A typical Swiss application package includes a cover letter, CV and relevant evidence such as employment certificates, diplomas and certificates. Files should be readable, clearly named and logically organised.
A good application package is more than a folder of random files. The recruiter should be able to understand your background quickly and find the important evidence without searching.
What should be included?
- Cover letter: why this role and this employer?
- CV: career, education and skills.
- Employment certificates: evidence of previous employment and responsibilities.
- Diplomas and certificates: relevant qualifications.
A sensible order
2. CV
3. Employment certificates – most recent first
4. Relevant diplomas and certificates
The recruiter should not have to search for the certificate relating to your most recent job.
Do you need to send everything?
arbeit.swiss recommends keeping employment certificates complete. For courses and certificates, relevance also matters: an important qualification or current training belongs in the file; an old short course unrelated to the role may not.
One PDF or several?
Follow the employer’s portal first. If it provides separate upload fields for CV, letter and certificates, use them. For email applications or a single upload, a clearly structured combined package can be appropriate.
Clear file names
First_Last_CoverLetter.pdf
First_Last_EmploymentCertificates.pdf
First_Last_Diplomas.pdf
Before you submit
- correct contact details
- correct employer and job title in the letter
- PDFs open correctly
- documents are complete and readable
- file names are clear
Keep your application together
SwissCVPilot links your CV, cover letter and reference sheet within the same application set.
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