Posted By John T
I would appreciate some critical advice on my current CV, in particular from those members who view CV's when recruiting new personnel.

My background is over twenty years in the Army (logistics) and I am currently finishing my resettlement phase.

I have in the last year completed the General Certificate (credit), The Fire Safety and Risk Management course (a/w results, but hopeful) and currently on the Construction Certificate (exams in under 2 weeks).

I am booked on the Environmental Diploma from March to June.

I am self funding all of my studies and would be willing to take up a position anywhere in the UK.

I would appreciate any members advice how to have a smooth transition into a new career as a health and safety professional.

Thank you

John

Posted By Bob Youel

When I left the forces you were in one moment and out the next- no training / no time to adjust - how things have changed - you lucky people

Experience counts for lots - you need to build up that side of your CV

Posted By John T
Bob,
I hear what you are saying but when you know you are going to leave a job at a particular time then you can plan for what will be hopefully a smooth transition.

With regards to the more practical aspect, I acknowledge that I am lacking in that area, but once I sit my exams for the Construction Cert next month I will be throwing my CV out into the job market as I have now left the Army.

I am willing to work in any part of the UK in order to enhance my practical knowledge base as my family are used to me been away for lengthy periods of time and are very supportive of my new career aspirations.

Ian,
I have emailed you direct thanks.

Posted By Simon Donnelly
John

I was in your position 6 months ago doing resettlement and formulating a decent CV. Mine did the trick E mail me direct with your CV and I will advise where I can.

SD

Posted By David J Jones
I left the RN in '98, first CV was ripped up for the proverbial "a***" paper it was as I had included too many military references.

Do not use words/terms/phrases/expressions you have been used to using for all your years in uniform.

For example - translate into "civvy speak" words etc such as "battalion", "Company", etc etc, give easy to understand terms, even numbers if referring to a "battalion" if that is making reference to the number of people within it.

Put yourself in the mind set and position of your interviewer and think how he/she/they will interpret what they (probably) do not understand.

Good luck in your transition into civvy street, it does happen, just keep the faith!

David

Posted By John Tidyman
I would like to thank everyone who responded to this thread with their advice and those that offered their time so freely to help someone entering this profession on the first step of the ladder.

There is an update to this story, and that is that I have secured employment with a large well known organisation as an SHE advisor.

I was hesitant in making this post as I didn't wish to be seen as bragging or the like as I see a lot of posts with people seeking employment, but I want this to give renewed hope to those people who are still trying to secure employment in this field.

There are positions out there, and on this forum you will not only receive great advice, but you may also make good friends along the way.

Good luck to everyone in achieving your goals, but now the learning really begins in earnest.


Thank you once again, not only to those individuals that helped but to IOSH for a great and informative site.

John

Posted By David J Jones
Well done John,

As you so rightly say - now the learning really begins in earnest.

All the very best in your future.

David