How to Write a Great Entry Level Job Application

Applying for roles can feel overwhelming. Even more so in industries that are extremely competitive and hard to get your foot in the door of. But a good application isn’t just about passion; it’s about clarity, relevance, and demonstrating what you can bring to the table.

All hiring managers appreciate the time and care it takes to put together an application – we’ve all had the ever-expanding jobs folder saved somewhere at some point! – so here are some top tips to help your application stand out. 

Check Your Eligibility First 
Before you apply, make sure the opportunity is right for you. Many entry level programmes and opportunities are only open to specific groups. For example, Wildscreen’s Environmental Storytellers Programme is specifically for 18–30 year olds from underrepresented backgrounds. Take a moment to check that you meet the criteria – it will save you time in the long run! 

Apply for the Job on Offer, Not the One You Want 
It’s natural to dream big and have an end goal in sight, but your application needs to focus on the role that’s actually being advertised. Tailor your application/CV/cover letter – whatever you are being asked for – to show why you’re a great fit for this opportunity. Think of it as one step in your journey, each role builds towards your bigger goals, but you need to fully engage with where you are right now. 

It’s also important to recognise when a role isn’t right for you. Not every opportunity will be a fit for your skills, experience, or interests, and that’s okay! Being honest about this can save you time and allow you to focus your energy on roles where you can genuinely thrive. 

Each role you take on is also a chance to better understand what you do want to do, and what you don’t, which is super valuable in shaping your career. 

Transferable Skills Are Your Superpower 
Don’t underestimate the value of your past experience. Skills gained in other roles, like communication, organisation, and teamwork from hospitality or retail, are relevant across multiple industries. Make these connections clear in your application and show how your existing skills can be applied to the role on offer. Soft skills don’t get the credit they deserve. 

Use the Job Description as Your Guide 
The job description is your roadmap. Refer back to it as you write your application and CV: 

• Highlight your experience with any platforms or software mentioned. 

• Demonstrate your ability to work collaboratively. 

• Provide specific examples that match the required skills. 

• Link your experience to the info outlined in the job description. 

Remember, applications aren’t just about enthusiasm, they’re about evidence. Show what you’ve done, what you can do, and how it relates to and aligns with what’s being asked. 

Be Honest About Your Experience 
Be open and honest about what you’ve done as well as what you haven’t had the chance to do yet. If you’ve only just started exploring a particular area, career or craft, that’s absolutely fine. Share what you’ve tried, what you enjoyed, and why you’re keen to develop your skills in that area further. Curiosity and willingness to learn are huge strengths, especially in entry-level roles. 

You can also use this as an opportunity to lean into the job description. Highlight specific areas, tools, or skills mentioned and explain what you’re excited to learn more about. This not only shows self-awareness (which we love) but also demonstrates that you’ve done your research and are genuinely engaged with the role being advertised. 

On the flip side, overegging your experience can sometimes work against you. It may make you seem overqualified for the role, or create expectations that don’t match where you are right now. Instead, focus on being genuine. Show your enthusiasm, your potential, and your openness to learning. You’re not expected to know everything at this stage in your career, and being honest about that is a strength, not a weakness. 

To Summarise… 

In a nutshell, putting yourself out there is (1) scary and (2) hard work. It also can feel weird to write about yourself and big yourself and your experience up, but you absolutely should! Take the time to carefully tailor your application, reflect on your experience, and clearly demonstrate the skills you have and that you are hoping to develop through the role, it makes all the difference. We have linked some more resources below if you’d like to dive deeper into the art of job applications. Good luck and happy applying! 

More resources to check out:

• ScreenSkills: How to apply for work in the screen industries 
• Filming in England: A Resource Guide for New Entrants 

ENVIRONMENTAL STORYTELLERS PROGRAMME 
The Wildscreen Environmental Storytellers Programme is kindly supported by the John Lewis Partnership Foundation, we are working with organisations to diversify natural world storytelling and support young people to take their first steps within the industry. 

 For more information head to https://wildscreen.org/wildscreen-traineeships/