Career & CV Counselling

USI CV Model

• If you do not have a CV yet or want a more effective format, use the USI CV model: you may always update and download it in order to send it to the employer.

Guidelines for an effective CV
Here you can find some suggestions for writing an effective CV.
 

CV Guidelines

• USI Career Service - CV Guidelines
• Guidelines from other Swiss universities: ETH, University of Bern, University of Zurich
• Useful Links

AI for the Application Portfolio

• How to use artificial intelligence to create your dossier

• CV
  • Kickeresume: an intuitive AI tool that helps you build resumes, cover letters, and personal websites with customizable templates and personalized writing suggestions.

• Motivation Letter
  • Grammarly Cover Letter Generator: grammarly's AI tool assists you in writing professional, error-free cover letters by providing real-time feedback on tone, grammar, and clarity.
     
• Job interview
  • Adzuna Prepper: this tool analyzes job listings and helps you prepare for interviews by generating relevant practice questions and identifying key skills required for the role.
  • Pramp: a peer-to-peer platform that focuses on technical interview preparation, offering real-time practice for coding and behavioral questions.
  • Big Interview: an interview preparation platform combining instructional videos with interactive mock interview sessions to improve your skills.

• Video CV
  • Creating an effective video CV
  • How to "study" the company to arrive at the job interview well-prepared
     

Professional CV Photo

Here are some guidelines for taking a professional CV photo:

1. Appearance

• Dress Professionally: Wear business attire appropriate for your field. Avoid overly casual clothing or flashy patterns. Neutral colors work best.

2. Pose and Expression

• Posture: Sit or stand straight with your shoulders relaxed. Avoid slouching.
• Facial Expression: A natural, friendly smile is ideal. Avoid overly serious or exaggerated expressions.
• Eye Contact: Look directly at the camera to convey confidence and approachability.

3. Background and Lighting

• Background: Use a plain, neutral background (white, light gray, or beige). Avoid clutter or distractions in the frame.
• Lighting: Use even, natural light to avoid harsh shadows. Avoid backlighting that makes your face look dark. Soft, diffused lighting is best.

4. Camera and Framing

• Camera Angle: Position the camera at eye level for a natural perspective.
• Framing: Capture from the shoulders up. Ensure there’s some space around your head but avoid excessive empty space.
• Resolution: Use a high-quality camera or smartphone to ensure a sharp, clear image.

5. General Tips

• Avoid Filters: Keep the photo natural without applying heavy filters or effects.
• No Props: The focus should be on you; avoid holding items or using props.
• Consistent Style: If part of a team or organization, ensure the photo style matches others’ photos (e.g., similar backgrounds or attire).

Book an individual counselling session by accessing USI CareerGate and selecting "Request Career & CV Counselling."

A team of specialised counsellors for entering the job market is available for online or in-person individual counselling sessions:

Before booking a counselling session, please consult the “Guidelines for a Standout CV” section above.

The CV Counselling by Industry Experts are one-to-one meetings, lasting 20-minutes, with professionals from different fields, to get a review and advise on Curriculum Vitae.

Appointments for the Autumn Semester 2025/2026:

• 9 October 2025 - Focus Informatics/tech 
• 30 October 2025 - Focus Finance/Economics and Management Consulting
• 17 November 2025 - Focus Communication/Media, Culture and Tourism
• 11 December 2025 - Focus Luxury/Fashion and Health/Pharma

Registration and full program

Series of workshops designed to help students acquire valuable skills and transversal competencies that will aid them in launching their professional careers with professionals.

Topics:

• Create a Standout CV
• Write a Winning Cover Letter
• Ace your Interviews
• Optimize your LinkedIn Profile
• Strategize your Job Search
• Get your foot into the door
• Transform Rejection into Resilience

Registration and full program

Alumni in Finance Career Mentoring

• The Career & Alumni Service and the USI Master in Finance, in collaboration with the USI Finance Career Board offer a Professional Mentoring Programme for Master in Finance students.

More information and registration here.

BPW - USI Professional Mentoring for Women

• BPW (Business Professional Women) in collaboration with the USI Equal Opportunities Service offer a Professional Mentoring Programme for female Master and PhD students.

More information here.