Creating a CV in a foreign language can be challenging, especially when applying for a position abroad or in an international company. However, it’s important to remember that a carefully prepared CV can significantly increase your chances on the job market—regardless of the language used.
In this article, we’ll show you how to write a CV in English, German, Norwegian, and French, taking into account both cultural differences and formal requirements.
How to write a CV in English?
A CV in English (often also called a resume) is one of the most commonly required documents when applying to companies operating on an international scale. The key sections worth including are:
- Personal Details: First and last name, email address, phone number (optional: home address).
- Professional Summary: A brief career overview highlighting your experience and key skills.
- Work Experience: Professional experience listed in reverse chronological order.
- Education: Educational background, including dates and institution names.
- Skills: Both hard and soft skills.
- Languages: Foreign language proficiency.
- Certifications & Courses: Additional training and courses.
It’s important to avoid including a photo or personal details such as your national ID number or marital status—these are not required in Anglo-Saxon countries.
How to write a CV in German?
A German CV, known as a Lebenslauf, should be clear, well-structured, and concise. In German recruitment culture, clarity and precision are highly valued. A typical layout usually includes:
- Persönliche Daten (Personal Information): Basic personal details along with a photo (often expected).
- Berufserfahrung (Work Experience): Listed in chronological or reverse chronological order.
- Ausbildung (Education): Educational background with exact dates and degree titles.
- Kenntnisse und Fähigkeiten (Skills and Abilities): Skills including computer proficiency and language knowledge.
- Zusätzliche Informationen (Additional Information): Courses, volunteering, interests.
If you’re preparing a CV in German, it’s advisable to include a professional photo and a signature at the bottom of the document—this is still a common practice in Germany.
Norwegian CV – What You Should Know
A Norwegian CV is quite similar to the English version, although it reflects some local specifics. In Norway, simplicity and clear, concise information are key. The CV should not exceed two pages and should include:
- Personlige opplysninger (Personal Information): First and last name, contact details.
- Arbeidserfaring (Work Experience): Professional experience with a focus on key achievements.
- Utdanning (Education): Educational background.
- Språk (Languages): Language proficiency – Norwegian is highly valued.
- Ferdigheter (Skills): Relevant skills.
- Referanser (References): Optional but appreciated.
A Norwegian CV should be straightforward and tailored to the specific job offer. Including a photo is not required unless explicitly requested by the employer.
French CV – Elegance and Formality
A French CV, or Curriculum Vitae, should be visually appealing and carefully formatted. In France, both the appearance of the document and the language style used are very important. Key sections that should be included are:
- État civil (Personal Information): First and last name, address, phone number, email, age.
- Profil professionnel (Professional Profile): A brief summary or career objective.
- Expérience professionnelle (Work Experience): Employment history.
- Formation (Education): Academic background.
- Compétences (Skills): Relevant abilities.
- Langues (Languages): Language proficiency.
- Centres d’intérêt (Interests): Hobbies and interests – often included in French CVs.
For those wondering how to write a CV in French, it’s worth noting that including a photo is generally well received, and the tone and style of the document should match the expectations of your industry.
Summary – How to Write a CV in a Foreign Language
When creating a CV in a foreign language, it’s important to focus not only on accurate translation but also on adapting the content to the standards and expectations of the specific country. Whether you’re preparing a CV in English, German, Norwegian, or French, keep in mind the following:
- Clear and concise content
- Logical and organized structure
- Tailoring your information to the specific job offer
- Understanding local recruitment norms
A well-written CV is like a professional business card – the more carefully it’s crafted, the higher your chances of being invited for an interview.
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