV content,' explains David Ainscough, careers consultant team lead and deputy director at the University of Cambridge.

'A personal CV profile should include details of your educational background, evidence of work experience, as well as your career aspirations. You ideally need to ensure you are telling the reader what you can offer skill-wise and don't be afraid to also share any accomplishments,' adds Alex.  

If you're struggling with what to write, break your personal statement down into three parts. Focus on:

• who you are
• what you can offer
• your career aims.

Start by introducing yourself. For example, 'A recent graduate with a 2:1 in English literature from the Hillview University' or a 'Highly-skilled physiotherapist with five years’ experience…'

Next, detail what you can offer the company. Ask yourself why you're suited to the role and cover any relevant skills or experience. If you lack practical work experience instead draw attention to your academic achievements, such as contributing to university publications, which developed written communication, attention to detail and teamworking skills. Or how you applied skills learned on your physical therapy degree during your time as a physio assistant for university sport teams.

Conclude your personal statement by highlighting your career goals. For example, 'I am looking to start my career in the exciting world of publishing and to develop the skills learned through my university studies and internships.'

It's up to you how you present this information; there is no hard and fast rule. However, personal statements are generally displayed as a single paragraph, without a title or subheading. You'll need to keep it consistent with the rest of your CV formatting, meaning that the font size and type will need to be the same throughout your document.

Also, consider the voice and tense you'd like to use. Personal statements can be written in either the first or third person, but you'll need to maintain this voice throughout - don't switch between the two.

Take a look at  how to write a CV .

How can I make it stand out to employers?

• 'Remember that first impressions count so make sure you're giving the recruiter a comfortable reading experience. Layout and clarity are crucial,' says David.
• Tailor your CV personal statement (and CV in general) to each application.
• Be honest. Untruths are easy to uncover and lying on your CV is a criminal offence.
• Provide evidence of skills and experience but remember to keep it brief. For example, 'experienced event manager, who led a team to organise a charity ball for 150 people, raising £5,000 - a 20% increase on previous years.'
• Use the job description to help form your CV personal profile.
• Stick to the word limit.
• Check for spelling and grammar mistakes. The personal summary sits at the top of your CV so any errors will be immediately apparent.
• 'Keep it fresh. It needs to be reviewed in each application you make so consider something new to say each time,' adds David.
• Read it aloud once you've finished writing to make sure it flows.
• Copy and paste from your  cover letter or from online CV personal statement examples. Your personal summary needs to be unique and personal to you.
• Include unnecessary personal information such as your age, marital status etc.
• Use clichés, slang or jargon.
• Use bland, empty statements like 'I work well independently and as part of a team'. This tells employers absolutely nothing about what you’re capable of.
• Overuse buzzwords.
• Include quotes from previous employers.
• Ramble. Recruiters don't have time to read through waffle, so get to the point.

Think about the connotations of the words you use - 'currently studying' implies things might change, 'trying' implies failure, 'might' or 'maybe' sounds like you're not sure. The words you use have power so choose them carefully. You want to sound confident, positive and enthusiastic.

Find out more about the  top 7 CV mistakes .

CV personal statement examples

To help you get started take a look at the following CV personal profile examples.

As a recent graduate from the University of Townville, with a 2:1 honours degree in marketing, I have undertaken internships at industry-leading agencies such as Beyond Imagination and Noah Freemans. These placements have allowed me to develop sector knowledge and gain hands on experience, as well as expand transferable skills such as commercial awareness, communication and negotiation and analytical skills. My career aim is to gain a role which allows me to further my expertise and take on increased responsibility at a market-leading digital marketing agency.

I am a highly motivated 2:1 forensic science graduate from Groveshire University, looking to secure a graduate position that enables me to use and develop my analytical, attention to detail and communication skills. I have gained relevant experience in both scientific and hospital laboratories, which allowed me to build on my problem solving, concentration and team working skills. My career goal is to assume a role that enables me to analyse and interpret forensic data and to eventually move into crime scene investigation.

Remember; avoid copying and pasting ready-made examples. Instead use them as a guide to craft your own, tailored CV personal statement. Take a look at our  example CVs .

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Home » Careers advice » Writing your CV personal statement

Writing your CV personal statement

There are many important aspects to a CV but your CV personal statement is perhaps the most important.

With so many applications to read through, the hiring manager wants to see a clear contender. They’re looking for someone who has the right skills, industry knowledge and attitude to succeed with their company.

Typically the hiring manager will spend only a few seconds reading your CV. Your CV personal statement is so important because it can demonstrate all of these things to the hiring manager in just a few short sentences.

What is a CV personal statement?

This section goes at the top of your CV, underneath your details. It is sometimes referred to by other names such as:

• Career objective
• Career goal
• Personal profile
• Personal statement
• Introduction

A personal statement for your CV has three key ingredients:

1. Who you are

In the first sentence, you’ll introduce yourself by stating who you are in a work context. If relevant (or required in the job advert) you might also state the amount of experience you have.

2. What makes you suitable for the role

The second sentence will focus on the work experience and skills you have that will benefit the company. You don’t have to go into too much detail here because your employment history and core skills section will adequately cover this. The key to completing this part is to ask: what are the most important requests in the job advert? Try to cover this in your second sentence to instantly show the employer you are the right person for the job.

3. What you are looking for 

Your third sentence sets out your present career goals by stating what you want to achieve. Try to see this from the hiring manager’s perspective. They are recruiting for a particular position and don’t necessarily need to know your lifelong aspirations at this stage.

Here is an example of a personal statement for a CV:

Job title: Parts department service team member

[WHO YOU ARE] I am a diligent, hard-working customer service provider with more than 8 years experience in the motor trade and a passion for exceeding customers’ expectations.

[WHAT MAKES YOU SUITABLE FOR THE ROLE] I am competent in all aspects of the customer journey, from b ooking MOTs, ordering parts and liaising with the workshop to using databases, managing diaries and communicating effectively across the organisation.

[WHAT YOU ARE LOOKING FOR] I am looking for an opportunity within customer service with the opportunity to advance to a team leader position.

Although your personal statement is just a small part of your CV, it’s important to get off to a great start because it will be one of the first things the employer reads. Making a great first impression will leave the hiring manager wanting to know more, and consequently could land you an interview.

Here are some further examples of effective personal statements that follow the above formula:

Retail sales personal statement:

Accountancy personal statement:

Where to put your personal statement

Your personal statement CV section should serve as an introduction to your CV. It should go at the top just after your name and contact details. A well written personal statement will instantly grab the reader’s attention and leave them wanting to know more.

Personal statement length

A successful personal statement will be short and to the point – typically just one paragraph consisting of no more than 3 or 4 sentences. This is because lengthy blocks of text will just lose the hiring manager’s interest and land your CV squarely in the rejection pile. Above all, it should be engaging and focused upon the role you are applying for.

Aligning your personal statement with the job advert

Your personal statement can only be written after you’ve analysed the job advert. This is because only then can you fully understand what the employer wants. With only one paragraph, you have to show how you are the right person for the job. You should never write a generic personal statement because this suggests you are not really interested in their company or the position on offer.

Keeping your statement honest and realistic

Stating that you want to be the CEO in three years’ time may come across as a little arrogant, presumptuous and possibly unrealistic. Your personal statement needs to be realistic and focused upon the job on offer. Even if you would like to become a manager as soon as possible, you don’t need to show all your cards when an employer is looking to only fill this position.

You also need to be honest throughout your personal statement (and indeed, your CV) because even the slightest embellishment could hinder your chances of an interview. Likewise, avoid cliché statements as these can be spotted from a mile away. Stick to the facts whilst remaining positive, upbeat, engaging and relevant.

You may find this video from Deniz Sasal at LIG Academy helpful:

Top tips for success:

1. get to the point.

You’ve got about 3 or 4 sentences to use. Don’t fill them with waffle – you’ll dampen your impact. Pick out the key reasons why the employer should hire you, in the context of the job advert.

2. Use buzzwords sparingly

This is not the place to talk about being ‘highly motivated’, ‘a great communicator’ or ‘amazing team player’. You need to stick to hard facts here, such as length of experience or results. Sure, you might have covered these topics later on. However, the employer won’t read further if you stuff the profile with general, fluffy statements that have no value.

3. Don’t boast

This IS a good place to include key achievements from your track record. However, inflating those achievements will make you look insincere, arrogant or downright dishonest. If you detail achievements, make sure you’re not exaggerating to impress. The employer may be suspicious of your claims and you could lose out on that all-important interview

We have a huge collection of free CV templates with space to write your objective – check them out here .

We are a UK-based business that provides a range of services to job seekers including free Word CV templates, résumé templates and CV examples. Our CV template library includes hundreds of professionally designed Word CV templates and examples, all free for personal use.

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Resume personal statement examples

If you want to secure job interview, you need a strong personal statement at the top of your resume.

Your resume personal statement is a short paragraph which sits at the very top of your resume – and it’s aim is to summarize the benefits of hiring you and encourage employers to read your resume in full.

In this guide I have included 17 resume personal statement examples from a range of professions and experience levels, plus a detailed guide of how to write your own personal statement that will get you noticed by employers

Resume templates 

17 resume personal statement examples

To start this guide, I have included 10 examples of good personal statements, to give you an idea of how a personal statement should look , and what should be included.

Note: personal statements are generally used by junior candidates – if you are experienced, check out our resume summary examples instead.

College graduate resume personal statement (no experience)

Although this college graduate has no paid work experience , they compensate for it by showcasing all of the skills and knowledge the have gained during their studies, and demonstrating how they apply their knowledge in academic and personal projects.

When you have little or no experience, it’s important to draw out transferable workplace skills from your studies and extracurricular work, to showcase them to employers.

College graduate resume personal statement (part time freelance experience)

This candidate has graduated college with a degree in biochemistry but actually wants to start a career in marketing after providing some digital freelance services to fund their studies.

In this case, they haven’t made much mention of their studies because they aren’t relevant to the marketing agencies they are applying to. Instead they have focused their personal statement around their freelance work and passion for the digital field – although they still mention the fact they are degree educated to prove their academic success.

High school leaver resume personal statement (no experience)

This candidate is 16 years old and has no work experience whatsoever, but they compensate for this by detailing their academic achievements that relate to the roles they are applying for (maths and literacy are important requirements in finance and accountancy roles).

They also add some info on their extracurricular activities and high school work-placements, to strengthen this student resume further.

Top tips for writing a resume personal statement

• Thoroughly research the jobs and companies you are planning to apply for to identify the type of candidate they are looking for – try to reflect that in your personal statement
• Don’t be afraid to brag a little – include some of your most impressive achievements from education, work or personal life
• Focus on describing the benefits an employer will get from hiring you. Will you help them to get more customers? Improve their workplace? Save them time and money?
• If you have no work experience, demonstrate transferable workplace skills from your education, projects, or even hobbies

High school leaver resume personal statement (part time experience)

Although this person has only just left high school, they have also undertaken some part-time work in a call center alongside their studies.

To make the most of this experience, they have combined their academic achievements with their workplace exposure in this personal statement.

By highlighting their future studies, summer programme involvement, work experience and expressing their ambitions to progress within sales, this candidate really makes an appealing case for hiring them.

College leaver resume personal statement (no experience)

This candidate has left college with good grades, but does not yet have any work experience.

To compensate for the lack of workplace exposure, they have made their honor results prominent and highlighted skills and experience which would benefit the employers they are targeting.

Any recruiter reading this summary can quickly understand that this candidate has great academic achievements, a passion for IT and finance and the ability to transfer their skills into an office environment.

College student resume personal statement (freelance experience)

As this student has picked up a small amount of freelance writing work during their studies, they have made sure to brag about it in their personal statement.

They give details on their relevant studies to show the skills they are learning, and boost this further by highlighting the fact that they have been applying these skills in a real-life work setting by providing freelance services.

They also include key action verbs that recruiters will be looking for , such as creative writing, working to deadlines, and producing copy.

Academic resume personal statement

Aside from junior candidates, the only other people who might use a personal statement, are academic professionals; as their resume’s tend to be more longer and detailed than other professions.

This candidate provides a high level overview of their field of study, length of experience, and the roles they have held within colleges.

High school leaver resume personal statement with sports experience

Although this person has no work experience, they are still able to show employers the value of hiring them by selling their other achievements and explaining how they could benefit an organization.

They expand on their sports club involvement to demonstrate their teamwork, leadership skills, communication and motivation, which are all important traits in the workplace, and will be looked upon favourably by recruiters and hiring managers.

They also draw upon their future plans to study business studies at college and take a part time job, to further prove their ambition and dedication.

History graduate resume personal statement

This history graduate proves their aptitude for both academic achievement and workplace aptitude by showcasing valuable skills from their degree and voluntary work.

They do this by breaking down the key requirements for each and showing how their skills could be beneficial for future employers, such as listening, communication, and crisis management.

They also describe how their ability to balance studies alongside voluntary work has not only boosted their knowledge and skills, but also given excellent time management and organizational skills – which are vital assets to any employer.

Law graduate resume personal statement

This legal graduate makes the most from their college work placements by using it to bulk out the contents of their resume personal statement.

They include their degree to show they have the necessary qualifications for legal roles, which is crucial, but more importantly, they showcase how they applied their legal skills within a real-life work setting.

They give a brief overview of the types of legal professionals they have been working alongside and the type of work they have been carrying out – this is all it takes to get the attention of recruiters and show employers they have what it takes to fulfil roles in the legal sector.

Medical student resume personal statement

This medical student proves their fit for the role by showcasing the key skills they have gained from their studies and their work experience placements.

In just these few sentences, they are able to highlight the vast amount of experience they have across different disciplines in the industry, something which is particularly important in the medical sector.

As they have not graduated yet and are still studying, they have provided proof of their most recent grades. This can give the recruiter some indication as to the type of grade they could be graduating with in the near future.

Masters student resume personal statement

This masters student has started by specifying their area of study, in this case, accounting, and given details about the specific areas of finance they are most interested in. This can hint towards their career goals and passions.

They have then carefully listed some of the key areas of accounting and finance that they are proficient in. For example, business finance, advanced corporate finance and statistics.

They have also outlined some of the transferable skills needed for accounting roles that employers will be looking out for, such as communication, attention to detail and analytical skills.

Finance student resume personal statement

As this finance student has recently undertaken some relevant work experience, they’ve made sure to shout about this in their personal summary.

But more than this, they have included a list of some of the important finance skills they gained as a result of this work experience – for example, financial reporting, processing invoices and month-end reconciliations.

Plus, through power words and phrases such as ‘prevent loss’ and ‘improve upon accuracy and efficiency’, they have also showcased how they can apply these skills in a workplace setting to benefit the potential employer.

Internship resume personal statement

This digital marketing professional has started their personal summary by outlining their most relevant qualifications and work experience, most notably their freelance role as a content manager.

They have also provided examples of some of the key marketing skills that potential employers might be looking for, including very detailed examples of the platforms and tools they are proficient in – for example, LinkedIn, Twitter and Pinterest.

They have then closed their statement by giving a detailed description of the type of role or opportunity they are looking for. In this case, an in-house position in a marketing company.

College graduate career changer personal statement

Switching careers as a college graduate can be tough. Especially when it comes to writing a personal statement that will attract employers in your new chosen field.

This candidate is looking to move from history teaching into journalism, so they have created a statement which briefly mentions their current workplace, but mainly focuses on highlighting transferable skills which are relevant to journalism. They achieve this by discussing the writing skills they use in their current role, and mentioning their hobby of writing – including some publications they have been featured in for extra brownie points.

Business management graduate personal statement

This business management proves their ability to work within a junior business management position by swiftly highlighting their impressive degree (to ensure it is not missed) and summarizing some of the real-life experience they have gained in management during their college placements and volunteering. They do not let their lack of paid work experience, stop them demonstrating their valuable skills.

PhD graduate

PhD graduate roles attract a lot of competition, so it’s important that your resume contains a personal statement that will quickly impress and attract recruiters.

This candidate provides a short-but-comprehensive overview of their academic achievements, whilst demonstrating their exceptional level of knowledge in research, languages and publication writing.

By highlighting a number of skills and abilities that are in high-demand in the academic workplace, this resume is very likely to get noticed and land interviews.

How to write a personal statement for your resume

Now that you’ve seen what a personal statement should look like and the type of content it should contain, follow this detailed guide to one for your own resume – and start racking those interviews up.

Guide contents

What is a resume personal statement?

Resume personal statement or resume summary, personal statement format, what to include in a resume personal statement.

• Personal statement mistakes

How to write persuasively

A personal statement is a short paragraph at the top of your resume which gives employers an overview of your education, skills and experience

It’s purpose is to capture the attention of busy recruiters and hiring managers when your resume is first opened – encouraging them to read the rest of it.

You achieve this by writing a tailored summary of yourself that explains your suitability for the roles you are applying for at a very high level, and matches your target job descriptions .

One question candidates often ask me is , “what is the difference between a personal statement and a resume summary?”

To be honest, they are almost the same – they are both introductory paragraphs that sit at the top of your resume… but there are 2 main differences:

A personal statement tends to be used more by junior candidates (college graduates, high school leavers etc.) and is relatively long and detailed.

A resume summary tends to be favoured by more experienced candidates , and is shorter in length than a personal statement.

Note: If you are an experienced candidate, you may want to switch over to my resume writing guide , or example resume summaries page.

To ensure you grab recruiters’ attention with your personal statement, lay it out in the following way.

Positioning

You need to ensure that your personal statement sits at the very top of your resume, and all of it should be totally visible to readers, without the need to scroll down the page.

Do this by reducing the top page margin and minimizing the space taken up by your contact details.

This will ensure that your whole personal statement can be seen, as soon as your resume is opened.

We have a resume template which can help you to get this right.

Size/length

Your personal statement needs to contain enough detail to provide an introduction to your skills and knowledge, but not so much detail that it bores readers.

To strike the right balance, anything between 8-15 lines of text is perfect – and sentences should be sharp and to-the-point.

As with the whole of your resume , your personal statement should be written in a simple clean font at around size 10-12 to ensure that it can be read easily by all recruiters and employers.

Keep the text color simple, ensuring that it contrasts the background (black on white is best) and break it into 2 or even 3 paragraphs for a pleasant reading experience.

It should also be written in a punchy persuasive tone, to help you sell yourself and increase your chances of landing interviews , I cover how to do this in detail further down the guide.

Quick tip: A poorly written resume will fail to impress recruiters and employers. Use our quick-and-easy Resume Builder to create a winning resume in minutes with professional resume templates and pre-written content for every industry.

Once you have the style and format of your personal statement perfected, you need to fill it with compelling content that tells recruiters that your resume is worth reading.

Here’s what needs to go into your personal statement…

Before you start writing your personal statement, it’s crucial that you research your target roles to find out exactly what your new potential employers are looking for in a candidate.

Run a search for your target jobs on one of the major job websites, look through plenty of adverts and make a list of the candidate requirements that frequently appear.

This research will show you exactly what to include in your personal statement in order to impress the recruiters who will be reading it.

Education and qualifications are an important aspect of your personal statement, especially if you are a junior candidate.

You should highlight your highest and most relevant qualifications, whether that is a degree or your GED. You could potentially go into some more detail around modules, papers etc. if they are relevant to the roles you are applying for.

It’s important that you discuss the experience you have gained in your personal statement, to give readers an idea of the work you are comfortable undertaking.

This can of course be direct employed work experience, but it doesn’t have to be.

You can also include:

• High school/college work placements
• Voluntary work
• Personal projects
• Hobbies/interests

As with all aspects of your resume , the content should be tailored to match the requirements of your target roles.

Whilst discussing your experience, you should touch upon skills used, industries worked in, types of companies worked for, and people you have worked with.

Where possible, try to show the impact your actions have made. E.g.  A customer service agent helps to make sales for their employer.

Any industry-specific knowledge you have that will be useful to your new potential employers should be made prominent within your personal statement.

For example

• Knowledge of financial regulations will be important for accountancy roles
• Knowledge of IT operating systems will be important for IT roles
• Knowledge of the national curriculum will be important for teachers

You should also include some information about the types of roles you are applying for, and why you are doing so. Try to show your interest and passion for the field you are hoping to enter, because employers want to hire people who have genuine motivation and drive in their work.

This is especially true if you don’t have much work experience, as you need something else to compensate for it.

Resume personal statement mistakes

The things that you omit from your personal statement can be just as important as the things you include.

Try to keep the following out of your personal statement..

Irrelevant info

Any information that doesn’t fall into the requirements of your target roles can be cut out of your personal statement. For example, if you were a professional athlete 6 years ago, that’s great – but it won’t be relevant if you’re applying to advertising internships, so leave it out.

Generic clichés

If you are describing yourself as a “ dynamic team player with high levels of motivation and enthusiasm” you aren’t doing yourself any favours.

These cliché terms are vastly overused and don’t provide readers with any factual details about you – so keep them to a minimum.

Stick to solid facts like education, skills , experience, achievements and knowledge.

If you really want to ensure that your personal statement makes a big impact, you need to write in a persuasive manner.

So, how do you so this?

Well, you need to brag a little – but not too much

It’s about selling yourself and appearing confident, without overstepping the mark and appearing arrogant.

For example, instead of writing.

“Marketing graduate with an interest in entering the digital field”

Be creative and excite the reader by livening the sentence up like this,

“Marketing graduate with highest exam results in class and a passion for embarking on a long and successful career within digital”

The second sentence is a much more interesting, makes the candidate appear more confident, throws in some achievements, and shows off a wider range of writing skills.

Quick tip: A poorly written resume will fail to impress recruiters and employers. Use our quick-and-easy Resume Builder to create a winning resume in minutes with professional templates and pre-written content for every industry.

Your own personal statement will be totally unique to yourself, but by using the above guidelines you will be able to create one which shows recruiters everything they need.

Remember to keep the length between 10-20 lines and only include the most relevant information for your target roles.

You can also check our college graduate resume example , our best resume templates , or our library of example resumes from all industries.

Good luck with the job hunt!

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Best CV Personal Profile Examples

What is a CV personal profile?

A personal profile, also known as a CV summary, is the opening statement of your CV. It is a short introduction which outlines your personal characteristics, telling the prospective employer what kind of a person you are, the attributes and qualities that you possess and the work experience that you have.

How to write a CV profile statement from scratch

When writing your personal profile, ensure it is:

• Short (no more than 6 lines);
• Relevant to the job you are applying for, and;
• Contains some real-world examples .

Be bold, be confident and talk about yourself in a positive way.

Your personal profile is not the place to be humble; it is your chance to be noticed and tell the potential employer exactly who you ‘really’ are and what you can do for them.

Warning: Do not go ‘over the top’ and give the impression that you are either very arrogant or simply too good to be true! Keep it balanced and realistic, bearing in mind the needs of the employer.

Click here if you want to see a bad example of a personal profile.

What information to include on a personal profile

The purpose of your personal profile is to concisely present your skills, qualities, work experience, and your career goals and ambitions. Consequently, you can mention anything from the following categories when constructing your personal profile:

Personal Qualities

• Self-motivated
• Having an eye for detail
• Management skills
• Communication skills
• Problem-solving skills
• Design skills
• 5 years experience in …
• Excellent track record of …
• Extensive background in …
• Previous work experience in …

An ideal statement should have at least one example for each of these three categories.

How long should my profile statement be?

There are no set rules about the length of a personal profile, however, it is highly recommended to keep it ideally within the 50/80-words boundary (no longer than six lines). The reason for this is because employers, in the first instance, tend to scan CVs rather than extensively read it. Keeping it short and to the point increases the chances that they will actually read it.

Furthermore, as the total length of a CV is only 2 A4 pages long, having a short statement frees us valuable space for other key sections of your CV such as the work experience, education and skills sections .

Winning personal profile CV examples from all job sectors

Business management cv profile.

• The candidate mentions their key personal skills and qualities that are relevant and important when managing a business.
• The candidate mentions their relevant work experience in the field, indicating that they are able to work within multiple job sectors.

IT CV profile

• The candidate correctly highlights their areas of expertise, such as designing websites, networking and managing databases. It is clear from these examples that the individual has a broad understanding of IT and would be able to work on a wide range of IT projects.
• The candidate reassures the prospective employer that although they are working in a very technical field, they have the ability to work with a wide range of people. Interpersonal and communication skills are key to any job.

Student CV profile

• The above personal statement is clear and informative, making it clear that the applicant is a student, currently completing their university degree, and are looking to work part-time in the industry.
• It is always a good idea, as the candidate has done in this example, to clearly mention your availability for work and also the reasons for why you are seeking work. “Making money” is not a good enough reason for an employer to give you a job. The candidate has mentioned that they wish to put into practice what they have learned and make a positive contribution to the employer.

HR CV profile

• The candidate highlights that they have previous work experience in Human Resources (HR), making them familiar with the payroll systems and employment law. Additionally, they indicate some personal qualities (such as interpersonal skills and being sensitive to people’s privacies) which would be highly beneficial for the role that they are applying for.

Manager CV profile

• The candidate not only states that they have three years’ of experience in management but they also mention the positive contribution that they made to that organisation. In this case, it was a significant improvement in the performance of the team that they were managing.

Sales/retail CV profile

• Just by looking at the profile statement of this individual, we can conclude that this person has thorough experience of sales and is able to handle the various aspects of the selling process. Additionally, their promotion indicates that they are a high achiever.

Teaching CV profile

• In just a few lines, the candidate demonstrates a great deal of compassion, empathy and care for young people and their futures. This level of care and concern, along with an enduring passion for teaching, are the key ingredients of being successful in any teaching careers.
• The candidate indicating that they are able to work with young children from all backgrounds and walks of life. This is important, especially when living in today’s multicultural and diverse societies.

Engineering CV profile

• The candidate correctly highlights their previous work experience and areas of expertise. This makes them look like a very competent and accomplished chemical engineer, increasing the chances of being invited for an interview.

Designer CV profile

• This is an effective statement because the candidate highlights their valuable 1st class degree in Graphic Design and previous work experience in the design industry. Additionally, the candidate makes mention of their personal qualities, such as having the ability to think outside the box, to further indicate their suitability for the job.

Hospitality CV profile

• The above is an excellent example of how profile statement should be constructed; it contains references to their previous work experience in the same industry, personal qualities that are relevant to the job (e.g. having a passion for food and socialising with people) and their job achievements (e.g. winning an award). Any employer reading this statement will have to think twice before they put it in the rejection pile!

Admin CV profile

• The candidate mentions their previous work experience project management and providing administrative support to businesses.
• This admin personal statement clearly demonstrates that the individual is aware of all the challenges that administrators face; working in a busy working environment, handling multiple projects simultaneously, prioritising tasks and achieving the highest standard of work.

Customer service CV profile

• The candidate indicates that they are able to resolve customer enquiries and complaints face-to-face, over the phone or via email. This ability enables them to work in a variety of different job settings, i.e. a call centre, on the shop floor or at a desk.
• Their statement contains a tangible example of accomplishment (i.e. successfully resolving 150 customer enquiries or complaints).

Media CV profile

• The candidate has included many examples of their previous work experience and competencies in the field. Any employer interested in hiring an experienced camera operator will most certainly be impressed and continue reading the remainder of their CV.

Healthcare CV profile

• The candidate highlights that they are able to work with a variety of different people, something which is essential as physiotherapists will be working with people from all backgrounds and ages.
• The statement includes personal qualities that are important to have as a physiotherapist, such as being caring and friendly. Although some careers advisors do not recommend generic words such as ‘caring’ and ‘friendly’, it is nevertheless recommended to include them if they truly reflect your personality and if the rest of the personal statement contains specific information which is not generic in nature.

Writer CV profile

• This profile is short and punchy, increasing the chances that it will be read in full by the prospective employers
• The candidate highlights their career achievements by stating that their works have been accepted and published by leading newspapers and magazines – a testimony to the high quality of their work.

Science CV profile

• This statement is short and to the point; highlighting all the important information such as the candidates work experience, expertise and some personal qualities and characteristics.

Do I need to include a personal statement on my CV? No, it is entirely optional to include a personal profile on your CV. However, it is generally recommended to include one, particularly as it serves as a little “About me” section at the top of your CV. Every written document has an introduction, why shouldn’t a CV?

Can I use the first person tense in my statement? Yes, the first and third person tenses are both fine to use – but not both. Decide on the one tense and stick to it.

Where should I include the profile statement on my CV There is no fixed place in which you should put your personal profile. Some candidates place it at the bottom of their CVs. Ideally, you should position it at the top of your CV.

What is the most important thing to include on a personal profile? Real-world examples and tangible performance indicators, for example; increased sales by x percent, managed x number of people, won such-and-such awards, improved productivity by x percent, etc. These types of information are highly valuable, as opposed to saying that you are the “best salesperson in the country” and not backing it up with any evidence!

Need help with other sections of your CV?

While you’re still here – don’t forget to check out our amazing How to write a CV guide for more practical tips on writing your perfect CV or this useful resource.

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How to Write a Compelling Personal Statement for a CV

A CV personal statement can be crucial for employers to understand why you are the most qualified candidate for the position .

Therefore, it is essential to compose a compelling CV personal statement, but don’t worry if you’ve never written one before. This article will guide you through the process of writing a flawless personal statement for your CV.

So without further ado, let’s begin!

Key Takeaways

• A personal statement is a paragraph explaining why you are the ideal candidate for the position.
• To compose an engaging CV personal statement, you should begin with an introduction, clarify your values for the company, and describe your career goals.
• When composing a CV personal statement, it is important to be concise, consider formatting, use real-world examples, and avoid generalizations.
• If you would like to follow a ready-made example, please review the CV personal statement examples at the end of this article.

What is a Personal Statement?

A CV personal statement is a brief paragraph that describes your professional experience and career goals. It allows the employer to quickly decide whether you are a suitable candidate for the position. Consequently, it is essential to include a personal statement in your CV.

The personal statement follows your name and contact information in the CV, and due to its prominent placement, a personal statement should contain only the information you believe will absolutely speak to employers in your favor.

You should include some information about who you are, the value you will bring to the company, and your career expansion goals. Employers only spend a few seconds per CV, so focusing on this information and conveying it concisely will benefit you and your employment prospects in the long run.

How to Write a CV Personal Statement

Now that you know what a personal statement is and why it’s important to include one in your CV, let’s take a look at a step-by-step guide for writing a persuasive personal statement.

#1. Introduce Yourself

Start your CV personal statement with a description of your current job or field of work. You may also state what you enjoy most about your current position or the career path you chose to pursue professionally.

Essentially, the introduction is intended to emphasize all the specifics that make you an excellent candidate for the job you are applying for.

The following is a good example of an introduction:

As a skilled sales agent, I am proficient in numerous facets of consumer research, having assisted dozens of international brands in developing their advertising campaigns and growing their customer base.

A poor introduction to a personal statement would be:

Only the very weak-minded refuse to be influenced by literature and poetry. This quote reflects my own passion for knowledge, which is why I’ve enjoyed reading since childhood.

This introduction provides employers with no useful information. Instead of getting straight to the point, it begins in a clichéd manner with a pretentious quote that has nothing to do with the topic at hand.

#2. Elaborate on Your Value

The second section of your CV personal statement should address the contribution you will make to the company. This can be done by describing the accomplishments that have helped you acquire the necessary skills for the position.

Be sure to discuss credentials and abilities that are specific to the position so that you can establish yourself as a qualified candidate from the start .

This is demonstrated by the following example:

In my most recent position, I was responsible for administering two distinct departments. I utilized some of the most effective management strategies to ensure optimal performance and interdepartmental communication.

A poor example would be:

I was the top student at my school. I graduated with a GPA of 4.00. I was also a member of a student council and two other clubs, where I acquired many management, leadership, and responsibility-related skills.

While you highlight your accomplishments, they are unrelated to your professional experience and will not convince employers that you are the best candidate for the position.

#3. Describe Your Career Goals

The third section of your CV personal statement should cover your career objectives or, alternatively, your reasons for applying for the position at hand.

If you have already communicated your expertise, you can proceed directly to your reasons for wanting the job.

You could state;

I am seeking a senior writer position in the marketing industry so that I can offer my skills and experience while expanding my knowledge.

What you should not say is:

I would like to be hired as a senior writer at your company because I am aware of your high salary ranges and extensive employment benefits.

Even if this is true, you should not state it directly because employers seek candidates who are interested in professional growth rather than financial gain.

4 Tips for Writing a Personal Statement for a CV

Here are some tips to keep in mind when writing a CV personal statement:

• Be concise. The optimal length for a CV personal statement is three to four sentences, or no more than 200 words. This word limit will enable you to get to the point quickly and will make it easier for the employer to skim.
• Think about formatting. Be consistent with your formatting and tone. While the information you provide is of utmost importance, proper formatting will facilitate comprehension.
• Use examples from real life. It may be simpler for you to discuss your skills using real-world examples and scenarios. This is also more effective than merely listing adjectives such as motivated, ambitious, etc.
• Avoid generalizations. Focus on the subject at hand and avoid generalizations. They will not add any value to your CV personal statement and will only take up space you could use to elaborate on your experience.

CV Personal Statements Examples

You should be able to write a CV personal statement with relative ease after reviewing the step-by-step guide and four extra tips.

However, if you would like to review a sample first, here are some examples of CV personal statements , including CV personal statements for students, CV personal statements for retail, CV personal statements with no experience, and more.

Student Personal Statement

I am a conscientious person with an affinity for the logistics industry. I am a sophomore pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Logistics and Supply Chain Management at Aston University. I am excellent at communicating and have a history of communicating effectively with a variety of individuals.

I’m looking for a part-time position in the field so I can put my knowledge and experience to use while also enhancing the operations of the company for which I work.

No Experience Personal Statement

An A-level UCLA graduate with a bachelor’s degree in business administration and marketing. I have excellent communication skills, a keen eye for detail, the ability to lead as well as collaborate effectively within a team, and a strong interest in the marketing industry.

Currently, I am seeking a position that will allow me to apply my expertise and skills while contributing to the company’s core values.

Entry Level Personal Statement

I received a bachelor’s degree in mathematics with a focus on statistics and analytics. Through an internship with a significant multinational corporation, I gained experience in the financial sector, which helped me develop important technical skills in data engineering and science.

I have consistently demonstrated my ability to meet deadlines, fulfill the goals of the project, and prioritize essential tasks. To advance my career, I am seeking a position with a renowned data science company.

Career Change Personal Statement

I am a level-headed individual with a realistic approach to problem-solving and the determination to see things through to the end. I have over three years of experience supervising teams in a variety of industries. I am ready to tackle all the challenges while growing as a professional in the field and leading the company to success.

Experienced Professional Personal Statement

I’ve spent two years working in the pharmaceutical industry. I am adept at designing and conducting experiments, evaluating medications, researching scientific literature, and composing technical reports.

I possess exceptional analytical and interpersonal skills, as well as a dedication to operating in a strictly regulated environment. Currently, I am looking for a challenging position in the scientific field.

Executive Personal Statement

I am an optimistic and diligent individual who works towards reaching the best possible outcome in any given endeavor. In my previous job as a sales agent, I was able to meet tight deadlines, sell goods and services to consumers from diverse backgrounds, manage complaints from clients, and resolve challenging circumstances as they arose.

I would like to use my skills and expertise to contribute to your company and the industry as a whole.

Freelancer Personal Statement

I am an articulate person focused on creative writing. My strongest characteristics are my research skills, creativity, timely communication, and, of course, my writing abilities. Over the past four years, I have contributed to the publication of over 100 articles in numerous magazines, journals, and online media.

I have a great deal of experience and a strong passion for writing. Therefore, I’d like to collaborate with your company on a freelance basis to produce even more fascinating work.

Final Thoughts

This concludes our comprehensive guide to writing CV personal statements!

If you are a job seeker pursuing a particular position, adding a personal statement to your CV can only improve your chances of getting hired. Employers will be able to determine your suitability for the position without having to read your entire CV, which they may not always have time to do.

Do not fret if you have never written a CV personal statement before. The step-by-step guide and examples we provided should help you craft a compelling personal statement that will ultimately help you land your dream job. Good luck!

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What Is a Personal Statement?

How to write a personal statement for a cv: research and preparation, frequently asked questions, final thoughts, how to write the best personal statement for a cv – 2024 guide & examples.

Updated November 20, 2023

At the heart of your CV is the personal statement, a segment that, while often underrated, plays a pivotal role in shaping your professional narrative and setting you apart from other candidates.

This article is tailored to guide you through the process of crafting an outstanding CV personal statement, whether you're an experienced professional seeking new opportunities or a recent graduate embarking on your career.

We delve into essential aspects of personal statement writing, covering:

• Research and preparation
• Effective structuring
• Adopting the appropriate writing style and tone
• Formatting your statement to maximize its impact

By exploring real-life examples and analyzing key components, this article equips you with the tools to tailor your personal statement to reflect your unique experiences and ambitions.

Your personal statement, often located at the top of your CV, is a concise yet powerful narrative that encapsulates your professional identity.

It serves as a brief introduction to who you are, your qualifications and what you bring to the table.

The primary purpose of a personal statement is to grab the reader's attention, making them eager to learn more about you and why you're the perfect fit for the job.

Consider the company's culture, values and the job's requirements when tailoring your personal statement to ensure that it not only captures your qualifications but also showcases your alignment with the organisation's goals and mission.

Step 1 . Know Your Audience and Industry

The foundation of the best CV personal statement lies in knowing your audience and understanding the dynamics of the industry you're applying to.

To resonate with your potential employers, research the company's culture, values and goals.

What kind of professionals does it typically hire, and what attributes is it looking for?

A deep understanding of your target industry and employer will help you tailor your personal statement effectively.

For example:

As an innovative software engineer with five years of experience, I am eager to contribute to [Company Name]'s mission of technological advancement. My background in agile development and passion for AI and machine learning align with your commitment to creating impactful digital solutions. At [Previous Employer], I led the development of an award-winning mobile app, showcasing my ability to innovate in a fast-paced environment. I am inspired by [Company Name]'s projects in [specific area], and my skills in [specific skills] are well-suited to contribute to your team's success. I am excited about the opportunity to collaborate and drive forward-thinking solutions in [Company Name]'s dynamic and creative environment.

Step 2 . Identify Key Skills and Attributes Required for the Job

Each job comes with its own set of prerequisites and desired qualifications.

As you prepare your personal statement, take a close look at the job description. Identify the key skills, competencies and attributes that the employer is seeking.

These could range from technical skills to soft skills like teamwork, leadership and communication.

By aligning your personal statement with these requirements, you demonstrate that you're the ideal candidate for the role.

As a seasoned marketing professional with a focus on digital strategy and brand development, I am well-equipped for the Marketing Manager role at [Company Name]. My experience includes leading a campaign that boosted online engagement by 30% and market reach by 20% at [Previous Company]. I possess key skills outlined in your job description, notably in strategic planning, team leadership, and effective communication. My aptitude for digital trends and data-driven marketing aligns with [Company Name]'s innovative ethos, and I am eager to contribute to your team's dynamic marketing initiatives.

Step 3 . Self-Assessment: Strengths, Weaknesses and Experiences

Whether you’re a seasoned professional or creating a graduate CV personal statement, take some time for introspection.

Evaluate your strengths and weaknesses, and consider how your experiences have shaped your professional identity.

Highlight your unique strengths and accomplishments, but don't shy away from acknowledging areas where you're looking to grow.

A well-rounded personal statement not only emphasizes your strengths but also demonstrates a commitment to personal and professional development.

As an experienced project manager in the technology sector, I excel in strategic planning and stakeholder communication, evidenced by successfully leading high-stake projects at [Previous Company]. Recognizing my strength in leading diverse teams, I am actively enhancing my skills in global team management, particularly in cross-cultural communication. This commitment to professional growth complements my existing expertise, positioning me to effectively contribute to and grow with [Company Name]'s dynamic project management team.

Step 4 . Tailor the Statement to the Specific Job

One size does not fit all when it comes to personal statements. Tailoring your statement for each job application is crucial.

Customise your personal statement to address the specific needs and expectations of the role. Showcase how your qualifications, experiences and aspirations align with the company's objectives and the job's requirements.

This level of personalisation shows potential employers that you've put thought and effort into your application.

As a detail-oriented Financial Analyst, I am keen to apply my expertise in market analysis and financial modeling to the role at [Company Name]. My experience, including increasing forecasting accuracy by 25% at [Previous Company], aligns with your firm's focus on innovative financial strategies. With a strong background in data-driven decision-making and advanced analytics, I am prepared to contribute effectively to [Company Name]'s finance team, blending technical skills with strategic insights to drive financial success.

How to Write a Personal Statement for a CV: Structuring Your Personal Statement

How to start a cv personal statement.

Your personal statement's introduction sets the tone and captures the reader's attention right from the start. It's your opportunity to make a memorable first impression.

When crafting this section:

Craft an engaging opening sentence – Start with a captivating and unique opening sentence that immediately piques the reader's interest. This could be a compelling anecdote, a thought-provoking statement or a brief description of what makes you exceptional.

Mention your career goals – Following the opening sentence, briefly mention your career goals and how they align with the job you're applying for. This sets the context for the reader and provides insight into your aspirations.

The body of your personal statement is where you delve into the specifics of your qualifications and experiences.

It's where you provide evidence to support your claims and demonstrate why you're the right fit for the position.

When structuring the body of your statement:

Highlight your skills and qualifications – Showcase your most relevant skills and qualifications that make you a strong candidate. Use bullet points or concise sentences to emphasize these key attributes.

Provide concrete examples and achievements – Back up your claims with specific examples and achievements from your professional history. Provide context, such as the companies you've worked for, the roles you've held and the impact you've made.

Use the STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) method – To make your personal statement more compelling, use the STAR method to describe situations or challenges you've faced, the tasks or responsibilities you undertook, the actions you took to address them and the positive results that followed. This method helps illustrate your problem-solving skills and accomplishments effectively.

Avoid clichés and generalities – Steer clear of overused buzzwords and clichés that don't add value to your personal statement. Instead, focus on specific and meaningful language that showcases your unique qualities.

Showcase transferable skills – Highlight transferable skills, such as adaptability, communication and leadership, which can be valuable across various roles and industries. Demonstrating your versatility and ability to thrive in different contexts is an asset.

The conclusion of your personal statement should leave a lasting impression and summarise the key points you've made throughout.

When concluding your statement:

Summarise your key points – Summarise the main qualifications, experiences and attributes that make you an excellent fit for the job. Reinforce the central message of your personal statement.

Reiterate your enthusiasm for the position – Express your enthusiasm and genuine interest in the role and the company. Let the reader know that you're not just looking for any job but that you're excited about this specific opportunity.

A call to action (optional) – If you wish to take an assertive approach, consider including a call to action. This could be a statement indicating your desire for an interview or further discussion. While optional, it can demonstrate your proactive attitude.

By following this structured approach, your personal statement will effectively engage the reader, provide convincing evidence of your qualifications and leave a lasting positive impression.

This well-organized framework will guide you through the process of creating a good CV personal statement that stands out.

Tips for Writing a CV Personal Statement

Professional language and tone.

Maintain a professional, business-like tone throughout your statement. Use language that is clear, concise and demonstrates your competence and professionalism.

Avoid overly casual or informal language, as your personal statement is a formal document that reflects your seriousness about the job.

Avoiding Jargon and Buzzwords

Speak plainly and directly. Focus on specific language that conveys your unique qualifications and experiences.

Avoid using clichés and instead opt for descriptive and meaningful words that accurately represent your skills and accomplishments.

Proofreading and Editing

After writing your statement, take the time to proofread it thoroughly. You can also seek help from peers, mentors or professional editors to ensure it's error-free and reads smoothly.

Using Active Voice

In active voice sentences, the subject performs the action, making the statement more direct and engaging.

Passive voice, where the subject is acted upon, can make your writing less dynamic and less engaging.

Active voice emphasizes your actions and achievements, which is exactly what you want to convey in your personal statement.

Ideal Length of a Personal Statement

A typical personal statement should be around 50 to 150 words, though this can vary depending on the job and industry.

Aim to be concise and to the point, focusing on the most critical information that makes you a strong candidate.

Choosing a Font and Layout

Use a professional and easily readable font, such as Arial, Calibri or Times New Roman. Ensure that the font size is appropriate (usually 10 to 12 points) for readability.

Making It Scannable and Visually Appealing

• Use short paragraphs and white space to break up the text
• Employ bold or italic text to emphasize key points or headings
• Use subheadings to separate different sections, if applicable
• Align your text consistently, ensuring it looks neat and professional

Using Bullet Points (When Appropriate)

When highlighting your key skills, qualifications or achievements, consider using bullet points. This format can help the reader quickly grasp your strengths and accomplishments.

Be sure to maintain consistency in formatting and punctuation when using bullet points to keep your personal statement looking polished.

Seek Feedback from Peers or Mentors

Don't hesitate to seek feedback on your personal statement. Share it with trusted peers, mentors or even professionals in the industry.

They can offer valuable insights, catch errors you may have missed and provide suggestions for improvement. Collaborative input can lead to a more polished and effective personal statement.

Customise for Each Application

Tailoring your personal statement to the specific job application is a critical success factor. Avoid the temptation to use a one-size-fits-all approach.

Continuously Update and Refine Your Personal Statement

Your personal statement should evolve as your career progresses. Regularly review and update it to include new accomplishments, skills and experiences.

As you gain more professional expertise, your personal statement should reflect your growth and adapt to your changing career goals. Keep it fresh and relevant to stay competitive in the job market.

Consider Professional Help (Optional)

If you're unsure about your ability to craft a compelling personal statement, or if you're applying for a particularly competitive or specialised role, consider seeking professional help.

There are professional CV writers and career coaches who can provide expert guidance and ensure your personal statement is of the highest quality. While this is an optional step, it can be a valuable investment in your job search success.

CV Personal Statement Examples

Example 1: personal statement for a sales manager.

With a proven track record in boosting sales revenue and leading high-performing teams, I am a results-driven Sales Manager who consistently delivers outstanding performance. I’m passionate about the art of sales and find immense satisfaction in driving revenue growth and achieving ambitious targets. Throughout my career, I have honed my skills, developed a keen understanding of market dynamics and cultivated a leadership style that inspires and motivates my team to excel. My commitment to excellence, unwavering dedication and strategic approach to sales management have allowed me to consistently exceed expectations and contribute to the success of the organizations I've served. As a Sales Manager, I am not just a leader, but a catalyst for growth and a driving force behind the achievement of both individual and collective goals. My ability to build lasting client relationships, provide innovative solutions and create a positive work environment sets me apart, and I am eager to leverage my expertise to continue delivering exceptional results for your organization.

Analysis of Key Elements

To understand the components of an effective personal statement, let's examine a personal statement written for a Sales Manager position.

This example demonstrates the following key elements:

• Engaging opening sentence – ' With a proven track record in boosting sales revenue and leading high-performing teams, I am a results-driven Sales Manager who consistently delivers outstanding performance. '
• Alignment with career goals – The statement sets the career goal right away, emphasizing the candidate's proficiency in sales and leadership.
• Highlighting skills and qualifications – It directly states the candidate's core strengths – boosting sales and leading teams. This clarity instantly communicates the candidate's expertise.
• Concrete examples – While concise, the opening line hints at the candidate's success without going into extensive detail. The specific reference to a proven track record offers credibility.
• Use of action words – The phrase 'results-driven' and the mention of 'consistently delivers' showcase an active and confident approach.

Example 2: Personal Statement for a Software Developer

As a software developer passionate about innovation and problem-solving, I thrive on crafting elegant solutions to complex challenges. My journey in the world of coding has been marked by an unquenchable curiosity and a drive to create software that not only functions flawlessly but also leaves a lasting impression. With a keen eye for detail and a dedication to efficiency, I take pride in turning intricate problems into streamlined, user-friendly solutions. I've had the privilege of working on a variety of projects, each presenting its own unique set of challenges. Whether it's writing efficient code, architecting robust systems or enhancing user experiences, I approach each task with enthusiasm and a commitment to best practices. I understand that software development is not just a job; it's a passion that fuels my desire to keep learning, adapting and delivering exceptional results. I'm excited to bring my expertise to your team and help drive innovation in software development.

This personal statement is tailored for a Software Developer role and incorporates the following critical elements:

• Engaging opening sentence – ' As a software developer passionate about innovation and problem-solving, I thrive on crafting elegant solutions to complex challenges. '
• Alignment with career goals – The statement introduces the candidate's passion for innovation and problem-solving, demonstrating an alignment with the role's requirements.
• Highlighting skills and qualifications – It emphasizes the candidate's passion for solving complex challenges, showcasing a core skill set required for the position.
• Concrete examples – While concise, the statement offers a glimpse into the candidate's problem-solving abilities and their appreciation for innovation.
• Use of action words – The phrase 'thrive on crafting' and 'passionate about innovation' reflects an active and dedicated approach.

Example 3: Personal Statement for a Marketing Coordinator

A detail-oriented marketing professional with a knack for crafting compelling campaigns and a relentless drive for achieving results. My career in marketing has been defined by a fervent commitment to creating impactful strategies that resonate with target audiences. From conceptualization to execution, I thrive on meticulously planning and executing marketing campaigns that leave a lasting impression. I'm adept at leveraging data-driven insights to optimize performance and have a keen eye for monitoring and adapting to ever-changing market dynamics. My passion for staying current with industry trends and technology empowers me to harness the latest tools for campaign success. I'm eager to bring my skills to your team, where I can contribute my creativity, strategic thinking and dedication to achieving marketing excellence.

Let's analyse a personal statement designed for a Marketing Coordinator role, which incorporates essential elements:

• Engaging opening sentence – ' A detail-oriented marketing professional with a knack for crafting compelling campaigns and a relentless drive for achieving results. '
• Alignment with career goals – The statement reflects the candidate's focus on crafting compelling campaigns and achieving results, directly related to the marketing role.
• Highlighting skills and qualifications – It highlights the candidate's attention to detail and their ability to create compelling marketing materials.
• Concrete examples – Though brief, the statement provides a glimpse of the candidate's core qualities.
• Use of action words – Phrases like 'crafting compelling campaigns' and 'relentless drive' convey an active and determined attitude.

Example 4: Personal Statement for an HR Professional

Experienced HR professional with over 10 years in the field, specializing in workforce strategy, employee relations, and HR best practices. In my recent role at TechGlobal Inc., I managed HR operations for 500+ employees, implementing a performance management system that boosted productivity by 20%. Expertise in strategic HR planning, talent acquisition, employee development, and legal compliance. Committed to fostering an inclusive work environment, I excel in conflict resolution and building strong relationships at all organizational levels. Holds a Master’s in HR Management and a PHR certification.

Example 5: Personal Statement for a Graphic Designer

Creative and detail-oriented Graphic Designer with 5+ years of experience in branding and visual communication. Proficient in Adobe Creative Suite and skilled in developing compelling visual concepts. Demonstrated expertise in creating innovative designs for a diverse range of clients, contributing to successful marketing campaigns. Portfolio showcases a strong aesthetic sense and a commitment to delivering high-quality design solutions that meet client needs and exceed expectations.

Example 6: Personal Statement for a Project Coordinator

Dynamic Project Coordinator with extensive experience in managing complex projects, ensuring timely completion within budget. Skilled in coordinating cross-functional teams, adept at resource allocation and timeline management. Proven ability to streamline processes for efficiency, resulting in consistently successful project outcomes. Excellent communication and organizational skills, capable of navigating the challenges of diverse project demands with a solution-focused approach.

Example 7: Personal Statement for a Financial Analyst

Analytical Financial Analyst with a strong background in financial modeling, forecasting, and data analysis. Expertise in utilizing advanced Excel and financial software to provide comprehensive financial insights and support business decision-making. Proven track record in analyzing market trends, identifying investment opportunities, and presenting data-driven recommendations. Committed to optimizing financial performance and supporting strategic business objectives through in-depth analysis and actionable insights.

Example 8: Personal Statement for an Educational Administrator

Experienced Educational Administrator with a passion for leading educational initiatives and curriculum development. Demonstrated leadership in creating inclusive and effective learning environments, fostering academic excellence and student success. Proficient in strategic planning, staff development, and program management, with a commitment to continuous improvement in educational settings. Skilled in collaborating with educators, parents, and students to meet educational objectives and enhance the quality of learning experiences.

These real-life examples and their respective key elements showcase how effective personal statements are tailored to the specific job and skill set.

They engage the reader, express alignment with the role and highlight core qualifications using concise, action-oriented language.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Writing a Personal Statement

Generic and vague statements.

One of the most common mistakes in personal statement CV writing is using generic and vague language.

Avoid generic phrases that could apply to any candidate, such as: 'I'm a hard worker' or 'I'm a team player'.

Instead, use specific, concrete examples to illustrate your skills and qualifications, making your personal statement more compelling and unique.

Exaggeration or Falsehoods

While it's essential to highlight your strengths, exaggerating your achievements or qualifications is a grave mistake.

Be honest and truthful in your personal statement. Overstating your accomplishments may lead to credibility issues during the interview process, potentially jeopardizing your chances of landing the job.

Negative Language or Self-Doubt

A good CV personal statement is your opportunity to present yourself in the best possible light.

Avoid using negative language or expressing self-doubt. Phrases like 'I'm not the best at…' or 'I lack experience in…' can create a negative impression.

Instead, focus on your strengths and what you bring to the table.

Ignoring the Specific Job Description

Failing to tailor your personal statement to the specific job description is a common error.

Each job application should have a unique personal statement that reflects how your qualifications align with the role's requirements.

Ignoring the job description and using a generic statement can signal a lack of effort or interest in the position.

Neglecting to Mention Soft Skills

While technical skills and qualifications are important, soft skills are equally valuable.

Neglecting to mention your soft skills, such as communication, teamwork, adaptability and problem-solving, can be a missed opportunity.

Many employers place a high value on these qualities, so be sure to include them in your personal statement to provide a more well-rounded view of your capabilities.

Avoiding these common mistakes is crucial to crafting the best CV personal statement that makes a positive impression on potential employers.

Your personal statement should reflect your authenticity, align with the job's requirements and showcase a combination of technical and soft skills that make you an ideal candidate.

What is an example of a strong personal statement for a CV?

A strong personal statement for a CV might read:

'A results-driven Project Manager with a proven track record in successfully leading cross-functional teams to deliver complex projects on time and within budget. My exceptional organisational skills and dedication to quality have consistently translated into tangible, measurable successes, making me an asset to any team or organisation. '

Should a personal statement be on a CV?

Yes, a personal statement is a valuable addition to a CV. It provides a brief, powerful introduction that allows you to highlight your qualifications and make a strong first impression on potential employers. Including a well-crafted personal statement on your CV can set you apart from other candidates.

How do you sell yourself in a personal statement CV?

To effectively sell yourself in a personal statement on your CV, focus on your unique strengths and experiences. Use quantifiable achievements and specific examples that demonstrate your capabilities. Highlight your skills and how they align with the job description. Be confident in your language and convey enthusiasm for the role, showing that you're the right fit for the position.

How do you write an impressive personal statement for a CV?

In terms of how to start a CV personal statement, it should be a compelling opening sentence that immediately grabs the reader's attention and conveys your enthusiasm for the role.

Tailor your personal statement to the specific job you're applying for and highlight skills and experiences that directly align with the position. Use concrete examples and measurable achievements to demonstrate your qualifications and quantify your successes whenever possible.

You should employ dynamic verbs and confident language to convey your capabilities and achievements but keep it concise, typically within 50 to 150 words, and steer clear of overused phrases and buzzwords.

Instead, use genuine, specific language. Additionally, ensure your statement is error-free and flows smoothly and consider seeking feedback from trusted peers or mentors.

What is an example of a professional personal statement?

A professional personal statement in a CV might read:

'As an experienced Human Resources Manager, I have successfully implemented talent acquisition strategies that resulted in a 30% reduction in employee turnover. My commitment to fostering a positive workplace culture and my expertise in compliance and HR best practices make me a trusted resource for both employees and leadership.'

What is a good opening sentence for a personal statement?

A strong opening sentence for a personal statement could be:

'With a passion for innovation and a track record of driving transformative change in dynamic industries, I am a forward-thinking professional ready to lead your team toward unparalleled success.'

This sentence introduces your enthusiasm and provides a glimpse of your qualifications, immediately engaging the reader.

Throughout this guide, we've emphasized the significance of a strong personal statement in a CV.

Your personal statement is your opportunity to introduce yourself to potential employers, leaving a lasting impression and demonstrating why you're the ideal candidate for the job.

It serves as the bridge between your qualifications and the employer's needs, making it a pivotal element of your job application.

Tailoring your statement to the specific job, using engaging language and showcasing your qualifications will help you stand out in the competitive job market of 2024.

Job seeking can be challenging, but remember that your personal statement is just one part of the journey. Your skills, experiences and unique qualities make you a valuable asset to potential employers.

Stay persistent, stay positive and believe in your abilities. Keep refining your personal statement and your CV, and your dedication will pay off as you progress toward your career goals. Best of luck in your job search!

You might also be interested in these other PRT articles:

What Is a CV and How Do You Write One?

Title: What Is a CV and How Do You Write One?

URL: /what-is-a-cv

Meta: Are you applying for a position requiring a CV? Continue reading for what to include, how to format it, and how to stand out.

So you are on a job hunt and looking for a new and exciting career. You have your resume ready when the hiring manager asks for your CV.

This causes you to panic because you have no idea what that is.

In today's job economy, job seekers must ensure they are prepared for any questions a prospective employer may ask them.

Continue reading for everything you need to know about what a CV is and how to write one.

What is a CV?

The term CV, Curriculum Vitae, is a Latin word meaning "course of life."

It is a document containing your academic credentials and previous work experience.

You typically don't require one unless you are applying to graduate school or have completed your master's or doctoral program and are now applying for an academic teaching or research position.

Related: These Tips can Help You Find the Right Job | Entrepreneur

What is the difference between a CV and a resume?

The key difference between a CV and a resume is that a resume is what you typically use when applying for a standard job application. A CV is used when applying for an academic program or teaching position.

The main point of a CV is to accurately depict any academic and research experience that you have acquired either through schooling, teaching experience or research and to provide this to potential recruiters.

This includes a detailed record of presentations and publications and tends to be longer and more detailed than a standard resume.

It is important to note that some employers use CV and resume interchangeably during job interviews.

This can be confusing, but the general rule of thumb is that if you apply for a position in academia , you will submit a CV.

If you are applying for a job outside of academia, you will provide them with your resume.

Related: 10 Tips For Writing An Impressive Resume | Entrepreneur

What should you include in your CV?

Now that you know the difference between a CV and a resume, what should you include in your CV?

Continue reading for everything a prospective employer, or a graduate program admissions committee, will look for in your CV.

Your personal information

Much like a typical resume, at the top of your CV, you can include the following contact information:

• Your full name.
• Your mailing address.
• The best phone number to reach you at.
• Your email address.
• Your date of birth.

Education section

CVs are mainly used to apply for positions in academia, so this section of your CV is crucial.

In this section, you can list the educational programs you attended, the years you attended them, and the name of the institution where you attended.

You may want to break this information down using bullet points or follow a CV template to make it easy to read.

Some prospective employers may require you to provide more in-depth information, such as your grades for your completed programs.

They then use this information to determine whether your educational background matches the position you are applying for.

Related: 5 Components of an Attention-Grabbing Resume | Entrepreneur

Work experience section

When you add your work history to your CV, you will want to list all your recent work experience and any fellowships or internships you were a part of that relate to the position you are applying for in reverse chronological order.

For each of your previous jobs, you can include:

• The name of your employer.
• The specific role you had, including your job title.
• How long you were employed at that specific job.
• A detailed job description.
• A list of any accomplishments or awards your employer awarded you.

Related: Not Enough Experience on Your Resume? Rise Above 'Requirements' | Entrepreneur

Any awards and honors you received

This is where you would include any awards or honors you have received while gaining professional experience at the academic level or during your previous employment.

These awards and honors may include:

• Dean awards you were awarded.
• Honorary degrees you received.
• Presidential awards you obtained.
• Professional certifications or awards.
• Any awards you received from an employer for excellence.

List your relevant skills

If you have acquired a specific set of skills pertinent to the position you are applying for and haven't yet mentioned them in your CV, you can list them here.

These skills may include, but aren't limited to:

• Language skills (such as being fluent in more than one language).
• Computer skills you have acquired.
• Advanced software skills you have obtained.

Related: 19 Best Skills to Put On a Resume That Employers Will Love | Entrepreneur

Your publications and presentations

If you were in school or working and published any academic or conference papers , you can list them here.

These include any papers that you wrote by yourself or co-wrote with other people as well as any papers that you helped contribute to.

You can include the following information regarding these published papers:

• The name of the paper that was published.
• The year it was published.
• The names of any co-authors, if applicable.

You can also include any papers you have written and presented at a conference or association. Here you may want to include the following:

• The name of the paper that was presented.
• The name of the conference that it was presented at.
• The date the paper was presented.

Related: Everything You Need to Know About Writing the Perfect Resume | Entrepreneur

Any professional associations you are a member of

If you are a member of any professional associations, you can list those here.

This section is typically only required when you are applying for a position such as an accountant, engineer, surveyor or IT professional.

You can list all the associations you have an affiliation with here, as well as the current status of your membership.

How do you format your CV?

Now that you know what to include in your CV, you must ensure it is appropriately formatted.

Here are some tips and things to remember regarding your CV format.

Build your brand

You want to build your brand and stay consistent throughout your CV.

This is accomplished using the same font and formatting throughout your application for a cohesive feel. This can include:

• Cover letter.
• Reference list.
• Research statement.

Emphasize only when necessary

Make sure only to use all capital letters, bold, underline and italics for the most critical information in your CV.

For example, you might want to bold the names of the schools you attended, especially if they are well-known, impressive institutions. But you wouldn't want to bold the dates you attended as this information isn't as important.

Separation is key

Separating dates from your other content using white space can make it easier for the reader to skim and take in the vital information.

You may even decide to line up all the dates on the right or left-hand side of the page to distinguish the more important parts for the reader.

Related: 13 Must-Have Words to Include In Your Resume | Entrepreneur

Make section headings easy to find

You can bold and use all capital letters to help distinguish your section headings and make them easier to find.

You can also strategically space them to help separate the different sections. This is typically done by entering two returns before a subheading and one return after.

Headers and footers

Having your name in a header or a footer on every page of your CV and other attached documentation is a good idea.

You may also want to include page numbers to ensure the pages don't get mixed up and out of order for the reader.

If you don't want a header or a footer on the first page of your CV, simply select "different first page" in the header/footer menu.

Listing your references

When listing your references, it is a good idea to include them on a separate page at the end of your CV.

You can list them one below the other or in two separate columns depending on the number of references you have and the look you are going for.

What is a personal statement?

Typically, admission committees also require you to provide a brief essay (anywhere from 500 to 2000 words) called a Personal Statement along with your CV. This is also known as a Statement of Interest or Purpose.

This is a crucial part of deciding whether or not you are a good fit for the job or program and also a good judge of your writing capabilities.

In general, what you may want to include in your Personal Statement includes:

• Your research and professional interests.
• What your future goals and career plan include.
• How their workplace or program helps meet these goals.
• What you will contribute to their organization.

Related: Use Your Personal Brand to Score Big at Job Interviews | Entrepreneur

How do you make your CV stand out?

There are a few things to remember to make your CV stand out from the rest .

Choose the proper format and font

Choosing the proper format and font can make a huge difference. You can't go wrong selecting a font such as Arial or Calibri for your CV.

Choosing a good, clean layout also helps you stand out and get noticed by potential recruiters.

Related: 8 Ways to Make Your Resume Stand Out From the Pack

Include a list of your soft skills

While a CV typically focuses on your schooling and work experience, list your soft skills to help you stand out.

These soft skills can include:

• Communication skills.
• Fast learner.
• Emotional intelligence.
• Resilience.
• Team player.
• Self-motivated.

Related: Soft Skills to Put on Your Resume | Entrepreneur

Explain any employment gaps

Did you take a year off of school or work to travel? Or maybe a family member became ill, and you took some time off to care for them.

Don't be afraid to explain why there is a gap in your employment history on your CV, as recruiters will notice this anyways.

Related: A Sabbatical Must Not Spoil your CV. Here's How you Can Explain the Gap | Entrepreneur

Remove outdated information

Before you start applying for any positions using your CV, ensure all the information on it is accurate and up-to-date.

This means taking off any old jobs irrelevant to the position you are applying for.

What have studies shown regarding CVs?

Studies have shown that a typical recruiter only looks at a CV for seven seconds before deciding whether a candidate is a good fit for the position.

This is why taking the time to make sure your CV is written clearly and professionally can make all the difference.

It has also been shown that 59% of recruiters will immediately reject an application if they find any typos, bad grammar or other spelling mistakes.

Showing you have gained knowledge and experience from your education and work experience can help you stand out. A recruiter wants to see that you have learned a lot and want to expand your knowledge as you move forward.

A recruiter will pay extra attention if you can show that you know the specific industry you are applying in, so always ensure your CV is up-to-date with any pertinent education or work experience.

Create your Europass CV

The Europass CV builder makes it easy to create your CV online. You can use it to apply for a job, education or training opportunities as well as volunteering.

The best-known CV format in Europe

The Europass CV is one of the best-known CV formats in Europe. It is easy-to-use and familiar to employers and education institutions.

You will first have to create your Europass profile with information on your education, training, work experience and skills. After you complete your Europass profile, you can create as many CVs as you want with just a few clicks. Just select which information you want to include, pick your favourite design and Europass will do the rest. 

You can create, store and share CVs in 31 languages . You can download your Europass CV, store it in your Europass Library share it with employers, with  EURES  or other job boards.

How to create a good CV

Remember that your CV is your first opportunity to communicate your skills and experiences to a future employer. It is a snapshot of who you are, your skills, your educational background, work experiences and other achievements.

Present your experience clearly

Highlight examples of your skills and experiences matching the job you are applying for. Pay close attention to the details published in the vacancy notice.

Tailor your CV

Make sure you update the ‘About Me’ section to highlight why you are the best person for the job. Do not include a full detailed history. Focus on facts and main points that match the job you have in mind.

Make it readable

Make sure your CV is easy to read. Use clear and simple language.  Use strong verbs (e.g. ‘managed’, ‘developed’, ‘increased’).

Use reverse chronological order

Always list the most recent experience on the top followed by previous ones. In case of long gaps in working or learning, include an explanation.

Polish and fine-tune

Check for spelling and grammar mistakes, provide a professional e-mail address, and add a professional photograph of yourself.

Your Europass profile

Your Europass profile is the place to keep a record of all your skills, qualifications and experiences. If you keep your Europass profile up-to-date then you will always have all the information you need to create tailored CVs and job applications quickly.

Good luck with your applications!

Find support through EU services

Eures the european job mobility portal, working abroad in other eu countries, education and training in other eu countries, you may be interested to read.

Create your Europass Cover Letter

Develop your skills through volunteering

Managing your personal information in Europass

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AT&T notifies users of data breach and resets millions of passcodes

FILE - An AT&T sign is seen at a store in Pittsburgh, Monday, Jan. 30, 2023. AT&T said, Saturday, March 30, 2024, it has begun notifying millions of customers about the theft of personal data recently discovered online. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar, File)

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AT&T said it has begun notifying millions of customers about the theft of personal data recently discovered online.

The telecommunications giant said Saturday that a dataset found on the “dark web” contains information such as Social Security numbers for about 7.6 million current AT&T account holders and 65.4 million former account holders.

The company said it has already reset the passcodes of current users and will be communicating with account holders whose sensitive personal information was compromised.

It is not known if the data “originated from AT&T or one of its vendors,” the company said in a statement. The compromised data is from 2019 or earlier and does not appear to include financial information or call history, it said. In addition to passcodes and Social Security numbers, it may include email and mailing addresses, phone numbers and birth dates.

While the data surfaced on a hacking forum nearly two weeks ago, it closely resembles a similar data breach that surfaced in 2021 but which AT&T never acknowledged, said cybersecurity researcher Troy Hunt .

“If they assess this and they made the wrong call on it, and we’ve had a course of years pass without them being able to notify impacted customers,” then it’s likely the company will soon face class action lawsuits, said Hunt, founder of an Australia-based website for warning people when their personal information has been exposed.

An AT&T spokesperson didn’t immediately return a request for comment Saturday.

It is not the first crisis this year for the Dallas-based company. An outage in February temporarily knocked out cellphone service for thousands of U.S. users. AT&T at the time blamed the incident on a technical coding error, not a malicious attack.

AT&T investigating leak that dumped millions of customers’ data on dark web

AT&T is investigating a leak earlier this month that dumped millions of customers' data, including personal information such as Social Security numbers, on the dark web.

The company said the leak happened roughly two weeks ago and it launched "a robust investigation supported by internal and external cybersecurity experts."

"Based on our preliminary analysis, the data set appears to be from 2019 or earlier," AT&T said in a statement Saturday.

It affects about 7.6 million current customers and about 65.4 million former customers.

AT&T said it is looking into whether "the data in those fields originated from AT&T or one of its vendors." Currently, the company does not have evidence of unauthorized access to its systems resulting in exfiltration of the dataset.

The telecommunications company, one of the most popular wireless carriers, said it is reaching out to the customers affected and has reset their passcodes. It is also offering free credit monitoring through Equifax, Experian and TransUnion.

"As of today, this incident has not had a material impact on AT&T’s operations," the company said.

Minyvonne Burke is a senior breaking news reporter for NBC News.

Joe Kottke is a researcher at the NBC News Network Desk.