CV vs. Resume: Understanding the German Lebenslauf
Applying for jobs in Germany? You’ve probably come across different terms like CV, Resume, and the German ‘Lebenslauf’. It can be confusing! Are they all the same thing? Which one do German employers actually want to see?
Don’t worry, we’re here to clear things up. Understanding the difference is crucial for making the right impression. Let’s break down what each term means and focus on what you need for the German job market.
First, What’s a Resume?
Think of a Resume as a short, sharp summary of your professional life. It’s most common in the USA and Canada.
- Length: Usually just one page, maybe two for very experienced professionals.
- Focus: Highly tailored to the specific job you’re applying for. It highlights only the most relevant skills, experience, and achievements.
- Goal: To quickly show an employer why you’re a great fit for that particular role.
And What About a CV (Curriculum Vitae)?
Outside North America, ‘CV’ (Curriculum Vitae – Latin for ‘course of life’) often refers to a much more detailed document.
- Length: Can be several pages long.
- Focus: Provides a comprehensive overview of your entire academic and professional history. It often includes details like publications, conferences, research, and detailed educational background.
- Use: Common in academia globally and for many professional roles outside the US/Canada.
Enter the German ‘Lebenslauf’
Now, let’s talk about Germany. When a German employer asks for your application documents, they expect a Lebenslauf.
So, is it a Resume or a CV? The German Lebenslauf is closer in spirit to the comprehensive international CV, but it has its own specific conventions and expectations. It is definitely NOT the short, punchy US-style Resume.
Think of the Lebenslauf as a detailed, factual account of your life’s relevant experiences, presented in a specific way.
Key Features of a German Lebenslauf:
Here’s what makes a German Lebenslauf distinct:
- Length & Detail: Typically 1-3 pages, depending on your experience level. It needs to be more comprehensive than a US Resume, providing a fuller picture.
- Structure: Usually presented in reverse chronological order (most recent experiences first). It uses clear sections like:
- Personal Details (Persönliche Daten)
- Work Experience (Berufserfahrung / Beruflicher Werdegang)
- Education (Ausbildung / Studium)
- Skills (Kenntnisse und Fähigkeiten - Languages, IT, etc.)
- Optional Sections: Hobbies/Interests (Hobbys/Interessen), Volunteering (Ehrenamtliches Engagement)
- Photo (Foto): This is a big one! Traditionally, a professional passport-style photo is included in the top right corner. While anti-discrimination laws mean it’s technically optional, it’s still very common and often expected, especially in more traditional industries. Omitting it can sometimes be perceived negatively, so it’s usually safer to include a good quality, professional headshot.
- Personal Details (Persönliche Daten): Often includes more detail than international norms, such as Date of Birth (Geburtsdatum), Place of Birth (Geburtsort), and sometimes Marital Status (Familienstand) and Nationality (Staatsangehörigkeit). Again, due to equality laws, these are technically optional, but were historically standard. Check industry norms, but be aware they might appear on templates or examples you find.
- Completeness (Lückenlosigkeit): German employers appreciate a complete timeline. Try to account for all periods, even if it means briefly explaining gaps (e.g.,