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Language skills can significantly enhance your CV, whether you're bilingual, multilingual, or even just starting to learn a new language. Employers value candidates who can communicate across cultures and speak multiple languages, especially in global industries like business, sales, education, and customer service.
This guide will walk you through how to effectively include language skills on your CV, highlight your proficiency, and tailor this information to stand out to potential employers.
In this article, we cover:
Who should include language skills?
Best jobs for multilingual individuals.
Benefits of adding languages in CV.
Examples of how to include languages on a CV.
Different language level frameworks and English courses in the UK/EU.
It's important to note that many large companies utilise applicant tracking systems (ATS), automated software that handles numerous applications. ATS allows recruiters and hiring managers to filter candidates based on criteria like work experience and specific keywords, including language skills.
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Customisable job-specific CV examples
For further guidance on crafting an impressive CV, refer to our article on how to write a good CV. Alternatively, let's dive right in!
Explore these language specific CV example if you are thinking about applying for a job abroad:
Why are language skills important on a CV?
CV language skills demonstrate more than just the ability to speak another language. They reflect your communication skills, cultural intelligence, and adaptability. Including them can make your CV more relevant to job roles requiring interaction with diverse teams, clients, or international markets.
If you're applying for roles that involve global travel, customer service, or teamwork across different countries, a strategic display of your language proficiency can give you an edge.
Who should include languages on a CV?
Besides traditional roles like translation, multilingual skills are valued across sectors such as customer service, hospitality, journalism, and international sales. Multilingualism enhances cognitive abilities, demonstrates eagerness to learn, and offers valuable transferable skills.
Best jobs for multilingual individuals include but are not limited to:
Translation or interpretation
Customer service representative
Hospitality industry positions
Journalism
Flight attendant
International sales, marketing, or business development
Writing
Language teaching.
Explore the following job-specific CV examples where your language skills can be an advantage:
Benefits of including language skills on a CV
Including language skills on a modern CV depends on your industry or the nature of the job. While it may not be mandatory in the UK, listing your proficiency in a specific language can greatly benefit job applications abroad.
Enhances memory, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities.
Expands job opportunities, especially internationally.
Demonstrates cultural awareness and adaptability.
Facilitates effective communication with diverse audiences.
Increases competitiveness in the global job market.
Pro Tip
Even if language skills aren't explicitly required for a particular job, they demonstrate your eagerness to learn and highlight valuable transferable skills.
Language skills CV example
The different language proficiency levels in the UK
Language proficiency is typically classified into beginner, intermediate, and advanced levels. Depending on the language, you may need to pass a proficiency test. Keep in mind that various languages and regions have standardised proficiency tests, often issued by the government, which you can include on your CV. Clarity is key when describing language skills. Avoid vague terms like “basic” or “conversational”. Instead, use structured frameworks such as the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) or scales like beginner, intermediate, advanced, fluent, or native speaker.
Standard terminology
In non-work settings, specific terms are commonly used to indicate language proficiency levels. Consider using the following language-level descriptors:
Native Language
Excellent
Good.
International CEFR Standard
Are you applying for an international company? In that case, we recommend you state your language level based on international standards. Alternatively, you can explore the Europass CV format. CEFR distinguishes between six different language levels:
Break down CEFR levels:
The CEFR is widely recognised and offers a clear standard for language proficiency. Here’s a simplified summary:
| Level | Proficiency | What you can do |
|---|---|---|
| A1 | Beginner | Use basic phrases, introduce yourself, and communicate simple needs. |
| A2 | Elementary | Handle straightforward information and simple exchanges on familiar topics. |
| B1 | Intermediate | Discuss routine matters, give opinions, and describe experiences. |
| B2 | Upper Intermediate | Interact naturally with native speakers on most topics, including work and travel. |
| C1 | Advanced | Use language flexibly for professional or academic contexts, with well-structured output. |
| C2 | Mastery | Use language at near-native fluency, handle complex topics effortlessly. |
Example:
French (C1): Strong command for business negotiations and formal documents.
German (B1): Confident in verbal and written communication for everyday tasks.
Explore the following CV examples for jobs where language skills can be beneficial:
Where to put language skills on a CV?
You can showcase your language skills in several parts of your CV. Here are the key sections to consider:
Skills section: Ideal for listing language proficiencies clearly with your proficiency levels.
Professional personal profile: Briefly mention language skills if they align with the role (e.g., "Fluent in English and Spanish – skilled in bridging communication between global teams").
Work experience: Highlight how you’ve used a language in past roles, such as handling translations, liaising with international clients, or conducting multilingual training.
Education or certifications: Include formal language qualifications, such as a degree in a foreign language or certifications for specific proficiency levels.
CV language section: Perfect for drawing attention to the languages you speak.
Example of language skills in a personal profile
Highly motivated and culturally diverse professional with extensive experience in translation, communication, and international relations. Fluent in French,English, and Arabic, possessing the ability to bridge cultural gaps and facilitate effective communication across diverse populations. Passion for languages and cultures has driven me to pursue a career where I can utilise my multilingual skills to make a significant impact.
How to list languages on a CV
Education, certifications, or relevant work experience can validate your language skills. However, it's important to note that the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) is widely recognised in the United Kingdom to describe language ability.
Pro Tip
When listing language skills, adopt a top-down approach. Prioritise languages based on their relevance to the job you're applying for.
For example, if fluency in French is a key requirement, highlight this early on such as in your personal profile and reinforce it throughout your CV. Include only languages in which you possess sufficient proficiency for professional usage. Additionally, don't forget to indicate your native or bilingual languages alongside languages you have learnt along the way.
Examples of how to phrase language skills
Customise your language skills based on the job role. Here are examples for different CV sections:
Skills section:
Multilingual: Fluent in English (native), Spanish (C1), and German (B2).
Language Skills: Expertise in French (B2), with experience in legal translation.
Work experience:
“Liaised with bilingual teams across Europe, providing high-level communications in French and Spanish.”
“Translated training manuals from English to Mandarin, ensuring accuracy and cultural relevance.”
Professional summary:
“Experienced marketing manager fluent in three languages, skilled in cross-cultural collaboration.”
Certifications or education:
“DELE Spanish Diploma (C1) – certified by the Instituto Cervantes.”
Common mistakes to avoid
Overstating your skills: Make sure the levels you list accurately reflect your ability. For example, don’t claim fluency if you’re only conversationally proficient.
Mixing terminologies: Stick to a single framework (e.g., CEFR or basic/advanced levels) to avoid confusion.
Forgetting relevance: Include languages that align with the job, industry, or region. Listing four languages when only one is relevant might dilute your profile.
Skipping proofreading: If you mention proficiency in a language, ensure everything on your CV, including grammatical accuracy, is flawless.
Uneven placement: Keep your language skills concise and consistent across sections to maintain professionalism.
UK and EU English language courses
The most popular English proficiency tests in the UK include but are not limited to:
Cambridge English exams: First (FCE), Advanced (CAE), and Proficiency (CPE), are widely recognised for assessing English language proficiency.
International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is a popular exam used to assess English language proficiency for study, work, or migration purposes.
Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) is an exam commonly accepted by educational institutions and employers to measure English language proficiency for non-native speakers.
Trinity College offers a range of language exams, including Integrated Skills in English (ISE) and Graded Examinations in Spoken English (GESE), which are recognised in the UK.
European Consortium for the Certificate of Attainment in Modern Languages (ECL) exams are accepted for assessing language proficiency in European languages, such as German, French, Spanish, and Italian.
These are just a few examples, and many other language courses and exams are available that are recognised and accepted for determining language levels in the UK. It's important to research and select the appropriate course or exam based on the language you want to assess and the specific requirements of the institution or employer you are targeting.
Additional tips to enhance presentation
Include certifications:
Language certifications, such as TOEFL, DELE, or JLPT, build a stronger case for your abilities.
Use relevant keywords:
Recruiters often scan for terms like "language skills", "CEFR proficiency", or "bilingual communication". Weave these into your CV seamlessly.
Tool-assisted evaluation:
If unsure about your proficiency, download a free assessment tool online or take a language test like Duolingo English Test.
Key takeaways
Your language skills are assets that set your CV apart. Ultimately, a CV should be concise, pertinent, and honest. Include information that is necessary or has the potential to make your CV unique. When listing language skills, employ strategies that highlight your proficiency but ensure you can confidently support your claims during an interview.
Be honest about your level of proficiency.
Mention language ability in your cover letter or the application form itself.
Include your native language, mainly if you are applying to an international company or looking for a job abroad.
Avoid mixing different language frameworks as it can confuse a reader.
Next steps?
Explore our extensive collection of CV examples and cover letter examples for inspiration. Alternatively, you can opt for our CV writing services or utilise our CV builder to craft your own documents.
FAQs
What is native language?
A native language is the language you first learned and spoke at home during childhood. It is the language you are most fluent and comfortable with, often referred to as the "mother tongue."
How to list your native language on a CV?
Create a dedicated section titled "Languages" or "Language Skills." List your native language in a CV first, indicating it as "Native" or "Mother tongue."
Languages:
English (Native)
Spanish (C2)
French (B2)
Should you put languages on a CV?
Yes, you should include languages on your CV, particularly if you are applying for positions where multilingual skills are beneficial or if the job description specifically mentions language requirements.
Do you put mother tongue or native language on CV?
Both terms are acceptable. Use "native language" for clarity, especially if your CV is for an international audience. It helps potential employers understand your language proficiency more clearly.
Should I list a language on my CV?
Yes, if you have a reasonable proficiency in the language. Listing languages can showcase your ability to communicate in different cultural contexts and highlight valuable skills that might be relevant to the job.
Where do I put English if it’s my native language?
You can include English under "Languages" as "Native speaker" or blend it into your professional summary.
