What Is a Personal Statement?

A personal statement (also called a professional summary or profile) sits at the top of your CV, directly below your contact details. It's a brief paragraph – typically 3-5 sentences – that summarises who you are and what you bring to a role.

Think of it as your elevator pitch. In about 50-100 words, you need to grab the recruiter's attention and make them want to read on.

Why It Matters

Recruiters often spend just 7 seconds scanning a CV before deciding whether to read further. Your personal statement is your chance to make those seconds count.

A strong personal statement:

• Immediately communicates your value
• Highlights relevant experience
• Shows your passion for care
• Tailors you to the specific role

The Formula That Works

A great care worker personal statement follows this structure:

1. Who you are – Your role/experience level
2. What you offer – Key skills and strengths
3. What you want – The type of role you're seeking
4. Why them – What attracts you to this opportunity

Example Personal Statements

Entry-Level (No Care Experience)

"Compassionate and motivated individual seeking to begin a rewarding career in home care. Drawing on 5 years of customer service experience and personal experience caring for my grandmother with dementia, I bring strong communication skills, patience, and a genuine desire to make a difference in people's lives. I am eager to complete Care Certificate training and develop my skills with a reputable care provider."

Experienced Care Worker

"Dedicated and reliable Care Worker with 4 years' experience supporting elderly clients with complex needs in domiciliary settings. NVQ Level 3 qualified with specialist training in dementia care and medication administration. Known for building excellent rapport with clients and families, and consistently receiving positive feedback. Seeking a senior position with an Outstanding-rated provider where I can continue to develop while mentoring newer team members."

Career Changer

"Former teaching assistant transitioning into home care, bringing 8 years' experience supporting vulnerable individuals in educational settings. Trained in safeguarding, first aid, and communication with non-verbal learners. My calm, patient approach and genuine passion for helping others make me well-suited to a care role. Looking for an employer who values transferable skills and provides comprehensive training."

Live-In Carer

"Experienced live-in carer with 3 years supporting individuals with Parkinson's disease and mobility limitations. Registered with professional live-in care platforms and comfortable providing 24-hour support with discretion and professionalism. Flexible, resourceful, and skilled at creating a calm, homely environment. Seeking a long-term placement with a client who values companionship alongside physical support."

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Being Too Generic

❌ "I am a hard worker looking for a job in care."

✅ "Committed care professional with 3 years' experience in dementia care, seeking to join an Outstanding-rated provider."

Focusing on What You Want (Not What You Offer)

❌ "I want a job with good pay and flexible hours."

✅ "Flexible and reliable care worker available for varied shift patterns, bringing consistent quality and positive client feedback."

Making Unsupported Claims

❌ "I am the best carer you'll ever hire."

✅ "Award-nominated care worker with client satisfaction ratings exceeding 95%."

Copying and Pasting for Every Job

Each statement should be slightly tailored to the specific role and company.

Tailoring Your Statement

When applying, adjust your personal statement to reflect:

• Keywords from the job description
• The company's values (check their website)
• Specific skills they've requested
• The type of care they provide

For example, if a job emphasises "person-centred care," make sure those words appear in your statement.

Top Tips

1. Keep it concise – 50-100 words maximum
2. Write in third person or first person – Either works, just be consistent
3. Avoid clichés – "team player," "people person" (show, don't tell)
4. Include measurables – Years of experience, number of clients, qualifications
5. Show passion – Let your genuine interest shine through
6. Proofread – Spelling or grammar errors here are particularly damaging

Ready to Write Yours?

Take 20 minutes now to craft your personal statement. Read it aloud – does it sound like you? Would it make a recruiter want to know more?

Once you're happy, upload your CV to Hello Carer and start connecting with employers who are looking for someone exactly like you.