Resume Writing Tips for International Students in Germany
Are you an international student in Germany navigating a new culture and language while also trying to get your resume noticed? If so, this blog post is for you! Writing a resume can be daunting no matter where you are in the world, but as an international student entering a competitive job market, knowing how to present yourself on paper may make all the difference.
We’ve put together some top tips to help you create a standout German-style resume and crush your career goals. So read on for invaluable advice on crafting your best Resume—it could just be that first important step towards success!
Top Resume Writing Tips for International Students in Germany
There are a few key differences to bear in mind when writing your Resume for the German job market. Here are our top ten tips to help you maximize your chances of success:
- Pick the Right Format
- Concentrate on Useful Skills
- Divide Your Resume into Sections
- Highlight Your International Experiences
- Proofread Carefully
- Use a Professional Email Address
- Be Specific and Concise When Describing Achievements
- Tailor Your Resume for Each Job Application
- Focus on Relevant Achievements
- Keep Your Resume to One Page
Pick the Right Format
The German job market is highly competitive, so it’s important to get your resume format right. The most popular and accepted resume style in Germany is the reverse-chronological CV which lists work experience, education, and any other relevant qualifications in reverse chronological order (i.e. starting with the most recent). Make sure you clearly label each section of your resume and make sure it’s easy to read and navigate.
Concentrate on Useful Skills
Include any language skills or computer programs you know how to use, as these are invaluable for many roles in Germany. It’s also a good idea to highlight any other skills, such as problem-solving, communication, teamwork etc, that might be useful to employers. It’s also important to show evidence of any transferable skills you’ve developed through your studies, such as research and analysis.
Divide Your Resume into Sections
Make sure your resume is organized into clearly labelled, concise sections to make it easier for employers to scan and find the information they need quickly. The key sections of a German-style resume are Personal Information; Education and Training; Professional Experience; Skills and Languages; Awards/Achievements; Hobbies, and Interests.
Highlight Your International Experiences
As an international student in Germany, you can use your unique experience and skillset as a major selling point when writing your resume. Highlight any international work or study experience you have had that might be relevant to the job you are applying for. This could include internships abroad, teaching English overseas etc. It’s also a good idea to include any foreign language skills or cultural understanding you’ve gained.
Proofread Carefully
It goes without saying, but make sure you proofread your resume carefully before submitting it. Double-check for typos and also pay attention to any grammar or formatting mistakes, as these could be picked up by employers and make you look unprofessional. It’s a good idea to get someone else to read your resume over, as they may catch something you have missed. This is also a good way to make sure it sounds fluent and coherent.
Use a Professional Email Address
When writing your contact information, use a professional email address that includes your name rather than an informal address such as ‘crazydude123’, which would not give a good first impression to potential employers. This could make all the difference when it comes to getting your resume noticed. It’s also a good idea to include a phone number where you can be easily reached. You could also include your LinkedIn profile if you have one.
Be Specific and Concise When Describing Achievements
Rather than simply listing what you did in each role, focus on specific achievements such as awards and projects completed—this will make it easier for employers to assess the value you can bring to their business quickly. Try and keep your descriptions concise and avoid repeating yourself. It’s also important to include any relevant numbers, such as budget figures or sales targets met, as this provides more concrete evidence of your success.
Tailor Your Resume for Each Job Application
It’s always important to tailor your resume for each job application by emphasizing the skills and experience that are most relevant to that particular role. Think about what makes you suitable for the position in question, and make sure these points stand out on your resume. It’s also useful to include some keywords from the job description to make sure your resume gets noticed.
Focus on Relevant Achievements
When writing about specific achievements within a role, highlight any successes that are directly related to the job you are applying for—this will help demonstrate why you would be an ideal candidate for the role. Moreover, try to focus on work-related achievements, such as reducing costs, increasing sales etc. You should also include any relevant certifications, awards or other qualifications that you possess. It’s also important to provide evidence of any successes, such as sales results or customer feedback.
Keep Your Resume to One Page
For international students, it is recommended to keep your resume concise and to one page, as this is considered the standard in Germany. If your resume is longer than one page, it’s a good idea to cut out any unnecessary information. It’s also a good idea to have someone else read through your resume to make sure it is clear and relevant.
By following these tips, you can make sure your resume stands out from other applicants and gives you the best chance of success when applying for jobs in Germany.
Conclusion
Creating a resume for the German job market can be a challenging task, but following these key tips should help you make sure that your resume is up to the standard expected by employers. Make sure you focus on relevant skills and experience, use concise language and keep your resume to one page to ensure that it stands out from other applicants. It’s also important to tailor your resume for each job application, as this will help you to emphasize why you are the ideal candidate for the role in question.
