Applying for jobs in other countries can be tough because of unfamiliar rules and not having enough local know-how. This can make it hard to show off skills and achievements well enough. It also gets challenging to know what to highlight and when.
That’s why we wrote this guide to help you apply to international jobs with confidence, no matter the country!
An international resume is a tailored document optimized for job applications abroad. It's crafted to align with the specific requirements of employers globally, aiming to enhance visibility and competitiveness in international job markets.
We also have country specific international resume guides for creating the following resumes:
When crafting an international resume, it's crucial to tailor it to appeal to a global audience. Here are key components to consider:
When you're making a resume for jobs around the world, it's important to talk about your language skills clearly. Here's how you can do it:
These tips will help your language skills shine on your international resume. And, list your language skills in a separate section.
Use standardized language proficiency scales such as CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages) or ILR (Interagency Language Roundtable) to indicate your proficiency level for each language.
Sure, here are some examples of how you might tailor your language skills section for different international locations.
Language Skills:
Language Skills:
Language Skills:
Language Skills:
Language Skills:
As an expert in international resume writing, I recommend a smart approach to listing your skills. Here's how to do it effectively:
Personal information requirements for international resumes can vary by country. If relevant, include your full name, contact details, and professional social media profiles.
Some countries might also expect details like your date of birth or a photograph. Always check the specific norms for the country you are applying to before sending out your resume.
Here’s the list of 30 popular international job locations and the average acceptable resume length:
Translate your resume if you are applying to a company where the primary business language differs from your own. This step is crucial for positions requiring fluent communication in the local language.
Yes, including language skills is crucial for international resumes, especially if applying for roles that involve cross-border communication or multilingual environments.
It can be advantageous to have a translated resume, especially if applying to a country where the primary language differs from your own. However, in many cases, submitting a well-written resume in English may suffice, particularly for international roles.
The acceptable resume length varies by country and industry. In general, aim for 1-2 pages, but be aware of specific expectations in the country where you're applying.
It's generally not necessary to include this information unless explicitly requested by the employer or relevant to the job application (e.g., for visa sponsorship purposes).
Research cultural norms and preferences regarding resume formatting in the country where you're applying. Tailor your resume layout, content, and language to align with local expectations.
While you can use a general international resume template, it's essential to customize your resume for each specific country and job application. This ensures that your resume effectively resonates with the cultural and professional expectations of the target audience, increasing your chances of success in the international job market.
Written By
Madison Norton
VP Marketing & Resume Expert
Madison is the VP Marketing and General Manager at VisualCV. He's a seasoned marketing leader, resume writing and career marketing expert and now helping people grow their own career marketing strategies to build a career they love.
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