Hungary CV Writing Guide
Working abroad sounds like an adventure to many people. However, work in Hungary requires methodical preparation, starting with the obvious Hungary cover letter and Hungary CV writing and translation. You will face issues that probably did not even cross your mind when you become interested in Hungary employment.
Do not underestimate the influence a Hungary CV can have on your adventure! For instance, you will experience the different immigration rules and practices, job application procedures, selection trends and the management culture.
A CV is similar to a resume in that it provides more details about one’s professional qualifications, experience and education. However, the term “Curriculum Vitae” most often called CV, typically carries a different meaning depending on whether one distributes the CV within the US, Canada or internationally (external to the US or Canada) or is seeking a faculty, academic, research, clinical or scientific position.
You can turn your current resume into a CV. A CV is similar to a resume in that it outlines your professional qualifications and history, but it does so with more detail by adding to the resume the detailed descriptions of your educational and/or professional experiences and personal information that may include nationality, date of birth, marital status, etc.
The aim of your CV should be to persuade the employer to invite you for a job interview
Therefore, your CV is a marketing tool, which needs to be customized to the market in which you intend to use it.
When applying for a job in Hungary, you may use either Hungarian or other foreign languages, depending on the company and your fluency. Stick to one language once chosen. However, you need to accept that not knowing the Hungarian will put you at a real disadvantage from the local job seekers.
The Hungary CV is normally typed on one to a maximum of two pages of A4 format paper. Select between a chronological – starting with your first job, reverse chronological order– most recent job listed first and functional CV. The functional CV – information structured per item, is relatively new in Hungary, but some companies, especially foreign, like this format. Pay attention to the layout, making sure it is well structured and focused.
Hungary CVs are rather detailed, emphasizing education above practical experience. Your personal details should include name, address, telephone and/or fax number, e-mail address, nationality, marital status and date of birth.
Often CVs are kept on file for lengthy periods, so any contact details you give have to remain accurate in the long term. A daytime phone number, with the international access code and e-mail, are most important.
Hungarian employers value a good academic background, foreign languages, computer skills and an understanding of business. So, specify all qualifications obtained. Include examination grades giving dates of attendance, study emphases, diplomas and degrees. Mention additional training and special skills such as computer programs in which you are proficient. Give here all information on your knowledge and important skills that might interest a potential employer.
Because languages are considered very important in Hungary, detail them. Mention your native tongue and describe the level of fluency for the other languages (including Hungarian) with reference to the spoken and written levels.
The “Work Experience” section should reveal all your practical experience, including apprenticeships and courses. Include concise details of what the job entailed, your title and responsibilities held in each job.
Remember that your CV will form part of the script for the interviewer’s questions
Make your CV more effective by providing examples to illustrate your achievements. Use power words and action verbs such as contributed, organized, demonstrated, trained, managed, developed, coordinated etc. Bullet points these at the start of a sentence for maximum impact. Leisure activities such as music, arts, sports and hobbies are optional, but much appreciated.
Close your Hungary CV with “References available on request”. It is best to avoid putting job references on your CV unless you have been specifically asked to provide them. Employers usually ask for references when they actually need them. This is a strong indication that an employer is interested in you.
Always include a cover letter with your CV. Copies of diplomas and references are generally not included, although sometimes employers specifically ask for them. However, bring them with you to the interview.
In recent years it becomes increasingly popular to join the LinkedIn or Facebook social networking websites for professionals, where you may search for jobs and have your keyword-optimized, rich content profile with a current CV. Hiring managers use them more frequently to consult your profile and supplement or check against the CV you send along. If you do not have an account, create one and include your social media link(s) on your CV.
However, you should manage your online presence. Eliminate any photos and statements that could reflect poorly on you. From an employer’s point of view, someone who emphasizes partying on a social networking site is not focused on jobs and those who post complaints about work or colleagues are less desirable candidates. The online CV should not include sensitive information as it could show a lack of respect for confidentiality and discretion.
It is more common in Hungary to apply for a job through the Internet. However, you should be aware that an electronic CV does not look the same as a standard one. Hungarian employers often scan CVs, so make your CV scannable by avoiding for example lines, bold or italic fonts etc.
Finally, carefully consider what to leave out of your CV and exclude anything that might give prospective employers a chance to discriminate against you.
Check the spelling and grammar of your Hungary CV. Use the word processor’s spell and grammar checker. If you are not confident of your ability to detect grammatical, punctuation and language usage errors in Hungarian or other languages or if you need help in organizing your cover letter, send it to a professional for assistance.
Remember that your CV must be targeted, scannable and generate hits. If you have difficulty with your CV writing instead of staring at a blank piece of paper, use CV samples and CV templates.
Most recruiters expect to receive a cover letter together with your CV. So, prepare a cover letter convincing the reader why you are the best candidate for the interview using cover letter writing tips.
Other Hungary CV Info
If your Hungary cover letter and Hungary CV are ready, email them to the prospective employers selected during a job search in Hungary.
When you receive an invitation to the Hungary job interview, you may apply for a Hungary visa and Hungary work permit. Then prepare yourself for a job interview and take a look at the Hungary dress code because how you dress is one of the most important attributes in being hired.
Check the job interview dos & don’ts and other job search skills pages. Find out why people are not hired for available jobs.
In addition, on the international info, job search, visa, work permit, cover letter, CV & resume, job interview and dress code pages you will find many useful tips for overseas job seekers.
Good luck with your Hungary CV!
