A compelling CV is the first step in helping your potential employer pick you among other candidates.
Do you seek to work or study in any of the European countries? If yes, then you must observe how to write a European style CV for your application.
A CV may have the same meaning and require the same information in different countries but when it comes to the writing style, it differs. In Europe specifically, there is a particular CV writing style that is acceptable. But generally, your CV must showcase your skills and abilities. It must also be easy to understand.
In this article, we have put together all the information you need to know about how to write a European style CV. We also included a sample of a European style CV that will assist you in writing yours.
What is a European Style CV
A European Style CV is a resume-style document that candidates use in applying for studies and jobs in most European countries. Before now, the common type of CV format used for any job or study application in Europe was the Europass CV. But currently, to scale your chances of employment, a European style CV is the best. The next section will tell you more about the Europass CV.
About Europass CV
The Europass CV is a standard CV template that was established in 2005 by the European Commission(EU) for candidates applying to European jobs and schools. The purpose was to standardize the CV format across Europe. And also, to enable recruiters working in different languages and cultures to assess potential employees outside Europe.
Whether you intend to study or work in Europe, the Europass CV helps applicants for European visas to communicate their academic and work background compellingly and concisely.
Also, the Europass CV is a one-page document that you can easily send to different employers across European nations, without the fear of the format being rejected.
Here’s how the Europass CV works – Your CV is generated by submitting your information into a template wizard. After that, your information will be formatted and arranged for you. The good thing about Europass CV is that it saves time. Nevertheless, a European style CV remains a better option.
Why You Should Go for a European Style CV Instead of Europass
While the Europass is a good idea, you should understand that it’s a one page document that includes a standard and concise information outline for work experience, qualifications, and skills. The downside of this is that, it doesn’t give room for creativity as it is auto-formatted. Also, you can’t give an in-depth information about your career and academic background. Hence, it is best to create a European Style CV which will give you the room for specific details that you may not be able to cover while using the Europass CV format.
Furthermore, the Europass CV is an outdated CV format which can kill your chances of employment. Compared to an European style CV, the Europass CV has an incompetent structure that restricts you from taking control of your CV. It makes you fill your information according to the Europass priority. And sometimes, these priorities rarely matches what the recruiter is looking for.
That’s why using a European style CV is best since it will enable you to showcase as much needful information.
Other reasons why you should use the European style CV instead of Europass are,
- European style CV can contain enough relevant information while the Europass CV lacks much relevant information.
- The European style CV is a good CV that makes effective use of spaces, but the Europass CV is limited.
- Lastly, the Europass CV is not generally accepted in the UK, so, a more detailed European style CV is best.
How to Write a European Style CV
Remember that your CV is your first meeting with your employer and as such, it should be impressive and outstanding. Below is how to write a European style CV.
1. Include Your Professional Picture and Email Address
Your professional picture might not be 100% necessary but most European employers will like to see a picture of you. So, make sure your picture is on the top corner of the first page of your CV while considering the quality of the picture. Also, ensure to include your professional email address in your European style CV.
2. Tell the Language(s) You Speak
Let your recruiter know the language(s) you speak by indicating your proficiency level. For example – English (native), French (conversational). Also, whether you’re moving to Europe or you already reside there, it will be an added advantage if you can communicate in any of the most common languages in the European countries. Which includes: English, French, German, Russian, Italian, etc.
3. Indicate Your Nationality
Indicate the country you are from. Apparently, you are not the only one applying for the job in Europe, there are other applicants from around the world so let your employer know your nationality. E.g., City: Berlin, Country: Germany.
4. Present Your Experience Clearly
You should highlight your relevant skills, experience, and achievements clearly. This can be done correctly, by matching it to the job you are applying for. Also, be observant of the details published in the vacancy notice.
5. Tailor Your CV
Tailor your CV by giving full and significant details about yourself. That is, you should tell the recruiter why you are the best person for the job. However, when doing this make sure to focus on facts and points that match the job you are applying for.
6. List Your Experience in Reverse Chronological Order
Make use of reverse-chronological format when listing your experiences. That is, list your most recent experiences first followed by the others. You can also describe your work and learning process.
7. Proofread
Lastly, check for spelling and grammar mistakes. Since it is a European style CV you might want to seek the help of a native proofreader to help you check for errors.
European Style CV Format
- Font style: Arial, Tahoma, Century Gothic, Times New Roman
- Font Size: 12
- Spacing: 1.5
Tips for Writing European Style CV
1. When writing your CV for European countries, you should understand that there are some country-based CV requirements that you should adhere to. So, ensure to “do your research” and incorporate them in your document.
2. The appearance of your CV matters a lot. Make sure the write-up is neat, well-formatted, and not too long.
3. Just as we said earlier, prioritize using reverse-chronological cv format
4. Keep your CV at a reasonable length. No matter your experience level, ensure to avoid the fluff and only keep what is relevant in your CV. At Fasthire, we always recommend a 2-page maximum CV, and depending on your level it could be a bit longer but ensure the details are relevant.
Sample European Style CV
Below is a free sample of a European style CV provided in Document and PDF format.
Conclusion
A European style CV is needed to give a good record of all your skills, qualifications and experience. If you aim to get a job in Europe, do well to follow these steps on how to write a European-style CV or you can use the PDF/document format provided in this article. Better still, contact us to write for you.
Do You Need a CV Writing or Review Service for Your European CV?
Believe it or not, having an expert to assist you in your application process will do you more good. If you feel you need assistance with your European CV, or a second eye to look at the document you’ve already prepared, contact us today and an expert will be assigned to you.
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