In a world where job hunting is often as demanding as the job itself, your CV acts as the passport to your dream career. It's a finely curated document that narrates your professional story.

But one question remains a topic of hot debate amongst job seekers and HR professionals alike: should you use the first person in your CV?

To address this, we'll dive deep into the intricacies of CV writing, and also introduce you to a revolutionary tool in the job hunting arena - the CV Wallet App. The world's first career management app, CV Wallet is packed with smart tools that make it faster and easier to secure your dream job.

To Use or Not to Use: The First-Person Debate in CV Writing

The first person versus third person conundrum in CV writing is one that has persisted over the years. Traditionalists argue that using the first person (using 'I' or 'my') may come off as unprofessional or informal, while proponents of the first person assert that it lends a sense of authenticity and personality to the CV.

Both perspectives hold validity. So, should you or should you not use the first person in your CV? To answer this, we need to evaluate the pros and cons of each approach.

Why Some Experts Recommend Against First-Person in CVs

There are several reasons why some experts advise against the use of first person in CVs. The most commonly cited reason is that CVs are formal documents, and using third person maintains a formal tone.

First person pronouns may make your CV read like a narrative, which some employers might find unprofessional. There is also the argument of redundancy.

Since the CV is about you, the recruiter knows that the achievements and experiences listed are yours, making the use of 'I' or 'my' superfluous.

Furthermore, some believe that using third person can make your statements sound more objective and less biassed.

Making a Case for First-Person CVs

On the other side of the argument, the use of first person can make a CV feel more personal and human. It creates a stronger connection between the candidate and the reader, making your CV stand out amidst a pile of third-person CVs.

It allows for a direct and clear communication style, removing any ambiguity. When used sparingly and appropriately, first-person pronouns can add clarity and prevent awkward sentence constructions that sometimes arise from avoiding them.

For instance, instead of writing 'Led a team that achieved 10% sales growth', you might say 'I led a team that achieved 10% sales growth'. The latter can sound more direct and impactful.

Conclusion

The decision to use first person in your CV is not a one-size-fits-all approach. It should be driven by factors such as industry norms, company culture, and the nature of the role.

While some may argue against the use of first person, others see it as a way to add a personal touch and make an impact. Regardless of your choice, the most critical aspect of your CV is its content.

And this is where the CV Wallet app comes in, with its automated CV creation and tracking features, along with a suite of career management tools, to help you create a standout CV and navigate your job hunt with ease. So, why not give CV Wallet a try? It's always free, always global, and designed with your career success in mind.