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[tubica]

I'm grateful to Newbie and Wanna-be Brit for their questions--I'm in much the same situation.

Here's the thing. I've been asked for an interview at british university. Since I sent out my intitial CV, there have been changes (good ones!).

I was wondering what the proper course of action would be to submit a revised and updated CV so that the panel has an updated version

[busyslinky]

If you are going to the interview already, I would hold it off until the interview.  It would be something you can explain in person and really show off your accomplishments.  If they already called you in with an interview with a weaker C.V., imagine how it will feel to tell them that things have improved in that small time...and you can tell them that they can expect more if they hire you.  Of course, you could be a little more tactful than I am at saying it. 

[sueenglish]

Hi

I agree with busyslinky on this one. It would be a good discussion piece at interview.

[science_expat]

I don't know that I agree. The UK interview process is much more based on facts and figures than fit or feelings. Prior to the interview, the panel members will carefully read the documentation and will probably develop a tentative grading in their minds. Hence, candidate A looks like a star, candidate B has no chance, etc...

By withholding the CV you're counting on a good interview in which you can bring up your recent successes. Personally, I think a better strategy would be to write a short note outlining these successes then raise the matter at the interview. Hence, when you talk about publications (or whatever the success was) you can say something along the lines of "Did you get my note? I wasn't sure whether I'd be allowed to update the file but I wanted you to know that, since my application, I've..."

To me, it's more real somehow if it's on paper - and it's certainly more verifiable.

[busyslinky]

I should have given a disclaimer, that I am not sure how the UK system works.  But, if they need to verify every detail of the CV before arrival, then you should make sure they know about these additional items for verification purposes.  Also, will they allow you to bring an updated CV to the panel (which is very different than meeting individual faculty members who will discuss items with you on your CV)? 

Also, the decision you make may rely on how long you have before the interviews.

[expatinuk]

science expat is correct about the UK system. Send the updated CV and also don't forget to mention it... especially if it's along the pubs or grants line.

The RAE is looming... in what form who the heck knows!

[sueenglish]

But it does depend on what has been added to the cv perhaps? Publications that can be counted towards the RAE (deadline looming, though) might be worthy of a note. I am not sure about other things.

I have been on interviewing panels and haven't seen a pre-interview grading system, so it must vary from instituion to institution. During one such experience an overseas candidate (telephone interview) declared a good offer elsewhere and put everyone on the spot.

Perhaps an informal call before the interview to ask if an updated cv should be sent?

Good luck.

[science_expat]

I have been on interviewing panels and haven't seen a pre-interview grading system, so it must vary from instituion to institution.

We wouldn't have a "pre-interview" grading system but because the actual interview is so short a lot of one's impression is based on the paperwork. Hence, I think that making the CV as strong as possible is very important.

Whether HR will accept a late updated CV is not clear to me but I can't see any harm in making the effort. However, I would think about sending a short email, rather than a CV, just noting the improvements in ....