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In Germany the CV and cover letter (Anschreiben) are the first hiring filter. The German format differs from the one common in Iran or the US: the CV is simple, precise and has no gaps in time, and the letter is written specifically for the listing in question.
The CV (Lebenslauf)
- Length: usually 1 to 2 pages.
- Order: reverse chronological; the most recent experience first.
- Sections: personal details, work experience, education, skills (software, languages with a CEFR level such as B2 or C1), certificates.
- Photo: common in Germany but not mandatory; if you include one, keep it professional and plain. Many companies also accept applications without a photo.
- Personal details: age, marital status and nationality are not required and most companies do not ask for them.
- No gaps: explain periods of unemployment, migration or language learning briefly and honestly.
- Signature and date: at the end people put the place, date and signature (usually optional in a digital application).
The cover letter (Anschreiben)
One page with a clear structure: 1) why this company and this position, 2) skills and experience relevant to it, with a specific example, 3) motivation and possible start date, 4) a polite closing (Mit freundlichen Grüßen). Avoid generic sentences such as “I am a hard-working person” and give a concrete achievement instead.
Attached documents
- Education certificate and transcripts (with an official translation if needed)
- Work certificates and Arbeitszeugnis
- Language certificate
- Specialist certificates
Send everything in one tidy PDF file unless the listing asks for something else. If your qualification must be recognised in Germany, check this: recognition of qualifications.
Common mistakes
- Sending the same CV for all listings
- Spelling mistakes or the wrong company name
- An exaggerated language level; it becomes clear in the interview
- A very long CV or one full of irrelevant details
- Heavy or multi-part files
After sending, prepare for the interview: job interview guide. To find listings: job-search sites.
