Language skills are very important for certain jobs.
We show you how to classify your language level and state it correctly in your résumé.
Do you want to apply to an international company?
Or does your job require certain language skills in English, Spanish or other languages?
Then you should correctly state your language skills on your CV.
Do I always have to state my language skills on my CV?
Even if language skills are not per se a must in the curriculum vitae (CV), it is advisable in certain cases to state your knowledge.
According to the application
portal karrierebibel.de,
this is
particularly the case if they are
explicitly expected in the job advertisement
.
But even if your language skills are of advantage for the company or you have special language skills, they should be mentioned in your résumé - this can help applicants score a lot when looking for a job.
Also interesting:
boring CV?
With these formulations it becomes immediately exciting for HR managers.
Language skills in the curriculum vitae: what levels are there?
So that employers can correctly assess the language skills of applicants, foreign language skills are divided into different levels.
For the CV, it is advisable to state language skills as follows:
Basic knowledge / school knowledge:
You have mastered the most important grammar rules, have a basic vocabulary and can follow simple conversations.
Good knowledge / confident in conversations:
At this level, you can take part in a conversation, understand texts in the relevant foreign language, for example in a newspaper.
However, you still have significant gaps in your correspondence.
Very good knowledge / fluent:
At this language level you can speak for the most part without errors, speak fluently even on complex topics and understand demanding texts.
Business fluent:
At this level you have almost reached your native language level.
That means: You have a comprehensive vocabulary at the level of an educated native speaker.
Conversations are mostly possible without errors and you can assert yourself linguistically even in heated discussions.
You also have a command of common idioms.
Mother tongue:
This term is only common for people who grew up using the language in question or who lived abroad as a child.
Also read:
HR professionals only skim 7 pieces of information on a résumé - they are crucial.
+
Language skills belong in every résumé.
Applicants should always indicate the correct level.
© Christin Klose / dpa
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A1 to C2: indicate language skills according to the European reference framework
Alternatively, language skills can also be specified in the curriculum vitae according to the classification of the “Common European Framework of Reference for Languages”.
The level is divided into three levels A, B and C as well as two sub-levels 1 and 2.
The classification of foreign language skills ranges from the absolute beginner level (A1) to the almost native language level (C2).
A1:
Beginners with rudimentary language skills.
Everyday expressions can be spoken and understood in very simple sentences.
For example, you can introduce yourself by name.
A2:
Basic knowledge for beginners.
Frequently used sentences are understood, simple sentences spoken about the immediate living environment (e.g. about family, shopping, work).
B1:
advanced language use.
You can understand the main points when using clear standard language.
Most situations, such as those encountered while traveling in the language area, can be dealt with.
B2:
Independent use of language.
At this language level, the main content of complex texts can be understood, including specialist discussions in one's own specialty.
You can communicate fluently and effortlessly, even with native speakers.
C1:
Expert language skills.
You express yourself fluently and spontaneously without having to search for words too often.
You can express yourself in a structured and detailed manner on complex topics.
Even demanding texts and their implicit meaning are understood.
C2:
Approximately knowledge of the mother tongue.
At this level, you can easily understand almost anything you read or hear.
You also speak fluently spontaneously, express yourself precisely and can reproduce complex facts.
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Be honest about language skills in your application
Whatever language level you have: Always be honest!
A three-week trip to Spain will not give you fluent knowledge of Spanish for a long time.
In the interview at the latest, you run the risk of your falsehoods being exposed.
And that can cost you the job.
And even if not: Those who need their (given) language skills on a daily basis are likely to fail quickly because of the requirements - or they may even face dismissal.
(as)
List of rubric lists: © Christin Klose
