Whatever job you are in and whatever job you want, you need to be able to describe your USP – unique selling point. USP is different to strengths. It's more like a package of skills and qualities that are uniquely yours.

‘I am a fast learner, which is a skill I developed when I was thrown in at the deep end in my first job.’ (Elaborate here about your first job). ‘My instinct used to be to take over and run things, but I am learning to stand back and take a more passive role with certain projects.’

‘About a year ago, I identified that my time management skills weren't as good as they needed to be, so I have been working on them. I have been learning how to prioritise and organise my workload better. I am confident I can now work a lot more efficiently than before.’

Many people make themselves sound perfect, almost possessing superhuman powers in personal statements. But in my experience, if you can appear human, and show that you have put some real thought into what you are best at, then your personal statement will be more convincing.

Don't just say you're a good team player; show that you know what that means.

For example, say: ‘I am used to working in a team. The reason I like working in this way is because, especially when it's a good team, I can learn a lot from the other team members and it allows me to stretch myself in different ways. Good teamwork is about accepting responsibility for your role and doing it to the best of your ability.’