If you are looking for an internship or a job internationally, writing a CV in English becomes essential. This task can quickly turn into a headache if you start it at the last minute and without specific instructions. Additionally, it is important to understand that writing a CV in English should not be the translation of your French CV. This is why we offer you all the tips and some examples of CVs in English!
CV in English vs CV in French: what are the differences?
When writing your CV in English, you must keep in mind that a word-for-word translation of your CV into French is a serious mistake. You risk making mistakes and not respecting the codes specific to English CVs.
The photo of the English CV
A professional photo has always appeared on your CV in French. It allows recruiters to establish a connection with their candidates and give a warmer and more human side to selections. On the other hand, a photo in an English CV is strongly discouraged. It is also one element among many others not to be mentioned (sex, family situation, age). Anti-discrimination laws prohibit this and your application will therefore not be accepted.
English CV: 1 or 2 pages?
French CVs are generally presented on a single page. Recruiters spend an average of 11 seconds per CV. This is why you need to be as concise as possible. However, for the English CV, you can afford to extend it to two pages. This is your opportunity to detail your experiences and earn points. If, moreover, you apply for an offer in Germany, the most recommended is to send a two-page CV.
Linguistic differences between a French CV and an English CV
You should know that certain words in English are used or written differently between English-speaking countries. Starting with the word CV itself. If you plan to go to the United States or Canada, you must use the term “resume” (pronounced “summary”). If, on the other hand, you want to go to the United Kingdom or Ireland, it is best to use the “CV” (pronounced “civi”).
Not paying attention to certain linguistic subtleties or certain codes can cost you dearly when applying. You must therefore take these variations into account and adapt your CV according to the country when writing it.
Structure and writing of the English CV
Personal details: Marital status
This section comes at the top left of the CV and must contain the following elements: your first and last name, your email address, your telephone number, your LinkedIn profile and your address. You can also add your personal website, if you have one.
Career planning: Professional objective
This section of the English CV can also be titled “professional goals” or “professional objectives”. This section allows the recruiter to first see the key skills and qualities that you want to highlight. This part should briefly detail your professional project and the position you wish to occupy. This is a 2-3 line teaser summarizing your profile and reflecting your professional objective. This part comes after civil status. It is generally framed. It is agreed that this section be written in the first person, without using the personal pronoun “I”.
Education: Academic career
As in France, in Anglo-Saxon countries, it is important to list your educational background in reverse chronological order. Recruiters need to have your recent studies in front of them.
Furthermore, do not translate word for word the titles of diplomas that do not exist in England or the United States. Instead, they need to be explained clearly. Diplomas obtained in France do not have equivalence everywhere. Furthermore, only cite your mentions if they are excellent. Having obtained a degree with “high distinction/honors” gives more credibility to your application.
Here are some translations that may be of great use to you:
- Doctorate: Ph.D.
- DEA: Postgraduate degree (1 year) following my master
- License: Bachelor’s Degree
- Bachelor of Arts in Economics: Bachelor of Arts in Economics
- DEUG de science: Two-year university degree in science
- BTS: Two-year technical degree
- Example of a business school diploma: “Name of the school” diploma (Top French business school). Do not make the mistake of translating Grande École into High School. You should instead use “Top school”
- Preparatory class: two-year intensive program preparing for the national competitive exam for entry to business schools/engineering schools
- Baccalaureate: High School Diploma (US) and A Level (UK)
If you are applying to the United Kingdom, it is best to provide as much detail as possible about the courses and studies followed.
Work experience or professional experience: Professional experience
Likewise, professional experiences must be listed from most recent to oldest. It is important to mention the dates and specify the missions accomplished during this period when writing your English CV. By being precise, you will earn points with recruiters. If you apply to the United States, the ideal would be to support your words with concrete and quantified results. PFor each position held, cite at least one accomplishment. You should also remember to detail the activity of the company for which you worked, citing its performance and achievements. The recruiter does not necessarily know all the companies.
Languages & IT Skills: Language and IT skills
Recruiters need to get a clear idea of your level in English. It is therefore useful to mention your score TOEIC (used in the United Kingdom) or your TOEFL score (recognized in the United States and Canada), when writing your English CV.
The translation of your language level is done as follows:
- mother tongue: native speaker
- excellent level: full working proficiency (corresponds to a C2 level). It is also recommended to mention your level and the number of points obtained as well as the date the certificate was obtained.
- good level: limited working proficiency
- intermediate level: elementary proficiency
To stand out and gain credibility, you can cite examples of places where you have spoken the English language and show your level of comfort.
Interests and Hobbies or Extracurricula: Centers of interest
This is the time for you to showcase your interests and passions. This is the most personal part, where you say a little more about who you are. When writing your English CV, this section will allow you to highlight the human qualities that may correspond to the company culture. Ppresents all of these points in detail, using concrete examples.
If you have a driving license, this is where it should be mentioned. This can be highly valued in the United States.
Example of CV in English
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