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Free checklist template · Word

CV Shortlisting Checklist

A CV shortlisting checklist is a quick yes/no list a recruiter runs through for each CV before deciding to call the candidate. It is lighter than a scored screening form and suits high-volume hiring where speed matters but the basics must not be missed.

  • Editable Word (.docx)
  • Made for India
  • 6 fill-in fields highlighted
  • Free, no sign-up

Preview of the checklist

[Highlighted] = fill in
[Company Logo][Company Name]

CV SHORTLISTING CHECKLIST

Position:
[Designation]
Candidate Name:
[Candidate Name]
Checked By:
[HR Name]
Date:
[Date]

Step 1 – Eligibility

  • Required qualification present
  • Minimum years of experience met
  • Mandatory certification / licence present (if applicable)
  • Work authorisation / Indian citizen or valid permit

Step 2 – Role Relevance

  • Has worked in the same or related function
  • Industry background relevant to our business
  • At least [Number] of the must-have skills mentioned with evidence
  • Has handled similar scale (team size, revenue, volume)

Step 3 – Stability and Progression

  • Average tenure of [Number] year(s) or more
  • Gaps of more than 6 months noted for discussion
  • Shows growth in responsibility over time

Step 4 – Red Flags

  • No overlapping employment dates
  • Job titles consistent with responsibilities described
  • Contact details complete and valid
  • No duplicate application under different name or email

Step 5 – Practical Fit

  • Current location or willingness to relocate to [Work Location]
  • Notice period within [Number] days
  • Expected CTC likely within approved range
  • Available for shifts / travel if needed

Step 6 – Action

  • Shortlisted – schedule screening call
  • Keep in talent pool for future roles
  • Not shortlisted – send regret email
Remarks
Next action date
Recruiter
[HR Name]
Date: [Date]

What this template includes

  • Eligibility checks grouped first so ineligible CVs are dropped quickly
  • Role relevance checks on industry, function and skills
  • Stability and gap checks
  • Red-flag checks for inconsistencies
  • Practical checks: location, notice period, CTC fit
  • Final action to move the CV forward

When to use it

  • High-volume roles such as sales, customer support or delivery
  • When hundreds of applications arrive from a single job post
  • Briefing interns or agency recruiters on what to look for
  • As a final check before sending a shortlist to the manager

How to customise this template

  1. 1Rewrite the role relevance items for each job family
  2. 2Set your own thresholds for notice period and CTC
  3. 3Print it as a one-page desk aid for the recruitment team
  4. 4Add a column in your ATS that mirrors this checklist

HR tips

  • Spend no more than two minutes per CV on the first pass
  • Shortlist slightly more than needed; some candidates will drop off
  • Do not reject based on college name alone
  • Keep the checklist the same for all CVs for one role to stay fair

For HR & hiring managers

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Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between a CV shortlisting checklist and a resume screening form?+

The checklist is a fast yes/no filter. The screening form rates candidates on weighted criteria and is used when you need to rank them.

How many CVs should be shortlisted per position?+

Many recruiters share 5–8 relevant CVs per position with the hiring manager, but this varies with role difficulty.

What are common red flags in a CV?+

Unexplained gaps, overlapping dates, vague job descriptions, and claims that do not match the experience shown.