First-time job seeker resumes and cover letters
Example profiles and job application advice for people who are just starting their career journey.
The fictional profiles below give you a practical example of how to apply for your first job. Each one includes a cover letter, resume and the corresponding job advertisement. These are just some of the resources available from our library of resume templates and cover letter examples.
Starting a career in surveying – example profile
Jack Morris
Jack has just completed a Certificate IV in Surveying, while working as labourer for a local builder. He now wants an entry level surveying role to use his study in a professional surveying context and gain experience in large infrastructure projects.
When applying for the role at HVC Surveying, Jack needs to highlight his practical experience in construction, his surveying knowledge, and his commitment to ongoing development.
Job advertisement
Position | Surveyor |
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Working arrangements | Full-time (on-site), with an immediate start option |
Role responsibilities | Join our team at HVC Surveying, engaged in major infrastructure projects across NSW. As a Surveyor, you will:
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Applicant requirements | We seek professionals with:
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Remuneration | Excellent conditions and competitive remuneration, complemented by the latest surveying equipment and software, a supportive work environment and opportunities for career progression. |
How to apply | Forward your CV and a cover letter to jobs@hvcsurveying.com, addressed to the Hiring Manager. |
About the Company | HVC Surveying is a leader in the surveying industry, specialising in major infrastructure projects in NSW. We value our employees and offer a pathway for career development, excellent work conditions, state-of-the-art tools and support for our team. |
Searching for an entry-level marketing role – example profile
Lachlan Nguyen
Lachlan has recently completed his HSC and is looking for an internship or entry-level role in sports management. Through local hockey, he has developed teamwork and leadership skills, together with skills in social media and web design.
Lachlan is excited about the Junior Marketing Assistant role because of his passion for wellness. His application emphasises his transferrable skills developed through part-time retail work, sporting and volunteering activities.
Job advertisement
Position | Junior Marketing Assistant |
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Working arrangements | Full-time position, with a hybrid working model based in Sydney NSW, offering a flexible environment ideal for recent high school graduates or those seeking an entry-level role. Salary set at $X0,000 per year. |
Role responsibilities | As part of our dynamic marketing team, you will:
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Applicant requirements | Ideal candidates will exhibit:
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Remuneration | $X per year, with significant learning and development opportunities in a supportive environment. |
How to apply | Embark on a rewarding marketing career within the vibrant sports and wellness industry. Submit your application today and join our team in shaping the future of wellness brands. |
About the Company | We are a leading wellness brand dedicated to promoting healthy lifestyles through innovative sports and wellness products. Our collaborative culture values creativity, personal growth and community engagement, making it the perfect place to start and grow your marketing career. |
Searching for a role as a childhood educator – example profile
Jay Taylor
Jay has recently completed their Certificate IV in Childcare while gaining practical experience from work placements in local childcare centres. Jay is now seeking their first job as a Certificate IV Educator.
The application for the position at Poppy’s Playroom demonstrates Jay’s ability to connect with children and create engaging learning activities. It also focuses on the appeal of working at Poppy’s Playroom because of the centre’s commitment to ongoing staff professional development.
The job advertisement
Position | Cert IV Educator |
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Working arrangements | Full-time position at Poppy’s Playroom, Gosford NSW |
Role responsibilities | As a dedicated Cert IV Educator at our family-owned centre, you will play a crucial role in shaping our children's future. Responsibilities include:
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Applicant requirements | The ideal candidate will possess:
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Remuneration | Competitive, with opportunities for professional development and growth. |
How to apply | Submit your application to: 123 Main Street, Gosford NSW 2250 We encourage passionate individuals who are dedicated to making a difference in children's lives to apply. |
About the Company | Poppy’s Playroom is a respected 44-place centre known for its commitment to high-quality care and education. We support our staff with ongoing training, providing a nurturing environment where both children and educators can thrive. Join us in our mission to create a positive impact. |
Advice when applying for your first job
Your resume or CV
Your resume or CV should highlight your educational achievements, including degrees, certificates, and relevant coursework. You can briefly mention any subjects you studied.
You should also list any internships, part-time jobs or volunteer work to showcase your transferable skills and work ethic.
Also give examples of extracurricular activities that demonstrate leadership, teamwork or other relevant skills.
Your cover letter
Use your cover letter to show your enthusiasm for entering the workforce. Explain how your extracurricular activities and academic projects have prepared you for the professional world, even if you lack any previous experience in paid employment.
Learn more on the Resumes or CVs and cover letters page.
See how the people in the examples on this page highlight their educational achievements and enthusiasm for entering the workforce when they're applying for their first role.