CV Best Practices Across Different Countries

When tailoring your CV for different countries, it’s essential to understand cultural expectations, formatting preferences, and the kind of information employers value. Below we are highlighting differences for Canada, Denmark, The Netherlands, Switzerland, France, and the UK:



​Canada

1. Length: A two-page CV is acceptable, but a one-page resume is preferred for entry-level roles.
2. Focus: Emphasis on skills and accomplishments rather than personal details.
3. Personal Information: Avoid including a photo, marital status, age, or religion as this can be seen as discriminatory under Canadian employment laws.
4. Language: Use Canadian English (e.g., "organisation" instead of "organization").
5. Customization: Tailor your CV to the job description, using keywords from the posting.
6. References: Typically "References available upon request" is sufficient; names and contact details are not included unless asked.

Denmark

1. Length: A two-page CV is standard.
2. Photo: Including a professional photo is common and often expected.
3. Personal Information: Include details such as date of birth, nationality, and marital status.
4. Language: CVs can be written in English or Danish, depending on the company.
5. Structure: Focus on achievements and competencies, but Danish employers value work-life balance, so mentioning hobbies and interests is encouraged.
6. References: Include references directly on the CV or provide them upon request.

The Netherlands

1. Length: A one- to two-page CV is typical.
2. Photo: While not mandatory, adding a professional photo is becoming more common.
3. Personal Information: Include date of birth, nationality, and marital status.
4. Language: Use English for international companies or Dutch for local organizations.
5. Structure: The Dutch appreciate straightforwardness—list your achievements clearly, and avoid overly creative formats.
6. References: Mention that references are available upon request, but do not include them directly unless asked.

Switzerland

1. Length: A two-page CV is standard.
2. Photo: A professional photo is almost always expected.
3. Personal Information: Include date of birth, nationality, and marital status.
4. Language: Write the CV in the local language (German, French, or Italian) depending on the region, or English for international roles.
5. Structure: Swiss CVs are typically detailed and include a clear career summary, education, and professional achievements.
6. References: Include written references (Arbeitszeugnisse) or provide contact details for referees.

France

1. Length: A one-page CV is preferred, even for senior roles.
2. Photo: A professional photo is often expected.
3. Personal Information: Include date of birth, nationality, marital status, and sometimes a brief personal summary.
4. Language: Write the CV in French, unless applying to an international company.
5. Structure: French CVs are formal—focus on education, qualifications, and roles in chronological order.
6. References: Rarely included; employers may ask for them during the hiring process.

UK

1. Length: A two-page CV is standard, but one page is acceptable for entry-level roles.
2. Photo: Do not include a photo, as it is generally discouraged and considered irrelevant.
3. Personal Information: Avoid including age, marital status, or nationality—these details are unnecessary and can lead to bias.
4. Language: Use British English (e.g., "programme" instead of "program").
5. Structure: UK CVs should emphasize achievements and skills, with a strong focus on quantifiable results.
6. References: "References available upon request" is standard; names and contact details are not included unless requested.

Key Takeaways

• Photos are expected in Denmark, Switzerland, and France but discouraged in Canada and the UK.
• Personal information like marital status and nationality is common in continental European countries but avoided in Canada and the UK.
• Language varies based on the region and company (local language vs. English).
• Length tends to be shorter in France and the UK, while other countries allow slightly longer CVs.
• References are handled differently, with Switzerland often requiring written references, while other countries prefer "available upon request."

Tailoring your CV to these cultural norms ensures you meet employer expectations and present yourself professionally.

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