How to Write a CV in English
An English CV is not a word-for-word translation. It needs consistent terminology, natural job titles, clear dates and examples that make sense to the target employer and country.
CV or resume?
Follow the terminology used in the job advert. In many European recruitment processes “CV” is the usual term, while US employers often ask for a “resume”. Academic CVs are a separate, more detailed document. The content should be tailored to the role rather than copied from a generic biography.
Translate the meaning, not the label
A literal translation of a Polish role may sound unnatural or suggest a different seniority. Check how similar responsibilities are named in English-language job adverts. Keep an official title when it matters, but add a clear functional equivalent when necessary, for example “Specjalista ds. obsługi klienta (Customer Support Specialist)”.
Use a consistent date format
Formats such as “Mar 2022–Present” are clear and compact. Avoid numeric dates that can be interpreted differently, such as 03/04/2024. Use “Present” or “Current” consistently and do not translate company names unless the organisation uses an official English name.
Write an English professional summary
Open with your target role, years or type of experience, strongest relevant expertise and one credible result. Avoid phrases such as “I am a hardworking and ambitious person” unless the next sentence proves them with evidence.
Use action verbs and evidence
- Managed a portfolio of 45 B2B accounts and maintained a 92% renewal rate.
- Reduced monthly reporting time by 60% by automating data preparation.
- Coordinated product launches across four European markets.
- Resolved an average of 35 customer requests per day while meeting quality targets.
Explain local qualifications
If the name of a school, degree or certificate may be unfamiliar, keep the official name and add a short English explanation. Do not claim an exact foreign equivalent unless it has been formally recognised. Language levels can use the CEFR scale, such as B2 or C1, and should reflect your actual ability.
Check personal-information conventions
Expectations about photos, age, full address and other personal details vary by country. Read the advert and local guidance. When in doubt, keep the document focused on contact details and professional qualifications. Do not add protected or sensitive information unless there is a clear, lawful reason.
Final language check
- job titles sound natural in the target market;
- verb tenses are consistent — present for current work, past for previous roles;
- British or American spelling is used consistently;
- dates cannot be misread;
- all links and phone prefixes work internationally;
- the filename is clear, for example Resume_Anna_Kowalska.pdf.