Language
First things first, write the CV in Spanish or have it translated. English is not as widely spoken in Spain as you might think and employers will expect an application to be in their own language. If your Spanish is not fluent you should have the CV checked by someone with a high level of proficiency, preferably a native speaker.
Photograph
Spanish CVs generally include a photo, unlike their UK counterparts, and it is best to follow the common practice. The picture should be relatively recent (within the last 6 months) and your appearance should be neat professional. Try to have a plain background. Photographs from a machine rarely do us any favours so consider getting it done by a person. Some transport stations offer passport photos taken by people, so consider trying this.
Length
CVs for Spanish employers can be more concise than for other countries – think 1 – 2 pages. Also avoid long paragraphs – aim for short and snappy.
What to include
- Personal information (Datos Personales): first name, surname, date of birth, place of birth, nationality, marital status, address, telephone number (with international dialing code), email address, LinkedIn URL and whether you hold a driver’s license.
- Educational information (Formación Académica): most recent first with details of academic institution, local and qualification. Also include the Spanish equivalent. Note: If you have worked for more than three years it is usually better to include ‘Career History’ first, followed by ‘Education’, ‘Other training’ and ‘Any other positions of responsibility’.
- Other training (Formación Complemtaria): non-academic training including work-based or other courses you have completed. Some jobs in Spain have a heavy emphasis on training, particularly those in the public sector. This section will allow you to include all such relevant training.
- Career history (Experiencia Profesional): most recent jobs first, followed by dates, job title, company and where you were based. NB: You don’t need to include an essay about roles but you should state your key responsibilities and achievements.
- Any other positions of responsibility (Otras Posiciones de Responsibilidad) – optional: here you can include any other experience that is relevant to the vacancy e.g. if you have worked in Spain during holidays this is a great place to include the information.
- IT skills (Informática): include all packages and your skill levels. It can be useful to indicate how you used each package e.g. ‘œCreating sales spreadsheets for management reports utilising pivot tables and Vlookups.’
- Languages (Idiomas): include any languages you speak, together with your level of proficiency (both spoken and written). Don’t forget to include your mother tongue.
As you can see, there are a number of sections to include within space constraints that are relatively limited. Therefore, keep your points brief and aim for a succinct overview of your key skills and experience. Also bear in mind that you can use a cover letter to expand on why you are the best person for the job.