Mastering the Art of Writing a CV in German: A Comprehensive Guide
If you are searching for your dream job in Germany, you’ll need to create a great German resume (“Lebenslauf” or “curriculum vitae”). In Germany, 96% of job postings are written in German; less than 4% are written in English (1). A well-crafted German resume is essential for showcasing your skills and demonstrating why an employer should add you to the team. Here’s how to write a resume that will catch the attention of German employers.
Status of German-speaking markets
Germany, Austria, and Switzerland offer diverse job markets with a demand for skilled professionals in the automotive, IT, engineering, finance, and healthcare sectors. Manufacturing and pharmaceuticals are other key sectors in these three nations. If you want to land a job in Austria or Germany, you’ll need a German resume, as that is the official language of both nations.
The market in Germany was a bit stagnant at the tail end of 2024. In December 2024, the number of people employed in Germany dropped by 125,000 (2). Don’t let that discourage you, though, as jobs in Germany tend to pay more than those in several other EU nations.
According to Forbes, speaking Spanish gives you the most employment opportunities. However, speaking German can earn you more money. Job postings that require you to speak Deutsch pay an average annual salary of nearly $70,000 (3).
Understanding the German CV
The German resume format differs from that in the United States. The content, tone, and expectations vary as well. Typically, German resumes are more concise and follow a rigid, standardized structure. Highlighting your professional qualifications and experience is essential.
This table compares the German CV format to the U.S. resume format to help you know how to modify your application documents for German-speaking employers:
| Aspect | German CV | American Resume |
|---|---|---|
| Length | One to two pages | One to two pages |
| Photo | Common but optional | Generally not included |
| Personal Details | Detailed (DOB, nationality, marital status) | Minimal (name and contact information) |
| Structure | Chronological, reverse order | Flexible formats |
| Language Style | Formal, factual | Can be semi-formal |
Use this comparison chart as your guide when creating your German resume and cover letter. Remember, German employers prefer a straightforward and professional layout instead of a more creative design.
Structure of a CV in German
A German resume typically uses a standardized structure, which includes the following sections:
Persönliche angaben (personal information)
Include your basic contact and personal information. You may need to add your marital status and nationality, which is sometimes expected on German resumes.
Ausbildung (education)
Outline your academic qualifications, including which schools you attended and the degrees you earned. Make sure to list the years you attended as well.
Berufliche erfahrung (work experience)
Work experience should be listed in reverse chronological order, which means listing your current or most recent job first. If you have minimal work experience, use your education and skills sections to strengthen your resume.
Sprache- / EDV- kenntnisse (language and computer skills)
Languages and computer skills are important sections of a German resume. Use bulleted lists here so you can convey as much valuable information as possible in a concise, easy-to-read format.
You should review some resume examples in German to familiarize yourself with these documents’ unique structure and layout. Use the examples for inspiration to help keep your content concise and focused.
Expert Tip:
German recruiters value efficiency in CVs, so avoid unnecessary details. Stick to a professional, fact-based format. Ensure that all information is clear and easy to read. Use standard fonts and avoid excessive styling. Clarity is prioritized over creativity for nearly all industries.
How to prepare a CV in German
The basic German resume template includes the sections outlined above. Here’s a more detailed breakdown of what to include in each of those sections and how you can use them to position yourself as a strong candidate.
Persönliche angaben (personal information)
Converting this section of your American resume should be relatively simple. You’ll need to translate all of your basic contact information, such as your name, address, and contact details. Next, add your date of birth and any other personal information the employer requests, such as marital status or nationality.
Ausbildung (education)
When listing your education on your German resume, make sure to include information about your academic performance. According to the German Department at Princeton University, it is common practice to include your grade point average (GPA) in the education section of German resumes (4).
You’ll need to include your U.S. GPA and the appropriate conversion. The German grading system is inverse to the U.S. GPA system, meaning an “A” is scored as “1,0” and an “F” is scored as “5,0.” Make sure to list both.
Berufliche erfahrung (work experience)
When listing work experience, incorporate hard data wherever possible. If you led a project or helped your past employer achieve something significant, provide detailed insights into the impacts of your work. For example, if you revised the company’s scheduling practices and cut back on overtime costs, list the percentage of savings (e.g., reduced overtime by 30%).
Hobbys und interessen (hobbies and interests)
Sharing some of your hobbies and interests can give a potential employer a glimpse into what you are passionate about. Keep this section brief, but share a little about yourself, especially if your hobbies translate to the role you are applying for. For example, if you are applying for a coding job and enjoy working on personal coding projects in your downtime, share that with employers.
Sprache- / EDV- kenntnisse (language and computer skills)
List the languages you speak along with your proficiency level. If you are listing computer skills, include specific software and your proficiency as well.
Using a pre-formatted template is the easiest way to incorporate this structure into your new resume. Just make sure to use a matching job letter template for consistency and flow.
"Job postings that require you to speak Deutsch pay an average annual salary of nearly $70,000."
FAQs about writing a German resume
Most employers do not require a photo. However, you can include one. Carefully read the job posting and find out whether the company you are applying to wants a photograph. If a photograph is required, submit a professional headshot. Do not take a selfie with your smartphone.
German resumes are typically one to two pages long. Make sure that your document is concise and packed with useful content, especially if you are going to submit two full pages. You should not include any fluff. If you make a statement or claim, back it up with hard data to demonstrate the value you bring to the organization.
Search for German grammar-checking tools and run your documents through them. You can also reach out to a native German speaker and ask them to review your documents.
That depends on the employer. Some employers want you to include a cover letter while others may not. Read the job description and follow the instructions provided by the employer.
Some employers may require a German resume and ask you to complete a questionnaire to provide some insights about your professional experience. If the company you are applying to asks you to complete a questionnaire in lieu of a cover letter, make sure your responses are detailed and focused.
Tips and best practices for writing a CV in German
Here are some tips to help you create an engaging German resume:
- Review some German resume examples and cover letter examples
- Use a clear, professional format
- Follow a reverse chronological order
- Keep it concise
- Use formal, fact-based language
These tips and best practices will ensure your resume and cover letter are on par with German standards.
Start crafting an engaging resume in German
A well-structured, professional German CV can boost your chances of securing a job in Germany or Austria. Pair your German resume with an engaging German cover letter, and you’ll be well on your way to landing your dream job. Start crafting your resume today and take the next step toward your career goals.
Sources:
(1) Statista Report: Local Languages Are Crucial for Migrants to Master
(2) Destatis Report: Employment Stagnates in December 24
(3) Forbes Report: Spanish Speakers Have More Job Options, German Speakers Make More Money
(4) German Department Princeton Guide: How to Write a German CV
