CVs & Cover Letters

Your CV (Curriculum Vitae) is your first impression to potential employers. It's a snapshot of your skills, experience, and education, designed to showcase why you're the ideal candidate for a particular job. Crafting a well-structured and informative CV is crucial for securing an interview and ultimately landing your dream job.

When creating your CV, consider your target audience, highlighting relevant experiences and skills that align with the specific role you're applying for. Remember to keep it concise, error-free, and tailored to each application. Use these templates as starting points, adapting it to reflect your unique strengths and accomplishments.

Don't forget the power of a cover letter! A cover letter complements your CV by giving you the opportunity to express your personality, enthusiasm, and specific interest in the position. It's your chance to elaborate on your skills and experiences, demonstrating how they directly relate to the job requirements.

CV & Cover Letter - Template 1

You can access a Google Doc version of this CV here and the accompaning cover letter here.
Feel free to make a copy of the CV and letter to your own Drive and edit to suit your situation (How do I do that?)

Here's a breakdown of this application...

About John Smith:

18-year-old Leaving Certificate student seeking a summer retail job.
Prior experience in retail (Dunnes Stores) and office work (solicitor's firm, library).
Well-rounded interests, demonstrating teamwork, technical aptitude, and community engagement.

CV Style and Suitability:

Format: Reverse chronological order, focusing on most recent experiences.
Tone: Professional yet enthusiastic, highlighting eagerness to learn and contribute.
Emphasis: Work experience and transferable skills are prioritised over academic achievements (given John's age and limited work history).
Ideal For: Students or young adults with some work experience seeking entry-level positions in retail or customer service.

Why This Template Works:

Clear and concise: Easy to read and quickly highlights key qualifications.
Adaptable: Sections can be adjusted or removed based on individual experience.
Focuses on strengths: Even with limited formal experience, the CV showcases John's skills and potential.
Tailored to the target job: The personal summary and interests are aligned with the retail sector.

Additional Tips for Students:

Personalise: Replace John's details with your own experiences and interests.
Quantify: Use numbers (e.g., "served 20+ customers per hour") to demonstrate impact.
Proofread: Ensure there are no spelling or grammar errors.
Seek feedback: Ask a teacher, your Guidance teacher, or mentor to review your CV.

More information and support

Spunout.ie - Sample CV and Tips

Jobs.ie - How to write a CV

Page updated

Report abuse