Resume and CV guide for Switzerland

Switzerland employers usually ask for a CV — commonly written as “CV / Lebenslauf”. What that document looks like locally differs from the generic advice you will find elsewhere, so the details below describe practice in Switzerland specifically.

At a glance

• Document: CV / Lebenslauf (CV)
• Typical length: 2 pages typical
• Date format: DD.MM.YYYY
• Phone format: +41 79 123 45 67
• Photo: commonly included
• Page size: A4 (210 × 297 mm)
• Most common language of application: de

Length expectations in Switzerland

Two pages is the norm.

Photos

Traditionally included and still expected in many sectors.

Professional summary

Three lines; mention language abilities if they matter for the role.

Education

Swiss apprenticeship qualifications are serious credentials — list them properly.

Work experience

Exact dates and clear employer names.

Format and delivery

A4 paper, day/month/year dates, and name the canton or city with the postcode.

Common sections used in Switzerland

• Summary
• Experience
• Education
• Skills
• Languages
• References

General career guidance based on common practice — not legal, immigration or hiring compliance advice. Expectations vary by employer, industry and seniority.

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