Your CV in English, done right

Updated on 2026-06-05

In shortA CV in English isn't a word-for-word translation of your local one: the structure, length and language all change. In the US it's a "resume," one page long, with no photo or personal details; in the UK it's a "CV" and can run to two. Use action verbs (managed, led, increased), results backed by numbers and industry keywords in English. With EuroCV Pro you translate and adapt it in one click, avoiding the false friends.

A CV in English isn't just a translated CV

A CV in English follows different conventions: tighter, results-focused, no personal details. Translating your local CV word for word is the fastest way to look out of place. It needs to be rewritten with the reader in mind.

Resume (US) vs CV (UK): the differences

US — Resume: one page, no photo, no personal data, focused on the last 10-15 years.
UK / Europe — CV: up to two pages, still no photo in English-speaking markets, opening "Personal Statement" section.
In both cases: no date of birth, marital status or national ID number.

The language that makes the difference: action verbs

Open every bullet with a past-tense action verb: managed, led, launched, increased, reduced, designed. Pair it with a measurable result every time: "increased online sales by 18% in 12 months." That's how an English-speaking recruiter reads your value.

The false friends to avoid

Actually = in reality (not "at the moment" → currently)
Eventually = in the end (not "possibly" → possibly)
Sensible = level-headed (not "sensitive" → sensitive)
Confident = self-assured (not "confidant")

Qualifications need explaining with an equivalent too ("Laurea Magistrale" → "Master's Degree"), not left in the original language.

Translate it and adapt it without the mistakes

With EuroCV Pro your CV is translated and adapted to the conventions of the target country: structure, length, terminology. Available in 7 languages, ready in one click, without the risk of automatic translators.

Frequently asked questions

Are a resume and a CV the same thing?

In the US, a "resume" is the short document (1 page) you send with applications; a "CV" is longer and academic. In the UK and across Europe, "CV" covers everything. Match the term to the country you're applying to.

Should I include a photo on my CV in English?

No. In the UK, US and Ireland the photo (along with details like age or marital status) should be left off to avoid hiring bias. Only your professional experience counts.

Can I just run my CV through an automatic translator?

Risky: a literal translation produces false friends and an unnatural tone. You're better off rewriting it in proper professional English. EuroCV Pro does exactly that, adapting the structure too, not just the words.

What are the most common mistakes?

False friends ("actually" doesn't mean "at the moment"), translating qualifications without finding a real equivalent, writing in English that's far too formal, and including too many personal details.

Create your CV for free

CV builder, AI suggestions and PDF download. Free, forever.

Start now

Want more?

Job-ad matching, tailored CV, cover letter, interview prep and translation into 7 languages.

Discover Pro