how to write resume language skills

10 Examples – How to Include Language Skills on Your Resume

By Status.net Editorial Team on September 27, 2023 — 19 minutes to read

• Language Skills: Levels of Proficiency Part 1
• How to Choose the Right Resume Format Part 2
• How to Position Your Language Skills Part 3
• How to Highlight Languages In Job-Related Sections Part 4
• How to Cite Your Languages in a Resume: Examples Part 5
• CERF Language Proficiency Scale: Descriptions, Examples Part 6
• ACTFL Language Proficiency Scale: Descriptions, Examples Part 7
• ILR Language Proficiency Scale: Descriptions, Examples Part 8
• How to Incorporate Language Skills in Cover Letter Part 9
• How to Display Language Proficiency on LinkedIn Part 10

Showcasing your language skills on your resume can set you apart from other candidates and help you land your dream job. But how do you highlight these skills effectively? Here are some tips and examples on how to include language skills on your resume.

Part 1 Language Skills: Levels of Proficiency

Knowing your level of proficiency for each language helps employers understand how effectively you can communicate in various situations. Here are some guidelines and examples to help you define your language skills:

• Native : Being a native speaker means that you grew up with the language and it is likely your first language. You are fully proficient in speaking, listening, reading, and writing in this language. On your resume, you can mention that you are a native speaker of English or another language.
• Fluent : If you can effortlessly speak, read, and write a language without any significant difficulties, you are considered to be fluent in that language. This generally means that you can comfortably engage in conversations, understand cultural contexts, and are able to think in the language. In this case, you could say that you are fluent in French, Spanish, and Italian, for example.
• Professional Working Proficiency : If you can confidently engage in face-to-face or written professional discussions, you possess a professional working proficiency in the language. You should be able to relay complex ideas, read texts, and comprehend business-related jargon. For example, you may have professional working proficiency in Japanese.
• Intermediate Level : An intermediate language skill level is marked by your ability to participate in most social and workplace conversations with occasional misunderstandings. You may have a limited vocabulary and struggle with more complex speech or writing.
• Limited working proficiency is when you can manage basic conversations and tasks in the language. You can understand the general idea and give simple instructions. However, complex topics can be challenging to grasp, and you might feel more comfortable with support from native speakers in the workplace.
• Conversational : If you can communicate in a language but only during casual conversations, you have conversational proficiency. You can typically express basic ideas and understand spoken language, but you may struggle with complex concepts or writing.
• Elementary : If you know only a few phrases and basic vocabulary in a language, your proficiency is at the elementary level. You can handle simple interactions and communicate simple needs.

Resume Section Example 1

_______________________________________

Language Skills:

• English: Native Speaker
• Spanish: Fluent
• French: Professional Working Proficiency
• Mandarin Chinese: Intermediate Level
• German: Limited Working Proficiency

Resume Section Example 2

• Fluent in English and Spanish
• Professional working proficiency in French
• Intermediate level in Japanese
• Conversational in Portuguese

To further show off your language skills, you could include any certifications or achievements related to languages you’ve earned. This might look like:

Certifications: – English: TOEFL iBT – 110/120 – Spanish: DELE A2

Another way to let your language skills shine is by highlighting any experience you’ve gained using these languages. Be it a study abroad program, volunteer work, or professional experience in a foreign country, make sure you mention it in your resume.

Experience: Study Abroad: – Semester in Barcelona, Spain – Fall 2020 – Attended University of Barcelona courses in Spanish – Improved language skills through immersion and interaction with locals

Volunteer Work: – Assisted at a local community center, teaching English to Spanish-speaking immigrants – 4 months in 2019

To help gauge your language proficiency, you can use scales like the Interagency Language Roundtable (ILR) or the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR). Both use standardized measurements to indicate a person’s language abilities. Alternatively, you can take recognized language proficiency tests to obtain a more exact evaluation of your language abilities.

There are two commonly used scales: the CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages) and the ACTFL (American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages). Both have varying levels based on linguistic knowledge and communication abilities.

For the CEFR scale , proficiency is organized into six levels:

• A1: Beginner
• A2: Elementary/Breakthrough
• B1: Intermediate/Threshold
• B2: Upper-Intermediate/Vantage
• C1: Advanced/Effective Operational Proficiency
• C2: Mastery/Near-native Proficiency

For the ACTFL scale , there are five main levels:

• Novice (Low, Mid, High)
• Intermediate (Low, Mid, High)
• Advanced (Low, Mid, High)
• Distinguished

When you include language skills on your resume, it’s important to choose the appropriate proficiency level that best reflects your abilities and matches the scale used in your country or industry. Always be honest about your skills, as you don’t want to be placed in a situation that exceeds your capability.

Part 2 How to Choose the Right Resume Format

Your resume format directly impacts how your language abilities are highlighted. Here are some popular resume formats and guidance on how to effectively showcase your language expertise:

Option 1: Chronological resume : This format focuses on your work experience in reverse chronological order. To demonstrate your language skills, you can mention your proficiency in the “Skills” or “Language Skills” section. If you’ve used specific languages extensively in previous roles, you can include that in the job description. For example:

• Fluent in Spanish: Acted as a translation liaison between the sales team and Spanish-speaking clients.

Option 2: Functional resume : A functional resume emphasizes skills and achievements over work history. Create a “Language Skills” section and use bullet points to demonstrate your proficiency level in multiple languages. Here’s an example:

• French: Conversational
• Mandarin: Beginner

Option 3: Combination resume : This format merges the best of both chronological and functional resumes. Create a “Language Skills” section to showcase your proficiency levels, and mention specific instances where you’ve used your language skills in your work experience. For example:

• Facilitated communication with Spanish-speaking clients and translated marketing materials.

Choose the appropriate resume format based on your work history and experience, then effectively highlight your language skills in the designated section.

Part 3 How to Position Your Language Skills

When listing language skills on your resume, it’s important to showcase them in a way that highlights your proficiency and catches the attention of potential employers. To effectively position your language skills, consider the following strategies:

• Place your language skills in a dedicated skills section. This helps employers quickly identify your linguistic abilities without having to search through your entire resume. Keep this section concise and well-organized.
• Tailor your language skills to the job you’re applying for. If a job requires fluency in a specific language, make sure it’s prominent on your resume. Highlight any certifications, degrees, or courses you have taken in the language as well.
• Don’t forget to mention your language skills in the experience or education sections if relevant. For instance, you can include a bullet point highlighting your use of a second language to negotiate contracts or collaborate with international clients. This demonstrates real-world application of your language skills, making them more tangible and impressive to employers.
• Lastly, showcase your skill level accurately and honestly. Exaggerated or false claims about your language proficiency can lead to uncomfortable situations during interviews or on the job. Be clear and confident in your abilities, but also be fair and realistic when describing your language skills on your resume.

Part 4 How to Highlight Languages In Job-Related Sections

One way to highlight your language skills is by including them in your work experience. Mention specific instances where your language proficiency contributed to a project or improved team communication. For example, if you used your fluency in French to assist your team in handling an international client, describe the situation and the beneficial outcomes for your employer.

Incorporate languages in your professional experience section by discussing tasks or collaborations where your proficiency in a language was essential. For example, if you’re an interpreter, discuss situations where your language skills helped clients understand complex documents or navigate cultural barriers.

Match your language skills with the requirements outlined in the job listing. If the employer specifically seeks candidates with fluency in a certain language, emphasize your capability in that language in your job-related sections. For instance, if the position involves managing international clients and you’re proficient in the client’s native language, make sure you emphasize this when describing your professional experience.

Job-Related Sections Examples

1. Project Manager with Multilingual Team: – “As a Project Manager at X Company, I led a diverse team with members from different countries. My fluency in Spanish and English played a crucial role in bridging language gaps and facilitating effective communication among team members. This contributed to a cohesive work environment and improved project outcomes.”

2. Marketing Specialist Expanding into New Markets: – “During my tenure as a Marketing Specialist at ABC Corporation, I spearheaded the expansion into Latin American markets. My proficiency in Portuguese allowed me to tailor marketing campaigns to the local audience, resulting in a 20% increase in sales within the region.”

3. Customer Service Representative Handling International Clients: – “As a Customer Service Representative at DEF Solutions, I regularly interacted with international clients. My ability to speak Mandarin Chinese not only helped me assist Chinese-speaking clients but also improved overall team communication, leading to higher customer satisfaction ratings.”

4. Software Developer Collaborating with Offshore Team: – “While working as a Software Developer at Tech Innovators, I collaborated with an offshore development team based in India. My fluency in Hindi enabled me to bridge cultural and linguistic gaps, leading to smoother coordination, reduced misunderstandings, and on-time project deliveries.”

5. Sales Manager in Global Sales Division: – “In my role as Sales Manager in the Global Sales Division of GHI Enterprises, I managed accounts across Europe and Asia. My proficiency in German was instrumental in establishing rapport with German clients, resulting in a 15% increase in sales within the German market.”

6. Legal Consultant Resolving Cross-Border Disputes: – “As a Legal Consultant at Law Firm XYZ, I specialized in resolving cross-border disputes. My ability to speak and write in both Spanish and English allowed me to draft legal documents and communicate with clients in their preferred language, simplifying complex legal matters and enhancing client satisfaction.”

7. International Relations Coordinator in a Nonprofit: – “While serving as the International Relations Coordinator at Nonprofit Organization ABC, I organized events and collaborations with international partners. My proficiency in French facilitated meaningful discussions and partnerships with French-speaking NGOs, expanding our global reach and impact.”

8. Tourism Manager Catering to Diverse Tourists: – “As a Tourism Manager at Wanderlust Adventures, I frequently interacted with tourists from various countries. My knowledge of multiple languages, including Spanish, Italian, and Japanese, allowed me to provide personalized assistance, leading to positive reviews and repeat business.”

Part 5 How to Cite Your Languages in a Resume: Examples

Phrases examples.

• Native speaker of German, with a strong understanding of grammar and syntax.
• Fluent in Spanish, with extensive experience living and working in Spanish-speaking countries.
• Proficient in French, with the ability to read, write, and speak at an intermediate level.
• Basic knowledge of Mandarin Chinese, with a focus on conversational skills and travel-related vocabulary.
• Fluent in Russian, with a focus on reading and translating literature and academic texts.
• Advanced proficiency in Japanese, with experience translating technical documents and interpreting for business meetings.
• Intermediate level in Italian, with a focus on reading and writing.
• Conversational fluency in Portuguese, with experience communicating with native speakers in both professional and social settings.
• Advanced proficiency in English, with experience teaching English as a second language to non-native speakers.

Part 6 CERF Language Proficiency Scale: Descriptions, Examples

CEFR scale (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages):

A1 (Beginner): – Can understand and use familiar everyday expressions and very basic phrases. – Can introduce themselves and others and can ask and answer questions about personal details such as where they live, people they know, and things they have.

A2 (Elementary/Breakthrough): – Can understand sentences and frequently used expressions related to areas of most immediate relevance. – Can communicate in simple and routine tasks requiring a simple and direct exchange of information on familiar and routine matters.

B1 (Intermediate/Threshold): – Can understand the main points of clear standard input on familiar matters regularly encountered in work, school, leisure, etc. – Can deal with most situations likely to arise while traveling in an area where the language is spoken.

B2 (Upper-Intermediate/Vantage): – Can understand the main ideas of complex text on both concrete and abstract topics, including technical discussions in their field of specialization. – Can interact with a degree of fluency and spontaneity that makes regular interaction with native speakers possible without strain for either party.

C1 (Advanced/Effective Operational Proficiency): – Can understand a wide range of demanding, longer texts, and recognize implicit meaning. – Can express themselves fluently and spontaneously without much obvious searching for expressions.

C2 (Mastery/Near-native Proficiency): – Can understand with ease virtually everything heard or read. – Can summarize information from different spoken and written sources, reconstructing arguments and accounts in a coherent presentation. Can express themselves spontaneously, very fluently and precisely, differentiating finer shades of meaning even in the most complex situations.

Example: How to list your language proficiency on a resume using the CERF scale

• English (C2): Native language
• Spanish (B2): Intermediate
• Mandarin Chinese (A2): Beginner

Part 7 ACTFL Language Proficiency Scale: Descriptions, Examples

ACTFL scale (American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages):

Novice: – Novice Low: Can understand and produce basic words and phrases related to familiar topics, but may struggle with understanding or producing more complex language. – Novice Mid: Can understand and produce simple sentences and questions related to familiar topics, but may still struggle with more complex language and unfamiliar situations. – Novice High: Can understand and produce simple sentences and questions on a wider range of topics, but may still struggle with more complex language and unfamiliar situations.

Intermediate: – Intermediate Low: Can communicate effectively in most everyday situations, but may struggle with more complex language and abstract concepts. – Intermediate Mid: Can communicate effectively in most everyday situations, and can understand and produce more complex language related to familiar topics. – Intermediate High: Can communicate effectively in most situations, and can understand and produce more complex language related to a wide range of topics.

Advanced: – Advanced Low: Can understand and participate in conversations on a wide range of topics, but may struggle with understanding or producing more abstract or nuanced language. – Advanced Mid: Can understand and participate in conversations on a wide range of topics, and can understand and produce more abstract or nuanced language. – Advanced High: Can understand and participate in complex conversations on a wide range of topics, including abstract and nuanced ideas.

Superior: – Can understand and participate in complex conversations on a wide range of topics, including abstract and nuanced ideas, and can produce language with a high degree of accuracy, fluency, and cultural competence.

Distinguished: – Can understand and produce language with a level of proficiency and cultural competence that is equivalent to that of a highly educated native speaker.

Example: How to list your language proficiency on a resume using the ACTFL scale

• French (Advanced High)
• German (Intermediate Mid)
• Japanese (Novice High)

Part 8 ILR Language Proficiency Scale: Descriptions, Examples

Another popular testing standard is the Interagency Language Roundtable (ILR) scale:

Level 0: No proficiency – You have no ability to understand or communicate in the language.

Level 1: Elementary proficiency – You have basic communication skills and can understand simple phrases and expressions. You can communicate in familiar situations and can handle basic needs like ordering food or asking for directions.

Level 2: Limited working proficiency – You can communicate in most situations related to work or daily life. You can understand and participate in conversations about familiar topics, but may struggle with more complex language or unfamiliar situations.

Level 3: Professional working proficiency – You have a strong command of the language and can communicate effectively in most professional or academic settings. You can understand and participate in discussions on a wide range of topics and can express yourself clearly and accurately.

Level 4: Full professional proficiency – You have near-native fluency in the language and can communicate effectively in any situation. You can understand and express complex ideas and can adapt your language to different audiences and contexts.

Level 5: Native or bilingual proficiency – You have complete mastery of the language, including all its nuances and cultural references. You can understand and express yourself fluently and naturally, without any noticeable accent or errors.

Example: How to list your language proficiency on a resume using the ILR scale

• English: Full professional proficiency
• Spanish: Professional working proficiency
• Mandarin Chinese: Limited working proficiency
• French: Elementary proficiency

Part 9 How to Incorporate Language Skills in Cover Letter

When you’re working on your cover letter, take the opportunity to showcase your language skills. This can help set you apart from other candidates and demonstrate your versatility as a potential employee. Here are some tips for incorporating language skills into your cover letter.

Start by mentioning your language proficiency levels in the opening paragraph. Include the names of the languages you know and how well you can speak, read, or write each of them.

In my previous role, I successfully used my fluency in French and conversational Spanish to assist clients and foster a positive working environment…

Next, highlight specific instances where your language skills were valuable. Sharing stories and experiences can show potential employers the real-world applicability of your language skills. Focus on how these skills benefited the company or your colleagues.

During my time at X Company, I was able to improve customer satisfaction rates for our French-speaking clientele by providing support and resolving issues in their native language.

Don’t forget to mention any language-related certifications or achievements you hold. Listing certifications, like the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or the Diplôme d’études en langue française (DELF), can solidify your claims of language proficiency. For example:

As a holder of a B2 DELF certification, I effectively communicate with clients and teammates in French on a daily basis.

Lastly, ensure your cover letter is tailored to the job position and company. Mention how your language expertise can positively impact the company or align with its values or objectives. For example:

With my knowledge of Mandarin and the company’s growing presence in the Chinese market, I am confident that my language skills will contribute to ABC Corporation’s growth and success…

Part 10 How to Display Language Proficiency on LinkedIn

When creating your LinkedIn profile, showcasing your language skills can help you stand out to potential employers and connections. Here’s how to add language skills to your LinkedIn profile effectively.

First, head to the Languages section under the Accomplishments tab of your LinkedIn profile’s editing interface. If it’s not visible, click on the “plus” symbol and select Languages from the list. This is the dedicated section for listing languages and their proficiency levels.

For each language you’re proficient in, add the language name and select the appropriate proficiency level from the available options:

• Elementary proficiency
• Limited working proficiency
• Professional working proficiency
• Full professional proficiency
• Native or bilingual proficiency

Choose the level that best represents your ability to speak, read, and write in that particular language. Be honest when selecting proficiency levels, as overestimating your skills could lead to uncomfortable situations during interviews or work tasks.

Once you’ve added all the languages you’re proficient in, save your changes and preview your LinkedIn profile to ensure your language abilities are displayed correctly.

As an alternative, you can also mention your language skills in the About section or Experience section, depending on the job importance of knowing a particular language. For example, if you’ve worked in roles where speaking another language was essential, make sure to highlight it in your job description.

Example 1 – About Section:

About Me: I am a results-oriented professional with a strong background in international sales and marketing. Fluent in English, Spanish, and Portuguese, I excel at building relationships with clients from diverse cultural backgrounds. My language skills have been instrumental in expanding our global market presence and driving revenue growth.

Example 2 – Experience Section:

Sales Manager, X Corporation – Led a multicultural sales team and increased international sales by 30%. – Utilized my fluency in Mandarin Chinese to establish and nurture key partnerships in the Chinese market, resulting in a 40% boost in revenue. – Collaborated with the marketing department to create bilingual promotional materials for the Latin American market, contributing to a 20% increase in sales in the region.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the different levels to describe language skills on a cv.

• Beginner: You have basic knowledge of the language and can communicate in simple everyday situations.
• Elementary: You can understand and use familiar everyday expressions and basic phrases.
• Intermediate: You can communicate about familiar topics and understand the main points of clear standard input.
• Upper-intermediate: You can interact with native speakers without strain and understand more complex text on various topics.
• Fluent: You can express yourself spontaneously, effectively, and accurately, with a wide range of vocabulary and proper grammar.
• Expert: You have a near-native level of fluency, understanding idiomatic expressions, and cultural nuances.

What are some examples of showcasing language proficiency in a resume?

Here are three examples of how to showcase your language proficiency on a resume:

• Example 1: Languages: English (native), Spanish (fluent), French (intermediate)
• English – Native speaker
• Spanish – Fluent in spoken and written communication
• French – Intermediate level with strong reading and listening skills
• Example 3: In a Skills section: Proficient in English, Spanish, and French, with experience in translation and interpreting.

How should I list language skills in a job description on my CV?

When listing language skills in a job description, focus on how your language abilities were relevant to the position and contributed to your success. You can mention specific tasks or projects that required language skills, or discuss your interactions with clients and colleagues in another language.

Example: Managed a team of 10 Spanish-speaking employees, conducting weekly meetings and communicating project updates in both English and Spanish.

When is it appropriate to include a language on my resume?

It’s appropriate to include a language on your resume if it’s relevant to the job you’re applying for, if it sets you apart from other candidates, or if it exemplifies your background and experience. This may be especially important for positions with multinational companies or those requiring frequent communication with people from different backgrounds.

What are the best practices for stating language skills in resume writing?

• Be honest about your level of proficiency, so you don’t set unrealistic expectations during interviews or in the workplace.
• Use the six-level scale to indicate your language skills accurately.
• List the languages you’re proficient in, along with your level, under a separate “Languages” or “Skills” section on your resume.
• Avoid using vague terms like “conversational” or “advanced”; instead, use precise terms like “intermediate” or “fluent.”
• Mention language-related experiences or accomplishments, such as translation work, language-related projects, or study abroad experiences.
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How to Include Languages on Your Resume [W/ Practical Tips]

You probably already know that speaking more than one language is a big professional asset. 

On top of the obvious (being able to communicate with more people), speaking multiple languages is known to improve your memory and ability to multitask, all of which are bound to help you perform better at your job.

But did you know that there is a right and wrong way to include language skills on your resume? 

The first can give you an advantage over other candidates with similar qualifications, whereas the second might make your language skills practically invisible in recruiters’ eyes. 

So, to help you make the most out of your resume language skills, we’ve put together this guide on everything you need to know on the topic, including:

• Why Do Resume Language Skills Matter?
• How to List Languages on Resume?

Language Proficiency Levels

• Language Sections on Resume Examples

And much more! 

What Are Resume Language Skills?

Language skills refer to the ability to communicate (speak, read, and write) in different languages. 

On a resume, language skills typically refer to any other language you master on top of your native language. Considering that there are many levels of language proficiency, language skills on a resume are typically categorized into beginner, mid-range, and advanced levels.

Why do Resume Language Skills Matter?

Let’s let hard facts do the talking. 

According to a Rosetta Stone survey, up to 35% of those responsible for hiring or managing employees said that a candidate’s or employee’s second language proficiency leads them to take one of the following actions:

• Extend a job offer
• Invite the candidate to a job interview
• Recommend a promotion
• Recommend a pay raise

Additionally, nearly 54% of those who already hold a job said that knowing a foreign language is important in their position. 

That’s no surprise - mastering a foreign language comes with many important benefits:

• Enhanced productivity and ability to multitask
• Higher creativity and better communication skills
• Bigger access to international markets and job opportunities

So, unless your knowledge of a foreign language consists of a mere 10 words (meaning, you’re just a beginner), always include your language skills on your resume. On top of all the benefits mentioned above, your language skills will effectively set you apart from candidates with the same work experience , skills, and education. 

Describing your language skills on your resume can get a bit messy, especially if you and the recruiter are not on the same page regarding language proficiency levels. 

For example, the recruiter might wonder if an intermediate candidate will be able to hold a work-related conversation with an international client, or whether a conversational level applicant is able to read and write, on top of being able to hold a conversation in a foreign language. 

To avoid all the confusion, you can list your language skills using a language proficiency scale . These are frameworks established by language organizations that categorize people into proficiency levels based on their language fluency, accuracy, and other factors. 

More importantly, these frameworks standardize language proficiency, helping recruiters and employers understand exactly what your language skill level means. 

Here are the four most popular language proficiency frameworks you can use on your resume: 

• Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) . This popular framework of European guidelines is fairly easy to understand. It scores basic users as A1 or A2, independent users as B1 or B2, and proficient users as C1 and C2.
• Interagency Language Roundtable (ILR). This US government-developed framework has 6 levels (0-5) and uses the (+) sign to differentiate the in-betweens.
• LinkedIn. As the world’s largest professional network , LinkedIn has its own language proficiency framework. Similar to the ILR, it categorizes them into native and bilingual proficiency, full professional proficiency, professional working proficiency, etc.
• American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL). This is another popular language proficiency framework that categorizes language skills into Novice (Low, Mid, High),  Intermediate (Low, Mid, High), Advanced (Low, Mid, High), Superior , and Distinguished .

To make things easier, here is a table showing exactly how each framework compares to one another: 

How to List Languages on a Resume

By now, it’s pretty clear how important language skills are. This brings us to the reason you’re probably reading this article: learning how to list your language skills on your resume adequately.

Here’s how you can do that:

#1. Choose a Language Rating System

First things first, you have to choose a language rating system to use on your resume. 

Say, for example, that you master Spanish and French. If you use the CEFR framework to describe your proficiency level in French and the ILR framework to describe your Spanish skills, that’ll only confuse the recruiter reading your resume and make you look disorganized. 

So, to determine which language rating system you should use, the first thing you need to do is check the job requirements. 

If the job ad requires knowledge in a specific language and specifies a proficiency framework, then make sure to list your language skills according to that framework scale. 

Alternatively, if you have taken one of the popular language assessments, you can include your rating after each listed language. 

If, on the other hand, you’re applying for a position in a company that doesn’t require mastering a foreign language or isn’t in business with international clients, you can skip on using a formal rating scale altogether. 

Remember to be consistent even if the position you’re applying for doesn’t specify a language proficiency rating. If you’re going to be listing more than one language, pick a proficiency framework and stick to it! 

#2. Determine Your Fluency Level

There’s nothing worse than exaggerating your language proficiency level, only for recruiters to find out your language skills are not what you claim. 

To avoid awkwardness, make sure to determine your fluency level accurately (in writing, speaking, and reading) and be truthful about it on your resume. 

So, list the foreign language you know and check what the position you’re applying for needs. One employer might be more interested in your writing skills, whereas another might need someone with strong speaking skills to participate in meetings with foreign partners. 

In your resume, you should be able to give factual information about your fluency level in speaking, writing, and reading - as well as highlight whatever skill is more relevant to the position. If your fluency level varies among the three and the position specifically asks for, say, high reading comprehension, consider listing each rating separately. If, on the other hand, you have the same comprehension level for all three, or the job ad just doesn’t ask for much in terms of your language skills, simply list one rating to save space and make sure your resume is within the optimal one-page length . 

#3. Choose the Right Place to Include Your Language Skills

There are three ways you can list your language skills on your resume:

• On your resume summary or resume objective
• In the skills section
• In a separate language skills section

Where you choose to list your language skills will mainly depend on how important they are for the position you’re applying for. So, for example, if your fluency in a particular language is essential for the role, you can start by adding them to your resume summary as follows: 

• A bilingual, hard-working customer service agent who speaks English and Spanish and has over 5 years of experience in customer support. Previous experience communicating with customers both in English and Spanish in the same role. 

As language skill is mandatory for the role, the hiring manager is going to be looking for the language skill from the get-go in order to filter out unqualified candidates.

Having the language skill right on top of your resume helps the recruiter instantly see that you’re qualified for the role.

In such a case, it’s also good practice to include your language skills as a dedicated section alongside the respective skill levels. For example:

If, on the other hand, your language skills are not essential for the role, you can save space by adding them under your skills or education sections.  Here’s an example of how that would look on a resume: 

B.A. in Linguistics

King’s College, London

2012 - 2016

• Mastered limited working proficiency in Spanish and Italian 
• Graduated with a 3,85 GPA

#4. Format Your Language Skills the Right Way 

Regardless of where you choose to list your language skills on your resume, you’ve got to add your proficiency level accurately. That way, recruiters will have a clear idea of your knowledge. 

One way to do that, especially if you master more than one foreign language, is to list them in descending order of proficiency. For example: 

• Portuguese - Level 5 (ILR)/Bilingual Proficiency
• Spanish - Level 4 (ILR)/Full Professional Proficiency
• Italian - Level 2 (ILR)/Limited Working Proficiency

Resume Language Skills Examples

Knowing things theoretically is great, but practice makes perfect. 

Here are some practical examples of how you can list your language skills on your resume: 

Example #1. Dedicated Language Skills Section (LinkedIn Framework)

Language Skills

• English - Native/Bilingual 
• German - Native/Bilingual 
• Dutch - Professional Working Proficiency (CEFT level C1) 
• French - Limited Working Proficiency (CEFT level B1)

Example #2.  Dedicated Language Skills Section (ACTFL Framework)

• Romanian - Superior (ACTFL)
• Polish - Advanced Mid (ACTFL)
• Bulgarian - Intermediate Mid (ACTFL)

Example #3: Languages Under Skills Section

• Adobe Creative Suite
• Photo Editing
• Storyboarding
• Spanish (Full Professional Proficiency)

Always use the most relevant language proficiency framework (in your country) when describing your skills. For a job in Europe, that would be the CEFT system, whereas for a job in the US, the ACTFL or LinkedIn system.

How Do I Determine My Level of Language Proficiency?

As we already mentioned, the proficiency level of your language skills should be as accurate as possible, which means you should avoid estimations and guesswork. 

This might lead to overvaluing your skills (and eventually looking like a liar) or undervaluing them and missing the chance to stand out. 

To accurately determine your level of language proficiency, do one of the following:

• Obtain an official language certificate
• Self-assess your language knowledge 

The first option is perfect if the language is crucial for the job and if you’ll need to do more than the basics of communication. By paying for a test, you can get an official score of your proficiency. 

If the language is not an essential requirement for the position, on the other hand, using official guidelines and rules to self-assess your skills is totally acceptable too. 

Here is how you can do that: 

• Through the official ILR website and their self-assessment questionnaires for reading, writing, and speaking respectively.
• The official CEFR chart , allows you to judge your listening, reading, writing, spoken interaction, and spoken production skills. 
• The ACTFL site updates its proficiency guidelines every several years. They have a 10-level scale that lets you self-assess your language skills in several areas. 

If you hold an official certificate for one language and you’ve self-assessed your knowledge of another, you can make the distinction by writing, for example, “French - C1 certificate” and “Italian - B1 level.”  

5 Other Valuable (Optional) Sections to Include in Your Resume

Language skills are a valuable section to add to your resume after you’ve included some of the essentials, such as your work experience, education , and skills. 

However, they’re not the only optional section that you can take advantage of to take your resume from great to exceptional. 

Here are 5 other valuable optional sections to include in your resume if you’ve got the space: 

• Volunteering experience . Volunteer work is always a resume plus, especially if the company puts emphasis on giving or if your experience is related to the job position.
• Extracurricular activities. If you’ve just recently graduated, a section with your extracurricular activities can help significantly improve your resume, as they prove you’re an active individual that is engaged beyond their academic duties.
• Projects. Side projects can show that you’re naturally curious and that you take initiative.
• Awards and certifications. If you have any awards or certifications that testify to your skills, don’t hesitate to show them off on your resume. A little healthy flexing doesn’t hurt!
• Hobbies and interests . This can tell a lot about who you are outside of work, so make sure to list the hobbies that put you in the best light.

Key Takeaways 

And that’s a wrap! After reading this article, you should be able to add your language skills to your resume in the most effective way possible.

Before you get on with that, here are the most important points covered in this article:

• Knowing a foreign language can improve your productivity and ability to multitask as well as open more employment opportunities in international markets.
• To properly list your language skills on your resume, you have to pick one language rating system, determine your language proficiency, decide in what section you’ll list your languages, and format the section the right way.
• The most popular language rating systems include the LinkedIn rating system, the Interagency Language Roundtable, the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages, and the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages.
• To determine your language proficiency level, you can either take an official language test and acquire a certificate or self-assess your knowledge following the right guidelines and documentation.

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• Career Blog

Language Skills for Resume [Proficiency Levels & Examples]

As the job market becomes increasingly competitive, having strong language skills on your resume can set you apart from other candidates. This article aims to provide a comprehensive guide on language skills for resumes, including proficiency levels and examples.

Importance of Language Skills for Resume

Language skills are essential for any job that requires communication with people from diverse backgrounds, including customers, clients, and colleagues. Employers value candidates with language skills because they bring a unique perspective and cultural awareness to the workplace. In addition, bilingual employees can facilitate business dealings with foreign partners, opening doors to new markets and opportunities.

Types of Language Skills

When it comes to language skills, there are four main types that you need to be familiar with. They are speaking, listening, reading, and writing. Each of these skills is equally important and plays a crucial role in communication.

A. Speaking

Speaking is the ability to communicate verbally with others in a language that they can understand. It involves the use of correct grammar, vocabulary, and pronunciation. Good communication skills allow you to express your ideas clearly and effectively, which is important in any profession. When it comes to your resume, you should include your level of proficiency in the languages you speak. For example, “native speaker,” “fluent,” “intermediate,” or “basic.”

B. Listening

Listening is the ability to understand and interpret spoken language. Good listening skills allow you to comprehend what others are saying to you, which is important when working with colleagues, clients, or customers. Listening also involves being able to follow instructions, receive feedback, and understand different accents or dialects. When listing your language skills on your resume, make sure to include your level of proficiency in listening as well.

Reading is the ability to understand written language. It involves being able to comprehend texts, emails, reports, and other written materials. Good reading skills are essential in any profession as they allow you to gather information and keep up with the latest news and trends in your industry. When including your language skills on your resume, make sure to mention your proficiency level in reading.

Writing is the ability to express yourself clearly and effectively in written form. This includes writing emails, reports, memos, or any other written communication. Good writing skills are important in any profession as they allow you to convey your ideas accurately and professionally. When listing your language skills on your resume, make sure to mention your proficiency level in writing as well.

Language skills are critical for any profession, and it is important to showcase your proficiency level in each of the four types of language skills- speaking, listening, reading, and writing. Employers seek professionals with excellent communication skills, and highlighting your language skills on your resume can put you at an advantage. Make sure to showcase your language skills on your resume to stand out from the competition.

Proficiency Levels

When it comes to describing your language skills on a resume, it’s important to accurately convey your proficiency level. There are four main levels of language proficiency that you can use to describe your abilities: Native/Bilingual, Professional Fluency, Intermediate Proficiency, and Basic Communication Skills. Let’s take a closer look at each one.

A. Native/Bilingual

If you grew up speaking a language or learned it at an early age to the point that you’re as fluent in it as your native tongue, you can consider yourself a native or bilingual speaker. Being a native or bilingual speaker means that you have a natural level of fluency and can use the language almost effortlessly. This is the highest level of language proficiency that you can achieve.

B. Professional Fluency

Professional Fluency is the ability to use a language in a work-related context with ease and efficiency. It means that you have an advanced level of language skill that allows you to communicate fluently and accurately in a professional setting. In order to be considered professionally fluent, you need to be able to use business and industry-specific vocabulary and understand complex concepts.

C. Intermediate Proficiency

Intermediate proficiency means that while you don’t yet have a fully fluent command of the language, you are able to communicate effectively in most situations. This includes being able to hold a conversation, read and understand written materials, and write simple texts. You might still struggle with complex vocabulary and grammar structures, but you can still express yourself and understand others.

D. Basic Communication Skills

Basic communication skills mean that you have a limited ability to use the language in everyday situations. You can understand and be understood when speaking about simple, familiar topics but may struggle with more complex vocabulary and grammar. This level of proficiency is usually achieved after taking a few language classes or studying abroad for a short period of time.

It’s important to accurately represent your language skills on your resume, using the appropriate terminology to describe your proficiency level. By including this information, you can demonstrate your ability to communicate effectively with clients, colleagues, and international partners in a professional setting. Use the examples provided above to ensure your resume showcases your language skills to their fullest.

Including Language Skills in the Resume

As the world becomes more interconnected, language skills have become increasingly valuable in the global job market. Including your language skills in your resume can help you stand out to potential employers, especially if the role requires bilingual or multilingual proficiency. Here are some tips for including language skills in your resume:

A. Tips for Writing Language Skills in a Resume

• Be honest about your proficiency level. If you overstate your abilities in a language that you’re not fluent in, it could hurt your chances of getting the job. Use proficiency levels to accurately describe your level of competence.
• Use clear language that describes your ability. For example, instead of using “basic” or “conversational” as descriptors, use more specific terms like “intermediate” or “advanced.”
• If you have a certification or degree in a language, mention it in your resume. This can really showcase your proficiency in that language to potential employers.
• Consider the relevance of the language to the job. If the role requires communication with clients or customers who speak a certain language, make sure to include that language in your resume.

B. Language Skills and Job Descriptions

Employers often look for candidates with language skills that are relevant to the job at hand. If the job requires bilingual or multilingual proficiency, make sure to highlight your experience with those languages in your resume. It’s important to tailor your language skills to the job requirements to stand out from the competition.

C. Mentioning Relevant Language Skills in the Resume

When mentioning language skills in your resume, you want to make sure you’re focusing on the most relevant ones. Here are some tips on how to do so:

• Look at the job description and see which languages are required or preferred. If you have experience with those languages, make sure to include them prominently in your resume.
• Mention any specific tasks or projects in which you used your language skills. This can serve as concrete evidence of your proficiency.
• If the job requires communication with non-English speaking clients or customers, make sure to emphasize your ability to communicate effectively in the necessary language.

Including language skills in your resume can help you stand out from other candidates in the global job market. By following these tips, you can effectively showcase your language proficiency and increase your chances of landing the job.

Examples of Language Skills for Resume

When it comes to language skills on a resume, it’s important to highlight your proficiency level in the languages you know. Here are some examples of how to list your language skills by level:

A. Example of Language Skills by Level

• Fluent:  English, French, Spanish
• Proficient:  Mandarin, German
• Conversational:  Italian, Portuguese

By listing your skills in this way, hiring managers can quickly and easily see what languages you are most proficient in.

B. Resume General Example with Language Skills

Objective:  To obtain a job in an international setting where my language skills can be fully utilized.

Language Skills:

• Fluent in English, French, and Spanish
• Proficient in Mandarin and German
• Conversational in Italian and Portuguese

In this example, language skills are included in the objective and listed separately with their corresponding proficiency levels.

C. Language Skills in Specific Job Roles Examples

Sales Manager:

• Fluent in English, Mandarin, and Spanish
• Proficient in Portuguese
• Conducted successful business negotiations with clients in various countries

In this example, language skills are listed with their corresponding level and the individual’s ability to use those skills in a professional setting is highlighted.

D. Multilingual Resume Examples

Multilingual Customer Service Representative:

• Fluent in English, Spanish, and French
• Assisted customers in all three languages, increasing customer satisfaction ratings by 20%
• Able to seamlessly switch between languages to assist diverse customer base

In this example, language skills are listed with their impact on the individual’s professional success. The ability to use multiple languages to assist customers and improve satisfaction ratings showcases the importance of language skills in certain job roles.

Language skills can be a valuable asset on a resume, and highlighting your proficiency level and relevant experience can make a positive impact on potential employers.

Testing Language Proficiency

When it comes to showcasing your language skills on your resume, it’s important to have evidence to back up your claims. One way to do this is by providing proof of your proficiency through language proficiency tests.

A. Common Language Proficiency Tests

There are several common language proficiency tests that you may consider taking, depending on the language(s) you speak and the intended purpose of the test. Some popular options include:

• The Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)
• The International English Language Testing System (IELTS)
• The Diplôme d’études en langue française (DELF) and Diplôme approfondi de langue française (DALF)
• The Hanyu Shuiping Kaoshi (HSK) for Mandarin Chinese

Be sure to research which tests are most relevant to your language skills and career goals.

B. Importance of Certifications and Tests

Certifications and language proficiency tests can be very important for your resume and career goals. These provide evidence to employers of your language abilities and can increase your chances of being hired or promoted. In addition, having certifications and test scores can also help you negotiate salary and increase your credibility in the job market.

C. Test Preparation Tips

Preparing for language proficiency tests can be stressful, but with careful preparation and practice, you can increase your chances of success. Here are some tips to help you prepare for language proficiency tests:

Familiarize yourself with the test format and content: Research the test and review the format and content to better understand what to expect on test day.

Practice, practice, practice: Take practice tests and exercises to familiarize yourself with the types of questions and tasks you will encounter during the test.

Focus on your weaknesses: Identify your weak areas and focus more on these during your study time.

Work with a tutor or language coach: Consider finding a tutor or language coach who can help you work on your skills and provide guidance on how to improve.

Stay positive and focused: Keep a positive attitude and stay focused on your goals. Remember that language learning is a process, and with hard work and practice, you can achieve success.

Language proficiency tests can be a valuable addition to your resume and a great way to demonstrate your language skills to potential employers. By taking the time to prepare and practice, you can increase your chances of success and achieve your career goals.

How to Improve Language Skills

One of the most sought-after skills in today’s global marketplace is proficiency in more than one language. Whether it’s for personal or professional reasons, improving your language skills is always a valuable investment of your time and effort. Here are some ways to improve your language skills.

A. Language Learning Techniques

Language learning techniques are methods or strategies that help us learn a language effectively. Some of the most effective techniques include:

• Immersion : Immersing yourself in the language by surrounding yourself with it, whether by watching TV shows, listening to music, or speaking with native speakers, can help you pick up the language faster.
• Practice : Consistent practice is key to improving language skills. Make it a habit to practice your target language daily, whether through speaking, reading, or writing.
• Structured learning : Taking language classes or using language learning apps can give you a structured approach to learning the language, with a clear progression of skills and knowledge.
• Mnemonic devices : Mnemonic devices, such as acronyms or visual aids, can help you remember vocabulary and grammar rules more easily.
• Personalized learning : Everyone learns differently, so find what works best for you, whether it’s flashcards, podcasts, or interactive games.

B. Resources for Improving Language Skills

There are countless resources available for improving your language skills, and the best ones depend on your personal preferences and learning style. Here are some resources to consider:

• Language learning apps : Apps like Duolingo and Babbel offer interactive language learning courses that you can take at your own pace.
• Online language courses : Websites like Coursera and edX offer free online language courses from top universities around the world.
• Language exchange websites : Websites like iTalki and Tandem connect you with native speakers of your target language for language exchange practice.
• Reading materials : Reading books, newspapers, and articles in your target language can improve your reading comprehension skills.
• Language immersion programs : Immersion programs, such as studying abroad or volunteering in a foreign country, provide an immersive language learning experience.

C. Importance of Practice

Improving your language skills requires consistent practice. While learning techniques and resources can help you acquire knowledge and skills, it is practice that helps you retain what you’ve learned and become more fluent. Regular practice also helps you build confidence in speaking, overcome language barriers, and improve your communication skills.

Remember that learning a language takes time and effort. Don’t be discouraged by setbacks and mistakes, as they are a natural part of the language learning process. With the right techniques, resources, and practice, you can improve your language skills and showcase them on your resume as a valuable asset to any employer.

Soft Skills that Accompany Language Skills

In addition to fluency and proficiency in multiple languages, it’s important to understand that possessing soft skills can make you an even stronger candidate for positions that require both verbal and written communication. These soft skills can make a significant difference in a candidate’s ability to effectively communicate in the workplace. Here are four essential soft skills that accompany language skills:

A. Communication

Communication is a critical skill that accompanies language skills. It involves the ability to express oneself clearly and effectively to others, whether it be through written or verbal communication. A good communicator is someone who can adjust their communication approach based on the audience, and who can convey complex ideas in a straightforward way that is easy to understand. Being a good communicator will help you better connect with colleagues, clients, partners, and stakeholders, leading to better outcomes and overall productivity.

B. Cultural Awareness

Cultural awareness is the ability to recognize and appreciate the unique differences in cultures, traditions, and norms across the globe. When paired with language skills, this skill can help individuals better understand and navigate through cultural differences in interpersonal and professional settings. Employers value cultural awareness as it encourages collaboration, facilitates problem-solving, and supports the development of inclusive and diverse teams.

C. Confident Presentation

The ability to confidently present ideas is another soft skill that accompanies language skills. A confident presenter is someone who can articulate their thoughts in a convincing and engaging way. By improving this skill, individuals can become better at leading meetings, presenting proposals or reports, or simply sharing ideas with colleagues. This can make a significant difference in an individual’s ability to influence and persuade others, leading to successful outcomes.

D. Customer Service

Lastly, customer service is a soft skill that has become increasingly important in many fields across the globe. As businesses become more global, customer service teams are expected to communicate in multiple languages, often providing support to customers who have varying cultural backgrounds and expectations. Being able to communicate with confidence and cultural sensitivity is crucial in this role. Effective customer service leads to higher customer satisfaction rates, leading to more positive customer experiences.

Soft skills are essential to effectively leverage language skills in professional settings. Effective communication skills, cultural awareness, confident presentation skills, and customer service skills can improve job prospects and open up opportunities for international positions. Employers value candidates who have a combination of language and soft skills, leading to better job prospects and a more promising career trajectory.

Importance of Language Skills in the Global Job Market

A. globalization and job market.

With the ever-increasing trend towards globalization, a global job market has emerged, and employers are seeking candidates who possess multilingual skills to adapt to this new reality. The ability to speak a foreign language fluently can make a candidate stand out from the rest and provide them with an edge in the competitive job market.

Being multilingual not only increases the number of job opportunities for candidates but also paves the way for international business and collaboration growth. Employers that have a global reach require their employees to understand different languages and cultural norms to ensure smooth, effective communication.

B. Multilingual Workforce Advantages

A multilingual workforce has multiple advantages, and employers are beginning to recognize this key aspect of talent acquisition.

Better Communication: Organizations with multilingual employees are capable of communicating more effectively with their international customers or clients. This can lead to increased customer satisfaction, retention, and loyalty.

Competitive Advantage: Having multilingual employees can provide a competitive edge that translates to long-term financial gains. Multilingual employees are able to bridge cultural and linguistic gaps, which can lead to faster and smoother business transactions.

Enhanced Job Flexibility: A multilingual workforce allows employers to allocate employees according to the demands of the business, regardless of geographic location. This provides enhanced job flexibility while requiring less investment in language-related training and translation services.

Cultural Understanding: Employees who have a good understanding of different cultures and languages can avoid miscommunications and misunderstandings while building relationships with colleagues, partners, and clients. This cultural competence improves teamwork and cross-functional collaboration.

Employers seek candidates who have a multilingual background because they bring additional value to the company. Knowing one or more languages in addition to your native language opens doors to opportunities that you may have never considered before.

Being multilingual is a vital asset in the global job market. It provides multiple benefits that employers increasingly value to gain improved communication, competitiveness, job flexibility, and cultural understanding. As a result, having languages as part of your resume showcases your abilities for companies who are tapping into the increasingly international world we live in.

Language Skills in the Future Workforce

A. future job demand and language skills.

As globalization continues to shape today’s job market, language skills are becoming increasingly important for job seekers. Employers are seeking candidates who can communicate effectively with colleagues, clients, and suppliers in different languages. Being bilingual or multilingual can give job seekers a competitive edge and increase their chances of being hired.

The demand for language skills in the workforce is expected to increase in the coming years. According to a report by the British Council, the global demand for English language learning alone is set to grow by 30% by 2025. This trend is not limited to the English language, as other languages such as Spanish, Mandarin, and Arabic are also in high demand.

B. Technological Impact on Language Skills

Technology is having a significant impact on language skills in the workforce. With the advent of machine translation and other language-related technologies, some have questioned the continued relevance of language skills in the job market.

However, while these technologies are advancing, they are not yet capable of replacing human communication entirely. There are still areas where machine translation falls short, such as the nuances of different cultural contexts and the ability to understand and respond to nonverbal cues.

In fact, technology has the potential to enhance language skills in the workforce by providing new ways to learn and practice languages. For example, language learning apps and online language courses have made it easier than ever to learn a new language, even for those with busy schedules.

Additionally, technology is making it easier for multilingual employees to communicate with each other. Video conferencing, instant messaging, and other tools allow colleagues in different parts of the world to collaborate seamlessly and break down language barriers.

Language skills will continue to be an important asset for job seekers in the future workforce. While technology is transforming many aspects of the job market, human communication skills remain highly valued. As such, candidates who can speak multiple languages and communicate effectively across cultural boundaries have a distinct advantage in a globalized job market.

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How to list language skills on your CV + examples

Not sure how to showcase your language skills on your CV? Highlighting them can sometimes be challenging.

In the present global job market, speaking multiple languages is a valuable strength.

In this guide, we’ll reveal how to list language skills on your CV, ensuring employers declare, “Wow, this applicant has talent!”

We also have  10  examples that’ll show you how to make your CV shine.

CV templates 

What are language skills on a CV?

Detailing your language skills on a CV is essential, as they show you can speak a second or even a third language. For example, if you have basic skills in French, it’s worth mentioning. Or if you’re fluent in Spanish, be sure to brag about these language skills.

Build your CV now 

The importance of language skills

Language skills on your CV are a pretty big deal.

Employers love candidates with diverse language skills because they demonstrates that you can speak a different language, which can come in super handy if you run into a client or colleague who doesn’t speak the same tongue as most individuals in your work setting.

Basically, language abilities give you the building blocks to interact with others and provide you with culture-specific knowledge, too.

And guess what? Companies are really into this these days because they need people who can communicate with others from all around the world in every kind of job. It’s a win-win!

You, the job seeker, can really benefit from communicating your foreign language skills, as it boosts your CV’s appeal and opens up opportunities.

Speaking the likes of Arabic, French, Spanish, and German is incredibly important for your future.

Where to put language skills on a CV

Showcasing your language mastery on your CV is essential. But where do you insert them?

There are several places you can add your language skills on a CV, which we’ll look at in more detail below.

1. Your personal details

The personal details section of your CV includes your name, professional title, phone number, email , and location, and often additional details such as your LinkedIn profile and personal website.

Adding language skills in your personal details gives a quick snapshot of your language talents, so it’s easy for would-be employers to gain insight into what languages you can speak and your skill level.

Let’s say you’re fluent in Spanish – you’d write it like this:  Languages: Spanish – Fluent, French – Intermediate.

2. Your personal profile

The personal profile section of your CV is a 3-5-line paragraph at the very top that summarises your top skills, qualifications, and what you know. But don’t dive too deep into the nitty-gritty – it’s just a mini intro about you.

Adding your language skills here can improve your appeal, especially if the role needs solid language proficiency. If you’re applying for a position that depends on you speaking a certain language, such as a translator or tour guide, it’s worth highlighting at the top of your CV.

3. Your core skills section

The core skills section of your CV is the bit that comes after your personal profile. It’s where you create a bullet-pointed list of your main skillsets and certifications relevant to the job you’re applying for – it’s essentially a list of skills that show why you’re perfect for the job you’re after.

When you add a bullet-pointed list at the very top of your CV, recruiters can quickly see why you’re an excellent fit for the position without digging too deep into your CV. You make a brilliant first impression with your skills right from the get-go.

If you’re exceptionally capable in numerous languages, adding linguistic talents to your core skills section is a smart move. This is arguably the most sensible place to add your language skill level in a bullet-point format , like  French – Native  or  Spanish – C2.

4. Your employment history

The employment history section of your CV is where you insert all your past work experiences and job roles.

It’s important to list your language skills in this section as you can show employers how you’ve put your language skills into action.

Mention any relevant work experiences where you used your language skills. State how you used your language abilities in your job and whether it entailed interacting with foreign customers.

For instance, if you were a sales associate and expanded the client base for Spanish-speaking clients, mention it.

5. Your education section

The education section of your CV is the section where you outline your academic certifications, like degrees, diplomas, and qualifications.

You’d mention your language skills in this section to emphasise any language-specific qualifications or language-related coursework that strengthened your fluency.

So, if you earned yourself a Bachelor of Arts in International Relations, here’s where you’d mention it. Or maybe you obtained a  DELE Diplomas of Spanish  certificate at the C1 level.

Or if you have a particular language certification such as a  B2 First Certificate  or the  Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) , note it here as well.

Highlighting language-based qualifications gives recruiters tangible evidence of your foreign language proficiency and shows you’ve applied those language capabilities on the job. They’ll regard you as a well-rounded applicant with practical language expertise – something hiring managers really love.

6. Your additional information section

The additional information section of your CV is the space where you can give extra details about your skills, certifications or hobbies relevant to the jobs or companies you’re applying to. Usually, this part only applies if you have little work experience, to help give employers more info about what you do outside of work.

Detailing your language skills in this section doesn’t just share what languages you speak. It also says how good you are in them, and any impressive language-related certificates you’ve achieved.

Create a dedicated ‘Foreign Languages’ subsection under the Additional Information right at the bottom of your CV.

This is where you can mention your language abilities, such as any unique dialects or regional variations you’re fluent in. You’d write it like this:

“Foreign Language: Fluent in French and Polish, with a profound understanding of Southern European dialect. Adept in business-level Spanish. Conversational in Mandarin Chinese.” 

3 examples of language skills on a CV

Below are three examples of how to write language skills on a CV for 3 different language proficiency levels.

Candidate with basic language skills

If you have basic skills, you can handle daily conversations and easy interactions in the language. However, you may find it trickier to tackle more complicated tasks or professional interactions.

In this case, you can just add your language skills to the ‘Additional Information’ section, as you only need to make a small mention of them so you don’t oversell them.

Candidate with intermediate language skills

If you have intermediate skills, you might be able to take part in work-related chats, take care of client enquiries or even engage in basic business situations.

In this instance, add your language skills to your personal profile, employment history, education, and additional info section at the  intermediate level.

This makes your profile more interesting and shows you aren’t just about your main skills but have something extra to offer.

Adding language skills to your personal profile tells recruiters you have skills that go beyond your main ones. Listing them in your work history demonstrates you’ve used those language abilities in the work setting, which a hiring manager will find incredibly helpful.

When you list them in your education section, it proves you’re not just studying theory but actually putting it into practice. Lastly, when you add your language prowess to the additional info section, you’re showing off a new hobby which adds depth to your entire CV.

Candidate with experienced language skills

Well-versed in certain languages? Able to charm your way through both casual and formal settings?

Then you’ll need to list your language skills as fluent throughout your CV, with any certifications you’ve achieved. Add your language skills to every section of your CV – that’s the personal details, personal profile, core skills, employment history, education, and additional info sections – to ensure they get noticed

How to write languages on a CV

If you want to describe your language skills in a way that will be universally understood, the  Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR)  is the globally accepted standard. It describes language ability on a six-point scale, from A1 (beginners) through to C2 (proficient) and is well-known in the UK.

When you list your language skills, it’s best to start with your strongest language skills. Prioritise languages in line with the job you’re applying for.

Here’s how you’d write your language skills on your CV:

Let’s say fluency in Spanish is an essential requirement. Mention this early on in your CV and reinforce it throughout.

Only mention languages you have a professional-level grasp of. Don’t bother mentioning a language you don’t have much experience in – this gives them an exaggerated idea of your language skills.

Remember to specify your native or bilingual languages underneath a dedicated ‘Foreign Languages’ subsection under the ‘Additional Information section.

How to describe your CV language abilities

When describing language skills on your CV, use universally understood terms to detail your proficiency level, including beginner, intermediate, advanced, and native .

These widely understood phrases serve as a universal language for hiring managers:

• Beginner –  You’re   in the early phases and can understand basic phrases and hold easy discussions. For example:  Basic proficiency in French (Beginner). 
• Intermediate –  This means you can have conversations and navigate daily situations but with several restrictions. For example,  Intermediate level in Italian (Conversational).
• Advanced –  You’re confident in professional environments and can talk about complicated topics. You can also handle business communications.   For example,  Advanced proficiency in Spanish (Professional). 
• Native –  You can speak the language fluently as if it’s your mother tongue. For example,  Native in German. 

Discovering your fluency level in different languages

Working out how to get across your language expertise on your CV plays a critical role.

Thankfully, the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) makes it a cinch. It’s essentially a fluency map with levels varying from A1 (learner) to C2 (expert).

Firstly, A1 and A2 are your elementary levels, while B1 and B2 are for when you’re cruising at intermediate. C1 and C2 demonstrate you have superior language skills.

For instance, your levels may fall into:

• Beginner (A1) –  You have a basic understanding and introductory communication.  
• Elementary (A2)  – You’re familiar with common expressions and direct interaction.
• Intermediate (B1) –  Understand everyday subjects and elementary writing.  
• Upper intermediate (B2) –  You’re aware of complicated context, spur-of-the-moment communication, and thorough writing.  
• Advanced (C1) –  You can grasp lengthier content, talk about your ideas well, and produce structured writing.
• Mastery (C2) –  You have a high-level perception and can summarise complicated info articulately.  

If you’re unsure of your proficiency, the best way to find your CEFR level is to take a well-designed standardised test that adheres to the CEFR guidelines. You can do these tests for a range of languages and they’re completely free.

Once you know these secret codes, you’ll be able to communicate your language superpowers correctly on your CV so you match up with the right opportunities.

UK language courses and exams

If you really want to prove your language knowledge to employers, you can add any language related courses you have taken to your CV.

Or if you don’t have any – perhaps you could take one to give your CV a quick boost.

Some widely established examples of courses and exams include:

• International English Language Testing System (IELTS) –  assesses your English language skills for work, study or relocation reasons.
• Cambridge English exams –  The First Certificate in English (FCE), Advanced (CAE), and Proficiency (CPE) exams are among the widely accepted criteria for assessing English language skills.
• Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) –  A commonly accepted exam welcomed by educational institutions and hiring managers to evaluate the English language dexterity of non-native speakers.
• Trinity College –  Provides an assortment of language exams such as Graded Examinations in Spoken English (GESE) and Integrated Skills in English (ISE).
• The European Consortium for the Certificate of Attainment in Modern Languages (ECL) –  Evaluates language skills in European languages such as French, German, Italian, and Spanish.

These are just some of the language courses and examinations on offer – you’ll find numerous other veritable options for ascertaining language proficiency in the UK .

Make sure you choose the right course or exam in line with the language you want to assess and the specific needs of your employer or company you’re aiming for.

After all, claiming you speak fluent French won’t do you much good if you’re applying for a German international sales job !

Choosing the right languages

When it comes to picking languages for your CV, select the ones that match the job you’re interested in.

If the role you’re applying for involves global customers, highlight the languages you speak. Planning to work overseas? Concentrate on languages prevalent in those areas.

Let’s say you’re applying for a job in international sales which entails talking to clients all over Latin America. If you can speak fluently in Spanish and Portuguese, this shows you hold a special key to connect with those big markets.

When you choose the right foreign languages for the job, you give employers an insight into your personality and signal that you’re willing to build relationships across the world.

The takeaway

So, there you have it – a guide to make your language dexterity sparkle on your CV.

Don’t forget – demonstrating your linguistic skills goes beyond ticking boxes. It shows your cultural sensitivity, adaptability, and your eagerness to bridge global gaps.

Don’t miss out on opportunities by overlooking your language skills – be the one who wows hiring managers and co-workers alike with your multilingual talents.

Language Skills on Resume: How to Explain Proficiency & Fluency

In This Guide:

What are language skills, when should i include language skills on my resume, where should i include language skills, how to write a good language skills section, language proficiency level, mistakes to avoid when including your language skills, faqs about language skills on resume, in conclusion.

A different language is a different vision of life.

Federico Fellini

Did you know that the languages you speak can affect your personality ? Indeed, they can change the way you express your emotions, your intonation, your facial expressions and gestures. Rather than making you inconsistent, this versatility’s a fortune. How lucky are we to be able to take on different roles – we do this when we change jobs, and when we speak another language. Sometimes, we can do both simultaneously!

Your language skills are effective in all walks of life, and your career is no exception. In our interconnected world, being multilingual is highly valued by recruiters. Wondering how to list your language proficiency on your resume? Our guide covers that and more!

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Key takeaways:

• The core language skills are speaking, listening, reading, and writing. Each of them is uniquely useful, so practice all of them when you can.
• Listing your language skills is always a good idea, especially in jobs where you’ll work with multinational clients. Language proficiency can help you in different settings, as learning them practices valuable skills such as self-discipline, creativity, and cultural awareness.
• Your language skills are best placed in a separate section, but interspersing them in your summary, experience, education, and skills section is also an option.
• A good language section is concise but catchy, so consider using an interesting design to present your fluency.
• Your language level is probably the most important information to recruiters. Remember to be consistent with the framework you use.
• If you’re based in the US, choose between the IRL or ACTFL frameworks. The CERF scale is best if you’re in Europe. The LinkedIn scale is universal.

Your language skills can range from holding a casual conversation to writing your PhD in a certain language. So, what people consider a language ability can vary widely depending on their needs.

Generally, language skills are what allows you to communicate effectively with people from different nationalities and cultures. These abilities are typically divided into four main categories: listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Each of these is important for a unique reason:

• Listening : Imagine being able to listen to your favorite Spanish song and understand the meaning, or walk around an Italian city and catch glimpses of strangers’ conversations. Listening is all about accurately catching the words, picking up on the grammar and intonation, and making sense of what you hear. In a work environment, strong listening skills can help you accurately understand client needs during meetings and respond effectively.
• Speaking : Speaking is your ticket to actively engaging with others in a new language. It might be the most useful language skill you can have in a work setting. Don’t sweat about pronunciation so much! Your focus should be on using the proper words to be understood. Mastering conversational nuances can help share your thoughts and connect with people around you. You can use your speaking skills to lead presentations, negotiate deals, and collaborate with colleagues from diverse backgrounds.
• Reading : Good reading skills can provide access to exclusive information. Many valuable resources, such as industry-specific research, technical manuals, and market analysis reports, are published in various languages. Collecting insights that might not be available in your native language gives you a competitive edge.
• Writing : Writing allows you to share your ideas and stories with the world in another language. It involves more than just correct grammar and spelling. It's about crafting your thoughts clearly and logically, making sure your message hits home. In a work setting, writing pays off through your ability to draft clear emails, create detailed reports, and develop persuasive proposals.

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It’s always worth mentioning your language proficiencies on your resume, as they can help in diverse situations. Even if the job posting doesn’t specifically call for them, language skills can set you apart in a competitive environment. Language learning’s also valuable because it develops different cognitive skills like memory and problem-solving . It enhances communication abilities , fosters social and cultural awareness, and cultivates practical skills like time management  and digital literacy.

Here are some concrete examples of when your language skills could be beneficial in your application.

If speaking a foreign language is valuable to the company

That’s pretty straightforward — if your language skills are relevant to the job you’re hoping to get, you should include them.

Think about what your day-to-day tasks will be in your role. If you’re a translator  or a language teacher , your job will naturally revolve around languages. But what about other jobs, where language skills might not seem as crucial? If you’re applying for a retail assistant , will multiple languages help you communicate with customers? If you’re working in customer support , how many countries is the company based in? Reflect on how your language abilities can add value, even in roles where they aren’t an obvious requirement.

In developing his customer support resume, Sia knew his ability to speak over three languages would make an impression on recruiters at SAP SE.

Sia built his language section with Enhancv. His example uses one of the most popular frameworks, the ACTFL Proficiency Scale (we’ll talk about it in a bit).

If you have little experience

Language skills are great for adding content to your resume. If you’re putting together your first resume , language skills show your ability to learn quickly and to apply your knowledge to real-world situations. Especially if you’ve chosen the functional format  that gives more weight to your skills rather than your limited experience .

In Avery’s volunteer resume , they highlighted their language skills as they were applying for a role with AIESEC, which has entities based all around the world.

This language section example uses the LinkedIn language framework (we’ll talk about this one in a bit, too).

If the open position is competitive

In a competitive environment, listing your language skills can make you a more well-rounded candidate. Imagine the following scenario:

Both Tom and Emma are applying for the position of Senior Marketing Manager at Etsy. They’ve got the same amount of experience , and their skill set is fairly similar, too. However, Emma mentioned that she’s fluent in French & German on her resume, while Tom didn’t. Emma’s value proposition for the company increases exponentially, as there will be a lot of practical uses for her language skills. Even though Tom’s language proficiency might be on par with Emma's, he never bothered to show that – thus, his chances to get a callback get slimmer.

Emma's language fluency makes her stand out for the Senior Marketing Manager  role at Etsy, proving how crucial it is to highlight all relevant skills on a resume .

If you're applying for a job in a different country

Reassure the hiring manager that there’d be no language barrier when communicating with your coworkers. Think of ways to express culture familiarity and language use in professional settings. If you speak French, for example, you can list things like:

• Conducted market research and wrote detailed reports in French for a French-speaking region.
• Coordinated with French suppliers, ensuring seamless project execution.
• Spent six months in France on a work exchange, immersing in French business practices and culture.

If you’re going to work in a language that’s not your mother tongue, make sure you can provide evidence of your abilities. This will give you credibility. What courses and certificates can you list to show you’ve worked at learning the language?

If you have to demonstrate quick-learning skills

If you’re applying for a job involving lots of continuous learning , your language-learning experience can come to your advantage. Here are some concrete examples:

• Adaptability and flexibility:  "Learning a new language required me to quickly adapt to different methods and environments, showcasing my flexibility."
• Problem-solving skills:  "Overcoming language learning challenges enhanced my problem-solving abilities."
• Self-discipline and time management:  "Balancing language study with other tasks strengthened my self-discipline and time management."

Don’t include your language skills on your resume if…

There’s one situation, though, where it makes perfect sense to leave the language section out – if you’re a monoglot. Unlike its more popular cousin, the polyglot, this is someone who only speaks one language. Simply put, the recruiter will assume you’re proficient in the language your resume is written in. So, if you’re living and working in the US , and your resume’s written in English, there’s no need to specifically underline that skill. It’s a given.

Our advice is to include a dedicated language section. You don’t want your language skills to get lost; you want to make them as visible as possible. If language proficiency is essential to the job you’re after, create a specific section where you list all the languages you know, along with your fluency levels. Our resume builder  allows you to be as concise as you want and customize the language section to fit your needs.

You might see some advice on incorporating your language skills throughout your resume. This might be effective for positions where languages aren’t a priority or a top-wanted skill, but be aware that they could easily get lost among your other abilities and accomplishments. Still, it can save space on your resume without underrating the skill. Here’s how you could approach this:

• In your experience section, e.g., “Conducted training sessions in both English and Spanish to support a diverse team of new hires”.
• In your education section – when you have a degree in Linguistics, Languages, or Literature.

If you’ve opted for a separate language section, make it concise but catchy. You just need the language and the level of fluency. The trick is to creatively visualize your proficiency. The Enhancv resume builder has five different styles you can use to present your language skills.

When crafting this section, follow these tips:

• List languages by proficiency:  Start with the ones you’re most proficient in. In most cases, skip languages you only know at beginner/elementary level. These can add color to your resume, but they’re not really helpful in a work setting.
• Mention context of use:  Detail contexts where you've utilized the language, like "Used in international conferences" or "Daily communication with overseas clients."
• Avoid overstatement: Be honest about your proficiency. Overstating your skills  can lead to uncomfortable situations in professional settings.
• Use standard proficiency levels:  Use widely recognized proficiency levels like "Native," "Intermediate," "Professional Working Proficiency," and "Limited Working Proficiency."

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Marking the level of fluency in a language is similar to quantifying your achievements  in different resume headings. The recruiter needs a tangible way of judging your ability. Let’s review the most popular frameworks:

LinkedIn Framework

LinkedIn’s scale is based on, and is very similar to, the IRL (Interagency Language Round-table) scale , developed by the U.S. Foreign Service Institute. It measures language proficiency in terms of work settings, so its levels are, as follows:

• Native or bilingual proficiency
• Full professional proficiency
• Professional working proficiency
• Limited working proficiency
• Elementary proficiency

Take a look at this sample language proficiency section:

The IRL scale is mainly used when applying for US government jobs. Its levels (from 0 – 5, where 5 is Native) correspond to the levels on LinkedIn.

ACTFL Proficiency Framework

This scale  assesses the ability to use language to accomplish communication objectives in real-world situations, with specific criteria for accuracy, context and content, and text type. Here are the levels it works with:

• Distinguished
• Intermediate

These scales are widely recognized by recruiters in the US, so choose the one you feel more comfortable with. But what if you’re based outside the States? Then, we recommend this one:

Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR)

CEFR is an internationally recognized standard  for describing language ability. It outlines what learners can do in speaking, reading, listening, and writing at each level. It’s widely recognized across Europe but currently gaining popularity in other countries as well. Here’s an overview of its levels:

• C2 (Proficiency)
• C1 (Advanced)
• B2 (Upper Intermediate)
• B1 (Intermediate)
• A2 (Elementary)
• A1 (Beginner)

Again, just remember that if you’re coming from Europe but are applying for a job in the US, you should use the LinkedIn/IRL or the ACTFL framework.

And here’s a quick recap of what each level represents. Note that the CERF doesn’t measure native proficiency, as it’s mainly designed for learners of foreign languages.

• Native or bilingual proficiency/Distinguished: This means you’ve grown up speaking the language, using it throughout your life, and refining your abilities through formal education.
• Full professional proficiency/Superior/C2: You can read, write, and speak a language smoothly and without hesitation.
• Professional working proficiency/Advanced/C1: You can speak, write, and read a language comfortably for your role, though you might struggle with colloquialisms and occasionally need repetition.
• Limited working proficiency/Intermediate/B1-B2: Intermediate language skill means you can hold conversations and read adequately in the language, but you speak with some difficulty and have a limited vocabulary.
• Elementary proficiency/Novice/A1-A2: You can understand basic words or phrases but can’t hold a conversation. We recommend you don’t list this one on your resume.

What’s essential in listing your language skills is being fair about your fluency level. You don’t want to list an intermediate language level if you can only ask for coffee or say a few phrases.

And if you list your skills as advanced or above, be prepared to answer a few questions or hold a conversation in that specific language. You never know – perhaps the recruiter will be fluent and in the mood for a little bit of practice!

Forgetting to update LinkedIn

If you’re discussing your language skills on your resume, be sure your LinkedIn profile is up-to-date, too.

One advantage of updating your language skills on LinkedIn is you can have colleagues provide recommendations and references of your ability in this skill.

Forgetting to include your mother tongue

Add your native language, alongside the foreign languages you know. Otherwise, you’ll confuse recruiters, especially if you’re applying for a job abroad.

Don't mix and match different language frameworks

Consistency is important. Don’t list one of your language levels as “Professional working proficiency”, and the other as “Intermediate.”

Use the most relevant language framework

If you’re based in the US, choose the LinkedIn, IRL, or ACTFL scale. In Europe, go with the CERF levels.

How to demonstrate language skills?

You can show your fluency on your resume with examples of how you’ve used the languages you’re proficient in. This could be a portfolio of work samples in different languages, or any certificates, awards, and diplomas. For cover letters , real-life examples are your best bet.

What language level is considered fluent?

Depending on the framework you use, a person with an advanced level of proficiency or someone with a professional working proficiency or above will be considered fluent.

Is proficient better than fluent?

Fluency refers to the flow of your speech, the ability to speak comfortably and consistently. In other words, being fluent means being able to carry out a conversation without much hesitation. Proficiency, on the other hand, is the ability to comprehend and accurately produce content, so it refers mainly to reading and writing. It is highly valued in jobs that require a precise use of language, such as an academic setting. So, to answer the question, one is not necessarily better than the other, because they refer to different things. We recommend using “proficient” on your resume, as it’s the word recognized by the most popular frameworks.

How to check language proficiency?

You can look up local language centers – most test your language skills for free if you’re interested in enrolling in a course. Some even have language proficiency checkers online!

Can you have two native languages on a resume?

Yes, of course! Being bilingual will definitely impress recruiters. You can list all the languages you speak natively.

How to list programming languages?

Speaking of languages, you might wonder about programming ones. Programming skills refer to the ability to write, test, and maintain code that enables software applications to function. Some of the most popular programming languages include Python, Java, and C++, each used for various purposes. Knowledge of one programming language can often help you learn others quickly. As with other skills, list your programming languages in a dedicated "Skills" section on your resume. If you can, give context to past projects or work experience (like a GitHub portfolio) to demonstrate practical application and expertise.

What is the most important language skill?

The answer to this question is individual to your situation. What do you need the language for? To read documents or to have conversations? Are you going to communicate orally with clients? Do you know the etiquette and turns of phrase to talk to your coworkers in their native language? Understanding your specific needs and context will help determine whether reading, writing, speaking, or listening is the most crucial language skill for you to focus on for the specific job you’re applying for.

Your multilanguage magic can open doors with every word you know! We hope the tips in our guide will help you in proudly list your language skills on your resume. It’s inspiring to think about the myriad of cool things you can do with another language in your arsenal.

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Resume Language Skills: How to Describe and List Language Proficiency Levels on Resume

In a globalized world, where organizations often operate in multiple countries, language skills have become an invaluable asset for job seekers. Including your language proficiency levels on your resume can help set you apart from other candidates, showcasing your ability to communicate effectively in diverse environments.

In this article, we will discuss how to describe and list language proficiency levels on your resume, when to include them, and some mistakes to avoid.

• How to Describe Language Proficiency Levels on a Resume

When describing your language proficiency levels on a resume, it's important to use standardized terminology to convey your abilities accurately. The most common scale used is the Interagency Language Roundtable (ILR) scale, which categorizes language skills into five levels:

Elementary Proficiency (ILR Level 1)

At this level, you can understand and use basic phrases and expressions related to common, everyday situations. You can introduce yourself and others, ask and answer simple questions, and engage in brief conversations on familiar topics. However, your vocabulary is limited, and you may struggle with more complex grammar and sentence structures.

Limited Working Proficiency (ILR Level 2)

With limited working proficiency, you can understand and communicate in routine social and work situations. You can discuss your background, education, and work experience, as well as describe and compare objects, people, and places. While you may still make grammatical errors and have difficulty understanding complex or idiomatic language, you can generally handle tasks related to travel, shopping, and daily life.

Professional Working Proficiency (ILR Level 3)

At this level, you can understand and communicate effectively in most professional and social situations. You can participate in extended conversations, discuss abstract or complex topics, and provide detailed explanations. While you may still have a foreign accent or make occasional errors, you can generally comprehend spoken and written language in various contexts and interact with native speakers without significant difficulty.

Full Professional Proficiency (ILR Level 4)

With full professional proficiency, you can understand and use the language fluently and accurately in virtually all professional and social contexts, including specialized and technical subjects. You can comprehend idiomatic expressions, slang, and cultural references, as well as produce written and spoken language that is well-organized, coherent, and stylistically appropriate. At this level, your language skills are equivalent to those of a highly-educated native speaker.

Native or Bilingual Proficiency (ILR Level 5)

This level indicates that you have native-like fluency and can understand, speak, read, and write the language with complete ease. You have a deep understanding of cultural nuances, idiomatic expressions, and regional dialects, and you can communicate effectively in both formal and informal situations. Bilingual proficiency means that you have native-like fluency in two languages.

• Should You List Language Skills on a Resume?

Including language skills on your resume can be advantageous in several situations, as they can set you apart from other candidates and demonstrate your ability to communicate effectively in diverse environments. Here are some scenarios when it's a good idea to list language skills on your resume:

• When the job posting specifically mentions a required language

In this case, highlighting your language proficiency can directly contribute to meeting the job requirements, significantly increasing your overall chances of being considered for the vacant position. 2. When applying to a company that operates in multiple countries Companies with a global presence often value employees who can communicate with clients or colleagues from different backgrounds. By showcasing your language skills, you demonstrate your ability to adapt and contribute to an international work environment. 3. When your language skills complement your other skills For example, if you're a customer support specialist who is fluent in a language spoken by a significant portion of the company's clients, your language skills may improve customer satisfaction and retention.

When Not to Include Language Skills on a Resume

While language skills can be an asset, there are a couple of instances when including them on your resume may not actually be beneficial or necessary:

• When your language proficiency is at a very basic level

If your language skills are limited to basic greetings and phrases, they may not be valuable enough to include on your resume. Employers are typically more interested in candidates with a functional level of proficiency that can be utilized in a professional setting. 2. When the job posting does not mention any language requirements In this case, listing your language skills may not add significant value to your resume. Focus on emphasizing your relevant skills, experience, and accomplishments instead.

• Where to List Language Proficiency Levels on Resume

The placement of your language proficiency levels on your resume typically depends on its format and layout. Some of the most common locations include:

Skills Section

Including your language proficiency levels alongside other relevant skills can help create a comprehensive overview of your abilities. This approach is particularly suitable for functional or combination resume formats that emphasize skills over chronological work history.

Additional Information Section

Creating a separate section at the end of your resume to list your language proficiency levels can be an effective way to highlight your language skills without detracting from your core qualifications. This approach works well for chronological resume formats.

Education Section

If you have formal language training or certifications (e.g., a degree in a foreign language or a recognized language examination certificate), you can include your proficiency levels in the Education section of your resume. This approach can help demonstrate your commitment to learning and mastering a language.

• How to List Language Skills on a Resume (with Examples)

When listing language skills on your resume, it's essential to use clear and concise wording. Here are some examples for different proficiency levels: Elementary Proficiency: "Spanish - Elementary Proficiency (ILR Level 1)" Limited Working Proficiency: "French - Limited Working Proficiency (ILR Level 2)" Professional Working Proficiency: "Japanese - Professional Working Proficiency (ILR Level 3)" Full Professional Proficiency: "Chinese - Full Professional Proficiency (ILR Level 4)" Native or Bilingual Proficiency: "English - Native Proficiency (ILR Level 5)"

• Common Mistakes to Avoid While Listing Language Skills on Resume

To ensure that your resume accurately and effectively showcases your language skills, you should avoid these common mistakes:

Overstating Your Language Proficiency

Be honest about your abilities to avoid any potential issues in the future. Exaggerating your language skills may lead to misunderstandings or even jeopardize your credibility if your language abilities are tested during an interview or on the job.

Using Ambiguous Terminology

Stick to standardized terminology, such as the ILR scale or the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), to ensure clarity and avoid confusion. Non-standard terms like "intermediate" or "advanced" can be vague and may not accurately convey your proficiency level.

Listing Irrelevant Languages

Only include languages relevant to the position or industry. Including too many languages or languages that have no bearing on the job can make your resume appear unfocused or cluttered. Instead, prioritize languages that are directly related to the position or demonstrate your ability to work in a diverse, global environment.

• Proficient vs Fluent on Resume

"Proficient" and "fluent" are often used interchangeably on resumes, but they represent different levels of language proficiency. In the context of the ILR scale, "proficient" typically refers to Professional Working Proficiency (ILR Level 3), while "fluent" corresponds to Full Professional Proficiency (ILR Level 4). Ensure you accurately represent your language skills by using the appropriate term for your proficiency level.

• Conversational vs Fluent on Resume

"Conversational" is another term frequently used on resumes to describe language proficiency. It generally indicates a level of language skill that allows for casual communication, falling between Limited Working Proficiency (ILR Level 2) and Professional Working Proficiency (ILR Level 3). If you choose to use "conversational" on your resume, make sure it accurately reflects your language abilities and the requirements of the position.

• How to Determine Your Language Proficiency Level for Resume

If you want to accurately determine your language proficiency level, then you should consider each of the following factors: Formal training and education: Reflect on your language courses and certifications, as they can provide a benchmark for your proficiency level. Professional experience: If you have used a language in a professional setting, evaluate the complexity of the tasks and the level of communication required. Self-assessment: Be honest with yourself when evaluating your reading, writing, speaking, and listening abilities in a given language. Use the ILR scale descriptions as a guide to determine your level of proficiency.

• Key Takeaways

Including language proficiency levels on your resume can be a valuable addition when applying for positions that require or prefer multilingual candidates. By using standardized terminology, accurately assessing your proficiency, and strategically placing this information on your resume, you can effectively showcase your language skills and increase your chances of landing the job.

Maggie Horne

Content Manager & Resume Expert

Maggie is the Content Manager at VisualCV, with years of experience creating easy-to-understand resume guides, blogs, and career marketing content. Now, she loves helping people learn how to leverage their skills to start their dream jobs.

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Language Skills on the resume

How best to include your linguistic abilities.

Language skills are always impressive and for some jobs they are a requirement.  How to include language skills on your resume  will depend on whether they are relevant to the job, how many you speak, and to what level.

Your language skills are only a small part of your resume, so it’s vital that also you understand  how to write a resume  by each section.

Should I put languages on my resume?

The number one consideration on whether to  include a resume language skills section  is relevancy. Is the language a job requirement? Is the ability to speak the language of value to the company?

If the language is relevant to the position you’re applying for it should definitely be included,  and highlighted. If not, it should be included though it shouldn’t be given too much prominence.

When writing a resume, space is precious , every part should help to sell yourself to the company. If you doubt whether something is relevant, the chances are it isn’t.

English is the most important international language to speak. Most recruiters and employers expect their employees to be able to hold a conversation in English.

However, the fact that your resume is in English will highlight this.  In the US, it can also be highly valuable to speak Spanish.  If you’re  writing a student resume , extra languages look good, and will help you to fill the space.

Where to put language skills on a resume

A well-written resume should be tailored for each job application. The skills should match the job description, and each skill should be given prominence according to how important it is for the position.  Resume language skills are no different .

With this in mind, you need to choose a place for  putting languages on a resume . The most common choice is to feature them in your  skills section . If you only speak one or two languages, and it isn’t directly important to the job, this is the most logical choice.

Unless you are applying for a job in IT, you can also  put your computer skills in the same section  under a general core competencies heading.

Another option,  if you have a language qualification , is to list it under your  education section .

If you’re applying for a job for which language skills are highly important , such as a translator or hospitality worker, you should choose a  resume format  which highlights them.

You should have a specific ‘languages’ section  which gives more detailed information on your ability. It could be a subsection of your skills, or a separate section, whichever fits better.

You can also mention it in your ‘personal details’ section if you have one, and if it’s a must-have skill for the vacancy, you can plug it in your  resume objective .

You should also include a separate ‘languages’ section  if you speak enough languages to warrant doing so.

Using a  resume template  is an easy way to construct a winning resume which you can tailor for each position you apply for.

How to write foreign language skills on your resume

Once you’ve worked out where you’re going to put them, you need to know  how to write language skills  in a resume:  Chinese ,  German ,  French  or  Spanish . What is your level? Are you fluent? Is your level intermediate?

How to write resume foreign language skills:  There are lots of different scales and ways of measuring language ability. Unless the language ability is central to the job, you should just describe your level with one or two words.

Putting language proficiency on your resume:  You can write something like basic, fluent or native or if you have a clearer idea of your level here is a scale of language ability:

Being fluent in a language  is defined in a variety of ways, but essentially  it means you can have a fluid and accurate conversation  in that language.

Proficiency in a language means you understand it well , but may use it more formally or less easily than a fluent speaker.

If you’re at an intermediate level, you can have basic conversations  in a variety of situations but still make your fair share of mistakes. Don’t bother including anything below this level on your resume.

Here is a basic level guide:

• Beginner  (Don’t include)
• Elementary  (Don’t include)
• Pre-intermediate  (Don’t include)
• Intermediate
• Upper-intermediate

Alternatively you can use the scale which LinkedIn uses:

• Elementary proficiency  (Don’t include)
• Limited working proficiency
• Professional working proficiency
• Full professional proficiency
• Native or bilingual proficiency

There are other options.  If you have a qualification in a language you can include this in your ‘education’ or ‘qualifications’ section . You can also include the number of years you’ve studied it.

Do not lie on your resume about your language ability!

Don’t include language skills in a resume if you don’t have them!  If the required language is important for the job you’re applying for, the interview – or at least part of it – is likely to be in that language. It could be incredibly awkward and embarrassing!

Even if you were to get away with it at the interview stage,  you would be expected to be able to speak the language when you start the job . Once they discover that you can’t and that you lied on your resume, you could be sacked.

Secondly, if it is not an important element for the job, it won’t help your resume to stand out so it wouldn’t be of any help to you.  Don’t lie on your resume!

If you have limited experience it can be tempting to lie. Don’t. Knowing  how to write an entry-level resume  will help you to highlight your strengths and get to the interview stage.

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• December 8, 2020

So you loved learning new languages : German at university, spent 6 months in Spain, and watch TV shows just in English… but how do you put those language skills into your CV? Is there a right way of describing your skill in the resume? Yes, there is! Generally,   90% of the EU population knows at least one foreign language , that’s why it’s crucial to dive into the correct language proficiency levels, formatting, designing, and many more. At first sight, it might seem an easy job, but our full guide will reveal how many things you should actually consider.

Where to put your language skills?

After creating the perfect resume for the startup world , you may wonder where would your language skills actually fit. You’ve probably spent quite some time acquiring a specific language, so be proud of it! Give it enough spotlight by placing your language skills in the  “Skill” section, where you also include all the other skills you gained , like specific marketing or coding skills. You can also list them after the core resume parts (education and working experience).

One might think: “Should I dedicate a whole section just to the list of languages?!”. Our answer is: definitely! If you phrase your skills in the way they should be phrased, the “simple list” will occupy way more space than you would imagine. When one of your biggest strengths is learning languages fast, displaying them correctly is crucial to give recruiters even more reasons to hire you instead of someone else .

How to list your skills?

The list shouldn’t be random. Don’t use alphabetical order or the most common languages at the beginning. Instead, order your language skills  depending on your proficiency level . Start with the most proficient language, and just then list up other language skills in descending order.

How do you decide, which language proficiency level to use?

To have a proper list of your language skills, you have to focus on two main aspects. First, the  wording in your resume is everything . You need to spend time and energy on finding the perfect alternatives you’d like to use to describe your language level: 

• Advanced : native, fluent, superior, proficient, highly developed, mother tongue, distinguished
• Mid-range : professional, advanced, conversational, competent, upper-intermediate
• Beginner:  elementary, beginner, basic, low-intermediate, novice, limited working proficiency

 If you use this as a base for ranking your skills, one concern may occur. How can your CV exactly explain to the hiring manager, what you meant by “Intermediate English” and “Advanced German”? Can you understand everything, read everything, express yourself fluently, and even explain the structure of the language to non-speakers?

What language framework to use?

That’s why the second aspect you should consider is to define,  what language framework you plan to use.  The easiest way to prove your language level in Europe is to include the  Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR)  framework. In line with the guidelines, you’ll get a certification from  A1 (basic users) to C2 (proficient users)   examining listening, speaking, reading, and writing abilities. If you are not sure about your level, you can  complete an online test , which will evaluate your knowledge and will give you your respective language proficiency level. For example,  here  you can assess your level of English. Don’t forget, that these frameworks are always territorial . If you apply to the US for example, you need to consider a different language framework, called  ILR . By listing up your language skills in the following structure, you should be good to go!

Should I include language certificates?

Yes! A certificate shows that the hiring manager doesn’t need to have second thoughts about your knowledge. But you don’t have enough space to include it in the ‘general’ skill section, right? Add a “(Language) Certificate” section to the end of your CV, so among others, you can list these certificates as well as enclose them with your CV.

PRO TIPS – what not to do

• Don’t write time frames. Don’t include in your resume the time frame you’ve been using or studying the language. Sometimes living for 6 months somewhere develops your language skills more. Studying a language for 4 years may sound more impressive, but having studied it for 2 hours/week won’t necessarily have as much of an impact.
• Don’t forget all the languages you speak . Don’t forget to mention all the languages you speak! It can easily happen, that you consider your mother tongue so obvious, that you forget to include it. You perhaps got used to sending out your resume in English – which many people do to apply for international startup jobs . If you decide to apply in your home country (with an English resume ), the hiring manager can easily assume that you don’t speak the local language at all and this can result in a fast rejection. Don’t think this is just theory – I once got rejected because of this very specific reason. The job seemed perfect for me and I didn’t understand why I didn’t get hired, or at least to the virtual assessment center . After I asked for feedback, the recruiter told me that they considered me but knowing the local language was very important to interact with customers. All in all, so much time passed by until we could clarify, that the company already hired someone else… bad luck for me!
• Don’t lie. This is always a big no-no but especially lies within the area of language proficiencies that can get discovered very fast. If you don’t use the frameworks wisely and realistically, you might have some very awkward situations. Just imagine, that you have to give an answer to “Why should we hire you?”, or “What are your biggest weaknesses?” when the hiring manager switches to another language or when you have to deal with a highly important client in the future… Not pleasant!
• Don’t mix frameworks. If you apply for Europe, make sure you use the CEFR for describing all of your language skills, don’t involve ILR which is usual for the US market.
• And last: don’t forget to also include your languages on LinkedIn. LinkedIn is a really powerful platform and recruiters spend a lot of time looking for candidates also there. If you want to make sure that recruiters can find you , leverage the platform and use all the tricks it has !

Describing language skills on your resume sounds easy, but there are many things to consider –  some will surprise you !

• You should:  place your skills right, list them up in the right order, use the appropriate framework, and include certificates to showcase your language proficiency.
• You should not:  write the time frame, lie about your language level on your cv, forget about your mother tongue and mix frameworks.

You worked hard to learn these languages, so bring out most of them! And when you’re ready, don’t forget to professionalize your CV and cover letter . Want to learn more about how AI is going to solve our language barrier ? read on about the exciting future of AI  today!

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How to List Language Skills on Resume (w/ Proficiency Levels & Examples)

• Martin Poduska , 
• Updated November 10, 2023 7 min read

Mastering a foreign language is one of the best things that can happen to you in life. That is, until you have to list these language skills on your resume.

Because what may seem like a straightforward issue at first can quickly become quite complicated.  

In fact, it’s enough to make one’s head spin. In my case, it looked a bit like this:

“What are the levels of language proficiency? Wow! Why are there so many language proficiency scales? And what the heck is ACTFL, ILR and CEFR? Okay, obviously I can’t describe my language skills in words. I’m going to use a star rating instead! What do you mean that ATS can’t read it? I give up.”

Anyway, if you’re looking for a simple answer, you can find it in the next part of this article. Ultimately, you don’t have to understand every nerdy detail about language proficiency scales to produce a rock solid resume .

But if you’re willing to dig deeper, prepare for a really exhaustive answer that will explain all the abbreviations mentioned above! 🤓

Table of Contents

Click on a section to skip

How to list language skills on a resume

What are the levels of language proficiency, how to correctly assess your level of language fluency , how to put bilingual on a resume, examples of language skills on resume.

• Create a separate subsection for your language skills under your resume's skills section .
• Order them by relevancy. Start with the language that is most relevant for the job you want. Don't include any languages in which you're not proficient, or any languages that you're only beginning to learn. 
• Follow a single language proficiency scale. List all languages using one of the language proficiency scales described below (CEFR, ILR, or ACTFL). Pick the one that a potential employer is most familiar with and stick to it.
• Use words, not charts. Use words to describe your levels of language proficiency, not charts or icons. This will help your resume get score more points with ATSs (applicant tracking systems that large companies use to scan candidates).
• Include certifications. If you took an exam and obtained a language certificate, include it in the certifications section of your resume. It gives a stronger backing  

By following these simple steps you ensure that:

• the language skills on your resume don’t go unnoticed (they’ve got their own subsection)
• your strongest skill gets the attention it deserves (it sits at the top)
• and you don't confuse the employer by coming up with your own unfamiliar names for the levels of language proficiency.  

Welcome to the most confusing part of this article! Why confusing, you ask?

Because there are multiple language proficiency scales (of course there are). What’s more, each of them uses different letters and numbers to describe the same thing.

Fortunately, you only need to know about three of them: IRL , ACTFL , and CEFR .  

Also, if all of this sounds intimidating, don’t worry too much. Remember, your main priority is to create a resume that clearly communicates your ability to use multiple languages professionally.

As long as you succeed in that, everything’s going to be all right, all right, all right.

Okay, then. Let’s take a look at those different levels of language fluency.

1. ILR (Interagency Language Roundtable)

The Interagency Language Roundtable scale is the standard grading scale for language proficiency developed by the United States’ federal-level service.  

Because of that, it’s most commonly used in the USA , or more specifically, when applying for US government jobs.  

And that’s probably everything that needs to be said about this scale. The rest you should be able to understand from the helpful comparison table above.

The ILR scale grades people’s language skills on a scale of 0–5 (5 being Native). In addition to that, it uses 0+, 1+, 2+, and 4+ to address those situations when a person’s language proficiency exceeds one skill level but doesn’t meet the criteria for the next level yet. 

The ILR scale corresponds to the language levels used on LinkedIn.

2. ACTFL (American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages)

The ACTFL scale was developed from the ILR scale but it’s more granular   with 11 grades of language proficiency instead of 6. According to the ACTFL website , it’s “intended to be used for global assessment in academic and workplace settings.”

Compared to the ILR, it can be a lot easier to understand even for people who couldn’t care less about language proficiency grades.

Which of the following is easier to decipher? “French: 4+ (ILR)” or “French: Advanced High (ACTFL)”.

3. CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages)

In Europe, we use the CEFR. This language proficiency scale is not derived from either of the American scales mentioned above, which is why it can be harder to convert grades from one into the other (that is officially).  

This scale is universally understood in Europe and almost every European employer will know exactly what you mean by, for example, B2 Spanish.  

4. LinkedIn language skills levels

LinkedIn uses the ILR language proficiency scale but instead of using numbers, they came up with their own wording for the individual ranks.

Because of that, you may want to determine your IRL language skill level before adding it to LinkedIn. 

Which language proficiency scale should you use on your resume?

Always use the one that your future employer is most familiar with. But how do you know which one is it?  

As usually, start with the job advertisement and look for the words they use to describe the required level of language proficiency.

Use the same words to describe your language skills in your resume (provided your skills are on that level).

"¿Buscar...trabajo?"

Create a great resume whether you know the language or not.

If you don't know your exact language skills levels, don't guess .

Either you'll overestimate your abilities (which can lead to many uncomfortable situations in the future) or you'll underestimate yourself (which may sabotage your effort to show yourself in the best possible light on your resume). 

What are your options then? 

• Obtain an official language certificate.  This often takes a lot of work and preparation but it can be worth it. It gives you a way to back your claims about your language skills levels and can make a stronger impression on the employer. On the other hand, sometimes it's simply an overkill. What's more, it can get pretty expensive, especially if you speak multiple languages and want to obtain an official certificate for each.
• Self-assess your language skill level.  In most cases, self-assessment should suffice, as long as you don't try overestimate your abilities and follow official guidelines to grade yourself. 

The official  IRL  website offers self assessment PDFs for speaking , reading , and listening .

The Council of Europe website provides official CEFR self assessment charts in most European languages. 

The ACTFL website lets you download the complete text of the ACTFL Proficiency Guidelines . It's from 2012 but these things only get updated ever 10 years.

If you're looking for a less exhaustive version, this downloadable poster should give you all the information you need.

What does it mean to be bilingual? By the most basic definition, a bilingual person is someone who speaks two languages. 

But in order to be considered bilingual, you're usually expected to speak both languages really well  in addition to having error-free grammar and perfect pronunciation.

Most people are able to achieve such level of language proficiency only by being born into linguistically mixed families or receiving formal education abroad. 

Don't be afraid to describe your language skills as near native.

But there are also people who have been studying a second language for decades. Their command of language often surpasses that of many born speakers. What about them?

If that's your case, don't be afraid to describe your language skill as " near native ". You won't be lying and it will help you get through various applicant tracking systems.

But don't just mention it in the language skills subsection of your resume. The competitive advantage of being bilingual is so big that you may want to mention it right at the beginning of your resume — in your resume summary (or resume objective) section. 

Christy's word of advice

The most common internationally-understood format is to list the language and overall proficiency level. For example: German (native), English (fluent). In general, I recommend writing the level in words rather than a specific scale (e.g. B1 is known in Europe, but not in the US). Regarding graphs or icons, ATS can struggle to interpret these, and some graphs can be perceived negatively, so in general it’s better to use a common format.

Christy Morgan, Resident HR Expert

As they say, one example is often worth a thousand explanations!

Because of that, let me give you a couple of examples you can use as an inspiration for the language skills section on your own resume. 

ILR language skills resume example 1

• American English — Level 4+ (ILR) • Chilean Spanish — Level 3+ (ILR) • Russian — Level 3 (ILR) • Ukrainian — Level 5 (ILR)

ILR language skills resume example 2 / LinkedIn language skills

• English — Full Professional Proficiency (ILR 4+) • French — Native (ILR 5)

ACTFL language skills resume example

• American English — Distinguished (ACTFL) • Spanish — Full Professional Proficiency (ACTFL) • Japanese — Advanced High (ACTFL)

CEFR language skills resume example

• English — C2 • German — B2 • Czech — Native

(Contrary to the previous ones, in the last example we didn't specify the language framework in parentheses. CEFR is so prevalent in Europe that you rarely have to do that.)

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Martin Poduska is a resume expert and career advice writer at Kickresume. He leads Kickresume’s team of writers and is the main person responsible for upholding the standards of expertise and quality on the blog. In addition to having written nearly 100 in-depth, painstakingly researched resume advice articles, as chief editor he has also edited and revised every single article on this blog. Tens of thousands of job seekers read Martin’s resume advice every month. Martin holds a degree in English from the University of St Andrews and a degree in Comparative Literature from the University of Amsterdam.

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How to List Language Skills on Your Resume

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Resume Template to Download

Foreign language resume sample.

• Self-Assessment Tools

One of the most valuable skills that job candidates can offer potential employers is strong fluency in a foreign language. If you have strong foreign language skills, including this fact on your resume will likely give you an advantage over most of your competition whenever the ability to speak another language is a prerequisite for the job.

The Most Requested Languages on Resumes

The level of demand for job candidates with specific foreign language skills depends on a few factors, including the industry and the geographical location of employers. According to the “Not Lost in Translation” study by New American Economy (NEA), the five most in-demand foreign languages requested by U.S. employers are Spanish, Chinese, French , Arabic, and Korean .  

Oftentimes, the second language requested depends upon the industry. Spanish fluency is frequently sought for customer service roles in the financial services and auto parts sectors. The hospitality and luxury retail industries have a high demand for Chinese speakers. French and Arabic, on the other hand, are desirable languages for job candidates seeking work with international humanitarian aid associations. Korean speakers, meanwhile, are targeted by the pharmaceutical, education, telecommunications, and banking industries.

Demand for employees with foreign language competencies also varies from state to state. The states with especially large immigrant populations—California, Texas, Florida, and New York—naturally have the most job postings for bilingual applicants. Other states with a high demand for second language fluency are Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, and Oregon.

Jobs That Require Foreign Language Skills

There is a wide range of employers who list foreign language qualifications for consideration on their job listings. For some positions, candidates are expected to provide a standardized measure of their level of proficiency in a foreign language on their resume.

Depending upon your industry, you may be asked to use a specific proficiency framework/test to self-assess and quantify your command of a foreign language.    

Customer Service Jobs

The vast majority of jobs where foreign language fluency is desirable are in customer service, sales, and medical positions—roles requiring extensive interaction with clients within our global economy. The NEA study mentioned above notes that bilingual customer service representatives are most in demand (7.8%), followed by wholesale/manufacturing sales representatives (6.3%), retail salespersons (6.1%), registered nurses (3.2%), and financial services sales agents (3.2%).

When applying for most of these sorts of jobs, it is fine to describe your fluency in general terms such as bilingual, native, near-native, advanced, intermediate, or competent. If you have a LinkedIn account , you can use the proficiency designations provided there (native or bilingual proficiency, full professional proficiency, professional working proficiency, limited working proficiency, or elementary proficiency) to add your language skills to your profile.

Here’s an example of how to cite your foreign language competency level on your resume:

• Foreign languages : English (native proficiency), Mandarin Chinese (full professional proficiency)

If you only have a basic understanding of a second language, it is generally best not to mention the language at all on your resume (except when this is required, as it is for some federal job applications). Never exaggerate your foreign language proficiency.

Federal Government and Military Jobs

Federal agencies that actively recruit personnel with foreign language skills include the Department of Defense, Central Intelligence Agency, Department of State, Federal Bureau of Investigation, National Security Agency, Defense Intelligence Agency, Bureau of Labor Statistics, National Virtual Translation Center, and the Peace Corps.  

Foreign language skills are in high demand for these federal government jobs, and there is a shortage of qualified applicants. The United States Government Accountability Office reports that 23% of Foreign Service Officers appointed by the State Department to work overseas lacked the required language proficiency.  

The demand for talented foreign language speakers in the government sector is so great that many agencies now offer hiring incentives to job applicants with fluency in priority languages.  

Required proficiency framework: Candidates for federal jobs may be asked to prove their language proficiency by taking a test based on the Interagency Language Roundtable (ILR) scale. This scale ranks one’s language competency at six different skill levels (0-5). Here’s what a citation of this scale might look like on a resume:

• Foreign Languages: Spanish-Native/Bilingual (ILR Level 5); English-Native/Bilingual (ILR Level 5); French-Professional Working Proficiency (ILR Level 3)

Foreign Language Teaching Jobs

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that there were approximately 27,240 foreign language teachers in the American workforce in 2017. Colleges and universities, junior colleges, and local governments are the leading employers of foreign language teachers.

Required proficiency framework : The American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages   (ACTFL) has created a series of guidelines used to evaluate one’s functional language ability. This scale, commonly used both by teachers and employers to assess foreign language competency, analyzes proficiency in speaking, writing, listening, and reading.  

Here’s an example: 

• Foreign Languages : English (Native); Spanish (ACTFL: Speaking-“Superior,” Writing-“Superior,” Listening- “Advanced High,” Reading-“Distinguished”)

Jobs With European Companies

Most Europeans begin learning a second language early in their primary education. If you hope to work abroad for EU employers, a solid command of a second language may well be required.  

A good way to learn which languages are required in order to work overseas is to scan the listings on one of these best international job search engine sites .

Required proficiency framework: Employers in the EU use the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages  (CEFR) to determine their job candidate’s degree of language proficiency. A basic understanding of a language is ranked as “A1” or “A2” (“Basic User”), an intermediate command is scored as “B1” or “B2” (“Independent User”), and advanced competency is described as “C1” or “C2” (“Proficient User”). 

Here’s what a citation looks like:

• Foreign Languages:  English (Native, CEFR C2); German (CEFR B2); French (CEFR B1)

Where to List Foreign Language Skills on Your Resume

If foreign language competency is one of the “preferred” or “required” qualifications on a job listing, then you need to mention this skill throughout your resume.

Although this might seem repetitive, multiplying the mentions of your language skills on your resume will ensure that it “passes” its initial review by the automated applicant tracking systems that many employers use to narrow down their pools of candidates. These systems are programmed to identify both the placement and the number of times specific keyword phrases are incorporated within your resume.

The best places to showcase your language skills on your resume are in an initial qualifications profile , a dedicated languages skills section or table, and within your “Education and Certifications” section. 

You should also describe your professional use of a foreign language as a “key achievement” in your “Experience” section. 

Qualifications Summary Example

The qualifications profile (also called a “ summary of qualifications ”) of your resume provides the important first impression to an employer, so it’s important to highlight your language skills prominently here. You can do this by mentioning them both in a resume headline and in the text of the profile itself:

Jordan German 123 Railroad Avenue Bethlehem, PA 18020 (123) 456-7890 jgerman@email.com www.linked.com/in/jordangerman

CUSTOMER SERVICE PROFESSIONAL

Bilingual Customer Service Representative with 6-year track record of excellence in auto parts sector .

Service-oriented support specialist offering proven communications strengths within fast-paced call center environments. Easily engage customers from diverse cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds through attentive needs identification and consultative dialogues. Bilingual command of English (native tongue) and Spanish (near-native fluency).

Language Skills Section Example

Another good way to showcase your language skills is to set them off in a dedicated “Language Skills” section or table. This should be placed either directly after your summary of qualifications or (especially on federal resumes) at the end of the resume following the description of your education and training.

Foreign Language Competencies

• English : Native (ILR Level 5)
• German : Professional Working Proficiency (ILR Level 3)
• Dutch : Professional Working Proficiency (ILR Level 3) 

Experience Section Example

If you have used a foreign language frequently as part of your day-to-day work experience, be sure to highlight this in your “Experience” section.

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

ABC GENERAL HOSPITAL, Quincy, Massachusetts Registered Nurse  (February 2008 – Present)

Provide attentive and empathetic nursing care to mothers and infants in 50-bed labor and obstetrics ward. Implement treatment plans, monitor stages of labor and delivery, and educate new parents in neonatal care. 

Key Contributions :

• Willingly stepped up to work overtime and weekend shifts when needed.
• Leveraged bilingual command of Spanish to translate for physicians and Spanish-speaking patients and their families.

Education and Certifications Section Example

Any academic or professional training you have had in a foreign language should be mentioned in the “Education” section of your resume, along with language certifications you have earned.

EDUCATION & CREDENTIALS

CLEMSON UNIVERSITY, Clemson, South CarolinaBachelor of Arts in French

Junior Year Abroad: University of Paris, Paris, France (20XX to 20XX)

Language Certification : International Centre for French Studies: Diplôme d'études en langue française (DELF) diplomas (CEFRL C1 and C2)

(compatible with Google Docs and Microsoft Word) to use as a starting point for your own resume.

Sonya See 17017 Riverwalk Road Arlington, VA 98223 (555) 555-1212 Sonya.see@email.com

Multilingual, customer-focused Concierge with 7 years’ experience serving an international clientele .

Charismatic and focused professional offering world-class service to patrons of upscale hotels, conference centers, and cruise ships. Seamlessly discern and respond to client requirements to ensure unique and memorable experiences. Bilingual in English and Chinese (Mandarin and Cantonese), with advanced command of Korean and Japanese. 

WELLINGTON HOTEL AND CONFERENCE CENTER, Arlington, VA

Concierge (June 2014-Present)

Orchestrate local travel, restaurant, tourism, and entertainment arrangements for hotel guests. Respond to customer inquiries and mediate service issues; work closely with local vendors to provide enjoyable entertainment opportunities.

• Leverage superb command of spoken and written Mandarin Chinese, Cantonese, Korean, and Japanese to ensure positive guest experiences and generate business referrals.
• Recruited by marketing team to help develop email communications and collateral targeted to customers from Asia and Southeast Asia.

SOUTHSEAS CRUISES, Singapore

Concierge (August 2012-May 2014)

Worked closely with Guest Relations Manager to fulfill requests for on-board services and coordinate shore-side services at ports of call in Langkawi, Phuket, and Penang.

• Spearheaded highly successful programming that brought local dancing groups to perform onboard at each port of call.
• Stepped up to serve as personal translator and as tour guide for English-only speaking guests.

University of San Francisco, San Francisco, CA

BS of Business Administration in Hospitality Management (Minor: Japanese) 2012

Study Abroad: Summer Abroad Program, Seisen University, Japan (2011)

Foreign Language Certifications :

• JLPT Japanese-Language Proficiency Test (N5), Japan Foundation / Japan Educational Exchanges and Services
• Test of Proficiency in Korean (TOPIK II, Level 6), Korean Institute for Curriculum and Evaluation

Foreign Language Self-Assessment Tools

Not sure just how good your foreign language skills are? You can take self-assessments using the ILR proficiency scale (for federal jobs), the CEFR scale (for jobs overseas in the EU), and the 10-level ACTFL proficiency scale .

The New American Economy. " Not Lost in Translation ," Page 21.

The New American Economy. " Not Lost in Translation ," Page 22.

The New American Economy. " Not Lost in Translation ," Page 18.

The New American Economy. " Not Lost in Translation ," Page 13.

The New American Economy. " Not Lost in Translation ," Page 8.

LinkedIn. " How To Include Language Skills On Your LinkedIn Profile (and Resume) ."

Interagency Language Roundtable. " Federal Foreign Careers Information ."

United States Government Accountability Office. " Foreign Language Proficiency Has Improved, but Efforts to Reduce Gaps Need Evaluation ."

Interagency Language Roundtable. " How Can I be Tested and Rated on the ILR Scale? "

Interagency Language Roundtable. " What are the “ILR Language Skill-Level Descriptions? "

Bureau of Labor Statistics. Occupational Employment Statistics. " Foreign Language and Literature Teachers, Postsecondary ."

American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages. " ACTFL Proficiency Guidelines ."

Pew Research Center. " Most European Students Are Learning a Foreign Language in School While Americans Lag ."

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Describing My Language Skills on a Resume

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Foreign language skills can make a resume really stand out; the ability to communicate in different languages can be very attractive to an employer. However, it’s often hard to know how to describe your language skills. What exactly does ‘one-semester college-level French’ or ‘my parents speak Farsi at home’ translate into for a resume? Use this worksheet to determine what level of proficiency you should indicate on your resume, and take pride in your language skills!

• Read and understand short paragraphs of simple text
• Communicate basic, everyday needs to a native speaker, with some repetition required on my part
• Understand a native speaker in short conversations about basic, everyday needs and the gist – though not the details – of longer descriptions
• Create sentences and short paragraphs related to my survival needs

👉 on your resume, write ‘basic [language]’

I can do all of those things, and I can also…

• Understand most factual material in non-technical prose, separating out the big idea from the small details
• Control my tone to be appropriate to the situation most of the time, communicating on topics relating to my particular interests effectively, for the most part
• Understand most conversations on work requirements, as well as some discussions on concrete subjects – but I may get lost in more abstract topics
• Write with some precision and detail about most common topics, but I struggle with more abstract topics and some constructions

👉 on your resume, write ‘conversational [language]’

• Read and comprehend a variety of styles and forms that are pertinent to professional needs
• Use the language to satisfy professional needs in a wide range of sophisticated and demanding tasks, while sometimes exhibiting some uncertainy or errors
• Understand most of the content and intent of a variety of forms and styles of speech pertinent to professional needs, general topics, and social conversation – but I sometimes miss cultural subtleties and nuances
• Write in the language in a few styles that are pertinent to my professional or educational needs

👉 on your resume, write ‘proficient [language]’

• Read and understand extremely difficult and abstract prose, such as general legal and technical writing – as well as highly colloquial text
• Use the language in conversation with complete flexibility and intuition, and my speech is fully accepted by native speakers
• Understand all forms and style of speech, including regional and illiterate dialects, as well as conversations that have interference from other noise
• Write official reports and documents, as well as write for specialized purposes

👉 on your resume, write ‘fluent [language]’

But what if I can do some, but not all, of the tasks at one level?

It’s very common to be stronger in some areas than in others in your language ability. Additionally, if you grew up in a household that spoke a different language than the one you used in school, your writing abilities will often lag behind your other skills. And that’s okay! With the exception of the ‘Fluent’ level, if you can do three of the four tasks described above, you may consider yourself at that level of fluency. To consider yourself ‘Fluent,’ you should be able to do all four tasks detailed above.

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• Resume and Cover Letter
• Resume Profile Explained...

Resume Profile Explained (with Examples)

13 min read · Updated on January 17, 2024

Make an impact with a knock-out profile

When it comes to job search success, nothing is more important than ensuring that your resume captures an employer's attention. After all, even the best resumes are useless if no one reads them. Of course, that raises an important question: is there anything you can do to make your resume get the attention it deserves?

In this post, we'll explain how a great resume profile can help you to solve that challenge. We'll explain how a resume profile works, when you should use it in your resume, and how to create a profile that immediately commands interest. Finally, we'll provide several resume profile examples that you can customize and use in your own resume.

What is a resume profile?

If you're already familiar with the resume objective statement or resume summary, then the concept of a resume profile should be easy to understand. Put simply, the resume profile is an introductory paragraph that quickly summarizes your skills and experiences in a way that motivates hiring managers to continue reading your resume.

As you'll discover in our resume profile examples later in the post, a great profile focuses attention on your best skills, experience, and achievements. You can think of it as an elevator pitch for your resume - a quick snapshot that provides just enough information to make the reader want to learn more about you.

Related: Make the Perfect First Impression With Your Resume

What types of resume profiles can you use?

To better understand the resume profile, it may help to look at some of the different types of resume profiles that job seekers can use. There are three different types of common profiles, including the objective statement, summary, and summary of qualifications.

Objective statement

The resume objective statement is often considered obsolete, since it tends to focus more on your career goals than the employer's needs. It's often used by entry level workers with little experience or career-changers who need to explain why their skill set makes them a good candidate for the job. To use it effectively, job candidates need to ensure that they include some language that explains how they can benefit the employer if they're hired. For example:

“Creative social media professional with 3 years of experience and proven results. Skilled in cross-platform engagement enhancement and brand development. Looking for an opportunity to work with a company that prioritizes customer experience and brand loyalty. Experience includes increasing customer engagement by 130% over a six-month period.”

Related : Resume Objective Examples: A Career Objective Guide

Summary paragraph

The resume summary has replaced the objective statement in most modern resumes - and for good reason. This brief paragraph may also mention one or two key skills, but its primary focus is on detailing your important work experience and measurable achievements. As a result, the summary is a preferred option for job seekers with significant experience, since it's designed to demonstrate your value as an employee. Below, is an example of this type of profile statement:

“Accomplished Project Manager with more than ten years of successful team building and project execution expertise. Skilled in process development, workflow management, and collaboration with stakeholders. Received Agile Leader award in 2018. While at ABC Corporation, developed personnel resource allocation program that increased project efficiency by 48% in the first year of use.”

Summary of qualifications

The third option is the summary of qualifications. The main difference between this type of summary and the summary paragraph involves the format choice. Instead of being one block of text, it combines a brief paragraph with several bullet point examples of notable achievements. For example:

Dynamic Team Leader with 7 years of experience in customer management, problem-solving, and team building. Proven to increase team productivity, enhance the customer service experience, and provide real value to an employer.

• Led 30-person team of technical professionals, with 95% customer satisfaction
• Reorganized project workflow for ABC Corporation, increasing efficiency by 45%
• Developed training program that reduced employee onboarding costs by 17%

What elements should you include in your resume profile?

Before you create a resume profile, it's important to think about the types of information you want to include for your reader. What types of qualification is the employer evaluating as part of its hiring decision? Does the job description focus primarily on core skills ? Do you have achievements that are likely to make a positive impression on the hiring manager?

There are many different profile elements that you can include, so you'll need to prioritize based on the employers' needs. The fact is that you won't have room in your profile to cover all these different types of information, so choose wisely:

Skills that are relevant to the position you're seeking

Your length of experience

Notable achievements, preferably ones that you can quantify with real numbers

Core personal characteristics that make you a good fit for the role

Your career aspirations - preferably noted in a way that shows how they align with the company's vision

Related : Top 15 Professional Goals and How to Achieve Them

Again, make sure that you focus attention on the job posting, taking note of every key skill and experience that the employer cites as required qualifications. You'll want to tailor your profile - and the rest of your resume - to align with those stated employer needs.

Pro tip: Make special note of those job requirements, since you will want to use the same language in your resume. Those keywords are essential for ensuring that your resume can satisfy any applicant tracking system screening the employer might be using.

You should also do some research to learn more about the company's culture. That will enable you to further tailor your resume profile to include personal traits that highlight how well you'll fit into that environment. Sometimes, those little details can make the difference between you and another similarly qualified candidate.

How to write your own resume profile: tips

When you're ready to create your resume profile, it's important to know how to do it the right way. Since it's the first thing employers will see after they're done reading your contact details, you need to make sure that it's as compelling as possible. The following tips can help.

Write this part of your resume last

Even though your profile section will be near the top of your resume, you should still create this important section last. Why? Well, it's simple: since the resume profile serves as a summary of your qualifications, it's helpful to get the rest of the resume done before you start on that summary.

Make it brief

Be as concise as you can. Again, think of this profile section as a salesperson's elevator pitch. It doesn't need to tell your entire employment story, but should instead serve as a brief highlight of your greatest hits. As a rule, try to restrict this paragraph to no more than four sentences. If you use a summary of qualifications, include just one or two brief sentences and three or four bullet points.

Choose the best profile type for your job search needs

Which type of profile should you create? If you're an entry-level employee, you may want to focus on a modified objective statement - one that focuses on your career goals, while highlighting the ways in which your skills can benefit the employer. If you have more experience, you may want to rely on the summary paragraph. Just be sure to include at least one measurable achievement to highlight your value.

If you're switching careers and need to focus attention on transferable skills, you may even want to rely on a summary of qualifications. Those bullet points can be a great way to emphasize specific skills and highlight the value that you've provided for previous employers.

Tailor the profile to your desired position

Make sure that your profile aligns with the job you're seeking. You can do this by including some core keywords from the job posting, detailing your qualifications. However, make sure that your profile ultimately aligns with who you are as an employee. If you take the tailoring to extremes, you may end up with a profile that fails to accurately represent your personality and character.

Don't be afraid to add personality

Speaking of personality, this is the place to add that personal touch. Your skills, work experience, and education sections are not appropriate for adding personality, but a few well-chosen words in your profile can help the employer to better understand you as a person.

Of course, make sure that your personal flourishes fit with the type of job you're seeking. For example, a few words about your fun work style will be appreciated if you're applying for a customer service or similar position. That same language may not be as useful if you're seeking a role in a law firm. Use your best judgment as you determine how much personality to put into any profile.

Use measurable achievements

We've already mentioned measurable achievements several times, but it's important to highlight them once again. Your resume profile should include at least one quantifiable accomplishment, backed by real numbers that demonstrate the value you've provided. For example:

• Implemented new networking system that reduced downtime by 33%, improving both efficiency and productivity and providing 12% cost savings for the company
• Led sales team effort that increased new customer acquisition by 13% while generating $12 million in new revenues in the first six months of the fiscal year
• Created an online customer engagement program that increased website visits by 45%, enhanced new sales activities by 13%, and boosted revenues by 10% within one quarter of implementation

Resume profile examples you can use

As you might expect, your approach to creating a resume profile can also differ based on the type of job you're seeking. That's because different job roles require different skill sets, experiences, and personal qualities.

To get you started, we've compiled resume profile examples covering a wide variety of professions. You can use these professional profile examples as templates for your profile, or simply refer to them for guidance as you create your own unique resume opening.

Resume profile examples for students

Recent Information Technology graduate focused on operating and security software management. Seeking employment with a dynamic software firm in need of advanced networking and troubleshooting expertise. Experience includes a one-year internship with DynacorpX, providing testing and problem-resolution that helped increase company productivity by 14%.

Resume profile example for entry-level applicants

Friendly, detail-oriented, and organized customer service professional looking to be part of an energetic, mission-focused team.

• Skilled at developing organizational processes, managing records, and engaging customers
• Successfully resolved customer complaints, with 90% satisfaction rate while volunteering with FreshStart
• Broad computer systems expertise, including database and presentation platforms

Resume profile example for career-changers

Personnel-focused Sales Team Leader with 10+ years of experience in team building, training, and sales program development. Looking to transition to a project management role to better use organizational and project implementation skills. While at ABC Corporation, successfully created and executed a sales process reorganization that cut waste by 45%, saving the company more than $40,000 per year.

Related : 21 Project Management Skills Every Project Manager Needs to Succeed

Resume profile example for a Graphic Designer

Dynamic and innovative Graphic Designer with 4 years of experience in the gaming and entertainment industry. Skilled in developing storyboards, character animation, typography, and general layouts. Creative successes include development work on more than 200 unique graphic design projects that helped to generate more than $300 million in revenue.

Resume profile example for a Marketing Manager

Creative Marketing Manager focused on data-driven solutions. More than 8 years of experience in building collaborative teams capable of overcoming any challenge. While at XYZ Inc., led a 10-person team responsible for broadening target audience by 200%, increasing company revenues by 120% over a three-year period. Expertise includes digital marketing campaigns focused on driving new customer acquisition and target audience engagement.

Resume profile example for an Accountant

Detail-oriented finance professional with 7 years of accounting expertise. Proficient in accounting best practices, including creation and management of financial reports, regulatory compliance, tax issues, and budget management and forecasting. Reorganized DEF Corporation's accounting department, reducing inefficiencies by 28%, cutting costs by 19%, and improving productivity by 33%.

Resume profile example for an Administrative Assistant

Reliable Administrative Assistant with 8 years of experience in office management and personal assistance. Comprehensive expertise in presentation development, scheduling management, reporting, and confidentiality. Reorganized filing and reporting systems at Beagle Law, improving client response times by 40%, reducing redundancies, and cutting labor costs by 12%.

Resume profile example for a Data Scientist

Fact-driven Data Scientist with 8 years of experience in data analysis, predictive modeling, and data mining. Proficient with SQL, Python, Tableau, and other common data visualization systems. While at DataCore, took the lead on development of new processes that increased decision-making efficiency by improving the company's ability to use data to gain useful insights. Project resulted in an 18% increase in overall departmental productivity.

Resume profile example for an HR Manager

Personnel-focused HR Manager with 7 years of experience managing human resources functions. Expertise in recruitment, onboarding processes, employee training and relations, and performance reviews. Designed AmAm's new HR policies to align with new firm policies, emphasizing progressive discipline and promotion of a positive work environment. Effort resulted in a 33% reduction in turnover and 43% increase in employee satisfaction.

Resume profile example for a Teacher

Results-oriented educator with 6 years of experience as a middle school Teacher. Expertise in crafting challenging but engaging lesson plans designed to encourage critical thinking and classroom participation in an inclusive way. Dedicated to professional development to stay abreast of current educational best practices and focused on enhancing each student's ability to achieve success. Specific competencies include English, US History, and Basic Civics.

Resume profile example for a Construction Manager

Task-oriented construction professional with more than 10 years of experience in both commercial and residential project management. Led teams responsible for completing more than 60 construction projects valued at more than $40 million dollars, with a 99% on-time and under-budget record of success. Bilingual (English and Spanish) manager with expertise in budget allocation, resource management, project estimates and implementation.

Craft the best possible intro for your resume!

No matter what type of resume profile you decide to use to introduce yourself to prospective employers, your goal should always be the same: to create a powerful and compelling message that inspires employers to read the rest of your resume. The tips and resume profile examples we've provided should ensure that you have everything you need to craft your own profile narrative.

Still not sure if your resume profile has what it takes to capture your reader's interest? Get a free resume review from our team of top experts today!

Recommended reading:

47 Accomplishment Examples for Your Resume: Expert Picks

The Best Resume Format to Get Hired

How to Advance Your Career (plus 10 Insightful Tips)

Related Articles:

Do Hiring Managers Actually Read Cover Letters?

How to Create a Resume With No Education

Why You Lose When You Lie on Your Resume: Learning From Mina Chang

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How to Write a Resume

The basics of resumes, steps for creating your own resume.

You may have heard complaints from friends and family like, “I’ve applied to hundreds of jobs, but nobody ever calls me back.” Statements like this may surprise you since help wanted signs are everywhere, but often, the issue isn’t a lack of employment opportunities. You generally still need an impressive resume to score a position even when your area has plenty of job openings. After all, it’s unlikely you’ll be the only applicant, so you need something that sets you apart from other job hunters.

Many hiring managers view hundreds — sometimes even thousands — of resumes for each open position, and they typically spend less than 60 seconds looking at each one before deciding whether the candidate is interview worthy. In fact, nearly 1 in 4 hiring managers confess they spend less than 30 seconds reviewing each resume. You have very little time to make a favorable first impression, but you can up your odds by providing accurate, appropriate information.

When you finish with your resume, don’t forget to write a matching cover letter. Download one of our free cover letter templates and get started.

Feeling the pressure yet? Don’t worry, we’re here to help. We’ve created this detailed guide to take you through every step of the resume process, from choosing the correct format to avoiding red flags that may cost you your dream job.

Submitting a resume for an available position is the equivalent of swiping right or clicking the heart on a dating profile. You’re connected with the other party, but that doesn’t mean you’ve officially scored a phone call or a face-to-face meeting. Your words are important, and the wrong phrase can get you sent to the rejection list. That’s why it’s crucial that you learn the following resume basics before you apply for another job.

What's the Purpose of a Resume?

Anyone can express interest in a job opening, but that doesn’t mean they have the right skills or training. A resume lets an employer know that you’re qualified for a position, either through your educational history, work experience or a combination of the two. You can also share volunteer work, internships and externships on a resume if they help show why you’re a great fit for the position you want.

Think of a resume as your social media profile for hiring managers. When a stranger sends you a friend request or comments on a group post, you may skim their profile to learn more about them. If they seem like an okay person, you may decide to give them a chance. However, inappropriate content or posts that don’t mesh with your beliefs may cause you to press the ignore or decline button.

A resume lets an employer know that you're qualified for a position, either through your educational history, work experience or a combination of the two.

This is basically how things work in the business world, too. When you apply for a position, the hiring manager glances at your resume quickly before deciding whether you’re worthy of an interview. Red flags, such as typos or profanity, may keep you from landing an interview even if you’re well qualified for the position.

What Are the Main Elements of a Resume?

For starters, every resume should have your name at the top of the page so the hiring manager knows who you are. You should also include contact info, such as your phone number, email address and postal address.

After you provide this basic information, create an objective for your resume. An objective lets the interviewer know who you are, what experience you have and what type of position you want. Keep your objective short; one to three sentences are enough.

Back up your objective by listing key skills, employment history and educational background. If this is your first job, focus on skills, training or volunteer work instead. You can also list freelance gigs when relevant. For example, a five-star rating at a 1099 gig delivering groceries shows you have strong customer service skills, and a freelance blogging gig indicates you have excellent verbal communication skills. Mention that you volunteer at vacation Bible school if you’re applying for a daycare, and share your role as a foster parent for furry friends to help you land a gig as a vet tech.

Some applicants also add hobbies, interests, spoken languages, publications, projects and industry awards to their resumes. These can help you stand out if you’re applying for a job where this information matters, but sometimes it’s overkill. You may want to mention that you’re bilingual if you’re applying for a call center job, but it may not matter if you want a job at a local clothing boutique. Tailor your qualifications to the position you want unless you’re creating a general resume that you plan to use for multiple applications.

What Are Some Red Flags for Hiring Managers?

Hiring managers skim your resume quickly in search of obvious red flags. Grammatical errors and typos can immediately land you on the rejection list and so can profanity and slang. You should also avoid anything that hints toward instability, such as mentioning you’ve had 20 jobs in the last five years. Keep personal info, such as the fact that you have kids or are married, off of your resume, and don’t include a photo unless you’re applying for a modeling job.

Inaccurate info can also cost you a position, especially if it’s obvious. Don’t pretend you have a degree that doesn’t exist, and be truthful about certifications and work experience. It’s easy to get caught lying on a resume even if nobody calls to verify your information.

Resumes come in different formats, including chronological, functional, combination and targeted styles. Your education, employment history and career goals should influence which type you choose. Job hunters who want a classic resume should go with a chronological format, while applicants with more education than experience can benefit from a functional resume. A combination resume lists skills as well as chronological work experience, and a targeted resume focuses on qualifications that match a specific job listing.

The steps for creating a resume are generally the same no matter which format you prefer. We’ve broken them down for you in our step-by-step instructions below.

1. List Your Contact Information at the Top

A recruiter shouldn’t have to go on a scavenger hunt to learn your identity. Make it obvious by including contact info at the top of your resume. Start with your name then provide a phone number, email address and mailing address. You may also want to include a link to your website, portfolio or LinkedIn profile. Consider using a slightly different font for your name so that it stands out.

Your contact information may look something like this:

Lincoln Tavera

123 Main St., Boston, MA 02111 [email protected] | (123) 456-7890 linkedin.com/in/lincolntavera

Do not include your date of birth or Social Security number on your resume. You should also avoid sending a headshot unless your potential employer specifically requests one.

Avoid using a nickname, and make sure your email address is professional. Some hiring managers may reject your application if you use an email address like [email protected] even if you would have otherwise been contacted for an interview. Potential employers want to know that you can separate your personal life from your professional life.

2. Share Your Objective or Summary

As we mentioned earlier, some hiring managers don’t even dedicate a full 30 seconds to your resume, let alone take time to look at the entire thing. That’s why it’s important to highlight why you’re a qualified candidate before they even have time to review your full employment history or educational achievements. You can do this by creating an objective or summary.

Anyone can use an objective statement on their resume, but it works especially well if you have more training than actual work experience. Your objective lets you highlight your education, such as a degree in business administration or an internship at a respected magazine. You can also mention skills or qualifications, such as an outgoing personality or a strong knowledge of Adobe PhotoShop.

Here’s an example of a brief objective statement:

Retailer manager with 5 years of experience seeking a leadership role where I can utilize my strong customer service skills to boost sales and improve shopper satisfaction.

A resume summary works best when you have relevant experience to summarize. If you’re a teacher seeking a new position, you can mention you’ve taught for 17 years at an elementary school and hold a certificate in special education training. Mention your management experience at a local health care clinic if you want a front desk position at a hospital, or share how your skills as a sales manager boosted company revenue by 12% if you’re seeking a new commission-based job.

When writing a resume summary, you may say something like this:

Results-driven social media manager with seven years of experience ready to revamp your brand’s Facebook, Twitter and Instagram profiles. Previous campaigns averaged an 85% click-through rate and boosted lead collection by 30%. I’m creative, engaging and up-to-date on current trends.

Remember to only choose a statement or objective for your resume. Including both can make your resume look cluttered and unprofessional.

3. List Work Experience

Work experience lets a hiring manager know that you have the skills needed to do the job. There are several different ways you can approach work experience on your resume:

• List all jobs in chronological order, beginning with your current or most recent position and working backwards.
• Only list relevant jobs, such as jobs involving children or education if you’re applying for a position as a daycare manager or sales jobs if you want a marketing position.
• Mentioning volunteer work, internships and externships in the format usually reserved for employment history if this is your first job.

Listing all of your jobs is common if you use a chronological format for your resume. However, this is not ideal if you’ve had numerous gaps in your employment, even if the gaps were due to unexpected circumstances such as illness or a spouse’s military relocation. If you have an extensive work history, limit yourself to the last 10 or 15 years. It’s not necessary to mention that you made hamburgers or washed cars for a year in high school unless you’re a recent college graduate.

Focusing on relevant work experience works well in a targeted resume, and it can make you look more stable. You may consider yourself a jack of all trades when you think about your eclectic work history, but a hiring manager may deem you unstable or fear you may leave for a different industry.

Don’t forget to mention achievements, preferably ones that you can back up with data. Mention if you improved company revenue by 15% or decreased customer complaints by 10%, and highlight achievements, such as an employee of the year award or a certificate for managing the top-earning sales team.

4. Include Your Educational Background

Many employers prefer candidates with some type of formal training even if you don’t have a college degree. List all of your relevant education on your resume, from the bachelor’s degree you received 10 years ago to the special certifications you earned during summer break. You may also want to mention internships and externships, especially if you haven’t had much work experience in your field yet.

When you list your education history, put your highest degree first, such as a master’s degree or doctorate. Follow this up with other degrees or certifications, even if you haven’t completed the program yet. For example, you can say you are currently pursuing a master’s degree in creative writing if you already have a bachelor’s degree in marketing. List your master’s degree first even though it isn’t complete then mention your bachelor’s degree below.

You may also find it helpful to mention awards or special honors, such as a 4.0 GPA, on your resume. Leave this information off if your GPA reveals that you barely survived your college years.

5. Mention Your Key Skills

When adding skills to your resume, make sure you include a combination of hard skills and soft skills. Hard skills involve a specific program or duty, such as being able to use Microsoft Office Suite or bake an apple pie from scratch. Soft skills include career skills and personal traits, such as being an effective leader or having an outgoing personality.

Focus on skills that match what the company wants. If the employment ad says a company wants someone who won’t flake on work constantly, mention that you are dependable or punctual. If you’re applying for a customer service position, don’t mention that you’re CPR certified. Instead, say that you have strong customer service skills or enjoy working in a fast-paced environment.

Don’t lie about your job skills, especially when listing hard skills. It’s likely your potential employer will find out, as many companies test applicants prior to offering them a position. You may also have a probation period after you get the job, and your boss will quickly notice if you can’t actually create an Excel spreadsheet or use Slack to schedule meetings.

6. Proofread Your Resume

A single typo may result in a rejection letter, so proofread your resume before you submit it. Consider having a second set of eyes, such as a friend or former colleague, look at your resume as well. Sometimes our brains skim over our own mistakes because we know what something is supposed to say, so enlisting help makes it easier to catch errors you overlooked.

Double-check your contact info, too. A hiring manager can’t offer you the job of your dreams if you accidentally transposed some digits in your phone number or listed an email address that you rarely check. If you’ve recently moved, make sure you have the correct postal address listed.

7. Include a Cover Letter

When you apply for a job, include a cover letter with your resume. This is an optional step, but it may help you land the job you want. In fact, some hiring managers automatically reject resumes that aren’t accompanied by cover letters.

A cover letter gives you a chance to showcase your personality and explain things listed in your resume. You can highlight achievements, mention how you learned about a position and discuss why you feel you’re a qualified candidate. This is a good time to name drop by saying sales manager Jackson Baker told you about the open position or Professor Johnson, a long-time friend of the company’s owner, referred you.

A resume is an essential part of your job hunt. Increase your chances of scoring an interview by crafting an impressive resume that reflects your skills and personality traits.

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• How to Build a Resume Learn More
• Basic Resume Examples and Templates Learn More
• How Many Jobs Should You List on a Resume? Learn More
• How to Include Personal and Academic Projects on Your Resume Learn More

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• How to Land Your Dream Job Learn More
• How to Organize Your Job Search Learn More
• How to Include References in Your Job Search Learn More
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How to Show Off Different CV Skill Levels Like a Pro

Hard skills

Soft skills, 2. beginner, 3. skillful , 4. experienced.

Showcasing a robust skill set on your CV is a surefire way to get the hiring manager’s attention. But how can you highlight your different proficiency levels? Being specific about your expertise could set you apart from the crowd. In this guide, we take a look at what the different CV skill levels are, how to identify yours, and the best way to illustrate this to a potential employer.

Hard skills vs. soft skills 

First things first, let’s talk about the different types of skills. There are two categories that you need to know about: Hard skills and soft skills . Here’s a quick breakdown of each of them: 

Also known as technical skills, these are the competencies that apply directly to your job. These are the competencies that you need to be able to work in your particular profession. Hard skills include knowledge of certain software, regulations, and technical procedures, for example. 

While your hard skills are important, you should not overlook soft skills. These pertain to how you work and collaborate with others. They are often called transferable skills as you can use them across a range of different industries. Examples include communication , people skills, time management, organisation, and active listening.

Get the balance right! 

Make sure you include a healthy mixture of both hard and soft skills on your CV. Hiring managers are looking for well-rounded candidates when filling vacancies. 

The five CV skill levels, explained 

Now that you know the difference between hard and soft skills, let’s talk about the different CV skill levels. Before you start listing your competencies, you need to have a grasp on what the various levels mean in real terms. Here are the five levels that you need to know about.

Novice means that you have some experience with the competency, but that it is limited. You may have only recently come into contact with this skill but you’re eager to learn all about it. If you are completely new to a certain type of skill, you may use this CV skills level. 

Next up, beginner is what it says on the tin. You have started learning about this competency but you are not in a position where you can do it for yourself yet. However, you should note that a beginner is one step up from novice and higher on the overall CV skill levels scale. 

If you are competent at a certain skill, you might choose this level. Skillful applies to individuals who have a good understanding of a certain talent and can use it well. Put simply, you have moved beyond the basics when it comes to this skill and you can dig a bit deeper here.

If you use this skill all of the time, you might consider yourself experienced in it. Often enough, professionals have this skill level for their core talents. This is the CV skill level to choose if you are confident in using a particular skill as part of your job, but you’re not an expert in it. 

That brings us to the final and top CV skill level. Experts in a certain skill know all there is to know about it. They are up to date on the latest developments and always ahead of the curve. You should choose this level if you have a skill and have the knowledge to teach it to others. 

How to identify your CV skill levels

Chances are, you have a range of skills that are worth boasting about. However, it can be hard to determine exactly what your CV skill levels are. You want to be as accurate and honest as you can when applying for jobs. For that reason, this part is vital to your overall success. Let’s take a look at some of the ways that you can figure out what your proficiency level is: 

• Note any certificates . This is mainly applicable to hard skills. If you have undertaken specific training to learn a skill, it may be easy to decide what your level is. You can use the grade of your certificate to help you determine the right option.
• Ask your manager . Not sure where you land on the CV skill levels scale? Speak to someone about the issue. If you have regular one-on-one meetings with your manager, don’t be afraid to ask the difficult questions. Enquire about your level of proficiency in a certain area and use that as the basis for what you list on your CV.
• Consider how long you’ve been learning . Of course, time does not always equate to expertise. Still, you should consider how long you have been learning and using a certain skill. If you have been working with a competency for a matter of years, there’s a decent chance that you are either skillful or experienced in using it, for instance.
• Think about the frequency, too . How often do you use the skill in question? Does it come up now and then? Or, on the other hand, is it part of your daily role? Decide which category you fall into. The more often you use a skill, the more experienced you are likely to be in it. Keep that in mind when you’re determining your CV skill levels.

Often enough, it is simply a case of going with your gut (especially when it comes to soft skills). We recommend thinking long and hard about what you believe your CV skill levels are. Above all else, you want to give the hiring manager an accurate representation of your expertise. 

Make sure your CV skills are relevant! 

When deciding what skills to include on your CV , always make sure that they are relevant to the role. If you’re not sure how to do that, check the job advert. The hiring manager will have outlined some core competencies you need. See which ones you have and list them. 

How to list your skill levels on a CV

Ready to get started listing your CV skill levels? Doing so could give you a competitive advantage. However, there’s a right way and a wrong way to showcase this in your next application. You need to display your expertise in a convenient and clear way. Before you start working on it, read our expert tips below: 

• Find the right template . Here at Resume.io, we have a selection of CV templates that you can use. When choosing one, consider the amount of space you will need to showcase your CV skill levels properly. That way, you won’t have any design issues.
• Get some inspiration . Don’t stop there. You should also take the time to gather inspiration. Looking at our selection of 150+ CV examples and writing guides is a good place to start. Take a look at how others have displayed their CV skill levels well.
• Use a design element . Rather than simply stating your CV skill levels, make it part of the design instead. Our CV builder allows you to choose from the five previously mentioned levels when listing skills. This gives your document a professional look.
• Get the order right . Order is everything when you’re designing your CV. Make sure that you list your skills in order of level. That means starting with your best competencies at the top of the section and working your way down. This approach makes it easy for a hiring manager to see what your main value is at a glance.
• Customise your skill section . It’s vital that you tailor your CV to the vacancy and company to which you are applying. Part of this is altering your skills list. Return to the original job advert and see which competencies are written there. By weaving the ones you have throughout your CV, you can instantly boost your chances of success.

Following the above advice is a simple way to add CV skill levels to your application. This extra information will help the hiring manager determine whether you are a good fit for the job. Take the time to really think about which skills you bring to the table and your expertise level. 

Key takeaways 

Will you be including your CV skills levels? Throughout this guide, we have explained every part of the process in-depth. While many candidates simply list their competencies, you can set yourself apart from the crowd by using this approach. Ensure that you fully understand your levels before you start listing them on your CV. When you are ready to get started, show off your varying proficiency levels by using built-in design elements. 

Take all of the hassle out of creating your next application by selecting a professional CV template . Check out our CV builder and make the whole thing a cinch today.