📝 CV Writing
✉️ Cover Letters
📧 Professional Email
Professional CV Writing
Masterclass Workbook
Your Complete Guide to Creating Job-Winning Applications
12
Modules
50+
Tips
12
Activities
10
Templates
Table of Contents
01Learning Objectives & Session Overview
02CV Writing Masterclass
03Live CV Building (Before & After)
04Cover Letter Masterclass
05Professional Email Masterclass
06Practice Activities & Exercises
07Real Recruiter Insights
08AI Tools & Responsible Usage
09Case Studies
10Handouts & Checklists
11Take-Home Resources
12Quick Reference Tips
01
Learning Objectives & Session Overview
What You Will Learn
By the end of this session, you will be able to:
- Create an ATS-friendly, recruiter-approved CV that stands out in 6 seconds
- Write compelling cover letters that get read and generate interview calls
- Compose professional emails for every job-search scenario
- Identify and fix common mistakes that get applications rejected
- Use AI tools responsibly to enhance your job application documents
- Understand what recruiters actually look for and how to deliver it
Skills You Will Gain
| Skill Category | Specific Skills |
|---|---|
| CV Writing | Formatting, section structuring, achievement quantification, ATS optimization |
| Cover Letter Writing | Structuring, tone-setting, personalization, call-to-action crafting |
| Email Communication | Professional etiquette, subject line writing, tone adaptation |
| Job Search Strategy | Personal branding, LinkedIn optimization, networking |
| AI Literacy | Prompt engineering, responsible AI usage, document enhancement |
Session Schedule
| Time | Topic |
|---|---|
| 0:00–0:15 | Welcome & Icebreaker |
| 0:15–1:55 | CV Writing Masterclass + Live CV Building |
| 1:55–2:15 | Break ☕ |
| 2:15–3:15 | Cover Letter & Email Masterclass |
| 3:15–4:15 | Activities, Case Studies, Q&A |
02
CV Writing Masterclass
"Your CV is your personal marketing tool — a concise, polished snapshot of your skills, experiences, and achievements."
Your CV has ONE job: to get you an interview.
What is a CV?
Your CV is NOT ❌
- Your life story
- Everything you've ever done
- A place to show off design skills
Your CV IS ✅
- A persuasive document
- Tailored to each role
- Achievement-focused
- Easy to scan in 6 seconds
CV vs Resume — International Differences
| Resume (US/Canada) | CV (Curriculum Vitae) | |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 1–2 pages | 3–10+ pages |
| Purpose | Business/corporate jobs | Academic, research, medical |
| Content | Concise summary | Comprehensive history |
UK, Ireland, Europe, Australia, New Zealand: CV and resume mean the same thing
— a 1-2 page professional document.
ATS (Applicant Tracking System) — What You Must Know
Shocking Statistics
98.4%Fortune
500 companies use ATS
75%Resumes
filtered BEFORE human review
10.6xHigher
selection with exact title match
250Average
applications per job
How ATS Works
- Resume Parsing — ATS scans and segments your file
- Text Extraction — Visuals and formatting are stripped; only raw text is analyzed
- Keyword Matching — Resume compared to job description for exact matches
- Scoring & Ranking — Match score determines visibility
- Human Review — Only top-ranking candidates get recruiter attention
ATS Ranking Factors
| Factor | Weight |
|---|---|
| Keyword Relevance | 40% |
| Keyword Frequency & Placement | 25% |
| Semantic Analysis | 20% |
| Experience Alignment | 15% |
Recruiter Psychology — What They Scan in 6 Seconds
"Recruiters don't sift through stacks of paper anymore; algorithms do."
Recruiters look for:
- Name & Contact Info — Can they reach you?
- Professional Summary — Who are you and why are you relevant?
- Current Role & Achievements — What impact have you made?
- Education — Where did you study?
- Keywords — Do you match the job?
Recruiter Insight: "Recruiters take just 60 seconds or less to decide if your
profile moves forward or not."
Modern CV Trends (2026)
"A winning 2026 CV is clean, modern, keyword-rich and RESULTS driven — not crowded, not colourful, not confusing."
| Trend | What It Means |
|---|---|
| Results-focused | Achievements with metrics, not just duties |
| ATS-friendly | Simple formatting, standard fonts, no tables |
| Mobile-optimized | Looks good on laptops, phones, and inside ATS |
| Keyword-rich | Mirrors job description language |
| Personal branding | Clear professional identity and value proposition |
International Standards
| Country/Region | Length | Photo? | Personal Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| USA/Canada | 1–2 pages | ❌ No | Minimal |
| UK | 2 pages | ❌ No | No DOB/marital status |
| Europe | 2 pages | ⚠️ Sometimes | Varies by country |
| Australia/NZ | 2–4 pages | ❌ No | Minimal |
| Germany/France/Asia | 1–2 pages | ✅ Often expected | Photo common |
Nepal vs International CVs
| Aspect | Nepal CV | International CV |
|---|---|---|
| Photo | Often included | Usually NOT included (US/UK/Canada/Australia) |
| Personal details | Often includes DOB, marital status, religion | Only name, email, phone, location |
| Length | Can be 3–5 pages | 1–2 pages max |
| References | Often listed on CV | "References available on request" or omitted |
| Objective | Common | Replaced by Professional Summary |
CV Formatting — The Rules
Best Fonts
| Font | Type | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Arial | Sans-serif | ATS-friendly, clean |
| Calibri | Sans-serif | Modern, default in Word |
| Helvetica | Sans-serif | Professional, clean |
| Times New Roman | Serif | Traditional, acceptable |
| Tahoma | Sans-serif | Clean, readable |
Font Size: Body: 10–12 pt | Headings: 13–14 pt | Your Name: 15–16 pt
Formatting Rules
✅ DO
- Single column layout
- Black text on white background
- Consistent formatting throughout
- Bullet points instead of paragraphs
- Bold for headings, consistent spacing
- 1-inch margins on all sides
- 1.0–1.15 line spacing
❌ DON'T
- Tables, graphics, charts, or text boxes
- Fancy headers and footers
- Multiple columns
- Unusual fonts or decorative elements
- Underlining
- Bright colors or complex designs
Recommended Length
| Experience Level | Recommended Length |
|---|---|
| Student / Fresh Graduate | 1 page |
| 1–5 years experience | 1–2 pages |
| 5–10 years experience | 2 pages |
| Senior / Executive | 2–3 pages |
CV Sections — Complete Guide
1. Contact Information
✅ Include
- Full Name (bold, larger font)
- Phone Number (with country code)
- Professional Email Address
- Location (City, Country)
- LinkedIn Profile URL
- Optional: Portfolio URL, GitHub
❌ Exclude
- Full street address
- Date of Birth
- Marital Status
- Religion
- Nationality (unless required)
- Photo (in US/UK/Canada/Australia)
✅ Good Example
ANJALI SHARMA +977 9841XXXXXX | anjali.sharma@email.com Kathmandu, Nepal | linkedin.com/in/anjali-sharma
❌ Bad Example
Anjali Kumari Sharma Address: House No. 123, Kathmandu-4, Nepal DOB: 15/05/1998 | Marital Status: Single Email: cutiepie_anjali@yahoo.com
2. Professional Summary
This 3–5 sentence paragraph at the top replaces the outdated 'objective.' It's your elevator
pitch — hook the reader immediately.
Structure:
- Your professional identity
- Key skills and experience
- Notable achievement
- What you're seeking (tailored to the role)
✅ Good Example
"Results-oriented software developer with 3 years of experience in full-stack development, specializing in Python and React. Led a team that reduced load times by 40% for a fintech application, delivering scalable solutions for high-traffic environments. Eager to drive innovation at [Company Name]."
❌ Bad Example
"I am a hardworking and dedicated professional seeking a challenging position in a reputed organization where I can utilize my skills and grow."
4. Skills
Make sure they're relevant to the job description.
✅ Technical Skills — Good
Technical Skills - Programming: Python, Java, SQL, JavaScript - Frameworks: React, Node.js, Django - Tools: Git, Docker, AWS, JIRA - Data Analysis: Excel, Tableau, Power BI
❌ Technical Skills — Bad
Skills - Computer knowledge - Microsoft Office - Internet browsing - Typing
✅ Soft Skills — Good
Soft Skills ✓ Cross-functional team collaboration ✓ Client communication and relationship management ✓ Project coordination and deadline management ✓ Analytical problem-solving
❌ Soft Skills — Bad
Soft Skills - Team player - Hard worker - Good communication - Fast learner
5. Experience
In reverse chronological order, for each role, include: job title, company, dates, and bullet
points of key achievements, ideally with measurable results.
The STAR Method
- Situation — Context
- Task — What needed to be done
- Action — What YOU did
- Result — The outcome (with numbers!)
✅ Good Example
Marketing Intern | ABC Company | Kathmandu | June–Aug 2024 - Increased Instagram engagement by 45% over 3 months through targeted content strategy - Managed social media calendar for 5 platforms, increasing follower count by 2,000 - Created 15+ marketing collateral pieces used in 3 successful campaigns
❌ Bad Example
Marketing Intern | ABC Company | Kathmandu | June–Aug 2024 - Responsible for social media - Assisted with marketing - Helped with campaigns
Recruiter Comment: "Don't tell me what you were 'responsible for' — tell me
what you ACHIEVED."
6. Education
✅ Good Example
BSc Computer Science | Tribhuvan University | Kathmandu | 2020–2024 - GPA: 3.8/4.0 - Relevant Coursework: Data Structures, Algorithms, Database Management, Web Development - Final Year Project: "E-commerce Platform with AI-powered Recommendations"
7. Projects
✅ Good Example
E-Commerce Platform | React, Node.js, MongoDB | 2024 - Built a full-stack e-commerce platform with secure payment integration - Implemented user authentication, product catalog, and shopping cart - Deployed on AWS; achieved 200+ user sign-ups during testing phase
8. Certifications
Example
Certifications - AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner | Amazon | 2024 - Google Analytics Individual Qualification | Google | 2023 - Scrum Master Certified | Scrum Alliance | Expected 2025
10. Volunteer Work
Example
Volunteer Experience - Technical Lead | Code for Nepal | 2023–Present Developed website for NGO, increasing online donations by 30% - Tutor | Teach for Nepal | 2022 Taught programming to 50+ high school students
12. Languages
Example
Languages - Nepali: Native - English: Fluent (IELTS 7.5) - Hindi: Professional working proficiency
13. References
"References available on request" or omit entirely. Do NOT list full references on your CV.
- Privacy concerns
- Saves space
- Recruiters will ask if needed
Common CV Mistakes — Top 10
| # | Mistake | Why It Hurts |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Generic CV for every application | Recruiters spot this instantly |
| 2 | Listing duties, not achievements | Employers want impact, not tasks |
| 3 | Overloading with buzzwords | "Team player" means nothing without evidence |
| 4 | Spelling and grammar errors | Shows lack of attention to detail |
| 5 | Poor formatting | Hard to read, fails ATS |
| 6 | Too long | Recruiters don't have time |
| 7 | No metrics/numbers | Achievements need proof |
| 8 | Unprofessional email | First impression is negative |
| 9 | Including photo (US/UK/Canada) | Can invite bias |
| 10 | "References available on request" | Wastes space |
03
Live CV Building (Before & After)
Step 1: The Raw Information
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Rahul Thapa |
| Education | BBA, Tribhuvan University, 2020–2024, GPA: 3.5/4.0 |
| Internship | Marketing Intern, Himalayan Bank, 3 months |
| Projects | Digital Marketing Campaign for local café (increased sales 20%) |
| Skills | Social Media Management, Google Analytics, Canva, Excel |
| Languages | Nepali (Native), English (Fluent), Hindi (Conversational) |
| Leadership | Event Coordinator, College Business Club |
| Volunteer | Social Media Volunteer, Red Cross Nepal |
Step 1.5 — Build Your Own Raw CV (Fill First)
Enter the raw facts below for your own CV. Only after you fill in the core info will the Before / After comparison reveal itself — so you build yours first before seeing the improved examples.
CV Completion
0%
Fill in at least your name, education and one more section (experience, skills or projects) to unlock.
Before / After content is locked
Build your own Raw CV in the workspace above first (name, contact, and education + at least one more section). This guarantees you draft yours before seeing the improved example — the fastest way to learn.
Minimum required: Full Name ✔, Contact ✔, Education ✔, + at least 1 more section ✔
Step 2: Before — First Draft (With Mistakes)
RAHUL THAPA Kathmandu, Nepal 9841XXXXXX rahul.thapa@gmail.com OBJECTIVE To secure a challenging position in a reputed organization where I can utilize my skills and grow professionally. EDUCATION BBA from TU, 2024 SKILLS - Marketing - Social Media - Computer - Communication - Teamwork EXPERIENCE Marketing Intern at Himalayan Bank (2024) - Assisted with marketing activities - Helped with social media - Supported team members PROJECTS Digital Marketing Campaign for local café VOLUNTEER Red Cross Nepal REFERENCES Available on request
Step 3: What's Wrong With It?
| Mistake | Why It's Wrong |
|---|---|
| Generic objective | Tells recruiter nothing |
| "BBA from TU" | No details, no dates format, no GPA |
| Generic skills | "Marketing" means nothing, "Computer" is vague |
| Duties not achievements | No metrics, no impact |
| "Assisted" "Helped" "Supported" | Passive, weak action verbs |
| No project details | What did you actually DO? |
| "References available" | Wastes space |
| No LinkedIn | Missing professional connection opportunity |
Step 4: After — Improved Version
RAHUL THAPA Kathmandu, Nepal | +977 9841XXXXXX | rahul.thapa@email.com linkedin.com/in/rahul-thapa PROFESSIONAL SUMMARY Recent BBA graduate with strong foundation in digital marketing and data analytics. Proven ability to increase engagement and drive results through targeted social media campaigns. Seeking an entry-level marketing role where I can apply analytical and creative skills to drive brand growth. EDUCATION Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) Tribhuvan University | 2020–2024 - GPA: 3.5/4.0 - Relevant Coursework: Digital Marketing, Consumer Behavior, Business Analytics - Final Year Project: "Impact of Social Media Marketing on Consumer Purchasing Decisions" SKILLS Technical Skills - Social Media: Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter - Analytics: Google Analytics, Meta Business Suite, Excel - Design: Canva, Adobe Spark - Marketing Tools: Mailchimp, Hootsuite Soft Skills - Cross-functional team collaboration - Client communication and relationship management - Project coordination and deadline management - Creative problem-solving EXPERIENCE Marketing Intern | Himalayan Bank | Kathmandu | June–Aug 2024 - Increased Instagram engagement by 35% over 3 months through data-driven content strategy - Created 20+ marketing collateral pieces used in 4 campaigns - Analyzed customer feedback from 500+ responses, identifying key improvement areas - Collaborated with 5-member team to execute 3 promotional events with 200+ attendees PROJECTS Digital Marketing Campaign | Local Café | Jan–Mar 2024 - Designed and executed Instagram marketing campaign targeting young professionals - Created 15+ posts and stories, increasing café footfall by 20% within 2 months - Managed budget of NPR 15,000, achieving 300% ROI LEADERSHIP Event Coordinator | Business Club, TU | 2023–2024 - Organized 5 professional development workshops with 50+ attendees each - Coordinated with 8 guest speakers from banking, tech, and marketing sectors - Managed event logistics, budgets, and marketing for all events VOLUNTEER EXPERIENCE Social Media Volunteer | Red Cross Nepal | 2022–2023 - Managed social media accounts, increasing followers by 1,000+ - Created awareness content reaching 10,000+ people LANGUAGES - Nepali: Native - English: Fluent (IELTS 7.5) - Hindi: Professional working proficiency
Step 5: Before vs After Comparison
| Aspect | Before ❌ | After ✅ |
|---|---|---|
| Summary | Generic objective | Tailored professional summary with value proposition |
| Education | "BBA from TU" | Full details: degree, institution, dates, GPA, coursework |
| Skills | Vague ("Marketing," "Computer") | Specific technical and soft skills |
| Experience | Duties only ("Assisted," "Helped") | Achievements with metrics |
| Projects | One line | Full description with results |
| Leadership | None | Included with impact |
| Volunteer | One line | Full description with metrics |
| Length | Sparse | Comprehensive but 1 page |
04
Cover Letter Masterclass
"A cover letter allows you to differentiate yourself, create a sense of identity, express specific interest, and make connections that go beyond the fact that your résumé says you can do this job."
Why Cover Letters Matter
- Differentiate yourself from other applicants
- Show enthusiasm for the organization's mission
- Demonstrate communication skills
- Explain employment gaps or achievements not listed on CV
- Add context and personality to your application
When to Use Them
✅ YES
- When the job posting requests one
- For professional/office jobs
- For graduate programs and internships
- When you have something specific to say
❌ NO
- When explicitly told not to
- For retail/fast food/entry-level service jobs
- When applying through a system that doesn't accept them
Cover Letter Structure
| Section | Content | Length |
|---|---|---|
| Header | Your contact info, date, employer contact | 2-3 lines |
| Greeting | "Dear [Name]," | 1 line |
| Opening | Hook, role, why you're applying | 2-3 sentences |
| Body | Your value, achievements, relevance | 2-3 paragraphs |
| Closing | Call to action, thank you | 2-3 sentences |
| Signature | "Sincerely," your name | 2 lines |
Opening Paragraph
✅ Good Opening
"I am writing to express my strong interest in the Marketing Coordinator position at [Company Name], as advertised on LinkedIn. With my BBA degree and hands-on experience in digital marketing campaigns that increased engagement by 35%, I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to your team's success."
❌ Bad Opening
"I am writing to apply for the job I saw on your website. Please find my CV attached."
Body Paragraphs
✅ Good Body
"During my internship at Himalayan Bank, I increased Instagram engagement by 35% through a targeted content strategy. I created 20+ marketing collateral pieces and collaborated with a 5-member team to execute 3 successful promotional events. I am particularly drawn to [Company Name]'s commitment to innovation in the financial sector, and I believe my digital marketing skills and collaborative approach would make me a valuable asset to your team."
❌ Bad Body
"I have experience in marketing. I am a hard worker and a team player. I want to work for your company because it is a good company."
Closing & Call-to-Action
✅ Good Closing
"I would welcome the opportunity to discuss how my skills and experience align with the needs of [Company Name]. Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to hearing from you."
❌ Bad Closing
"I hope you call me for an interview. Thanks."
Effective CTAs:
- "I would welcome the opportunity to discuss my application further."
- "I look forward to the possibility of contributing to your team."
- "I am available for an interview at your convenience."
Poor Cover Letter — Generic and Vague
To Whom It May Concern, I am writing to apply for the position at your company. I am a recent graduate looking for a job. I have good communication skills and I am a hard worker. Please find my CV attached. I hope you will consider my application. Sincerely, Rahul Thapa
Why It's Poor: Generic greeting, no specific role/company, vague claims, no
achievements, too short.
Outstanding Cover Letter — Perfect
Rahul Thapa Kathmandu, Nepal | +977 9841XXXXXX | rahul.thapa@email.com linkedin.com/in/rahul-thapa July 17, 2025 Ms. Anjali Sharma Head of Marketing XYZ Company, Kathmandu, Nepal Dear Ms. Sharma, I am writing to express my strong interest in the Marketing Coordinator position at XYZ Company, as advertised on LinkedIn. With my BBA degree and hands-on experience increasing social media engagement by 35%, I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to your team's innovative marketing initiatives. During my internship at Himalayan Bank, I increased Instagram engagement by 35% over three months through a data-driven content strategy. I created over 20 marketing collateral pieces, collaborated with a cross-functional team of five members, and helped execute three promotional events that attracted over 200 attendees. These experiences have equipped me with the skills to manage social media campaigns, analyze performance metrics, and work effectively in team environments. I am particularly drawn to XYZ Company because of your recent campaign on financial literacy for young professionals — a cause I am passionate about. My experience with content creation and audience engagement aligns directly with your approach, and I would welcome the opportunity to bring my digital marketing skills to your team. I would welcome the opportunity to discuss how my skills and experience can contribute to XYZ Company's continued success. Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to hearing from you. Sincerely, Rahul Thapa
Why It's Outstanding: Professional header, personalized greeting, hooks with
role and achievement, specific achievements WITH metrics, demonstrates company research, shows
alignment, clear CTA, perfect length (250–300 words).
05
Professional Email Masterclass
Professional Email Structure
| Element | Description |
|---|---|
| Subject Line | Clear, concise summary of purpose |
| Salutation | Appropriate greeting |
| Introduction | Who you are and why you're writing |
| Body | Organized message with main points |
| Closing | Summary, call to action, thank you |
| Signature | Your name, title, contact info |
Subject Lines
"A subject line can make or break your email's chances of being read. Keep it direct and action-oriented."
| Purpose | ✅ Good Subject Line | ❌ Bad Subject Line |
|---|---|---|
| Job Application | "Application for Marketing Coordinator – Rahul Thapa" | "Job Application" |
| Follow-up | "Following Up: Marketing Coordinator Application – Rahul Thapa" | "Following Up" |
| Thank You | "Thank You – Interview – Marketing Coordinator" | "Thanks" |
| Networking | "Networking Request – Rahul Thapa, BBA Graduate" | "Hello" |
Professional Greetings
| Situation | Greeting |
|---|---|
| Name known | "Dear Ms. Sharma," |
| Name unknown | "Dear Hiring Manager," |
| Formal | "Dear Dr. Gurung," |
| Semi-formal | "Hello Mr. Thapa," |
| AVOID | "To Whom It May Concern," "Hey," "Hi there" |
📨 Email Templates
Job Application Email
Subject: Application for [Position Title] – [Your Full Name] Dear [Hiring Manager's Name], I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to apply for the [Position Title] position at [Company Name], as advertised on [Platform]. Please find attached my CV and cover letter for your review. I have also included my portfolio/LinkedIn profile for your reference. I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to [Company Name]'s [specific area] and would welcome the opportunity to discuss my application further. Thank you for your time and consideration. Best regards, [Your Full Name] [Phone Number] [LinkedIn URL]
Follow-Up Email
Subject: Following Up: [Position Title] Application – [Your Full Name] Dear [Hiring Manager's Name], I hope this email finds you well. I am following up on my application for the [Position Title] position at [Company Name], which I submitted on [Date]. I remain very interested in this opportunity and would welcome the chance to discuss how my skills and experience align with your team's needs. Please let me know if you need any additional information. Thank you for your time and consideration. Best regards, [Your Full Name] [Phone Number] [LinkedIn URL]
Thank-You Email (After Interview)
Subject: Thank You – [Position Title] Interview – [Your Full Name] Dear [Interviewer's Name], Thank you for taking the time to meet with me today to discuss the [Position Title] position at [Company Name]. I greatly appreciated learning more about your team's work and the exciting projects you have underway. Our conversation reinforced my interest in this role and my enthusiasm for contributing to [Company Name]. I was particularly excited to hear about [specific topic discussed]. Please don't hesitate to reach out if you need any additional information. I look forward to hearing from you. Best regards, [Your Full Name] [Phone Number] [LinkedIn URL]
Networking Email
Subject: Networking Request – [Your Full Name] – [Your Background] Dear [Name], I hope this email finds you well. My name is [Your Full Name], and I am a [Your Background] at [Institution/Company]. I came across your profile on LinkedIn and was impressed by your work in [specific area]. I am currently exploring opportunities in [field] and would greatly appreciate the opportunity to learn from your experience. Would you be available for a brief 15-minute call or coffee chat in the coming weeks? Thank you for your time and consideration. Best regards, [Your Full Name] [Phone Number] [LinkedIn URL]
Resignation Email
Subject: Resignation – [Your Full Name] – [Your Position] Dear [Manager's Name], I am writing to formally resign from my position as [Your Position] at [Company Name], effective [Date]. I would like to express my gratitude for the opportunities I have had during my time at [Company Name]. I have learned a great deal and appreciate your support and guidance. I am committed to ensuring a smooth transition and am happy to assist with training my replacement or completing any outstanding projects before my departure. Thank you for the opportunity to work at [Company Name]. I wish the team continued success. Sincerely, [Your Full Name]
Email Etiquette Rules
| Rule | Why |
|---|---|
| Use professional email address | First impression matters |
| Clear subject line | Recipient knows what to expect |
| Keep it concise | Respect recipient's time |
| Proofread | Errors look unprofessional |
| Use proper greeting and closing | Shows respect |
| Don't use ALL CAPS | Looks like shouting |
| Don't use emojis (unless appropriate) | Unprofessional |
| Reply within 24-48 hours | Shows responsiveness |
06
Practice Activities & Exercises
1
Identify CV Mistakes
Find as many mistakes as possible in this CV snippet (10+ mistakes):
Objective: To get a good job. Skills: Computer, communication, teamwork. Experience: Worked at a shop. Did customer service.
- Generic objective
- Vague skills ("Computer")
- No metrics
- No action verbs
- No dates
- No company name
- Too short
- Passive language
- No bullet points
- No professional summary
2
Rewrite the Summary
Rewrite this professional summary:
"I am a hardworking and dedicated individual seeking a challenging position where I can grow."
"Results-oriented marketing graduate with internship experience increasing social media engagement by 35%. Seeking a Marketing Coordinator role where I can apply digital marketing and analytical skills to drive brand growth."
3
Add Metrics
Add metrics to this bullet point: "Managed social media accounts."
"Managed 5 social media accounts, increasing followers by 2,000 and engagement by 35% over 3 months."
4
Convert Duties to Achievements
Convert: "Responsible for customer service."
"Resolved 50+ customer inquiries daily, achieving 95% satisfaction rating."
5
Create a Skills Section
Create a skills section for a Computer Science graduate applying for a software developer role.
Technical Skills - Programming: Python, Java, JavaScript, C++ - Frameworks: React, Node.js, Django - Tools: Git, Docker, AWS, Linux - Databases: MySQL, MongoDB Soft Skills - Analytical problem-solving - Team collaboration - Agile methodology - Technical documentation
6
Format Contact Information
Correct this: "Rahul Thapa, House No. 123, Kathmandu, DOB: 15/05/1998, cutiepie@yahoo.com"
"Rahul Thapa | Kathmandu, Nepal | rahul.thapa@email.com | linkedin.com/in/rahul-thapa"
7
Write a Professional Summary
Write a professional summary for a fresh graduate in Business Administration.
"Recent BBA graduate with strong foundation in marketing and business analytics. Proven ability to increase engagement through data-driven campaigns. Seeking an entry-level marketing role where I can apply analytical and creative skills to drive business growth."
8
Identify Cover Letter Mistakes
Find 5 mistakes: "To Whom It May Concern, I want to apply for a job. I am good at stuff. Please hire me."
- Generic greeting
- No specific role/company
- Vague claims
- No achievements/metrics
- Too short and informal
9
Write a Cover Letter Opening
Write an opening paragraph for a marketing role.
"I am writing to express my strong interest in the Marketing Coordinator position at XYZ Company. With my BBA degree and hands-on experience increasing social media engagement by 35%, I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to your team."
10
Write a Cover Letter Closing
Write a professional closing with a clear call to action.
"I would welcome the opportunity to discuss how my skills and experience can contribute to [Company Name]'s success. Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to hearing from you."
11
Write an Email Subject Line
Write a subject line for a job application email.
"Application for Marketing Coordinator – Rahul Thapa"
12
Email Correction Challenge
Fix this unprofessional email: "hey, i want the job. here's my cv. thanks"
"Dear Hiring Manager, I am writing to apply for the [Position] role at [Company]. Please find my CV attached. Thank you for your consideration. Best regards, [Name]"
07
Real Recruiter Insights
"I reject 7 out of 10 CVs, without even reading them fully. Not because I enjoy rejecting people. But because most resumes scream: 'I don't care enough to respect your time.'"
Why Recruiters Reject CVs
- Spelling and grammar errors — Shows lack of attention to detail
- Generic CV — Shows no effort
- No achievements with metrics — Can't demonstrate impact
- Poor formatting — Hard to read
- Too long — Wastes recruiter's time
- Vague language/buzzwords — Says nothing
- Missing keywords — Fails ATS
- Unexplained gaps — Raises questions
What Annoys Recruiters
| Annoyance | Recruiter Says |
|---|---|
| Generic "To Whom It May Concern" | "Didn't bother to research" |
| Spelling mistakes | "If you can't proofread your CV, how will you proofread your work?" |
| Unprofessional email | "First impression is negative" |
| Listing duties, not achievements | "I don't care what you were responsible for — I care what you did." |
| Buzzwords without evidence | "Team player means nothing" |
| Too many pages | "I don't have time to read your life story." |
| No metrics | "How do I know you're actually good?" |
Green Flags — What Recruiters Love
| Green Flag | Why |
|---|---|
| Clear contact info | "I can actually reach you." |
| Professional summary | "I know who you are in 6 seconds." |
| Achievements with metrics | "I can see your impact." |
| Tailored to the role | "You actually want THIS job." |
| Clean formatting | "Easy to read." |
| ATS-friendly | "The system didn't reject you." |
| Professional email | "You look like a professional." |
| LinkedIn URL | "I can learn more about you." |
Red Flags — What Recruiters Hate
| Red Flag | Why |
|---|---|
| Spelling errors | "Lack of attention to detail." |
| Generic CV | "You don't actually care." |
| No metrics | "Can't see your impact." |
| Unprofessional email | "First impression is negative." |
| Gaps unexplained | "What happened?" |
| Too long | "Wasting my time." |
| Buzzwords | "Says nothing." |
| Photo (US/UK) | "Invites bias." |
Common Myths — Busted
| Myth | Truth |
|---|---|
| "My CV should be 3-5 pages" | 1-2 pages max for most roles |
| "I need a photo" | NO in US/UK/Canada/Australia |
| "One CV fits all" | NO — tailor for each role |
| "ATS rejects me" | ATS ranks, doesn't "reject" — humans decide |
| "I need a creative design" | NO — clean and simple wins |
| "Buzzwords help" | NO — they waste space |
08
AI Tools & Responsible Usage
AI Tools for Job Applications
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| ChatGPT / Claude | Drafting, brainstorming, improving wording |
| Grammarly | Grammar and style checking |
| Resume.io / Novoresume | CV templates and formatting |
| Jobscan | ATS keyword matching |
| LinkedIn AI | Profile optimization suggestions |
AI Prompt for CV Improvement
I am a [Your Background] applying for a [Position] role at [Company]. Here is my current CV: [Paste CV]. Please suggest improvements for: 1. The professional summary 2. Bullet points for my experience (add metrics where possible) 3. Skills section 4. Overall ATS optimization Keep the tone professional and results-focused.
AI Prompt for Cover Letters
I am a [Your Background] applying for [Position] at [Company]. The job description is: [Paste JD]. Here is my CV: [Paste CV]. Please draft a cover letter that: 1. Opens with a strong hook 2. Highlights 2-3 relevant achievements with metrics 3. Shows research about the company 4. Ends with a clear call to action Make it professional, concise, and personalized.
The SMART Prompt Framework
| Element | Example |
|---|---|
| Situation | "I am a recent BBA graduate applying for a Marketing Coordinator role." |
| Material | "Here is my CV: [Paste CV]. Here is the job description: [Paste JD]." |
| Action | "Please suggest improvements to my CV to better match this role." |
| Request | "Provide 3 options for the professional summary and 5 achievement-focused bullet points." |
| Tone | "Keep the tone professional, confident, and results-oriented." |
Responsible AI Usage Guidelines
- Never submit AI-generated content without personalizing it
- Always verify facts and metrics — AI can hallucinate
- Use AI as a tool, not a replacement — Your voice matters
- Disclose AI usage if required (some companies ask)
- Maintain authenticity — Don't claim skills you don't have
09
Case Studies
Case Study 1: Fresh Graduate (Business)
Profile: Sita Adhikari, BBA graduate, no work experience, good grades, volunteer experience.
Before ❌
SITA ADHIKARI Pokhara, Nepal 9841XXXXXX sita@email.com OBJECTIVE To get a job in a good company. EDUCATION BBA from TU SKILLS Good communication, teamwork VOLUNTEER Red Cross
After ✅
SITA ADHIKARI Pokhara, Nepal | +977 9841XXXXXX sita.adhikari@email.com linkedin.com/in/sita-adhikari PROFESSIONAL SUMMARY Recent BBA graduate with strong academic record and demonstrated leadership. Seeking entry-level business role. EDUCATION BBA | Tribhuvan University | 2020–2024 - GPA: 3.6/4.0 - Final Year Project: "Impact of Digital Marketing on Small Business" VOLUNTEER EXPERIENCE Project Coordinator | Red Cross Nepal - Organized 5 blood donation camps with 200+ participants - Managed team of 15 volunteers
Why It Works: Highlights education, volunteer work, and leadership — perfect
for a fresh graduate with no work experience.
Case Study 2: IT Student
Profile: Ram Sharma, Computer Science student, internship experience, projects.
RAM SHARMA Kathmandu, Nepal | +977 9841XXXXXX | ram.sharma@email.com github.com/ram-sharma | linkedin.com/in/ram-sharma PROFESSIONAL SUMMARY Computer Science student with full-stack development experience. Built 5+ web applications, including an e-commerce platform used by 200+ users. Seeking a software development internship. TECHNICAL SKILLS - Languages: Python, Java, JavaScript, C++ - Frameworks: React, Node.js, Django, Flask - Tools: Git, Docker, AWS, Linux - Databases: MySQL, MongoDB, PostgreSQL - Other: REST APIs, CI/CD, Agile Methodology EXPERIENCE Software Development Intern | TechInnovate Nepal | June–Aug 2024 - Developed RESTful APIs for a fintech application serving 1,000+ users - Implemented CI/CD pipeline, reducing deployment time by 40% - Collaborated with 5-member team using Agile methodology - Wrote unit tests achieving 85% code coverage PROJECTS E-Commerce Platform | React, Node.js, MongoDB | 2024 - Built full-stack platform with secure payment integration - Deployed on AWS EC2; achieved 200+ user sign-ups
Why It Works: Strong technical skills section, projects with details,
achievements with metrics.
Case Study 3: Marketing Graduate
Profile: Anjali Thapa, Marketing graduate, internship, campaign experience.
ANJALI THAPA Kathmandu, Nepal | +977 9841XXXXXX | anjali.thapa@email.com linkedin.com/in/anjali-thapa PROFESSIONAL SUMMARY Results-oriented Marketing graduate with hands-on experience in digital marketing. Increased social media engagement by 45% through data-driven strategies. Seeking Marketing Coordinator role. EXPERIENCE Marketing Intern | Himalayan Bank | June–Aug 2024 - Increased Instagram engagement by 45% over 3 months - Created 25+ marketing collateral for 4 campaigns - Analyzed feedback from 500+ responses - Executed 3 promotional events with 200+ attendees Digital Marketing Assistant (Freelance) | 2023–2024 - Managed social media for 5 small businesses - Increased followers by 3,000+ across accounts - Achieved average 30% engagement rate increase PROJECTS Digital Marketing Campaign | Local Café | Jan–Mar 2024 - Increased café footfall by 25% within 2 months - Managed budget of NPR 20,000, achieving 250% ROI
Why It Works: Strong metrics, relevant experience, shows impact clearly.
10
Handouts & Checklists
CV Checklist
Contact Information
- Full name (bold, larger font)
- Phone number with country code
- Professional email address
- Location (city, country)
- LinkedIn profile URL
- No full address, DOB, marital status, photo
Professional Summary
- 3-5 sentences
- Tells who you are, what you bring, what you want
- Tailored to the role
Skills
- Technical skills (specific, not vague)
- Soft skills (with evidence)
- Relevant to the job description
Experience
- Reverse chronological order
- Job title, company, dates, location
- Achievements with metrics (not duties)
- Action verbs used
Formatting
- Single column layout
- Standard font (Arial, Calibri, etc.)
- 10-12pt body, 13-14pt headings
- Black text on white background
- 1-inch margins
- 1-2 pages maximum
- No tables, graphics, or text boxes
Proofreading
- No spelling errors
- No grammar errors
- Consistent formatting throughout
ATS Checklist
Format
- Single column layout
- No tables, graphics, or text boxes
- Standard fonts (Arial, Calibri, Helvetica)
- .docx or simple PDF format
Content
- Keywords from job description included
- Standard section headers ("Skills," "Experience")
- No creative section names
- No images, icons, or charts
Keywords
- Job title matches application
- Technical skills mirror job description
- Soft skills included
- Industry terminology used
Cover Letter Checklist
- Professional header with contact info
- Personalized greeting ("Dear [Name],")
- Opening hooks with role and achievement
- 2-3 specific achievements with metrics
- Research about the company shown
- Skills aligned with company needs
- Clear call to action
- Professional closing ("Sincerely,")
Email Checklist
- Clear and action-oriented subject line
- Professional greeting with correct name
- Purpose stated early and clearly
- Concise and organized body
- Files attached with professional names
- Call to action included
- Professional closing and signature
- No spelling or grammar errors
Interview Checklist
Before Interview
- Research the company
- Research the interviewer (if known)
- Review job description
- Prepare answers to common questions
- Prepare questions to ask
- Plan your outfit
During Interview
- Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- Bring copies of your CV
- Make eye contact
- Use the STAR method for answers
- Ask thoughtful questions
After Interview
- Send thank-you email within 24 hours
- Follow up if no response after 1 week
11
Take-Home Resources
CV Template — Fresh Graduate
[Full Name] [City, Country] | [Phone Number] | [Email Address] linkedin.com/in/[your-profile] PROFESSIONAL SUMMARY [3-5 sentences: who you are, what you bring, what you want] EDUCATION [Degree] | [Institution] | [Location] | [Dates] - GPA: [X.X/4.0] - Relevant Coursework: [Course 1], [Course 2], [Course 3] - Final Year Project: "[Project Title]" SKILLS Technical Skills - [Skill 1], [Skill 2], [Skill 3] - [Tool 1], [Tool 2], [Tool 3] Soft Skills - [Skill 1] - [Skill 2] PROJECTS [Project Name] | [Technologies] | [Date] - [Achievement with metric] - [Achievement with metric] EXPERIENCE [Job Title] | [Company] | [Location] | [Dates] - [Achievement with metric] - [Achievement with metric] VOLUNTEER EXPERIENCE [Role] | [Organization] | [Dates] - [Achievement with metric] LANGUAGES - [Language 1]: [Proficiency] - [Language 2]: [Proficiency]
CV Template — Experienced Professional
[Full Name] [City, Country] | [Phone Number] | [Email Address] linkedin.com/in/[your-profile] PROFESSIONAL SUMMARY [3-5 sentences: years of experience, key expertise, notable achievement, what you seek] SKILLS Technical Skills - [Skill 1], [Skill 2], [Skill 3] Soft Skills - [Skill 1] - [Skill 2] EXPERIENCE [Job Title] | [Company] | [Location] | [Dates] - [Achievement with metric] - [Achievement with metric] - [Achievement with metric] [Previous Job Title] | [Company] | [Location] | [Dates] - [Achievement with metric] - [Achievement with metric] EDUCATION [Degree] | [Institution] | [Location] | [Dates] CERTIFICATIONS - [Certification] | [Issuer] | [Date] LANGUAGES - [Language 1]: [Proficiency] - [Language 2]: [Proficiency]
Cover Letter Template
[Full Name] [City, Country] | [Phone Number] | [Email Address] linkedin.com/in/[your-profile] [Date] [Recipient Name] [Recipient Title] [Company Name] [Company Address] Dear [Recipient Name], I am writing to express my strong interest in the [Position Title] position at [Company Name], as advertised on [Platform]. With my [background/experience] in [field] and proven ability to [key achievement], I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to your team. [Paragraph 2: Your relevant experience and achievements. Include 2-3 specific achievements with metrics.] [Paragraph 3: Research about the company. Why are you interested in THIS company? How do your skills align with their needs?] I would welcome the opportunity to discuss how my skills and experience can contribute to [Company Name]'s success. Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to hearing from you. Sincerely, [Full Name]
Career Websites
| Website | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Networking, job search, personal branding | |
| Indeed | Job search |
| Glassdoor | Company reviews, salaries |
| MeroJob | Nepal job portal |
| KumariJob | Nepal job portal |
| JobsNepal | Nepal job portal |
LinkedIn Profile Checklist
- Professional photo
- Compelling headline (not just job title)
- Detailed "About" section
- Complete experience section
- Skills section filled (50+ skills)
- Recommendations (3+)
- Active engagement (posts, comments)
- Custom URL (linkedin.com/in/yourname)
Free Resources
| Resource | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Canva | CV templates, design |
| Google Docs | CV templates |
| Grammarly | Grammar checking |
| Hemingway Editor | Readability improvement |
| AutoTailor | Auto-tailor CV to job postings |
| Jobscan | ATS keyword matching |
12
Quick Reference Tips
Top 20 CV Mistakes
- Generic CV for every application
- Listing duties, not achievements
- Overloading with buzzwords
- Spelling and grammar errors
- Poor formatting
- Too long
- No metrics/numbers
- Unprofessional email
- Including photo (US/UK/Canada)
- "References available on request"
- Full address listed
- Date of birth listed
- Marital status listed
- Religion listed
- No LinkedIn URL
- Generic objective
- Vague skills
- No soft skills
- No action verbs
- Passive language
Top 15 Cover Letter Mistakes
- Generic greeting ("To Whom It May Concern")
- No specific role or company
- No research about the company
- Vague claims ("hard worker")
- No achievements with metrics
- Too short
- Too long
- Self-focused ("I want," "I need")
- No call to action
- Unprofessional tone
- Spelling errors
- Grammar errors
- Same as CV (no new info)
- No enthusiasm
- Too casual
Top 10 ATS Optimization Tips
- Use a single column layout
- Use standard fonts (Arial, Calibri, Helvetica)
- Use 10-12 pt font
- No tables, graphics, or text boxes
- No headers or footers
- Use standard section headers
- Use .docx format (highest compatibility)
- Mirror keywords from job description
- Include variations of keywords
- Place keywords strategically (summary, skills, experience)
Top 10 LinkedIn Profile Tips
- Professional photo
- Compelling headline (not just job title)
- Detailed "About" section
- Complete experience section
- Skills section filled (50+ skills)
- Recommendations (3+)
- Active engagement (posts, comments)
- Custom URL (linkedin.com/in/yourname)
- Education section complete
- Volunteer experience included
Top 25 Recruiter Tips
- Your CV has ONE job: to get you an interview
- Recruiters spend 6 seconds on your CV
- 75% of resumes are filtered out by ATS
- Use keywords from the job description
- Achievements, not duties
- Use metrics everywhere you can
- Tailor every application
- Proofread, proofread, proofread
- Use a professional email address
- Include your LinkedIn URL
- Don't include a photo (US/UK/Canada)
- Don't include date of birth
- Don't include marital status
- Don't include religion
- Use a single column layout
- Use standard fonts
- Black text on white background
- 1-inch margins
- 1-2 pages maximum
- No tables, graphics, or text boxes
- Use action verbs
- Start bullet points with strong verbs
- Be specific about your skills
- Show, don't tell
- "Team player" means nothing without evidence
🚀
My Personal Action Plan
Three things I will do to improve my CV:
Three things I will do to improve my cover letter:
Three things I will do to improve my professional emails:
My LinkedIn improvement plan:
My job search goals:
📒
Notes & Feedback
Session Notes
Session Feedback
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