I remember the first CV I sent out when I arrived in the UK.
Freshly printed, neatly formatted, and filled with hope, I had worked on it late into the night, adjusting bullet points, adding experiences, and even choosing the right font. I was convinced it would open doors.
But instead, it felt like I had tossed it into the wind.
No replies. No callbacks. Just silence.
At first, I thought maybe my experience wasn’t good enough. Or that employers weren’t hiring. But then I began to notice a pattern — many international students, creatives like me, and even people with degrees were struggling to land roles. And not just high-end corporate roles. Even basic admin and customer service jobs were getting hundreds of applicants.
I asked myself a tough question: “What am I missing?”
That question led me on a path that changed everything.
The Day a Recruiter Told Me the Truth
It was a casual Zoom call. I had connected with a recruiter on LinkedIn and sent him my CV.
He glanced at it for about 10 seconds, then said:
“Your experience looks fine. But I don’t see evidence of practical skills — things like communication, time management, even a basic understanding of UK project culture. That’s what makes someone interview-ready.”
I blinked. What?
But I had experience. I had done projects, led teams, created content, and even worked remotely. Didn’t that count?
Apparently not — at least not the way UK employers wanted it.
I Discovered the ‘Skill Gap’ Most Job Seekers Overlook
I started researching what recruiters really looked for, especially in admin, customer service, and junior creative roles.
Turns out, they want proof of soft skills:
Communication
Teamwork
Time management
Decision-making
Problem-solving
Adaptability
Skills that don’t always show up in a degree or even on the job — but can be learned, demonstrated, and certified.
That’s when I stumbled on Alison
How Alison Helped Me Rebuild My Confidence and My CV
Alison is an online platform offering free certified courses — yes, completely free.
And I didn’t need to download a fancy app or enter my card details. Just my email and I was in.
I started small. The first course I took was: Diploma in Communication Skills
It was clear, relatable, and by the end, I got a certificate that I proudly added to my CV and LinkedIn.
Then I tried this:
Diploma in Modern Project Management
It gave me insight into how British companies handle tasks, teams, and projects — something no university taught me.
Next was:
Creative Problem Solving & Decision Making
I started recognizing my own habits and improving the way I presented solutions during interviews.
And finally, this life-saver:
Time Management Mastery
I wasn’t just learning to land a job. I was learning how to keep it — and excel in it.
I Got More Than Certificates — I Got My Confidence Back
After updating my CV with these certifications, something shifted.
Recruiters started noticing me.
My LinkedIn profile began attracting profile views.
I was no longer the person begging for “just a chance.” I had proof that I was growing, learning, and adapting to the professional world here.
And I wasn’t alone.
I started recommending Alison to friends — creatives, mums returning to work, students finishing school, and even professionals looking to switch careers. The feedback was always the same:
“I didn’t know I could learn all this for free.”
And Now I Help Others Do the Same
Today, I offer affordable CV writing and review services, especially for Nigerians, international students, and creatives in the UK who just need someone to help them present themselves the right way.
But I always say: no matter how beautiful your CV looks, it still needs substance.
That’s why I now partner with Alison — not just to share their free courses but to show others how to build a CV that speaks confidently.
And if you’ve read this far, I want you to know:
You’re not behind. You’re not unqualified. You’re just one or two skills away from standing out.
My Top 5 Alison Courses to Boost Your CV Today
1. Diploma in Communication Skills
2. Diploma in Project Management
3. Creative Problem Solving & Decision Making
5. Group Communication, Teamwork and Leadership
Each one is free. Each one comes with a certificate. Each one makes your CV stronger.
Ready to Transform Your CV?
Click any of the links above and start learning today.
And if you want me to help you revamp your CV, structure it for UK jobs, or even advise you on what course to take first — just reach out.
adanneudejiofor@gmail.com
WhatsApp: 07717069491
www.ardarrhinspiring.com
Let’s rebuild your confidence, together.
