Part of the HR templates hub. It is free, printable and placeholder-based — read it here, copy the block, or use the print/save-as-PDF button. For the wider practice, see the related employer-operations guides and the HR metrics it supports.
Template overview
The template lists the role’s key requirements and records, for each candidate, whether the evidence meets them, plus a screening decision and a reason. It turns an inbox of CVs into a documented, comparable shortlist.
When to use it
- Reviewing applications before deciding who to interview.
- Keeping screening consistent across a high-volume role.
- Documenting why candidates did or did not advance.
Who it is for
- Recruiters and coordinators screening applications.
- Hiring managers reviewing a shortlist.
- Teams who want a fair, repeatable first filter.
Template structure
- Role requirements — the must-haves to screen against.
- Candidate record — name and source.
- Requirement check — met / partly / not met, with a note.
- Decision — advance, hold or decline.
- Reason — a short, factual rationale.
Printable template
Copy the block below and replace every [bracketed] placeholder. It contains no real names or data — adapt every part to your situation.
Example (placeholder version)
An illustrative version using placeholders only — it shows the kind of content each part holds, with no real employee or company data.
Customisation guidance
- Screen against the job description’s must-haves only — keep the first filter focused.
- Use the same requirements for every candidate in the role.
- Record a short, factual reason for each decision.
- Avoid criteria unrelated to the job; keep screening relevant and fair.
Common mistakes
- Changing the criteria from candidate to candidate.
- Screening on impressions rather than the listed requirements.
- Not recording why someone was declined.
- Filtering on factors that have nothing to do with the role.
Create a professional CV
Hiring for a role like this? Candidates can create and update a clean, well-structured resume with the HELPERG CV Builder — useful to share with applicants who need to refresh their CV before applying.
Export, edit and share documents
Once you have filled in this template, you can export, edit, sign, store and share it as a PDF with the HELPERG PDF Editor — handy for sending a finished document or keeping a clean record.
Free, printable HR resources
Every template here is free and ungated. Grab the matching downloadable checklists too — no signup.