Cultural Differences

There are subtle cultural differences in writing a Curriculum Vitae. In Spain, candidates tend to include a photograph. In Northern Europe and the US, this is far less common. Date of Birth is normally included on European CV's but never included in the U.S. Marital status tends to be included in Spain only in the case that it helps the candidate obtain the interview [for example: a candidate can put their civil status as "single" if he/she intends to do international work where it may be required to relocate and/or be available to travel. In this case, the company can assume that this candidate may be more easy to relocate (temporarily or definitely) to another country than a candidate who has a family], but is not relevant in other countries. Here is a quick country-by-country guide.

Spain
One or two-page CV in Spanish or English which should include a photograph and personal information such as date of birth, nationality. It is common to put a one-line description of companies in which you have worked e.g. "Leading Spanish Pharmaceutical Company with Profits of Euros 2 million and 550 employees".

United States
One-page "résumé" typically includes Objective or Summary at the top. Never include personal information (e.g. date of birth, nationality, marital status). If you have U.S. citizenship or a green card, say so. Work experience should be very focused on your achievements and successes e.g. "Successfully re-engineered customer ordering process leading to 20% cost savings over 6 months". Academic excellence (e.g. scholarships or prizes) is valued and should be mentioned in the Education section.

United Kingdom
One or two-page CV should not include photograph but should include personal information. Focus on relevant work experience, extra-curricular activities (volunteer work, team sports, clubs) and international experience.

France
One-page CV can include photograph and should include personal information. Men should state whether they have completed military service. Emphasis should be on relevant work experience, adademic achievements, language skills (French is a necessity!). Traditionally, French recruiters have been known to use graphology, the reading of handwriting, to assess candidates. It is still common for cover letters to be handwritten.

Germany
One-page, tabular CV with brief description of all education and work experience, including internships. Photograph and personal information are usually required. Language skills are important - fluent German is a strong advantage. Traditionally, German companies have expected to receive copies of certificates (e.g. high school, university) and references with CVs - check with the company you are applying to whether this is necessary.

For more cultural differences by country check the pdf guides available at Labour Mobility containing more tips and advice: http://www.labourmobility.com/individuals/cultmandiff/index.html

Also view more detailed information and samples of CVs included in the "Country Guides" seccion at Going Global