What is a CV?
A comprehensive introduction to the most important document of your career
Table of contents
A professional CV is the key to your next career opportunity
Definition and Importance
A curriculum vitae (CV) is a structured document that summarizes your professional career, education, and qualifications. It is the central element of any application and is often the first impression a potential employer gets of you.
Your CV is your personal success story — presented professionally and persuasively.
— Karriere-Wiki Redaktion
Structure and Layout
A professional CV follows a clear structure and contains all relevant information in a concise format. The most important elements are arranged chronologically or thematically.
Core elements of a CV
Personal information
- Name and contact details
- Professional headline
Professional experience
- Companies and roles
- Achievements and responsibilities
Education & qualifications
- Degrees and certificates
- Relevant further training
Skills & competencies
- Technical skills
- Soft skills
Languages
- Language skills with proficiency levels
Additional qualifications
- Volunteering or involvement
- Awards and memberships
Digital Transformation
The digital revolution has also changed the CV. In addition to the classic PDF, digital profiles and online portfolios are becoming increasingly important. Modern CVs must be optimized for both humans and ATS (Applicant Tracking Systems).
Trends in the digital age
Use QR codes
Links to online portfolios and work samples
ATS optimization
Structured content that is easy to parse
Responsive display
Easily readable on smartphones and tablets
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should a CV be?
In Germany, two pages are standard. Entry-level applicants often get by with one page, while experienced executives sometimes need three pages. The decisive factor is that all relevant information is included and clarity is maintained.
Photo or no photo?
In Germany, a professional application photo is still common and is expected by many employers. In other countries, such as the USA, photos are usually omitted for anti-discrimination reasons.
Chronological or thematic?
The reverse chronological format (most recent experience first) is the standard and ideal for most applicants. A thematic format can make sense if you're planning a career change or want to organize experiences by competency areas.