How to present language skills in a CV and cover letter

A structured and precise presentation of your skills in your CV is very important for a successful application. Of course, this also applies to your language skills in your CV. As a multilingual applicant, you should make use of the unique selling point in your application and present your language skills in the best possible way.

Here are some tips to help you improve your CV.

Language skills category: Add a section that you call "Languages" or "Language skills". This will make this section more prominent.

Specify languages: Indicate all the languages you know. Starting with your mother tongue, you should list all the languages you know in your CV. You do not have to speak the languages perfectly. It is enough to have a basic knowledge.

Indicate the level of your language skills: Indicate the level you have in the respective language. There are different approaches. On the one hand, you can indicate your language skills from "basic" to "fluent". You can also indicate your language skills in your CV according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages. Then you indicate your language skills in your CV from level A1 to C2.

Provide evidence of level: If you have successfully completed an official language certificate, you should also indicate this in your CV. This can give you a useful advantage in your application. However, don't forget to place the language certificate in the appendix of your application file.

Be honest and realistic: Be honest when stating your language skills in your CV. Incorrect information will be noticed quickly and can cause problems in the job interview or later during the probationary period.

You can also state your language skills in your letter of application. This can be especially important if the job advertisement requires good language skills. You can recognise job advertisements by key words such as "Excellent English skills are a must". Then you should definitely state your language skills in the cover letter as well. Here are a few tips for doing so:

Highlight specific skills: If you have specific skills, such as job experience in translation, experience abroad or a degree in a foreign language, you should mention this in your application.

Emphasise practical experience: A good way to confirm your language skills in applications is through practical experience and work in projects. For example, if you have worked on an international project, written your thesis in a foreign language or worked abroad, you should definitely confirm your language skills based on this practical experience.

Provide evidence of language skills: In addition to projects, language certificates, a language study trip or studying abroad are also excellent proof of your language skills. Show recruiters in your application that you really have the language skills you list in your CV.

Take a look at how you can present your language skills in your cover letter. You will realise that the indication of language skills in the application is always proven by real projects or achievements. This will help recruiters to better assess your language skills.

If you want to include your English skills in your CV or application, make sure you present your language skills correctly. Show the HR department that your information is honest and realistic with projects, practical experience or certificates.

You will soon find your dream job! Are you interested in working in an international environment and making language learning accessible to many people? Then apply at Sprachcaffe and start your career with one of the largest language travel companies in the tourism industry!