In a global job market, we often look for jobs and employment opportunities outside of the country we currently reside in. When applying to a multinational company or applying for jobs in another country, knowing how resumes are viewed in different parts of the world is very important. What is known to work in one country may not be what the other country is looking for, and even the small differences in format or information can change the outcome of whether you get hired by the company or not.  

This article will outline expectations of resumes in different countries and detail the major differences this international workforce should know about when on the job hunt.

United States and Canada: Concise and Results-oriented 

When searching in North America, resumes are typically expected to be concise, results-oriented, and customized to the job description.  

• Length: Generally, up to one page for entry level and up to two pages for experienced candidates.  

• Content: Highlight results-oriented achievements, measurable outcomes, and language from the job posting.  

• Style: Professional with clean formatting, no personal information, no photo, and no demographic information (age, marital status, or country of nationality). 

• Key Takeaway: Recruiters prefer to see a results-oriented document rather than a storytelling of responsibilities. 

United Kingdom:  Balance of Formality and Detail  

In the United Kingdom, resumes (called CVs) tend to be a little bit longer than those of the United States, but nevertheless, clarity and professionalism are important. 

• Length: Usually two pages long, even for mid-career professionals.  

• Content: Career history is presented in reverse chronological order, along with education history and other relevant skills. 

• Style: Conservative; formal; photos are not expected. 

• Key Insight: There is a value on customizing the CV for each role, but how it is presented is mostly traditional.

European (Continental): Structured and Standardized 

Many countries in Europe tend to take a more structured approach to CVs, and expressed/process of common European precedent, some use a European CV format referred to as the Europe’s CV standard. 

• Length: Can be two pages or more (when appropriate according to experience). 

• Content: Detailed career history, education, detailed outline of language proficiency, and sometimes personal details such as date of birth. 

• Style: Having a photo is common practice in places such as Germany, Italy, Spain, and France. However, a photo is considered optional in Nordic countries. 

• Big Idea: The overall emphasis is on formal and complete; it may seem unusual to omit certain personal details. 

Middle East: Traditional and modern 

Resume (CV) approaches in the Middle East include an amalgam of international best practices and local expectations. 

• Length: One to two pages is acceptable.  

• Content: Comprehensive information about an applicant’s education, work history, skills, and sometimes nationality or visa status. 

• Style: Frequently includes photographs, and personal information is more often expected than in Western markets. 

• Key Takeaway: More detail is sometimes expected from recruiters, particularly, with regards to professional achievements and educational history. 

Asia: Varies by Country and Industry 

Asia presents the greatest diversity in resume norms, shaped by local traditions and evolving global practices. 

• India: Resumes are usually two pages and may include more detailed personal information. Increasingly, recruiters expect ATS-friendly formats similar to the U.S. style. 

• China: Length can extend to two or three pages, with emphasis on academic performance and certifications. Photos are commonly included. 

• Japan: Resumes often follow a standardized format known as rirekisho, which includes personal details and may even be handwritten for traditional companies. 

• Key Insight: While global companies in Asia may adopt Western-style resumes, local firms may still prefer traditional formats. 

Australia and New Zealand: Simple and Skills-Based 

 In these countries, resumes will typically reflect both British style and American style. 

• Length: Typically, two to three pages. 

• Content: Skills, achievements, relevant work history. Referees are often included directly on the resume. 

• Style: Professional, clear; photos are not usually expected. 

• Important Note: Employers & recruiters want to see both demonstrated skills as well as character. If you want to highlight your community involvement or volunteer work, it’s perfectly acceptable to do so. 

Key Takeaways for Global Professionals 

• Flexibility is key. A resume that is perfectly suitable in one country might seem incomplete and/or inappropriate in another country. 

• Research before applying. Be sure to check the local conventions, or ask your contacts in the region, what the expectations are. 

• Global vs. local balance. When it comes to multinational companies, a resume that is more universal and focuses on achievements is typically effective. When it comes to local employers, adjusting to their expectations demonstrates awareness and respect. 

Conclusion  

In this global economy where borders are no longer the limits to your career opportunities, knowing expectations about resumes from around the world can give you an advantage over your competition. An informed professional does not simply display their qualifications – they are storytellers, crafting their story according to the expectations of local hiring authorities. By adapting your resume to country-specific preferences, you will not only reach more of the right audience but demonstrate and possess cultural intelligence – a trait employer around the world appreciate and strive to cultivate and recruit for.