CV Template

A German-market CV (Lebenslauf) follows different conventions from CVs in many other countries — and recruiters notice immediately when it doesn't.

Structure of a German-Market CV

• Header — name, contact details, and (optionally) a professional photo, which remains more common in Germany than in some other markets.
• Berufserfahrung (Work Experience) — listed in reverse chronological order, with concrete outcomes, not just responsibilities.
• Ausbildung (Education) — degrees, institutions, and relevant coursework, especially if you lack extensive work experience.
• Kenntnisse (Skills) — languages (with honest proficiency levels), technical skills, and certifications.
• Ehrenamt / Interessen (Volunteering / Interests) — optional, but can add context, especially early in your career.

What to Leave Out

Skip a lengthy "objective" statement — German recruiters generally expect the cover letter to carry that context, not the CV itself. Avoid unexplained employment gaps; a one-line note is better than a silent gap that raises questions.

Formatting Details That Matter

• One page is standard for students and early-career applicants; two pages only if you have substantial relevant experience.
• Consistent, clean formatting matters more than creative design — German recruiters generally favor clarity over visual flair.
• Dates listed consistently (month/year), with no unexplained gaps between entries.

A CV built this way is one of the first outputs inside GSA Career™, reviewed against real Werkstudent and graduate-role postings rather than generic templates.