When applying for a job, job seekers typically send in a resume that highlights their qualifications and work experience. However, for employers who are looking for candidates who match their company’s values and mission, a statement of faith can be an additional valuable asset to include in a resume. A statement of faith is a personal summary of an individual’s religious beliefs, values and convictions, and it can demonstrate how a job seeker’s character and values align with the company’s culture.
What is a Statement of Faith?
A statement of faith is a document summarizing an individual’s religious beliefs, their values, and their convictions. It offers a glimpse into a job seeker’s character and values, and can give the employer more insight into the candidate beyond their job qualifications. Typically, a statement of faith is included within a job application or resume and can be used as a tool to express the candidate’s character and values as they relate to the job they are applying for.
Why is it important to include a Statement of Faith in your resume?
A statement of faith is important to include in your resume to demonstrate your alignment with a company’s culture and values. It can also give an employer an idea of how a potential employee might interact with coworkers and clients, as well as the level of commitment to their faith they might bring to the workplace. It’s especially important for religious organizations, mission-based nonprofits or religious schools, who are looking for candidates who will uphold and support their mission.
How can a Statement of Faith demonstrate a candidate’s character and values?
A Statement of Faith can demonstrate a candidate’s character and values by sharing their personal beliefs that are aligned with the company’s culture. For example:
- A mission-based nonprofit would be looking for someone who values social justice, generosity, empathy and a desire to help others.
- A Christian school would want an employee who has a strong belief in their faith, and values religious education and formation for students.
Some corporations also have their own set of values and beliefs related to their company culture. By sharing how your personal values align with their company culture, it can demonstrate to potential employers that you are the right fit for their workplace.
How to craft an effective Statement of Faith?
Here are a few guidelines to help job seekers craft an effective Statement of Faith:
Be Authentic and Honest
When writing your Statement of Faith, it is essential to be authentic and honest. Share what you genuinely believe in and what are your core values. Avoid copying generic phrases or cliches from other Statements of Faith. Allow the employer to learn about your genuine beliefs.
Tailor the Statement of Faith to the Job
When applying for a job, always customize your Statement of Faith to the position you’re applying for. Before writing, research the company or institution well to understand their culture, beliefs and values. Then, tailor your Statement of Faith by emphasizing your alignment with their mission.
Use a Clear and Concise Writing Style
Make sure your Statement of Faith is easy to understand and written in a clear and concise manner. Use simple language and avoid using too many technical or theological terms.
Provide Specific Examples
Where possible, provide situations, examples or stories that reflect your beliefs and values. It can help demonstrate your character and how your beliefs align with the company’s mission.
How to include a Statement of Faith in your resume?
After crafting an effective Statement of Faith, job seekers must now decide how to include it in the resume. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:
Location
Decide on where to put the Statement of Faith in the resume. It can be placed below the resume summary/objective or next to the list of education and certifications.
Formatting
Keep it simple and clean with a traditional font, and avoid using bold, italics, or colored text. The Statement of Faith should be formatted as a paragraph, with a line break between paragraphs, and should not take up more than a quarter of the first page.
Mention in your Cover letter
If a job posting does not request a Statement of Faith to be included in your resume, you can mention it in your cover letter instead. Let the employer know you have included this document in the application and briefly highlight how it aligns with the company’s mission.
Key Takeaways
- A Statement of Faith is a document summarizing an individual’s religious beliefs, values and convictions
- It serves as a tool to express the candidate’s character and values as they relate to the job they are applying for
- It is vital for religious organizations, mission-based nonprofits, and religious schools
- Crafting an effective Statement of Faith requires authenticity, tailoring the statement to the job, a clear writing style, and providing specific examples.
- The Statement of Faith should be properly located and formatted in your resume
- Non-requested Statement of Faith should be placed in the cover letter
Conclusion
Crafting an effective Statement of Faith can be a valuable tool to enhance your job application. Your Statement of Faith can help demonstrate to potential employers how your values and beliefs align with their company culture. Remember to be authentic, concise and highlight specific examples that showcase your character. With the right approach, your Statement of Faith can set you apart from other candidates and provide a glimpse of what you can bring to the workplace.
FAQs
Q: How long should a Statement of Faith be?
A: A Statement of Faith should be concise, generally no more than one-page.
Q: Should a Statement of Faith be shared publicly?
A: It depends on individual preference. Only share it publicly if it is required by the employer or makes you comfortable.