We will start with the cover letter for your application. You should always remember: “First impressions count”. The Cover letter is the first opportunity to present yourself. You have only one DIN A4 page to write why you are the right person for this job and why you are applying for this specific company. You could also write about your strengths and experience. You should choose short and simple sentences, which are suitable for the position. 

The following facts should be in your cover letter

1. Recipient address: Usually you will be able to find the address of the company that you are applying to in the job advertisement. The recipient address should include the company name, personnel department, contact person, street address, postal code, city and country. The date and location should be written right-justified above the subject line.
2. Sending address: Your address/contact information should be in the top left corner. Your address and contact details should contain your first and last name, your street address, your postal code, city and also your cellphone number and your email address in the last row.
3. Subject: In this line you will write your reason for your cover letter.
4. Main part: The main part of your cover letter should be structured in 3 parts, beginning with the introduction, following onto the main body and ending with the closing phrases. You could close with the phrase “ yours sincerely” for example. You must finish your writing with your personal signature.

The tabular curriculum vitae is the most popular CV in Germany. It looks like a datasheet and isn´t longer than 2 pages. The tabular vitae consists of 2 columns. The left column shows the category and the subcategories and the right side is filled with your personal information. To structure your CV you can use these subcategories:

1. Personal Information: name, address, phone number, e-mail, nationality (optional), date of birth, place of birth, marital status (optional) and CV picture*
2. Professional Experience: You should concentrate on the most relevant information and begin with your most recent work experience. You should also enter details about your work experience and write about your position.
3. Education: You should start with your most recent experiences in education.
4. Extracurricular Activities: Usually you should start with your most recent extracurricular involvement.
5. Skills: Write about your languages, achievements and IT Skills.
6. Interests: Write about your hobbies.

Finally, you have finished your CV/Resume. Remember to include your name, the date and your location.

It is not common practice to include a picture on your CV in the USA or GB due to anti-discrimination laws (law of anti-discrimination). Germany however, differs in this respect. In Germany your CV or Resume usually includes a picture of yourself. It looks similar to a passport picture but instead you can smile. The CV picture should be located in the upper right corner of the page and adds a personal touch to your CV/Resume. Your CV picture will also help your employer to remember you. Whilst it is not a requirement it is definitely common practice in Germany. You may choose not to include a picture if you so wish, but it is important to be aware that employers will be looking for it and may be surprised if you do not include it.