German employers read a CV as a factual record: tabular, reverse-chronological, with month-and-year dates and no unexplained gaps. Elsewhere in the EU, conventions vary by country, but two decisions come up for nearly every applicant: whether to use a German-style CV or an international English one, and how to state language skills so recruiters can trust them.
The German Lebenslauf
- One to two pages in a tabular layout, with dates (MM/YYYY) on the left and role and achievements on the right
- Reverse-chronological order, which is now standard
- An optional photo; many employers no longer expect one, though it remains common
- Personal details limited to contact information, with date of birth and nationality optional
- Gaps labeled in a few words, such as "Parental leave" or "German course, Goethe-Institut"
- A closing date and signature, which are traditional but increasingly optional
German recruiters also value documentary evidence, such as degree certificates and employer references. Formal German references (Arbeitszeugnisse) will not exist for jobs abroad, so experience letters from previous employers are the closest substitute.
The Anschreiben still matters
Many German employers still expect a cover letter (Anschreiben), although startups and international firms increasingly make it optional. When one is requested, it is read closely: one page, addressed to a named person where possible, explaining why this company and this role, and backed by a concrete example of your fit. Our cover letter guide covers structure, and the cover letter generator gives you a first draft to refine.
Europass, English CVs and language levels
Europass, the EU's free CV tool, suits EU-funded programs, some public bodies and academic applications, but many private recruiters find its default layout long and generic. For international companies in Berlin, Munich, Amsterdam or Dublin, a clean two-page English CV usually works better. Whatever the format, label languages with CEFR levels, such as "German B1 (Goethe-Zertifikat)" or "English C1", instead of words like fluent, and claim only a level you could demonstrate in an interview.
LinkedIn, XING and job portals
LinkedIn is the main network for international and English-speaking roles. XING, now positioned mainly as a jobs platform for the German-speaking market, is still worth a complete profile if you target Germany, Austria or Switzerland. StepStone, Indeed and the Federal Employment Agency's job portal list many German vacancies, and EURES covers jobs across the EU. GrowUpCareer prepares CVs, cover letters and LinkedIn profiles; we do not give visa or immigration advice.
FAQ
Can you write my CV in German?
We write in English. If an employer requires German documents, have the final version adapted by a native speaker or professional translator, and make sure your stated German level matches the language you apply in.
Is a photo required on a German CV?
No. Applications without one are normal, especially at international companies, and if you include one, use a professional headshot.
Do German employers care about gaps?
More than many markets do. A short, honest label for any gap of a few months or more answers the question before a recruiter has to ask it.
Should I use Europass for every EU application?
Only when an employer or program asks for it; otherwise a well-structured CV suited to the country and company usually works better.