France CV Tips & Format Requirements

France CV Requirements

This section will outline the requirements of a French CV. France has its own set of CV expectations that are distinct from those of other countries.

Browse our gallery of resume examples here.

How do you write a French CV?

• Add your contact information
• Write your French CV summary or objective statement
• Add your work history
• List your skills on French CV
• Add your education

What to include in a French CV?

Include your relevant work experience, your CV skills and your quantified accomplishments in your French CV.

France CV Tips and rules:

Length: A CV in France should not exceed two pages.

Terminology: Even though the word ‘resume’ has its roots in the French language, what many Anglos call a resume the French call a CV. Don’t get these confused, as it is important to have the terminology correct - for your job applications in France, you will be writing a CV, not a resume.

France CV Format, Order and Layout:

Photo: In French CVs, a picture is expected. According to Samia Zeriahene, quoted in The Local, an appropriate and professional photo is key. “It’s good to show you have taken the time to take a special picture for your CV,” says Zeriahene.

Personal Information: Include your name, address, phone number, email address, date of birth (or age), and marital status (as well as the number of children you have).

Objective: A brief description of your strengths and goals is acceptable to include near the top of your resume.

Work experience: Your Work Experience section is the most important part of your resume. Display your previous positions in reverse-chronological order, including the name of the company, your job title, and the dates you held the position. According to cvrite, you should “include facts and figures to provide substance to the content” - use quantifiable information wherever possible to complement your achievements

Education: Showcase your most impressive academic achievements. Include dates, diplomas, and institution names.

Resume template: Browse through our gallery of French resume templates.

Other France CV sections:

Skills: A brief list of skills can be an asset to your CV. Skill lists are great ways to showcase your capabilities in a quick, digestible way.

Volunteer experience: This section should be brief should you choose to have one, but inclusion can show that you are well-rounded and hard working.

Languages: Include an unobtrusive list of languages that you are fluent in.

Conclusion:

When writing your CV for positions in France, it is important to customize the content to best suit French work culture. The expectations are different from American resumes - for example, age and a picture are expected. If possible, having a French local look over your resume is a great way to get some feedback on your France CV.