logo
At 62, I was mortified that I couldn't get a job – here's how I wrote the perfect CV

At 62, I was mortified that I couldn't get a job – here's how I wrote the perfect CV

Telegraph17-03-2025

Shamefully I haven't needed a proper CV for over a decade. As a freelance writer/editor, most of my jobs have been word-of-mouth recommendations. I'd go into an office for a week and end up staying two years.
But when a seven-year, part-time contract ended, I realised I needed another income stream alongside journalism. At 62, I might not land another Big Job, especially as there are currently 1.5 million people looking for work. But I envisioned covering a maternity leave or two, copywriting, writing press releases for a charity.
I wrote a CV. Agonised about my references. A friend who runs a music recruitment agency kindly looked it over. 'Liz there's too much 'I, I, I' here,' she told me bluntly.
Whoops, lifestyle journalism is very much about first-person experience. But she encouraged me to align my past career more towards the employer's selection criteria. 'They want it to be more about them, not you.'
Excellent advice. Except none of my applications went anywhere. The silence was deafening. With over 25 years' experience on national newspapers and magazines, I was mortified.
It's all about key words like 'growth' and 'insight'
Then one day, I was talking to the brilliant PR Emma Cantrill, 55, founder of Intelligent Profile, a fellow middle-aged woman, who explained she had recently paid a tech guru to optimise her CV and LinkedIn profile through using key words and phrases.
It turns out if you don't reflect all the key words mentioned in a job advert (things like 'value', 'growth', 'insight', 'engagement'), you will fall at the first hurdle.
Her guru was so successful at rewriting her profile, that she has since won lots of new accounts. 'Women our age are not good at blowing our own trumpet. But he helped me to remember all the amazing things I've done in my career.'
Impressed by his skills, she asked him to help her 23-year-old musician son, Jack, with his CV and LinkedIn profile. 'Because of lockdown, he'd had very little careers advice at university. After graduating he ended up doing two years of bar work and delivery jobs. So I invested in a 'first job' CV package for him.'
The CV Whisperer showed Jack how to bring his portfolio together, using key words. 'Reading it made me cry,' Cantrill admits today. 'I thought: 'Oh my God, my son is a genius!''
It worked — Jack was approached by a big educational agency on LinkedIn and has just landed a job as a music teacher. Part of a CV Whisperer's skill is rebuilding confidence. But most importantly, Cantrill told me: 'Optimising your CV helps you to get through the AI robots.'
Humans don't see your CV
What she told me rocked my world. Literally. It turns out that when you apply for a job these days, very few humans ever see your CV. Bombarded by thousands of applications, employers are increasingly using Applicant Tracking Software (ATS) to help their HR team manage the recruitment process.
The ATS system will probably be based on AI (Artificial Intelligence) or a different, but related technology. Nearly every company now uses it to pre-select candidates.
The AI software 'reads' CVs, cover letters, online assessments, and looks for key words, topics or qualifications related to the job description. If your CV doesn't include enough of them, an employer might never see it.
For example, if a company wants an 'administrative assistant,' their ATS will search for that term. CVs that don't contain that exact job title in the headline won't be found. Or if you failed Maths or English O Level back in the day, even though you now have an MSc in careers guidance, ATS may filter you out.
It's so easy to fall at the first hurdle. Especially if, like me, you accidentally send out your CV in a file format (or font) that can't be read by ATS.
When I ask Elle Bradshaw, the founder of Oxford CV Writer, to take a look at my CV, she immediately spots it is formatted as a zip file, which would have sabotaged me immediately. 'The file may not have been delivered, because it may have been caught up in the ATS (i.e. filtered out). If it had been received, then the person tasked with reviewing it might not have had the time or the skillset to unzip files.'
I've no idea how I ended up with a weird zip file. But I should have checked. The experts advise you to send your CV formatted as a plain Word document.
I'm not the only one making rookie mistakes. The whole world of applying for a job has become totally baffling, whether you're 55 or 25. My friends' children are used to firing off endless applications and never receiving a reply. On LinkedIn you read heartbreaking accounts of talented graduates who have never had an interview.
Liz's initial CV
It's worth consulting a CV expert
So how can we compete? How do we write a CV that clears that first AI screening hurdle? Through gentle persuasion (basically begging), I manage to secure a session with Cantrill's CV Whisperer.
He finds my CV neat, business-like, but dated. 'There is no introductory statement to tell the reader about you as an individual, what you do, and what makes you stand out from another candidate. This is usually done with an inspiring personal profile, and supported by illustrative personal achievements throughout the document. Anything that adds colour is useful.'
I also lack an 'elevator pitch' – a structured skills summary that highlights my key skills and works with the software. 'A fundamental requirement in any CV – particularly in today's automated and highly competitive environment.'
As for my long list of previous jobs, he tells me to keep it brief. 'Concentrate on the last 10-15 years. Anything before that is largely irrelevant.' But I should be singing from the rooftops about specific achievements. 'These are of great interest to recruiters. They want to know what you have accomplished, what are you known for, and the value you bring to your employers.'
Ageism is a thing, he agrees. 'We can take out dates so people can't see what your age is.' But then again, if a recruiter spots gaps, it rings warning bells.
On his scoring system, my over-long CV only gets 47 per cent. Deeply embarrassing. 'It would be better as a two-page document. And most importantly the CV is not AI-friendly – it doesn't contain the right keywords to interact effectively with the new recruiting software.'
On the bright side, there aren't any spelling or grammar mistakes (phew). It reminds me of school when I used to get 2/10 for Physics - one mark for a straight margin and one for the correct date!
Luckily the CV Whisperer knows how to redraft my CV. First he asks me for a list of my strengths and attributes (like most midlife women I find this agonising) and examples of the type of job I might apply for.
Then we do a 30-minute interview where he asks courteous but probing questions. How did my career first start? What do I want to do more of? 'Focus on anything spectacular you've done that has lasting relevance.'
It's a bit like a therapy session. And 10 days later my new CV pings across. It looks amazing. Is this really me? He's presented me as an accomplished media professional who can interview everyone from Hollywood stars to heart surgeons. My skills and achievements take centre stage (and my boring old O and A levels have been chopped).
I blush as I read his glowing take on a career that has sometimes felt slightly adrift. Everyone needs a CV Whisperer to big them up, I now see.
Liz's new-and-improved CV
Sadly my tech guru is booked up for the next five years, but his tips (below) are invaluable. And there are lots of other professional CV writing companies out there who can help.
It costs around £120-£200 to pay a tech whizz to polish your CV (plus an extra £200 if you also want help rewriting your covering letter). Of course if you're between jobs, every penny counts. But Cantrill thinks it's a vital investment in our future. Plus most CV writers offer a free taster session (a 15-minute chat; or a short analysis of your current CV).
When I have the funds I'll ask a tech whizz to optimise my LinkedIn profile, too (around £250). Lazily I probably update it once a year, but it's a vital marketing tool, Cantrill tells me. And those key words are essential. 'These days if I try to link-in with somebody senior or high-profile, more often than not, they will connect with me. So I know it's working.'
It's clearly the future. Earlier this month a news story revealed half of those searching for jobs are now using ChatGPT to write cover letters, improve their CV, formulate interview answers. Employers may complain it erodes individualism. But that's what we're up against.
Though I'm heartened, Elle Bradshaw still believes in a CV written by a human. 'Robot-led CV writing makes you sound generic, keyword-stuffed, foreign or misaligned to the job description. I can spot it a mile off, and so can most HR people. It's the same wording, line spacing, punctuation and it's cliche-ridden. So ironically you might then be rejected for not being a real person!'
It's far better to try to craft an authentic voice that works in an AI landscape, the CV Whisperer tells me. 'There's no getting away from it. We can either do battle with it, or we can choose to work with it.

Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

Howard Schultz says he 'did a cartwheel' when Starbucks CEO Niccol coined 'back to Starbucks' strategy
Howard Schultz says he 'did a cartwheel' when Starbucks CEO Niccol coined 'back to Starbucks' strategy

NBC News

time2 hours ago

  • NBC News

Howard Schultz says he 'did a cartwheel' when Starbucks CEO Niccol coined 'back to Starbucks' strategy

LAS VEGAS, NEV. — Former Starbucks CEO Howard Schultz said Wednesday that he 'did a cartwheel' in his living room when current chief executive Brian Niccol first coined his 'back to Starbucks' strategy. The enthusiasm from the 71-year-old Starbucks chairman emeritus is a key stamp of approval for Niccol as he tries to lift the company's slumping sales and restore the chain's culture. Schultz, who grew Starbucks from a small chain into a global coffee giant, made a surprise appearance at the company's Leadership Experience in Las Vegas and cosigned Niccol's plans. The three-day event has gathered more than 14,000 North American store leaders to hear from Starbucks management as the company embarks on a turnaround. Niccol took the reins in September, joining the company after the board ousted Laxman Narasimhan, Schultz's handpicked successor. Schultz had returned in 2022 for his third stint as chief executive, but it was only an interim role. He previously told CNBC that he has no plans to come back again. Schultz no longer holds a formal role within the company, although CNBC has previously reported that he's forever entitled to attend board meetings unless barred by the company's directors. During Niccol's first week on the job, he outlined plans for the comeback in an open letter, making the commitment to get 'back to Starbucks.' More details on how the chain planned to return to its roots followed in the ensuing months, from bringing back seating inside cafes to writing personalized messages on cups. Under Niccol's leadership, the company's marketing has shifted to focus on its coffee, rather than discounts and promotions. When Starbucks announced Narasimhan's firing and Niccol's hiring, Schultz issued a statement of support, saying that the then-Chipotle CEO was the leader that the company needs. However, the Leadership Experience marks the first time that Niccol and Schultz have appeared publicly together. During Narasimhan's short tenure as CEO, Schultz did not mince words when the company's performance fell short of his expectations. After a dismal quarterly earnings report, he weighed in publicly on LinkedIn, saying the company needs to improve its mobile order and pay experience and overhaul how it creates new drinks to focus on premium items that set it apart. But Schultz said Starbucks' problems went further than just operational issues and lackluster beverages and food. 'The culture was not understood. The culture wasn't valued. The culture wasn't being upheld,' he said on Wednesday.

Maximizing results as an AI lead generating manager
Maximizing results as an AI lead generating manager

Edinburgh Reporter

time10 hours ago

  • Edinburgh Reporter

Maximizing results as an AI lead generating manager

In today's digital-first economy, the pressure to generate leads, convert prospects, and scale pipeline growth is higher than ever. Traditional lead generation methods—cold calls, static email lists, manual CRM updates—are becoming inefficient. Enter the AI lead generating manager, a new breed of professional using artificial intelligence to automate, optimize, and personalize the entire lead generation process. AI is not just an assistant—it's becoming the engine behind high-performing sales and marketing teams. This article explores how the role of the lead generation manager is evolving thanks to AI, which tools are essential, and how to use them to drive consistent, scalable growth. The evolution of lead generation with AI For decades, lead generation was largely manual. Sales reps and marketers relied on spreadsheets, bulk email campaigns, and trial-and-error targeting. With the rise of AI, the game has changed. AI systems can now analyze vast datasets, predict lead quality, personalize outreach, and even engage with leads automatically. An AI lead generating manager leverages these capabilities to identify ideal prospects, automate touchpoints, and nurture relationships at scale. The result is not just more leads—but better leads, faster conversions, and less wasted time. Why AI is a game-changer in lead generation predictive lead scoring: AI can evaluate historical customer data to predict which leads are most likely to convert. AI can evaluate historical customer data to predict which leads are most likely to convert. automated outreach: AI tools can send personalized emails or messages on LinkedIn based on lead behavior, job role, and other data points. AI tools can send personalized emails or messages on LinkedIn based on lead behavior, job role, and other data points. real-time data enrichment: AI can continuously pull updated data about companies and contacts from multiple sources, improving targeting accuracy. AI can continuously pull updated data about companies and contacts from multiple sources, improving targeting accuracy. workflow automation: Lead follow-ups, meeting scheduling, and CRM updates can be fully automated, freeing human reps to focus on strategy and high-touch conversations. Lead follow-ups, meeting scheduling, and CRM updates can be fully automated, freeing human reps to focus on strategy and high-touch conversations. multichannel optimization: AI tracks performance across email, social media, ads, and other channels to determine which ones are generating the most engagement and ROI. Image by Gerd Altmann from Pixabay 1. Apollo and ZoomInfo These platforms use AI to source accurate lead data and provide real-time enrichment. They help identify decision-makers, company intent signals, and contact details for outreach. 2. ChatGPT and Jasper AI writing tools like ChatGPT allow lead managers to generate tailored outreach messages, subject lines, value propositions, and follow-up scripts in seconds. 3. HubSpot and Salesforce with AI add-ons Popular CRMs now integrate AI features like deal prediction, next-step recommendations, and automated task generation to streamline lead management. 4. Lavender and Regie These tools use AI to analyze email quality and suggest real-time improvements. They help craft messages that are more likely to get opened, read, and replied to. 5. Clay and PhantomBuster Advanced automation platforms like Clay allow AI lead generating managers to build custom workflows for scraping, enriching, and engaging with leads across platforms like LinkedIn, Twitter, and email. Key responsibilities of an AI lead generating manager As AI becomes more embedded in lead generation, the role of the lead manager is shifting from execution to orchestration. Here's what the modern AI lead generating manager focuses on: tool integration: selecting and connecting the right mix of AI tools for sourcing, outreach, and analysis. selecting and connecting the right mix of AI tools for sourcing, outreach, and analysis. data management: ensuring lead databases are clean, enriched, and segmented for maximum effectiveness. ensuring lead databases are clean, enriched, and segmented for maximum effectiveness. message personalization: using AI to tailor communication while maintaining brand voice and tone. using AI to tailor communication while maintaining brand voice and tone. pipeline optimization: constantly reviewing performance data to refine campaigns and improve conversion rates. constantly reviewing performance data to refine campaigns and improve conversion rates. collaboration: working with marketing, sales, and operations to align AI workflows with broader company goals. Best practices for AI-powered lead generation start with ideal customer profiles (ICPs): AI works best with clear parameters. Define who your best-fit customers are, and train your tools accordingly. AI works best with clear parameters. Define who your best-fit customers are, and train your tools accordingly. use AI for scale, not for shortcuts: Automated messages still need to feel human. Personalization matters more than ever. Automated messages still need to feel human. Personalization matters more than ever. test, learn, and optimize: Use AI to run A/B tests, analyze results, and iterate quickly based on performance data. Use AI to run A/B tests, analyze results, and iterate quickly based on performance data. combine channels smartly: Use AI to synchronize touchpoints across email, LinkedIn, paid ads, and even SMS for maximum impact. Use AI to synchronize touchpoints across email, LinkedIn, paid ads, and even SMS for maximum impact. stay ethical and compliant: Ensure your AI workflows respect privacy regulations like GDPR and do not cross the line into spam or manipulation. Common mistakes to avoid Even with powerful AI tools, there are pitfalls. Smart AI lead generating managers are aware of these and avoid them: ignoring data hygiene: AI is only as good as the data it uses. Outdated or incorrect lead data leads to poor results. AI is only as good as the data it uses. Outdated or incorrect lead data leads to poor results. over-automation: Too much automation can create robotic experiences and damage brand reputation. Too much automation can create robotic experiences and damage brand reputation. not aligning with sales teams: AI should empower sales, not replace or sideline them. Constant collaboration is key. AI should empower sales, not replace or sideline them. Constant collaboration is key. neglecting human review: Always monitor AI-generated content and decisions for tone, accuracy, and appropriateness. Real-world examples and success stories One SaaS startup used a combination of Apollo, ChatGPT, and HubSpot to build a fully AI-powered outbound engine. By identifying high-intent leads and crafting custom sequences, they doubled their conversion rate in 3 months without hiring new SDRs. Another B2B marketing agency created a 'virtual SDR' using AI agents connected through Zapier and Clay. This system researched leads, drafted messages, and booked discovery calls autonomously, saving 20+ hours per week. These are just two examples of how the AI lead generating manager can radically improve results when the right tools and strategy are in place. The future of AI in lead generation Looking forward, AI will become even more predictive, autonomous, and conversational. We'll see virtual lead reps capable of managing entire segments of the funnel—from discovery to qualification to scheduling. Tools will become more integrated, using natural language to interface with CRMs, generate reports, and answer questions. The human manager will shift into a strategist and analyst role, guiding AI rather than micromanaging it. However, trust and personalization will remain essential. The most effective lead generation strategies will be those that use AI not to replace people, but to empower them to build better relationships—faster. Conclusion The AI lead generating manager is no longer a role of the future—it's already a necessity in today's digital sales landscape. By using AI to automate the repetitive, optimize the complex, and personalize the outreach, managers can drive significant results with fewer resources. Whether you're leading a team of SDRs or running solo as a growth marketer, embracing AI tools can help you outpace the competition, convert better leads, and focus on what matters most—building relationships and closing deals. In the end, AI is just a tool. But in the hands of a smart, ethical, and strategic lead generating manager, it becomes a game-changing advantage. Like this: Like Related

British wine tycoon found dead in his Spanish villa after car rally
British wine tycoon found dead in his Spanish villa after car rally

Metro

time11 hours ago

  • Metro

British wine tycoon found dead in his Spanish villa after car rally

Mystery is surrounding the death of a British multi-millionaire at a gated community for some of the wealthiest people in Spain. Tarik Wildman was found dead at his luxury villa in La Virginia complex in Marbella, hours after returning from a car rally he had organised in Italy. It is understood that the 65-year-old died 'peacefully' in his sleep but, at this moment, the cause is still not known. Tributes have been pouring in for Wildman, who was the managing director of PJ Investments, according to his LinkedIn page. His paternal grandfather founded the wine empire Frederick Wildman and Sons, while his British mother, the late Hon Corinna Cunliffe, was a fashion magazine editor and the daughter of a baron. The Classic and Sports Car Club of Andalucia, of which he was a member, described him as a 'legend and titan'. A memorial they posted online read: 'He had just returned from organising and running his Team Schh rally in Italy which he had done in his beautiful Lancia Flamina, a car he loved. More Trending 'He died peacefully in his sleep but, at this moment, the cause is not known. 'He had amazing friends all over the world, had competed in the Monte Carlo Classic rally and had a depth of knowledge of all things that always astonished me. 'His passion for life in general and motoring in particular was something that others could only envy. 'The world here will never see the like and will never be the same again. RIP Tarik Wildman, a legend and a titan.' Got a story? Get in touch with our news team by emailing us at webnews@ Or you can submit your videos and pictures here. For more stories like this, check our news page. Follow on Twitter and Facebook for the latest news updates. You can now also get articles sent straight to your device. Sign up for our daily push alerts here. MORE: Easyjet launches 11 new flights from major UK airport to Greece, Spain, Portugal and more MORE: 'Holy Grail' shipwreck filled with £15,000,000,000 in treasure 'found' MORE: Canary Islands hit by fourth power cut in only weeks

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into the world of global news and events? Download our app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store