How do you create a convincing CV?
The photo:
First of all: Use a professional application photo. But be careful: For further use on social media, you'll need to clarify usage rights with the photographer.
A good photo significantly improves your chances. And no, not vacation photos... and not a stock photo. Ideally, a photo with so-called shallow depth of field, preferably with an architectural background. Why not with a jacket and no tie... So, depending on the position, a business casual look?
An effective CV
Submit your CV tabular It should be a maximum of 2 DIN A4 pages Limit yourself to the essentials regarding the position you are applying for.
The order of the stations mentioned is usually “top-down”, i.e. chronologically descending.
Please note: Many companies capture and read application documents electronically. Therefore, you should adhere to the standard structure of a resume.
Ideally, your resume should also include some keywords required in the job description.
Focus on what's important and be careful not to mix important and unimportant things. Less is often more.
Video applications are also a viable option for creative professions. Some companies even require them. While only about 5 percent of applications are submitted as video applications, 80% of HR managers would be happy to view a video application.
The CV should have the following structure
- personal information with photo
- Professional experience including internships
- if applicable: Voluntary year – or military service
- Vocational training, studies
- training and further education
- special knowledge and skills such as IT skills, foreign languages, soft skills
If you wish, we can prepare the application documents for you in collaboration with photographers and graphic designers.
What do employers value?
The first impression your documents make will help determine whether you advance to the next selection round.
Focus on what's important for the specific job opening. Describe convincingly why you're a good fit for the advertised position.
The job advertisement states how the application is desired.
This can be done by email, post, video application or on the company’s application portal.
Follow the employer’s wishes.
Your application must also be well-structured and free of spelling or formal errors. Ideally, your CV and cover letter should be no more than three pages long.
Be sure to have your application proofread to avoid mistakes. Often, we read what we meant to write, not what we actually wrote. 😉
Do this even if German is not your native language.
If you would like your application written in English or French, please use the proofreading services of native speakers.
We can also have your documents checked by native speakers.
And what about the cover letter?
There are many different opinions on this. We say “KISS” – Keep it simple and stupid.
Why?
Many cover letters are now captured by application portals. The goal here is to present the most important information in a structured manner.
And please, please, have mercy on the people who have to read your application. 😉
Avoid any application jargon and empty phrases.
The most important rule is that a cover letter should not be more than 1 page long.
- Make sure that the address and contact person are correct.
- Write how you became aware of the job opening.
- Use active language with short and concise sentences.
- Explain why you are the right person for the job
- State your strengths (use terms from the job advertisement if necessary)
- Explain why you are applying
- If possible, describe a special connection to the company
- State a possible start date
- End by asking them to invite you for an interview.
- State your salary expectations if requested.
On the topic of video applications and on the topic Application presentation You will find a separate menu item on our website.