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PERSONAL DATA
Information such as marital status, age, sex, and nationality are rarely included on resumes in the United States, but are expected in many countries. International employers are under different legal constraints regarding the information they request from potential job candidates.

Many people, especially in the United States, consider age, sex, nationality, or marital status to be irrelevant. In the global job market, it is the potential employer who ultimately decides what is relevant. If you do not provide the required information, you run the risk of being eliminated from the pool of applicants.

You should include on your CV any and all information that is likely to influence the decision to further your application. For example, nationality often has a direct impact on whether the candidate will be allowed to work overseas. For better or worse, most employers use a profile of their ideal employee as a basis for arranging candidate interviews.

EDUCATIONAL HISTORY
With the exception of recent graduates whose academic qualifications are their primary asset, general education information should be summarized toward the end of the CV.

However, relevant professional education should be mentioned prominently on the first page. Similarly, if you attended an internationally recognizable university, you should highlight it sooner rather than later. Prioritize and assess the value of content in your document.

When forwarding a CV to a potential employer, include copies of all diplomas, certificates, and transcripts.

OTHER INFORMATION
Include all other relevant information such as visa status, language proficiency, cross-cultural training, or international experience.

International employers often refer to references as "referees" and cover letters as "covering letters." Cover letters should include an objective statement -- a concise statement of what the candidate has to offer and what he or she is looking for. From this information, the employer can easily decide whether to consider the attached CV. Avoid long and rambling cover letters. The cover letter is also a good place to address salary requirements (if requested by the employer).

CONCLUSION

We have examined the general expectations of an international resume, but must also concede that we are all individuals. You probably share many traits in common with other American citizens, but differ in other ways. What all international employers will respond well to are preparation, planning, knowledge, experience and competence. Good luck!

 

About the Author

Sarah Histed-Shergill was born and raised in England and studied law and business at Brockenhurst College. She has lived in Denmark and Australia and studied international relations in Florence, Italy, before earning her degrees from the University of Wisconsin at Madison.

Sarah is currently a recruiter in the Management Advisory Services division of Wegners LLP in Madison, Wisconsin. Her past experience in human resources and diversity education and training includes serving as director of administration in a large Dane County non-profit organization.

Article Source: www.QuintessentialCareers.com

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