What to Include in the Job Role Section of Your CV
When constructing the initial part of a job/role section within your CV or resume, focusing on three critical elements can make a significant impact: explaining why you were hired, detailing who the company is, and drawing comparisons between your previous role and the one you’re applying for.
Here’s how to effectively incorporate these elements:
1. Explain Why You Were Hired
Objective: Provide context on the reasons behind your hiring, the problems you were brought in to solve, and the targets you were tasked with achieving.
Example: Hired to streamline the company’s supply chain operations, which were plagued by inefficiencies and high costs. My role was to implement cost-saving strategies and improve overall logistics performance.
By clearly stating why you were hired, you highlight your suitability for the role and set the stage for showcasing your achievements.
2. Detail Who the Company Is
Objective: Introduce the company to the reader, especially if it’s not a well-known entity. Provide a brief overview of the company’s industry, size, and market position.
Example: XYZ Ltd, a mid-sized technology firm specialising in innovative software solutions for the finance sector. At the time of my employment, XYZ Ltd was expanding its market reach and developing new product lines.
This gives the reader a clearer understanding of the context in which you operated, making your accomplishments more meaningful.
3. Draw Comparisons to the New Role
Objective: Show how your previous experience and the challenges you faced are relevant to the position you are applying for. Highlight similarities in responsibilities, industry challenges, or required skills.
Example: My role at XYZ Ltd involved leading a team to develop cutting-edge software solutions, a responsibility that aligns closely with the project management and innovative development skills required for this new role at ABC Corp.
By drawing these parallels, you demonstrate that you have relevant experience and are well-prepared to handle similar challenges in the new role.
Bringing It All Together
When combined, these elements create a compelling narrative that provides clarity and context. Here’s a consolidated example:
Supply Chain Manager | XYZ Ltd
Hired to streamline the company’s supply chain operations, which were plagued by inefficiencies and high costs. My role was to implement cost-saving strategies and improve overall logistics performance.
XYZ Ltd, a mid-sized technology firm specialising in innovative software solutions for the finance sector. At the time of my employment, XYZ Ltd was expanding its market reach and developing new product lines.
My role at XYZ Ltd involved leading a team to develop cutting-edge software solutions, a responsibility that aligns closely with the project management and innovative development skills required for this new role at ABC Corp.
By focusing on why you were hired, who the company is, and drawing relevant comparisons, you create a powerful introduction that sets the stage for showcasing your achievements and suitability for the new role. This structured approach ensures that your CV or resume stands out to potential employers, clearly demonstrating your value and readiness for the next step in your career.
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💡 The CV 140 Framework
Modern recruiting is a machine. To navigate it successfully, you need more than just a document—you need a strategy. I’ve broken down the four essential pillars of a winning executive profile over on my dedicated site, CV140.
The Mechanics Format, layout, and filing protocols.
The Narrative Converting career history into a value story.
The Algorithms Keyword density and machine ranking.
The Strategy Timing, tailoring, and recruiter psychology.
Job Role Section FAQs – First Impressions That Land Interviews
When reviewing CVs through the CV Rescue service, I often get asked how to write the first few lines of a job entry. Should you jump straight into achievements? Do you explain why you were hired? Here’s what I usually recommend—and what recruiters expect to see.
What should go in the first paragraph of a job description on my CV?
Begin with why you were hired and what problem you were brought in to solve. This adds relevance and sets the scene for your achievements. It also helps recruiters understand your starting point.
Do I need to explain what the company does?
Yes—especially if it’s not a household name. A one-line overview gives context and shows that you understand the business and its place in the market.
How do I show that my past experience is relevant to the job I’m applying for?
Draw direct comparisons. Highlight similar challenges, skills, or goals. I often advise candidates to use a sentence that bridges their previous role with the requirements of the new one.
Can I use the same opening format for every job on my CV?
You can follow the same structure—why hired, who the company is, role relevance—but tailor the language and focus to each specific job. Repetition without nuance can come across as lazy.
Is it okay to copy the company’s ‘About’ text from their website?
Not quite. It’s better to summarise in your own words. This shows understanding and avoids stuffing your CV with marketing jargon. Keep it short, factual, and role-relevant.