How to Write a German CV (Lebenslauf): Examples and Tips

Germany, renowned for innovation and opportunity, has consistently attracted global talent. Whether you're contemplating a move to this dynamic nation or already navigating its job market, the key to success lies in crafting a compelling and modern CV in German.

With its robust economy and diverse industries, Germany presents a wealth of career possibilities. Yet, in this melting pot of international professionals, the CV template you choose must stand out as prima to secure that coveted interview.

Regardless of your current level of German, this guide helps you understand the differences between English and German language CVs, shows you how to translate your document and introduces core terms and phrases you can use in your job search.

Writing a good CV that effectively captures your qualifications and experiences is no easy task. But, armed with this knowledge, you can craft a ‘Lebenslauf’ that not only meets but exceeds industry standards, positioning you for success in Germany's competitive job market.

While this article focuses on the German job market, this advice can be used across the DACH region (Germany, Austria and Switzerland).

German CV Example / CV auf deutsch

Download this German CV Example in PDF.

Using the Harvard CV template, Jonathan clearly and concisely segments his personal details, core skills and qualifications whilst providing a clear timeline to his work experience. Implementing icons and dividers he quickly draws the hiring manager's attention to the most important details.

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Important terms for a German CV

To secure an interview in Germany, it's vital to craft a well-structured and job-specific CV. But, knowing where to start and taking the first steps in a foreign language can be frustrating. The CV creation process in Germany involves two key steps: establishing a master CV and customising it for each job application.

Below are a few core terms and phrases all German and DACH region job-seekers need to know before getting started.

What to include in a German CV? 

While the content and focus of a CV may vary across sectors such as finance, engineering or teaching, certain sections remain consistent with UK applications. These include:

• Contact Information - Kontaktdaten

• Personal Profile - Kurzprofil

• Professional Experience - Berufserfahrung

• Education - Bildungsweg or Ausbildung

• Skills - Fähigkeiten or Kompetenzen

• Language Skills - Sprachkenntnisse

• Certifications and Training - Zertifikate und Weiterbildungen

• References - Referenzen or Zeugnisse

Some sections specific to German CVs include:

• Hobbies and Interests - Hobbys und Interessen

• Photo - Foto

• Date and Place of Birth - Geburtsdatum und Geburtsort

• Marital Status (sometimes included) - Familienstand

• Nationality - Staatsangehörigkeit

• Driving License (if relevant) - Führerschein

What is a personal profile (Kurzprofil) on a German CV? 

Your personal profile, or Kurzprofil in German, is a brief section of your CV that provides a snapshot of your key qualifications, career aspirations and unique qualities. Personal profiles are somewhat underutilised in German CVs, presenting an opportunity for applicants to distinguish themselves.

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What skills (Kenntnisse) should I add to my German CV?

When creating a CV for UK or German-speaking employers - whether in customer service, hospitality, banking, or IT - effectively showing you have the hard and soft skills relevant to the position you are applying for is a must. Here are some common skills German hiring managers frequently look for. For more information, see what skills you should put on your CV.

When applying for a position abroad it is a good idea to include language skills where possible. Be sure to include works-in-progress as well as fluent languages.

Soft skills for a German CV/ Sozialkompetenzen für einen deutschen Lebenslauf:

• Communication - Kommunikation

• Teamwork - Teamarbeit

• Problem-Solving - Problemlösung

• Adaptability - Anpassungsfähigkeit

• Leadership - Führung

• Time Management - Zeitmanagement

• Creativity - Kreativität

• Conflict Resolution - Konfliktlösung.

Hard skills for a German CV/ Fachkompetenzen für einen deutschen Lebenslauf:

• Programming - Programmierung

• Data Analysis - Datenanalyse

• Project Management - Projektmanagement

• Financial Analysis - Finanzanalyse

• Foreign Languages - Fremdsprachen

• Graphic Design - Grafikdesign

• Mechanical Engineering - Maschinenbau

• Sales and Marketing - Vertrieb und Marketing.

How to format work experience (Berufserfahrung) on a German CV? 

When crafting a German CV, the work experience section is a pivotal component that can significantly influence your job prospects. This section should showcase your professional journey in reverse chronological order and highlight your suitability for the role. Understanding how to write work experience effectively is crucial, especially for students or graduates who might need to emphasise transferable skills due to little or no work experience.

Examples of work experience on a German CV/ Berufserfahrung Beispiele für einen deutschen Lebenslauf

Maschinenbauingenieur | Bisch GmbH, Gerlingen | 2019 - gegenwärtig

Als Maschinenbauingenieur bei Bisch GmbH leitete ich die Entwicklung und Implementierung effizienter Maschinendesigns, die zu einer 15%igen Produktivitätssteigerung führten. Mein Fokus lag auf der Optimierung bestehender Systeme, was zu einer Reduzierung der Betriebskosten um 20% beitrug. Koordinierte mit interdisziplinären Teams, um Ingenieursprozesse und -ergebnisse zu verbessern.

• Entwickelte ein neues Turbinen-Design, das den Energieverbrauch um 10% senkte.

• Führte ein Team von 5 Ingenieuren zur erfolgreichen Umsetzung eines Projekts, das die Produktionszeit um 25% verkürzte.

Kundenbetreuer | Lauter Telekom AG, Berlin | 2020 - 2023

In meiner Rolle als Kundenbetreuer bei der Lauter Telekom verbesserte ich die Kundenzufriedenheitsrate um 30% durch effektive Kommunikation und schnelle Problemlösung. Ich war verantwortlich für die Bearbeitung von durchschnittlich 50 Kundenanfragen pro Tag, wobei ich stets auf eine hohe Servicequalität achtete. Implementierte innovative Lösungen zur Verbesserung der Kundenerfahrung und Serviceeffizienz.

• Implementierte ein neues Feedback-System, das die Kundenrückmeldungen um 40% erhöhte.

• Erzielte eine durchschnittliche Lösungsrate von 95% bei Erstkontakten.

Werkstudent im Marketing | Looop GmbH, Hamburg | 2021 - 2022

Als Werkstudent im Marketing bei Looop unterstützte ich bei der Durchführung von Online-Marketingkampagnen, was zu einer Steigerung der Webseitenbesuche um 20% führte. Ich analysierte Markttrends und Kundenfeedback, um zielgerichtete Werbestrategien zu entwickeln. Koordinierte mit verschiedenen Abteilungen, um den Erfolg von Marketinginitiativen sicherzustellen.

• Koordinierte eine Social-Media-Kampagne, die die Follower-Zahlen um 15% erhöhte.

• Führte eine Marktanalyse durch, die wesentlich zur Entwicklung einer neuen Produktlinie beitrug.

Finanzanalyst | Graumann Group Bank AG, Frankfurt | 2018 - 2021

In meiner Funktion als Finanzanalyst bei der Deutschen Bank spielte ich eine Schlüsselrolle bei der Analyse und Bewertung von Investitionsprojekten, was zu einer Steigerung der Portfolio-Rendite um 12% führte. Ich war verantwortlich für die Erstellung detaillierter Finanzberichte und Prognosen. Leitete Initiativen zur Verbesserung der Finanzanalyse und Investitionsstrategien.

• Entwickelte ein Risikobewertungsmodell, das die Genauigkeit der Investitionsprognosen um 30% verbesserte.

• Leitete ein Projekt zur Kostenreduzierung, das jährliche Einsparungen von über 1 Million Euro erzielte.

What is the best way to list education (Ausbildung) on a German CV?

When listing your education, start with the highest degree obtained and work backwards. Include the name of the institution, degree title, field of study and the dates attended. If you've achieved notable grades or distinctions, mention these as well.

For recent graduates or those with less work experience, this section is particularly crucial as it showcases academic prowess and relevant knowledge. In the DACH region, a strong educational background often holds significant weight and can be a key deciding factor for employers, more so than in the UK.

German equivalents of UK qualifications

*Specific level depends on the NVQ level (e.g., Berufsausbildung for NVQ Level 2 or 3)

**Often equated to Fachhochschuldiplom

Translate an English CV into German

Translating your CV into the local language can significantly enhance your job application, demonstrating your commitment to integrating into the local culture and business environment. It shows potential employers you're serious about your career in their country and respectful of language and customs. Here are some concise tips for effectively translating your CV into German:

• Native speaker review: Have it reviewed by a native German speaker.

• Adapt to German standards: Include specific German CV formatting and content.

• Cultural and terminology adaptation: Reflect German business culture and use German job titles and qualifications.

• Proofreading: Ensure there are no grammatical or spelling errors.

• Use professional translation services: For accuracy and cultural nuances consider using a professional CV writing service.

Key takeaways

Preparing a top-notch CV is challenging at the best of times, let alone doing it in another language. Let’s take a step back and recap.

Next steps?

Draw inspiration from our blog for tips on how to save time, emphasise important sections and make it easier for hiring managers to grasp your unique professional offer. To accompany your CV, discover our cover letter templates.

FAQs

Can I work in Germany without speaking German?

Yes, it's possible, especially in international companies or specific industries like IT. However, knowing German can significantly broaden your job opportunities and integration into the workplace.

Do you need a photo on a CV in Germany?

Yes, including a professional photo on your CV is a common practice in Germany and expected by most employers. Learn more about including a photo on a CV.

Should I write my CV in German or English?

Generally, write your CV in German unless applying to an international company where the business language is English.

How do I add references to my German CV?

List references at the end of your CV with their name, position, company, and contact information, or simply state “References available upon request/ Referenzen auf Anfrage verfügbar.” Discover more advice on how and when to add references on a CV.

What is the best CV format for a German CV?

A reverse-chronological format, listing your most recent experiences first, is preferred in Germany, with clear sections and a professional layout. Follow our tips on how long a CV should be.