The German Lebenslauf follows conventions distinct from CV norms in many English-speaking countries, and understanding these differences helps international applicants present themselves effectively to German employers and universities alike.
Understanding What Lebenslauf Means
Lebenslauf, literally translating to course of life, is the standard German term for a CV, and while increasingly influenced by international norms, it still retains several distinctly German conventions worth understanding before submitting an application.
The Tabular Format Most German Employers Expect
German CVs are typically presented in a clean, tabular format with clear date ranges aligned to the left and corresponding details to the right, a structured visual style that differs from the more narrative or creative formatting sometimes used elsewhere.
- Clear left-aligned dates paired with right-aligned details
- Reverse chronological order for education and work experience
- Consistent, clean formatting without excessive creative design elements
The Photo Question in German CVs
Unlike UK or Canadian norms, including a professional photo remains common, though not universally required, on German CVs, particularly for more traditional industries and larger established companies, though this norm has been shifting somewhat with growing international influence.
Including Personal Details Traditionally Expected
German CVs have traditionally included details like date of birth and nationality, information considered unusual or even discouraged on CVs in several English-speaking countries, though applicants should research whether a specific target company or industry still expects this.
Structuring Your Education and Work Experience
Both education and work experience sections should be presented in reverse chronological order with precise dates, clear institution or employer names, and specific role titles, mirroring the structured, detail-oriented presentation style German employers generally expect.
Writing a Strong Anschreiben Cover Letter
German applications typically pair the Lebenslauf with a detailed cover letter, known as an Anschreiben, which carries significant weight in the overall application and should directly address the specific employer and role rather than reading as a generic template.
Signing and Dating Your CV
Many traditional German CVs still include a handwritten or digital signature along with the current date at the bottom, a formal touch that, while declining somewhat in newer industries, remains expected in more traditional sectors and larger established companies.
Adapting Your CV for International Companies in Germany
International companies operating in Germany, particularly in technology and startup sectors, often accept a more internationally standard CV format without a photo or personal details, so researching a specific target company’s culture helps determine which format to use.
Common Mistakes International Applicants Make
Using an overly casual format borrowed from English speaking countries, omitting expected personal details without researching whether the specific employer still expects them, and inconsistent date formatting are common mistakes among international applicants.
Many applicants also underestimate how much weight German employers place on the accompanying Anschreiben, treating it as an afterthought rather than a core part of the application.
Having a native German speaker or experienced careers advisor review both the Lebenslauf and Anschreiben before submission often catches small formatting or language issues that could otherwise weaken an application.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Does Lebenslauf Mean?
Lebenslauf literally translates to course of life and is the standard German term for a CV, following several distinctly German formatting conventions.
Should I Include A Photo On My German CV?
Including a professional photo remains common, though not universally required, particularly in more traditional industries, though this norm is shifting with growing international influence.
Do I Need To Include My Date Of Birth On A German CV?
Traditionally yes, though applicants should research whether a specific target company or industry still expects this, since practices are shifting somewhat.
What Is An Anschreiben?
An Anschreiben is the detailed cover letter paired with a German CV, carrying significant weight in the overall application and should address the specific employer and role directly.
Should My German CV Be In A Tabular Format?
Yes, German CVs are typically presented in a clean, tabular format with dates aligned to one side and details to the other, a structured style German employers generally expect.
Do I Need To Sign My German CV?
Many traditional German CVs still include a signature and date at the bottom, though this practice is declining somewhat in newer and more international industries.
Should I Use A Different Format For International Companies In Germany?
Often yes, international companies, particularly in technology and startups, may accept a more internationally standard format without a photo or personal details.
How Is A German CV Different From A UK Or Canadian CV?
German CVs traditionally include a photo and personal details like date of birth, which UK and Canadian norms specifically discourage, reflecting different cultural and legal expectations around hiring.