Now that you have identified the perfect work position or university training, it’s time to apply, but before you get to the interview stage, there is the dreaded professional personal statement to overcome. The good news is that personal statements are not as difficult to create as you might think, but it’s important to give them the time and attention they require to make the right first impression. 

Read the Guidelines 

Whether you are writing a personal statement for a job or a university, you will have a set of guidelines to follow. Typically, the guidelines for a job application are more flexible than for universities; they also tend to be shorter. Still, it’s important to read and follow them closely. 

One of the first things employers and institutions look for when receiving an application is whether you can follow guidelines and apply knowledge. These places also receive high volumes of applicants, so you have to get the basics right to be considered in the first place.

Brainstorm Content 

Writing oxbridge personal statements is intimidating, especially when you’re staring at the blank screen, unsure of what to write or how to present yourself. But it’s easier than you think. Start by asking yourself the right questions and developing content that you can use creatively. 

What makes your life story unique? What experiences and skills do you have that set you apart from other candidates? And how can this job or educational training support your long-term goals? Start by listing questions and then list your answers underneath to create the content.  

Set the Tone 

It’s important to get the tone of your personal statement right so you can impress the right people and move to the next stage of the application. A tone that is professional and confident is needed but leaves room for humility; regardless of the position, you always have more to learn. 

As well as getting the tone right, you need to capture the attention of the reader, do this by writing a captivating opening sentence. Don’t worry about our opening sentences at first; they can be written at the end to ensure you get straight to the point and link the start to the end.   

Keep it Relevant 

A professional personal statement needs to be relevant to the position you are applying for. It also needs to present your strengths, skills, and experiences in a relevant way. In the body of your statement, you need to include your experience, achievements, talent and skills. Again lists can help create the content. 

Focus on a few aspects of the position and present tie in your skills and experiences; even if they are not directly related, chances are there are some transferable attributes that allow you to make a case for your credentials. In the body text, link your skills to these chosen aspects. 

Proofread and Edit  

Proofread and edit your personal statement when you have finished. After completing a personal statement, it can be easy to think of it as finished and submit it; instead, take a break from it for 30 minutes, then return and check the grammar, spelling, repetition and wordiness.