If you’re applying for jobs in Germany and wondering how long your CV should be, let me save you some time: one to two pages.
Not three or four. One to two pages, depending on your experience.
As a recruiter who reviews hundreds of applications every month, I can confidently say that a well-structured CV, whether it’s one or two pages, gives you a real advantage. It makes it easier for hiring managers — and people like me — to quickly understand your profile and decide if you’re a strong fit.
In this post, I want to share insider tips on:
- Why one or two pages work best in Germany
- How to structure your CV properly for the German job market
- What should go on the first page and the second page
- Which mistakes you should absolutely avoid
One or Two Pages? When to Decide
In Germany, clear communication and efficiency are highly valued. The length of your CV should match your level of experience:
One Page: If you have less than 5 years of experience or if you are a recent graduate, one page is often sufficient. Focus on key achievements, education, and relevant skills.
Two Pages: If you have more than 5 years of experience, a two-page CV is recommended. This allows you to showcase more detailed work experience, key projects, and accomplishments without overwhelming the reader.
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What Goes on Page One and Page Two?
1️⃣ Page One (The Essentials):
Personal Information
Full name, address (city and postal code), phone number, email, and LinkedIn profile.
A professional photo is still common practice in Germany, although it’s optional.
Professional Summary
A brief 3–4 sentence summary that highlights your strengths and sets the tone for the rest of your CV.
Example: “Experienced project manager with 6+ years delivering complex IT projects for global clients. Skilled in Agile methodologies, team leadership, and stakeholder communication. Planning on building my career in Germany.”
Work Experience (Part 1)
List your most recent jobs in reverse chronological order. Include:
Job title
Company name
Location
Employment dates (month/year)
3–5 bullet points focusing on achievements (not just tasks)
Example: “Managed 12 key client accounts, increasing annual revenue by 15%.”
Skills (Left-Side-Column)
Separate into Technical Skills (software, methodologies) and Interpersonal Skills (leadership, teamwork).
Languages (Left-Side-Column)
Clearly indicate your proficiency (e.g., “English – Native”, “German – Intermediate”). Language skills are often crucial for roles in Germany.
2️⃣ Page Two (Additional Information):
- Work Experience (Part 2)
Continue listing your work experience if it did not fit on page one.
- Education
Mention the degree, institution, location, and dates. If you recently graduated, you can add relevant coursework or your thesis title (if it fits the role).
- Certifications and Training
Include relevant certifications or workshops, but keep it short and focused.
The Most Common CV Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Too much detail: Listing every task makes your CV exhausting to read. Focus on key achievements.
Career gaps without explanation: Simply add “Parental leave” or “Career break for studies.” You can also list. transferrable skills you acquired during the time.
Unprofessional formatting: A cluttered layout or excessive color can distract. Use a clean, readable template.
Grammar and spelling errors: Proofreading is critical. Mistakes make you look careless.
One generic CV for every application: Adapt your CV slightly for each job posting.
What I Look for When Screening a CV
When I open a CV, here’s what I immediately scan for:
🔎 Relevant experience and key skills highlighted clearly
🔎 Logical career progression without unexplained gaps
🔎 Easy-to-read layout with clear headings
🔎 Evidence of impact (numbers, results, projects)
If a candidate’s CV checks these boxes within the first 30 seconds, they usually move to the next round. If not, even a qualified candidate might be overlooked.
Final Thoughts Before You Apply
Crafting a CV that matches German expectations can be the difference between landing an interview and getting overlooked. A one-page CV works well for those early in their careers, while a well-structured two-page CV allows experienced professionals to highlight their accomplishments without overwhelming recruiters. By following the structured guidelines for each page, you not only make it easier for hiring managers to understand your background but also increase your chances of standing out in a competitive market.
Looking for that extra edge to make sure your CV is polished, effective, and tailored to the German market?
Join our live CV Workshop on May 26th at 5:30pm CEST. There, you’ll receive expert feedback and practical tips that can make all the difference.
You’ll learn:
How to structure your CV to match what German recruiters expect
How to highlight your achievements and skills clearly
How to avoid the most common mistakes that cost interviews
