Resume writing best practices differ. HRs in some regions prefer condensed resumes with top-notch accomplishments and clear goals. Others, however, love to see long and detailed CVs with all the information they might need.
The difference between the approaches to resume writing is an interesting topic to discuss. In addition to length and content, there are cultural differences that impact resume writing. Job seekers should inquire about them if they are going to relocate to another country. Failure to meet these requirements may negatively affect your chances of landing a job.
Many of you would ask: “Okay, where should I start?” Below are a few tips from top-notch resume edit service that can help you craft a winning resume no matter which country you plan to go to. We will compare international CVs with American-style documents to help you distinguish clearly.
Layout
How should a resume look in different countries? That’s a tough question. Every country has its own standards. For example, American style means a simple, minimalistic layout. That is needed to ensure that the resume is easy to scan for both ATS bots and recruiters. Employers in Middle Eastern countries also prefer simplistic resumes.
On the contrary, European and Asian countries prefer designed resumes. It doesn’t mean that you need to include charts or graphics. However, a great CV is either creative or standardized via tools like Europass.
Structure
The U.S. documents usually have a professional summary and work experience followed by the education section. The international CV often has academic qualifications and education that go before professional experience. That is why many international CVs and resumes are not properly scanned with ATS used in American companies.
Our advice is to pay special attention to layout nuances to ensure that your resume structure does not affect your chances of landing a job. Otherwise, if you fail to follow a structure common to a particular country, your resume may end up being left unconsidered.
Content
People in Middle Eastern countries include lots of personal information in their job applications. For example, it’s obligatory to mention the country of residence, nationality, marital status, and other details. Moreover, their CVs often include photographs that are absolutely unacceptable in the U.S.
This difference stems from the value of education and the importance of professional experience. Americans want to see real accomplishments on the first page. Recruiters in the Middle East and many European countries, for example, value academic qualifications and educational experiences more.
Photo
In some countries, a photo on the resume is taboo. For example, the problem of ageism and discrimination in the workplace still exists. For that reason, it is believed that not having a picture on your resume improves your chances of landing a job.
At the same time, recruiting firms and companies in Asia expect their candidates to have a clear headshot on their resumes. Sometimes, they may even specify the criteria concerning the dress code and appearance of people who can potentially land a position. And this will not be considered discriminatory.
Breakdown by Country
However, it’s much more interesting to see those differences from country to country.
United States
The U.S. sees resumes as powerful marketing tools. People are ready to pay specialists to create those documents because they know: these are their tickets to an interview. The more achievement-based the resume is, the better.
South Africa
South Africa demands the applicants to share personal information and ID details to be able to verify the applicant’s identity. Those who won’t explain their status in their resume may end up being rejected.
Australia and the U.K.
These countries value personality on the resume. Successful candidates usually have smiling pictures, quotations, and stories right on the first page. More interesting opportunities you can find at resume genius reviews on Top-resume-reviews .Moreover, some companies look specifically for creative people whose resumes look like a professional story rather than just a formal statement.
Europe and Asia
Asian and European countries also have very specific requirements concerning CVs. A clear passport-style photo is a must. Also, a greater emphasis should be put on the languages that you speak.
Moreover, education should always come first. It is considered fundamental for your career. All other professional accomplishments should follow.
Japan
Japan is not like any other country in the world. While the job markets of most countries have been enjoying the opportunities provided by the Internet, Japan still values handwritten resumes.
Of course, most specialists use digital versions as well. However, if you have a friend within the company you want to apply to, a good gesture is to hand in your handwritten resume.
Singapore
Singapore also values resumes that are precise and concise. If you are looking for a position in one of the companies there, make sure you have stated your objective. It is critically important and must be followed by a summary of qualifications.
Your professional skills should be highlighted in addition to your career accomplishments. The readability of your resume is all that matters. Make sure you specify the areas where you contributed the most for recruiters to be able to navigate your resume easily.
Takeaway
Various regions have striking differences in resume writing. It’s not a surprise: lots of them stem from cultural differences and employers’ expectations.
Most differences, however, relate to formatting, layout, personal information, and structure. The rules of writing remain the same: if you need to impress your employer, write about your strengths rather than just duties.
Yet, you can’t ignore the differences. Failure to mention your nationality or marital status or add a photograph can affect your chances of landing a good job.
