Dear Aunty,
I have been self-employed and at the same time studying through distance learning. I have decided to look for a job, so my question is when writing my CV do I include the fact that I had my own business or will it get in the way of me being considered for the job?
Aunty says,
Firstly, let me congratulate you on your work ethic and commitment to education. Combining self-employment and study is a big achievement and demonstrates the strength of your character. It also shows that you must have excellent organisation and time-management skills. Also, I am sure that you will have developed many other transferable skills during this time that will be of interest to employers.
My advice is not to hide this information from employers but to highlight it as part of your CV. Show the experience and skills you have gained and demonstrate your work ethic and commitment to education.
I suspect that you feel that your business was not a success but this does not mean that you will not have acquired vital experience and skills. Employers value experience and education and want employees with character who are prepared to work hard. From what you have told me this is the type of person you are.
All experience is good experience so try and think about the experience you have developed and how it could be used in the future. You may also want to check out these article from Go Zambia Jobs as they contain information that could be of use to you:
- How your transferable skills could help you find a job
- No experience – no job?
- You’re AMAZING! Now prove it to the employer…
I hope that this information will of use to you and hope that others in Zambia will read your letter and follow your example.
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