CV & Cover Letter
Structure, wording, design and common mistakes in CVs and cover letters.
97 questionsDo I still need a cover letter in 2026?
In Germany: Yes, mostly still. Approx. 60-65% of German employers expect a cover letter, especially SMEs and the public sector. In tech startups an…
Do I still need a cover letter in 2026?
In the German market: mostly yes. According to surveys by the Bundesagentur fuer Arbeit and Stepstone, 60-70% of German employers still expect a co…
Do I need an application folder for paper applications?
Paper applications are the exception in 2026, not the rule — according to BA employment statistics, over 90% of all applications are submitted digi…
Should hobbies be included in a CV?
Only if they demonstrate a competency that is otherwise missing. 'Reading and travelling' adds nothing — leave it out. It's different for: voluntar…
Handwritten signature on the cover letter — still necessary?
For digital applications via online portals or by email: No — technically not possible or sensible. For PDF applications by email: Optional, does n…
Do I have to list all jobs in my CV?
Legally no — there is no legal obligation in Germany to list all positions without gaps. Under AGG and BDSG §26, an employer may only request infor…
Should I include salary expectations in my CV?
No — the CV is the wrong document for this. Salary expectations belong either in the cover letter (if explicitly requested) or are discussed in the…
Should I omit the photo from my CV?
In Germany, an application photo is still customary and expected by most employers — unlike in the USA, UK or Canada. The Anti-Discrimination Act (…
Should I include a photo in my German CV?
In Germany, an application photo is still the norm and expected by most employers — unlike in the USA or UK. The photo should be professional: whit…
What should go in the opening sentence of a cover letter?
Not 'I am writing to apply for' — that conveys no information and has been outdated for years. The first sentence must compel the recruiter to read…
What is the difference between a German CV and an English resume?
Three key differences. First, length: German CV 2-3 pages, complete chronological record; English resume maximum 1-2 pages, selective — US recruite…
What is the difference between a chronological and a functional CV?
In the German market, the chronological (tabular) CV is standard — most recent position first, in reverse chronological order. The functional CV (o…
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