Parts one and two covered content, tailoring, safety and presentation. Part three is about the details that finish the job. The qualifications worth listing, how to show career progression, how to explain employment gaps, and the ten minutes of proofreading that protects everything else.
Qualifications matter
Don't assume employers know what qualifications you hold. Include relevant certificates such as:
- Forklift licences
- CPCS or NPORS
- Banksman/Slinger
- IOSH or NEBOSH
- First Aid
- Confined Space
- Working at Height
- Driving licences
- Apprenticeships
- Trade qualifications
Even if they're not essential, they may set you apart.
Show career progression
Employers like to see people who continue to develop throughout their careers.
Have you trained new starters? Acted as a supervisor? Covered management duties? Mentored colleagues? Led improvement projects?
These experiences demonstrate initiative, leadership potential and a desire to improve.
Explain employment gaps honestly
Career breaks happen.
Whether you've been studying, travelling, raising a family, caring for someone or changing careers, be honest. A short explanation provides context and is far better than leaving employers to make assumptions.
Proofread before you press send
You'd be surprised how many applications contain incorrect company names, wrong job titles, spelling mistakes, missing contact details, or inconsistent formatting.
Take 10 minutes to review your CV before submitting it. Even better, ask a trusted friend or colleague to review it with fresh eyes, because small mistakes can undermine an otherwise excellent application.
Remember, your CV starts the conversation
Your CV doesn't need to tell your entire story, its purpose is to secure an interview.
At Portico Port Services, we're interested in people with the right attitude just as much as the right experience. Skills can be taught, but professionalism, reliability, integrity, teamwork and a commitment to safety are qualities that leave a lasting impression.
If you're passionate about building a career in one of the UK's most dynamic industries, invest the time to create a CV that reflects your skills, achievements and potential.
We look forward to discovering the person behind the application.
Whether you're starting your first role in the industry or looking to advance your career, we'd love to hear from you.
Visit the Portico Port Services Jobs page to explore our latest opportunities and discover how you could become part of a growing team supporting ports across the UK.
