How to Show Your Language Skills on Your Resume?
2 December 2013
Read by 3332 persons
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If you speak several languages, don't hesitate to mention it on your resume. But how do you determine your skill level in each language? And how do you clearly express all this in your resume? StepStone has gathered some advice for you.
1- Don't overestimate yourself
Your language skills are easy to verify. Don't claim fluency in Dutch if you can only manage basic conversations. If the job requires strong English skills, expect questions in English during the interview. Failing to meet expectations will show you lack fluency and that you misrepresented your skills on your resume.
2- Take a language test
Determining your language level isn't easy. You might speak English fluently, but is your mastery perfect, excellent, or just good? For an objective assessment, take a test. Many language schools offer them, some online.
3- Ask a competent person
You might think you make many mistakes in Spanish, but your Madrid friends might disagree. Ask them to assess your level; you'll likely learn a lot.
4- Create a table
Once you've determined your level, create a clear table distinguishing comprehension, writing, and reading skills. For a sales position, fluent conversation might be more important than perfect written Dutch. Employers will appreciate this language-specific breakdown. Indicate your level for each: native, very good, good, basic, or notions.
5- Mention any language training
Completed language courses and diplomas show your level. They also demonstrate your commitment to learning. Including them will always benefit your resume.
Stepstone.be
1- Don't overestimate yourself
Your language skills are easy to verify. Don't claim fluency in Dutch if you can only manage basic conversations. If the job requires strong English skills, expect questions in English during the interview. Failing to meet expectations will show you lack fluency and that you misrepresented your skills on your resume.
2- Take a language test
Determining your language level isn't easy. You might speak English fluently, but is your mastery perfect, excellent, or just good? For an objective assessment, take a test. Many language schools offer them, some online.
3- Ask a competent person
You might think you make many mistakes in Spanish, but your Madrid friends might disagree. Ask them to assess your level; you'll likely learn a lot.
4- Create a table
Once you've determined your level, create a clear table distinguishing comprehension, writing, and reading skills. For a sales position, fluent conversation might be more important than perfect written Dutch. Employers will appreciate this language-specific breakdown. Indicate your level for each: native, very good, good, basic, or notions.
5- Mention any language training
Completed language courses and diplomas show your level. They also demonstrate your commitment to learning. Including them will always benefit your resume.
Stepstone.be
