Job applications: French, German and British differences

In the survey, French applicants listed personal interests, languages spoken, generally used handwritten cover letters, and included a picture with their application letter.

German applicants were very detailed, included a picture, even details on their parents, and references from previous employers, copies of all academic and professional certificates, and list of languages spoken but did not list their personal interests.

British candidates rarely listed the languages spoken, rarely attached a picture, sometimes listed their personal interests, and wrote up to 10 pages of resume.

Compare these with what resume writers advise you to do in the U.S.

In the U.S., applicants are expected to have short and concise resumes. Resumes should list just a summary of key positions, skills and accomplishments and educational background relevant to the position.

In addition to these differences, self-presentation is also different in between cultures. In the U.S., self-promotion and self-confidence are highly valued during job interviews, while some cultures might see those qualities as arrogant and superficial.

When you are applying for a job in a different country, it is a good idea to make sure you know the style that is acceptable in that country. Educate yourself, talk to job counselors if available, talk to people you know in the industry, and be culturally prepared.

(Findings were cited in "Breaking Through Culture Shock" by Elisabeth Marx, 2001)