Curriculum Vitae and Resume

When applying for jobs in Germany, having your CV (Lebenslauf) in the correct format is essential. Unlike some other countries, German employers generally prefer a Résumé for job applications.

CV vs. Résumé – What’s the Difference?

📌 CV (Curriculum Vitae) – A comprehensive document detailing your entire academic and professional history, including research experience, awards, publications, and memberships. This is mostly used in academia or research-related positions.

📌 Résumé – A one- or two-page summary of your key professional experience, education, and skills. The focus is on relevance to the job you’re applying for, rather than an extensive career history.

💡 Tips for Your German Résumé

✅ Match the job posting language – If the job ad is in German, your application should be in German.
✅ Keep it concise – No longer than two pages.
✅ Include a professional photo – A passport-style headshot is standard.
✅ Customize your résumé – Highlight skills and experience relevant to the job. Avoid unrelated details (e.g., financial experience for a programming role).
✅ Check for spelling and grammar mistakes – Use tools like Grammarly or DeepL for proofreading.
✅ Include these key sections:

Profile – A short summary of your skills, experience, and qualifications (similar to an elevator pitch).
Personal information – First and last name, nationality, date of birth, contact details, and a professional photo. You can also mention your marital status.
Education & work experience – List degrees, certifications, and relevant job history.
Skills & certifications – Highlight industry-specific skills and certifications.
Languages – Mention your proficiency levels.

✅ Do not include hobbies or personal interests – These are not typically relevant in Germany.

Résumé Formats & Online Builders

You can use the following platforms to create your German-style résumé:

📎 Documents to Attach to Your Application

📌 Cover letter (Anschreiben) – Briefly explain why you’re the right fit for the job.
📌 Résumé (Lebenslauf) – In the correct German format.
📌 Testimonials & references – Letters from previous employers, if available.
📌 Proof of education – Degrees or certificates (only if requested).

❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid on Your German CV

Even small errors can hurt your chances of landing a job in Germany. Avoid these common mistakes:

🚫 Using the wrong format – A German résumé (Lebenslauf) is structured, concise, and usually one to two pages. Avoid long, overly detailed CVs.

🚫 Skipping the photo – While optional in some countries, a professional photo is expected in Germany. Make sure it looks formal and high-quality.

🚫 Including personal details that are not relevant – Your hobbies, personal interests, or religious views do not belong on a German résumé.

🚫 Forgetting to translate your qualifications – If your degrees or certificates have different titles in Germany, clarify them (e.g., Bachelor of Commerce = Betriebswirtschaftslehre (BWL)).

🚫 Ignoring the job posting language – If the job ad is in German, your application must be in German unless the employer specifies otherwise.

🚫 Not tailoring your résumé – One-size-fits-all doesn’t work in Germany. Adapt your résumé for each application, emphasizing relevant experience.

🚫 Poor formatting – Use a clean, structured layout, with clear headings, bullet points, and professional fonts like Arial or Calibri. Avoid fancy designs.

🚫 Spelling and grammar mistakes – Proofread carefully and use tools like Grammarly or DeepL to check for errors.

🚫 Adding references directly – Unlike in some countries, you don’t need to list references on your résumé. Instead, mention “References available upon request” if needed.

🚫 Sending an incomplete application – Many German employers expect additional documents like a cover letter (Anschreiben), certificates, and testimonials. Make sure to check the job listing carefully.

Vocabulary

CV / Resume	Der Lebenslauf
Cover Letter	Das Anschreiben
Testimonial	Das Zeugnis
Recognition	Die Anerkennung
Interview	Das Bewerbungsgespräch / Vorstellungsgespräch
Study curriculum	Das Studium
Degree	Der Abschluss e.g Bachelor Degree is Der Bachelorabschluss