Key Differences from UK CVs and
cover letters:
Spanish Applications Guide
Cover Letter (‘ Carta de Presentación’) advice
•It is common in Spain to include a typed/electronic
cover letter when submitting a résumé/CV
•Always refer to the position of interest and provide the
advertisement reference number if there is one; if it is a
speculative application, mention this in the letterhead
•Explain why you are the right candidate for the job,
highlighting experiences and strengths as they relate
to the position and company
•Spanish CVs usually include a
professional photo in the top right
hand corner
•You should include your passport
number on your CV in the personal
details section
•Cover letters are professional and
concise
•It is not common to provide
references unless specifically asked
for by the employer but make sure
your employment history section is
detailed
•Address specific requirements given in the job advertisement
and how you may achieve these based on previous experience
and skills
•Provide an overview, but do not provide too many details that
are already covered in the résumé/CV; be concise and
professional
•Persuade the employer to meet you and express availability to
discuss any issues further
•Include formal greetings such as, ‘Estimado/a Señor/a’ at the
start of the letter and 'En espera de sus noticias, les Saluda
atentamente‘ at the end
CV (‘El Curriculum’) advice
•Similar to UK CV layout, there are no strict guidelines though
best to remain formal. It is very important to have wellstructured CV, no longer than two pages and with little spare
space between the headings
•Typically, a CV will have six main parts: personal information,
education, professional experience, skills, languages and
interests. Education and professional experience should be in
reverse chronological order, listing the most recent work
experiences first. A concise personal objective section can also
be included at the top of the CV
•Under the heading personal details you should also provide
your passport or ID number
•Good idea to include a high-quality, professional (scanned)
photo in the top right hand corner of your CV
•In Spain, it is not common to give references unless the
employer requests them
•Regarding work experience it is important to mention all your
former employers, including the tasks and responsibilities
performed.
•If you have attended major seminars, stayed abroad some
time, written a publication, or followed an apprenticeship, do
mention it under the heading other activities, 'Otras
actividades’