resume language skills written spoken

How to Include Languages on Your Resume [W/ Practical Tips]

You probably already know that speaking more than one language is a big professional asset. 

On top of the obvious (being able to communicate with more people), speaking multiple languages is known to improve your memory and ability to multitask, all of which are bound to help you perform better at your job.

But did you know that there is a right and wrong way to include language skills on your resume? 

The first can give you an advantage over other candidates with similar qualifications, whereas the second might make your language skills practically invisible in recruiters’ eyes. 

So, to help you make the most out of your resume language skills, we’ve put together this guide on everything you need to know on the topic, including:

• Why Do Resume Language Skills Matter?
• How to List Languages on Resume?

Language Proficiency Levels

• Language Sections on Resume Examples

And much more! 

What Are Resume Language Skills?

Language skills refer to the ability to communicate (speak, read, and write) in different languages. 

On a resume, language skills typically refer to any other language you master on top of your native language. Considering that there are many levels of language proficiency, language skills on a resume are typically categorized into beginner, mid-range, and advanced levels.

Why do Resume Language Skills Matter?

Let’s let hard facts do the talking. 

According to a Rosetta Stone survey, up to 35% of those responsible for hiring or managing employees said that a candidate’s or employee’s second language proficiency leads them to take one of the following actions:

• Extend a job offer
• Invite the candidate to a job interview
• Recommend a promotion
• Recommend a pay raise

Additionally, nearly 54% of those who already hold a job said that knowing a foreign language is important in their position. 

That’s no surprise - mastering a foreign language comes with many important benefits:

• Enhanced productivity and ability to multitask
• Higher creativity and better communication skills
• Bigger access to international markets and job opportunities

So, unless your knowledge of a foreign language consists of a mere 10 words (meaning, you’re just a beginner), always include your language skills on your resume. On top of all the benefits mentioned above, your language skills will effectively set you apart from candidates with the same work experience , skills, and education. 

Describing your language skills on your resume can get a bit messy, especially if you and the recruiter are not on the same page regarding language proficiency levels. 

For example, the recruiter might wonder if an intermediate candidate will be able to hold a work-related conversation with an international client, or whether a conversational level applicant is able to read and write, on top of being able to hold a conversation in a foreign language. 

To avoid all the confusion, you can list your language skills using a language proficiency scale . These are frameworks established by language organizations that categorize people into proficiency levels based on their language fluency, accuracy, and other factors. 

More importantly, these frameworks standardize language proficiency, helping recruiters and employers understand exactly what your language skill level means. 

Here are the four most popular language proficiency frameworks you can use on your resume: 

• Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) . This popular framework of European guidelines is fairly easy to understand. It scores basic users as A1 or A2, independent users as B1 or B2, and proficient users as C1 and C2.
• Interagency Language Roundtable (ILR). This US government-developed framework has 6 levels (0-5) and uses the (+) sign to differentiate the in-betweens.
• LinkedIn. As the world’s largest professional network , LinkedIn has its own language proficiency framework. Similar to the ILR, it categorizes them into native and bilingual proficiency, full professional proficiency, professional working proficiency, etc.
• American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL). This is another popular language proficiency framework that categorizes language skills into Novice (Low, Mid, High),  Intermediate (Low, Mid, High), Advanced (Low, Mid, High), Superior , and Distinguished .

To make things easier, here is a table showing exactly how each framework compares to one another: 

How to List Languages on a Resume

By now, it’s pretty clear how important language skills are. This brings us to the reason you’re probably reading this article: learning how to list your language skills on your resume adequately.

Here’s how you can do that:

#1. Choose a Language Rating System

First things first, you have to choose a language rating system to use on your resume. 

Say, for example, that you master Spanish and French. If you use the CEFR framework to describe your proficiency level in French and the ILR framework to describe your Spanish skills, that’ll only confuse the recruiter reading your resume and make you look disorganized. 

So, to determine which language rating system you should use, the first thing you need to do is check the job requirements. 

If the job ad requires knowledge in a specific language and specifies a proficiency framework, then make sure to list your language skills according to that framework scale. 

Alternatively, if you have taken one of the popular language assessments, you can include your rating after each listed language. 

If, on the other hand, you’re applying for a position in a company that doesn’t require mastering a foreign language or isn’t in business with international clients, you can skip on using a formal rating scale altogether. 

Remember to be consistent even if the position you’re applying for doesn’t specify a language proficiency rating. If you’re going to be listing more than one language, pick a proficiency framework and stick to it! 

#2. Determine Your Fluency Level

There’s nothing worse than exaggerating your language proficiency level, only for recruiters to find out your language skills are not what you claim. 

To avoid awkwardness, make sure to determine your fluency level accurately (in writing, speaking, and reading) and be truthful about it on your resume. 

So, list the foreign language you know and check what the position you’re applying for needs. One employer might be more interested in your writing skills, whereas another might need someone with strong speaking skills to participate in meetings with foreign partners. 

In your resume, you should be able to give factual information about your fluency level in speaking, writing, and reading - as well as highlight whatever skill is more relevant to the position. If your fluency level varies among the three and the position specifically asks for, say, high reading comprehension, consider listing each rating separately. If, on the other hand, you have the same comprehension level for all three, or the job ad just doesn’t ask for much in terms of your language skills, simply list one rating to save space and make sure your resume is within the optimal one-page length . 

#3. Choose the Right Place to Include Your Language Skills

There are three ways you can list your language skills on your resume:

• On your resume summary or resume objective
• In the skills section
• In a separate language skills section

Where you choose to list your language skills will mainly depend on how important they are for the position you’re applying for. So, for example, if your fluency in a particular language is essential for the role, you can start by adding them to your resume summary as follows: 

• A bilingual, hard-working customer service agent who speaks English and Spanish and has over 5 years of experience in customer support. Previous experience communicating with customers both in English and Spanish in the same role. 

As language skill is mandatory for the role, the hiring manager is going to be looking for the language skill from the get-go in order to filter out unqualified candidates.

Having the language skill right on top of your resume helps the recruiter instantly see that you’re qualified for the role.

In such a case, it’s also good practice to include your language skills as a dedicated section alongside the respective skill levels. For example:

If, on the other hand, your language skills are not essential for the role, you can save space by adding them under your skills or education sections.  Here’s an example of how that would look on a resume: 

B.A. in Linguistics

King’s College, London

2012 - 2016

• Mastered limited working proficiency in Spanish and Italian 
• Graduated with a 3,85 GPA

#4. Format Your Language Skills the Right Way 

Regardless of where you choose to list your language skills on your resume, you’ve got to add your proficiency level accurately. That way, recruiters will have a clear idea of your knowledge. 

One way to do that, especially if you master more than one foreign language, is to list them in descending order of proficiency. For example: 

• Portuguese - Level 5 (ILR)/Bilingual Proficiency
• Spanish - Level 4 (ILR)/Full Professional Proficiency
• Italian - Level 2 (ILR)/Limited Working Proficiency

Resume Language Skills Examples

Knowing things theoretically is great, but practice makes perfect. 

Here are some practical examples of how you can list your language skills on your resume: 

Example #1. Dedicated Language Skills Section (LinkedIn Framework)

Language Skills

• English - Native/Bilingual 
• German - Native/Bilingual 
• Dutch - Professional Working Proficiency (CEFT level C1) 
• French - Limited Working Proficiency (CEFT level B1)

Example #2.  Dedicated Language Skills Section (ACTFL Framework)

• Romanian - Superior (ACTFL)
• Polish - Advanced Mid (ACTFL)
• Bulgarian - Intermediate Mid (ACTFL)

Example #3: Languages Under Skills Section

• Adobe Creative Suite
• Photo Editing
• Storyboarding
• Spanish (Full Professional Proficiency)

Always use the most relevant language proficiency framework (in your country) when describing your skills. For a job in Europe, that would be the CEFT system, whereas for a job in the US, the ACTFL or LinkedIn system.

How Do I Determine My Level of Language Proficiency?

As we already mentioned, the proficiency level of your language skills should be as accurate as possible, which means you should avoid estimations and guesswork. 

This might lead to overvaluing your skills (and eventually looking like a liar) or undervaluing them and missing the chance to stand out. 

To accurately determine your level of language proficiency, do one of the following:

• Obtain an official language certificate
• Self-assess your language knowledge 

The first option is perfect if the language is crucial for the job and if you’ll need to do more than the basics of communication. By paying for a test, you can get an official score of your proficiency. 

If the language is not an essential requirement for the position, on the other hand, using official guidelines and rules to self-assess your skills is totally acceptable too. 

Here is how you can do that: 

• Through the official ILR website and their self-assessment questionnaires for reading, writing, and speaking respectively.
• The official CEFR chart , allows you to judge your listening, reading, writing, spoken interaction, and spoken production skills. 
• The ACTFL site updates its proficiency guidelines every several years. They have a 10-level scale that lets you self-assess your language skills in several areas. 

If you hold an official certificate for one language and you’ve self-assessed your knowledge of another, you can make the distinction by writing, for example, “French - C1 certificate” and “Italian - B1 level.”  

5 Other Valuable (Optional) Sections to Include in Your Resume

Language skills are a valuable section to add to your resume after you’ve included some of the essentials, such as your work experience, education , and skills. 

However, they’re not the only optional section that you can take advantage of to take your resume from great to exceptional. 

Here are 5 other valuable optional sections to include in your resume if you’ve got the space: 

• Volunteering experience . Volunteer work is always a resume plus, especially if the company puts emphasis on giving or if your experience is related to the job position.
• Extracurricular activities. If you’ve just recently graduated, a section with your extracurricular activities can help significantly improve your resume, as they prove you’re an active individual that is engaged beyond their academic duties.
• Projects. Side projects can show that you’re naturally curious and that you take initiative.
• Awards and certifications. If you have any awards or certifications that testify to your skills, don’t hesitate to show them off on your resume. A little healthy flexing doesn’t hurt!
• Hobbies and interests . This can tell a lot about who you are outside of work, so make sure to list the hobbies that put you in the best light.

Key Takeaways 

And that’s a wrap! After reading this article, you should be able to add your language skills to your resume in the most effective way possible.

Before you get on with that, here are the most important points covered in this article:

• Knowing a foreign language can improve your productivity and ability to multitask as well as open more employment opportunities in international markets.
• To properly list your language skills on your resume, you have to pick one language rating system, determine your language proficiency, decide in what section you’ll list your languages, and format the section the right way.
• The most popular language rating systems include the LinkedIn rating system, the Interagency Language Roundtable, the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages, and the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages.
• To determine your language proficiency level, you can either take an official language test and acquire a certificate or self-assess your knowledge following the right guidelines and documentation.

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10 Examples – How to Include Language Skills on Your Resume

By Status.net Editorial Team on September 27, 2023 — 19 minutes to read

• Language Skills: Levels of Proficiency Part 1
• How to Choose the Right Resume Format Part 2
• How to Position Your Language Skills Part 3
• How to Highlight Languages In Job-Related Sections Part 4
• How to Cite Your Languages in a Resume: Examples Part 5
• CERF Language Proficiency Scale: Descriptions, Examples Part 6
• ACTFL Language Proficiency Scale: Descriptions, Examples Part 7
• ILR Language Proficiency Scale: Descriptions, Examples Part 8
• How to Incorporate Language Skills in Cover Letter Part 9
• How to Display Language Proficiency on LinkedIn Part 10

Showcasing your language skills on your resume can set you apart from other candidates and help you land your dream job. But how do you highlight these skills effectively? Here are some tips and examples on how to include language skills on your resume.

Part 1 Language Skills: Levels of Proficiency

Knowing your level of proficiency for each language helps employers understand how effectively you can communicate in various situations. Here are some guidelines and examples to help you define your language skills:

• Native : Being a native speaker means that you grew up with the language and it is likely your first language. You are fully proficient in speaking, listening, reading, and writing in this language. On your resume, you can mention that you are a native speaker of English or another language.
• Fluent : If you can effortlessly speak, read, and write a language without any significant difficulties, you are considered to be fluent in that language. This generally means that you can comfortably engage in conversations, understand cultural contexts, and are able to think in the language. In this case, you could say that you are fluent in French, Spanish, and Italian, for example.
• Professional Working Proficiency : If you can confidently engage in face-to-face or written professional discussions, you possess a professional working proficiency in the language. You should be able to relay complex ideas, read texts, and comprehend business-related jargon. For example, you may have professional working proficiency in Japanese.
• Intermediate Level : An intermediate language skill level is marked by your ability to participate in most social and workplace conversations with occasional misunderstandings. You may have a limited vocabulary and struggle with more complex speech or writing.
• Limited working proficiency is when you can manage basic conversations and tasks in the language. You can understand the general idea and give simple instructions. However, complex topics can be challenging to grasp, and you might feel more comfortable with support from native speakers in the workplace.
• Conversational : If you can communicate in a language but only during casual conversations, you have conversational proficiency. You can typically express basic ideas and understand spoken language, but you may struggle with complex concepts or writing.
• Elementary : If you know only a few phrases and basic vocabulary in a language, your proficiency is at the elementary level. You can handle simple interactions and communicate simple needs.

Resume Section Example 1

_______________________________________

Language Skills:

• English: Native Speaker
• Spanish: Fluent
• French: Professional Working Proficiency
• Mandarin Chinese: Intermediate Level
• German: Limited Working Proficiency

Resume Section Example 2

• Fluent in English and Spanish
• Professional working proficiency in French
• Intermediate level in Japanese
• Conversational in Portuguese

To further show off your language skills, you could include any certifications or achievements related to languages you’ve earned. This might look like:

Certifications: – English: TOEFL iBT – 110/120 – Spanish: DELE A2

Another way to let your language skills shine is by highlighting any experience you’ve gained using these languages. Be it a study abroad program, volunteer work, or professional experience in a foreign country, make sure you mention it in your resume.

Experience: Study Abroad: – Semester in Barcelona, Spain – Fall 2020 – Attended University of Barcelona courses in Spanish – Improved language skills through immersion and interaction with locals

Volunteer Work: – Assisted at a local community center, teaching English to Spanish-speaking immigrants – 4 months in 2019

To help gauge your language proficiency, you can use scales like the Interagency Language Roundtable (ILR) or the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR). Both use standardized measurements to indicate a person’s language abilities. Alternatively, you can take recognized language proficiency tests to obtain a more exact evaluation of your language abilities.

There are two commonly used scales: the CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages) and the ACTFL (American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages). Both have varying levels based on linguistic knowledge and communication abilities.

For the CEFR scale , proficiency is organized into six levels:

• A1: Beginner
• A2: Elementary/Breakthrough
• B1: Intermediate/Threshold
• B2: Upper-Intermediate/Vantage
• C1: Advanced/Effective Operational Proficiency
• C2: Mastery/Near-native Proficiency

For the ACTFL scale , there are five main levels:

• Novice (Low, Mid, High)
• Intermediate (Low, Mid, High)
• Advanced (Low, Mid, High)
• Distinguished

When you include language skills on your resume, it’s important to choose the appropriate proficiency level that best reflects your abilities and matches the scale used in your country or industry. Always be honest about your skills, as you don’t want to be placed in a situation that exceeds your capability.

Part 2 How to Choose the Right Resume Format

Your resume format directly impacts how your language abilities are highlighted. Here are some popular resume formats and guidance on how to effectively showcase your language expertise:

Option 1: Chronological resume : This format focuses on your work experience in reverse chronological order. To demonstrate your language skills, you can mention your proficiency in the “Skills” or “Language Skills” section. If you’ve used specific languages extensively in previous roles, you can include that in the job description. For example:

• Fluent in Spanish: Acted as a translation liaison between the sales team and Spanish-speaking clients.

Option 2: Functional resume : A functional resume emphasizes skills and achievements over work history. Create a “Language Skills” section and use bullet points to demonstrate your proficiency level in multiple languages. Here’s an example:

• French: Conversational
• Mandarin: Beginner

Option 3: Combination resume : This format merges the best of both chronological and functional resumes. Create a “Language Skills” section to showcase your proficiency levels, and mention specific instances where you’ve used your language skills in your work experience. For example:

• Facilitated communication with Spanish-speaking clients and translated marketing materials.

Choose the appropriate resume format based on your work history and experience, then effectively highlight your language skills in the designated section.

Part 3 How to Position Your Language Skills

When listing language skills on your resume, it’s important to showcase them in a way that highlights your proficiency and catches the attention of potential employers. To effectively position your language skills, consider the following strategies:

• Place your language skills in a dedicated skills section. This helps employers quickly identify your linguistic abilities without having to search through your entire resume. Keep this section concise and well-organized.
• Tailor your language skills to the job you’re applying for. If a job requires fluency in a specific language, make sure it’s prominent on your resume. Highlight any certifications, degrees, or courses you have taken in the language as well.
• Don’t forget to mention your language skills in the experience or education sections if relevant. For instance, you can include a bullet point highlighting your use of a second language to negotiate contracts or collaborate with international clients. This demonstrates real-world application of your language skills, making them more tangible and impressive to employers.
• Lastly, showcase your skill level accurately and honestly. Exaggerated or false claims about your language proficiency can lead to uncomfortable situations during interviews or on the job. Be clear and confident in your abilities, but also be fair and realistic when describing your language skills on your resume.

Part 4 How to Highlight Languages In Job-Related Sections

One way to highlight your language skills is by including them in your work experience. Mention specific instances where your language proficiency contributed to a project or improved team communication. For example, if you used your fluency in French to assist your team in handling an international client, describe the situation and the beneficial outcomes for your employer.

Incorporate languages in your professional experience section by discussing tasks or collaborations where your proficiency in a language was essential. For example, if you’re an interpreter, discuss situations where your language skills helped clients understand complex documents or navigate cultural barriers.

Match your language skills with the requirements outlined in the job listing. If the employer specifically seeks candidates with fluency in a certain language, emphasize your capability in that language in your job-related sections. For instance, if the position involves managing international clients and you’re proficient in the client’s native language, make sure you emphasize this when describing your professional experience.

Job-Related Sections Examples

1. Project Manager with Multilingual Team: – “As a Project Manager at X Company, I led a diverse team with members from different countries. My fluency in Spanish and English played a crucial role in bridging language gaps and facilitating effective communication among team members. This contributed to a cohesive work environment and improved project outcomes.”

2. Marketing Specialist Expanding into New Markets: – “During my tenure as a Marketing Specialist at ABC Corporation, I spearheaded the expansion into Latin American markets. My proficiency in Portuguese allowed me to tailor marketing campaigns to the local audience, resulting in a 20% increase in sales within the region.”

3. Customer Service Representative Handling International Clients: – “As a Customer Service Representative at DEF Solutions, I regularly interacted with international clients. My ability to speak Mandarin Chinese not only helped me assist Chinese-speaking clients but also improved overall team communication, leading to higher customer satisfaction ratings.”

4. Software Developer Collaborating with Offshore Team: – “While working as a Software Developer at Tech Innovators, I collaborated with an offshore development team based in India. My fluency in Hindi enabled me to bridge cultural and linguistic gaps, leading to smoother coordination, reduced misunderstandings, and on-time project deliveries.”

5. Sales Manager in Global Sales Division: – “In my role as Sales Manager in the Global Sales Division of GHI Enterprises, I managed accounts across Europe and Asia. My proficiency in German was instrumental in establishing rapport with German clients, resulting in a 15% increase in sales within the German market.”

6. Legal Consultant Resolving Cross-Border Disputes: – “As a Legal Consultant at Law Firm XYZ, I specialized in resolving cross-border disputes. My ability to speak and write in both Spanish and English allowed me to draft legal documents and communicate with clients in their preferred language, simplifying complex legal matters and enhancing client satisfaction.”

7. International Relations Coordinator in a Nonprofit: – “While serving as the International Relations Coordinator at Nonprofit Organization ABC, I organized events and collaborations with international partners. My proficiency in French facilitated meaningful discussions and partnerships with French-speaking NGOs, expanding our global reach and impact.”

8. Tourism Manager Catering to Diverse Tourists: – “As a Tourism Manager at Wanderlust Adventures, I frequently interacted with tourists from various countries. My knowledge of multiple languages, including Spanish, Italian, and Japanese, allowed me to provide personalized assistance, leading to positive reviews and repeat business.”

Part 5 How to Cite Your Languages in a Resume: Examples

Phrases examples.

• Native speaker of German, with a strong understanding of grammar and syntax.
• Fluent in Spanish, with extensive experience living and working in Spanish-speaking countries.
• Proficient in French, with the ability to read, write, and speak at an intermediate level.
• Basic knowledge of Mandarin Chinese, with a focus on conversational skills and travel-related vocabulary.
• Fluent in Russian, with a focus on reading and translating literature and academic texts.
• Advanced proficiency in Japanese, with experience translating technical documents and interpreting for business meetings.
• Intermediate level in Italian, with a focus on reading and writing.
• Conversational fluency in Portuguese, with experience communicating with native speakers in both professional and social settings.
• Advanced proficiency in English, with experience teaching English as a second language to non-native speakers.

Part 6 CERF Language Proficiency Scale: Descriptions, Examples

CEFR scale (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages):

A1 (Beginner): – Can understand and use familiar everyday expressions and very basic phrases. – Can introduce themselves and others and can ask and answer questions about personal details such as where they live, people they know, and things they have.

A2 (Elementary/Breakthrough): – Can understand sentences and frequently used expressions related to areas of most immediate relevance. – Can communicate in simple and routine tasks requiring a simple and direct exchange of information on familiar and routine matters.

B1 (Intermediate/Threshold): – Can understand the main points of clear standard input on familiar matters regularly encountered in work, school, leisure, etc. – Can deal with most situations likely to arise while traveling in an area where the language is spoken.

B2 (Upper-Intermediate/Vantage): – Can understand the main ideas of complex text on both concrete and abstract topics, including technical discussions in their field of specialization. – Can interact with a degree of fluency and spontaneity that makes regular interaction with native speakers possible without strain for either party.

C1 (Advanced/Effective Operational Proficiency): – Can understand a wide range of demanding, longer texts, and recognize implicit meaning. – Can express themselves fluently and spontaneously without much obvious searching for expressions.

C2 (Mastery/Near-native Proficiency): – Can understand with ease virtually everything heard or read. – Can summarize information from different spoken and written sources, reconstructing arguments and accounts in a coherent presentation. Can express themselves spontaneously, very fluently and precisely, differentiating finer shades of meaning even in the most complex situations.

Example: How to list your language proficiency on a resume using the CERF scale

• English (C2): Native language
• Spanish (B2): Intermediate
• Mandarin Chinese (A2): Beginner

Part 7 ACTFL Language Proficiency Scale: Descriptions, Examples

ACTFL scale (American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages):

Novice: – Novice Low: Can understand and produce basic words and phrases related to familiar topics, but may struggle with understanding or producing more complex language. – Novice Mid: Can understand and produce simple sentences and questions related to familiar topics, but may still struggle with more complex language and unfamiliar situations. – Novice High: Can understand and produce simple sentences and questions on a wider range of topics, but may still struggle with more complex language and unfamiliar situations.

Intermediate: – Intermediate Low: Can communicate effectively in most everyday situations, but may struggle with more complex language and abstract concepts. – Intermediate Mid: Can communicate effectively in most everyday situations, and can understand and produce more complex language related to familiar topics. – Intermediate High: Can communicate effectively in most situations, and can understand and produce more complex language related to a wide range of topics.

Advanced: – Advanced Low: Can understand and participate in conversations on a wide range of topics, but may struggle with understanding or producing more abstract or nuanced language. – Advanced Mid: Can understand and participate in conversations on a wide range of topics, and can understand and produce more abstract or nuanced language. – Advanced High: Can understand and participate in complex conversations on a wide range of topics, including abstract and nuanced ideas.

Superior: – Can understand and participate in complex conversations on a wide range of topics, including abstract and nuanced ideas, and can produce language with a high degree of accuracy, fluency, and cultural competence.

Distinguished: – Can understand and produce language with a level of proficiency and cultural competence that is equivalent to that of a highly educated native speaker.

Example: How to list your language proficiency on a resume using the ACTFL scale

• French (Advanced High)
• German (Intermediate Mid)
• Japanese (Novice High)

Part 8 ILR Language Proficiency Scale: Descriptions, Examples

Another popular testing standard is the Interagency Language Roundtable (ILR) scale:

Level 0: No proficiency – You have no ability to understand or communicate in the language.

Level 1: Elementary proficiency – You have basic communication skills and can understand simple phrases and expressions. You can communicate in familiar situations and can handle basic needs like ordering food or asking for directions.

Level 2: Limited working proficiency – You can communicate in most situations related to work or daily life. You can understand and participate in conversations about familiar topics, but may struggle with more complex language or unfamiliar situations.

Level 3: Professional working proficiency – You have a strong command of the language and can communicate effectively in most professional or academic settings. You can understand and participate in discussions on a wide range of topics and can express yourself clearly and accurately.

Level 4: Full professional proficiency – You have near-native fluency in the language and can communicate effectively in any situation. You can understand and express complex ideas and can adapt your language to different audiences and contexts.

Level 5: Native or bilingual proficiency – You have complete mastery of the language, including all its nuances and cultural references. You can understand and express yourself fluently and naturally, without any noticeable accent or errors.

Example: How to list your language proficiency on a resume using the ILR scale

• English: Full professional proficiency
• Spanish: Professional working proficiency
• Mandarin Chinese: Limited working proficiency
• French: Elementary proficiency

Part 9 How to Incorporate Language Skills in Cover Letter

When you’re working on your cover letter, take the opportunity to showcase your language skills. This can help set you apart from other candidates and demonstrate your versatility as a potential employee. Here are some tips for incorporating language skills into your cover letter.

Start by mentioning your language proficiency levels in the opening paragraph. Include the names of the languages you know and how well you can speak, read, or write each of them.

In my previous role, I successfully used my fluency in French and conversational Spanish to assist clients and foster a positive working environment…

Next, highlight specific instances where your language skills were valuable. Sharing stories and experiences can show potential employers the real-world applicability of your language skills. Focus on how these skills benefited the company or your colleagues.

During my time at X Company, I was able to improve customer satisfaction rates for our French-speaking clientele by providing support and resolving issues in their native language.

Don’t forget to mention any language-related certifications or achievements you hold. Listing certifications, like the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or the Diplôme d’études en langue française (DELF), can solidify your claims of language proficiency. For example:

As a holder of a B2 DELF certification, I effectively communicate with clients and teammates in French on a daily basis.

Lastly, ensure your cover letter is tailored to the job position and company. Mention how your language expertise can positively impact the company or align with its values or objectives. For example:

With my knowledge of Mandarin and the company’s growing presence in the Chinese market, I am confident that my language skills will contribute to ABC Corporation’s growth and success…

Part 10 How to Display Language Proficiency on LinkedIn

When creating your LinkedIn profile, showcasing your language skills can help you stand out to potential employers and connections. Here’s how to add language skills to your LinkedIn profile effectively.

First, head to the Languages section under the Accomplishments tab of your LinkedIn profile’s editing interface. If it’s not visible, click on the “plus” symbol and select Languages from the list. This is the dedicated section for listing languages and their proficiency levels.

For each language you’re proficient in, add the language name and select the appropriate proficiency level from the available options:

• Elementary proficiency
• Limited working proficiency
• Professional working proficiency
• Full professional proficiency
• Native or bilingual proficiency

Choose the level that best represents your ability to speak, read, and write in that particular language. Be honest when selecting proficiency levels, as overestimating your skills could lead to uncomfortable situations during interviews or work tasks.

Once you’ve added all the languages you’re proficient in, save your changes and preview your LinkedIn profile to ensure your language abilities are displayed correctly.

As an alternative, you can also mention your language skills in the About section or Experience section, depending on the job importance of knowing a particular language. For example, if you’ve worked in roles where speaking another language was essential, make sure to highlight it in your job description.

Example 1 – About Section:

About Me: I am a results-oriented professional with a strong background in international sales and marketing. Fluent in English, Spanish, and Portuguese, I excel at building relationships with clients from diverse cultural backgrounds. My language skills have been instrumental in expanding our global market presence and driving revenue growth.

Example 2 – Experience Section:

Sales Manager, X Corporation – Led a multicultural sales team and increased international sales by 30%. – Utilized my fluency in Mandarin Chinese to establish and nurture key partnerships in the Chinese market, resulting in a 40% boost in revenue. – Collaborated with the marketing department to create bilingual promotional materials for the Latin American market, contributing to a 20% increase in sales in the region.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the different levels to describe language skills on a cv.

• Beginner: You have basic knowledge of the language and can communicate in simple everyday situations.
• Elementary: You can understand and use familiar everyday expressions and basic phrases.
• Intermediate: You can communicate about familiar topics and understand the main points of clear standard input.
• Upper-intermediate: You can interact with native speakers without strain and understand more complex text on various topics.
• Fluent: You can express yourself spontaneously, effectively, and accurately, with a wide range of vocabulary and proper grammar.
• Expert: You have a near-native level of fluency, understanding idiomatic expressions, and cultural nuances.

What are some examples of showcasing language proficiency in a resume?

Here are three examples of how to showcase your language proficiency on a resume:

• Example 1: Languages: English (native), Spanish (fluent), French (intermediate)
• English – Native speaker
• Spanish – Fluent in spoken and written communication
• French – Intermediate level with strong reading and listening skills
• Example 3: In a Skills section: Proficient in English, Spanish, and French, with experience in translation and interpreting.

How should I list language skills in a job description on my CV?

When listing language skills in a job description, focus on how your language abilities were relevant to the position and contributed to your success. You can mention specific tasks or projects that required language skills, or discuss your interactions with clients and colleagues in another language.

Example: Managed a team of 10 Spanish-speaking employees, conducting weekly meetings and communicating project updates in both English and Spanish.

When is it appropriate to include a language on my resume?

It’s appropriate to include a language on your resume if it’s relevant to the job you’re applying for, if it sets you apart from other candidates, or if it exemplifies your background and experience. This may be especially important for positions with multinational companies or those requiring frequent communication with people from different backgrounds.

What are the best practices for stating language skills in resume writing?

• Be honest about your level of proficiency, so you don’t set unrealistic expectations during interviews or in the workplace.
• Use the six-level scale to indicate your language skills accurately.
• List the languages you’re proficient in, along with your level, under a separate “Languages” or “Skills” section on your resume.
• Avoid using vague terms like “conversational” or “advanced”; instead, use precise terms like “intermediate” or “fluent.”
• Mention language-related experiences or accomplishments, such as translation work, language-related projects, or study abroad experiences.
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Language Skills on Resume: How to Explain Proficiency & Fluency

In This Guide:

Do recruiters care about my language skills, when should i include language skills, where should i include language skills, how do i describe my language skill level, mistakes to avoid when including your language skills, key takeaways: language skills on resumes.

“Can speak, read and write in French.”

Is that enough to show my resume language skills?

What would be the ideal description?

It’s standard to say that you are ‘fluent’ in Spanish, or you know ‘basic German’.

But, how can you make your resume stand out more?

Let’s get to the bottom of it.

In this resume language skills guide, you’ll learn:

• When should you include language skills on resume
• The most effective ways to describe a foreign language ability on a resume
• Examples of different levels of language proficiency from real resumes
• What official language scales exist and does it matter which one to use

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Short answer – they do.

But, they will not expect you to recite “War and Peace” in German to get the job.

It’s more about your ability to communicate with clients, fellow co-workers and management in day-to-day business operations.

Without this, many businesses won’t survive.

Therefore recruiters look for language skills to understand your communication skills in greater detail.

Language skills not only give you the building blocks to communicate with others, but it also comes with culture-specific knowledge, too.

This is becoming more and more important for businesses as the economy globalizes across all sectors.

Writing your resume , you realise that space is a valuable real estate.

Every part of it should help you sell yourself to the future employer.

This is why you should always include your language skills only if that’s related to the job you want.

If speaking a foreign language is valuable for the company

This might seem like the obvious reason (because it is) but if your language skills are relevant to the job you’re hoping to undertake, you should include them.

Of note, however, this doesn’t just mean when the recruiter has included desired language capabilities in the job description. Think about what your day-to-day tasks will be in your role.

If you’re applying to be a retail assistant, how likely will it be that more than one language will help you communicate with customers?

If you’re working in customer support, how many countries is the company based in?

These are just some of the questions you should ask yourself.

A rule of thumb is, if you’re going to be working with the public as a key part of your role, your language skills are probably relevant.

In developing his customer support resume, Sia knew his ability to speak over three languages would make an impression on recruiters at SAP SE.

Example of resume language section built with Enhancv

If you have little experience

Language skills are great for adding content to your resume. If you’re putting together your first resume , or a student resume , language skills show your ability to learn quickly and your ability to apply knowledge to real-world situations.

In Avery’s volunteer resume , they highlighted their language skills as they were applying for a role with AIESEC, which has entities based all around the world.

If the open position is competitive

Imagine the following scenario:

Both Tom and Emma are applying for the position of a Senior Marketing Manager at Etsy.

They’ve got the same amount of experience, and their skill set is fairly similar, too.

However, Emma mentioned that she’s fluent in French & German on her resume, while Tom didn’t.

Emma’s value proposition for the company increases exponentially, as there will be a lot of practical uses for her language skills.

Even though Tom’s language proficiency might be on par with Emma, he never bothered to show that – thus, his chances to get a callback get slimmer.

If you're applying for a job in a different country

As a foreign applicant, you’ll want the hiring manager to know as soon as possible that you won’t have any language barriers.

If you have to demonstrate quick-learning skills

When learning about a lot of new things will be a part of your job, you can turn the experience you have with languages into your advantage.

You’ll benefit from showing your quick learning skills through language fluency in many areas:

• Research and organisation fields
• Program and project management jobs
• Communication & marketing related roles

Don’t include your language skills on your resume if…

If any of the above scenarios are not true for you, you’d better skip on adding languages on your resume.

The same applies if you’re a monoglot, meaning someone who only speaks one language. Simply put, the recruiter will assume proficient language skill in the language your resume is written in.

There’s no need to state you’re a fluent English speaker if you live in a predominantly English speaking country and your resume is written in English.

This will unnecessarily take up space on your resume and affect your resume length .

Where you place your language skills on your resume will differ depending on the level of language proficiency you have and the relevance of your language skills to your position.

If language skills are essential for your position, dedicate a specific section to discussing them (as shown previously).

However, if language skills are merely preferable or not necessarily relevant to your position, you can include them as part of your education or previous experience.

Looking at language skill levels, more questions than answers appear:

• Does proficient and fluent mean one and the same thing?
• When should I write one or the other?
• Will they understand that I can read and write if I’m at an intermediate level?

We’ll start by understanding what the different language levels mean.

Picking your level

Without describing your level of language skill, there’s no sense in including it in your resume. This plays off a similar premise to quantifying your achievements in different resume headings . The recruiter needs a tangible way of judging your ability.

A beginner language skill ability can be used if you’re starting to learn a new language. You might know some basic words and phrases, but you have no real understanding of grammar.

Intermediate

An intermediate language skill refers to being able to speak a language but with some difficulty. You can’t speak with the speed of a native and your vocabulary is somewhat limited. However, you’re able to hold conversations in the language and have adequate reading proficiency.

A proficient language skill refers to an ability to speak, write, and read a language without much difficulty at all. You don’t foresee yourself having an issue using the languages listed in your role, however, you’re not fluent. You may need native speakers to repeat things and may struggle understanding colloquialisms.

A fluent language skill means you can read, write, and speak a language fluidly and without hesitation.

A native language skill refers to a language you have grown up speaking. As far as you remember, this is a language you always have been able to communicate with. You have spent your life speaking this language and have honed in on your ability to communicate with it through formal education and so on.

Providing proof

There are formally accepted language skill frameworks.

You can consult the American Council for the Teaching of Foreign Languages or the US Department of State to choose the level that represents your skill best.

For those including English as a language skill, you may go to an open-access test, the EFSET .

What’s more, a growing number of recruiters use LinkedIn’s own scale that has 5 proficiency levels:

• Limited Working
• Professional Working
• Full Professional
• Native/Bilingual

Easily describe your language proficiency with Enhancv’s online resume builder . Drag the bar to show your language level, and use the small text to identify exactly how fluent you are.

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When it comes down to it, there is no reason to lie about your language ability on your resume.

Not only will recruiters void your application should they suspect you’re lying, but it doesn’t add any value.

If a particular language skill is required for your role and you lie about your ability, you won’t be able to perform in your role. Thus, applying for this position will be a waste of your time.

On the other hand, if you lie about a language skill and it isn’t relevant for your role, it’s not going to make an impression on the recruiter. Honesty is the best policy.

Forgetting to update LinkedIn

If you’re discussing your language skills on your resume, be sure to update your LinkedIn profile with this information, too.

One advantage of updating your language skill on LinkedIn is you can have colleagues provide recommendations and references of your ability in this skill.

Using too much space for languages when they are not important

This one goes without saying, but if a language will not have a significant impact on your job, then don’t spend too much time on it in a huge section.

Of course, if you have formally studied a foreign language, you can always include it in your education or experience section.

Forgetting to include your mother language

Add your native language, alongside the foreign languages you know.

Otherwise, you’ll confuse recruiters, especially if you’re applying for a job abroad.

Don't mix and match different language frameworks

Consistency is important.

Don’t go about saying you’re B2 in Russian and AH in Spanish.

Know the company you’re applying for. If it’s a US-based one, go with the ACTFL.

If you’re not sure how different levels from different continents compare with each other, check out this Wikipedia article that compares CEFR and ACTFL frameworks .

When deciding to include language skills on your resume, the most important thing to consider is relevance.

Language skills can have a major influence on the recruiter calling you for an interview, but the same cannot be said when language skills aren’t relevant to your position.

Another aspect to keep in mind is your level of language skill. Recruiters will want to know to what degree you’re skilled in languages you mention.

Any thoughts or remarks on resume language skills? What are the most distinguishable ways you’re talking about language skills on your resume? Let us know in the comments below!

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• How to List Language Skills...

How to List Language Skills on a Resume

10 min read · Updated on March 21, 2024

Your proficiency in multiple languages could give you the edge you need in your job search efforts, so it is important to know the right way to include them in your resume.

As globalization has increased in recent decades, language skills have become an important asset for job seekers in many industries. And since many employers actively look for candidates who are multilingual, knowing how to list language skills on a resume is more important than ever before.

In this post, we will explain when you should include language skills on a resume, provide guidance to properly describe your level of proficiency in a given language, and show you how to list these skills the right way.

Should you always include your language skills on a resume?

While some would argue that the decision to include language skills on a resume depends on the nature of the job you are seeking, many resume experts agree that real language proficiencies are always relevant. So, as a rule, you should always add them to your resume. The only real question is how much prominence you should give to those skills. Consider these factors when determining the amount of resume space that you want to devote to any given language skill:

Is language skill a job requirement? If so, then you will want to highlight it in a separate section, describing your level of proficiency and experience using it. If not, then you can probably just add it to your other skills within your  skill section .

Are you really proficient in the language? Remember, true proficiency includes being able to speak, read, and write the language. If you only have a passing familiarity with a foreign language, you should think about just how useful it will really be in your chosen job.

Research the company to get an idea of its exposure to foreign customers and business partners. If the firm's business activities might include dealing with people who speak your second language, your knowledge of that language could help set you apart from your competition.

How should you describe your level of language proficiency?

As you learn how to list language skills on your resume, one of the most important things you need to understand is the proper way to describe your level of proficiency in that tongue. There are several different proficiency level standards in use today, but the one used by LinkedIn may be the simplest to understand. It also just happens to be based on the U.S. Foreign Service Institute's Interagency Language Round-table scale (ILR), so it has broad application around the world. Its levels include, from highest to lowest proficiency:

Native/Bilingual

A person with this level of proficiency typically speaks the language as a second native language or has many years of regular usage of the tongue and is 100% fluent and accent-free.

Full professional proficiency

If your knowledge of the language enables you to easily converse in the language with only relatively minor missteps and a little bit of an accent, you can claim this level of proficiency.

Professional working proficiency

While not quite as proficient as the full professional level, this level of comfort with the language can still enable you to be a valuable part of conversations with foreign clients and coworkers.

Limited working proficiency

This level of language proficiency can be claimed by anyone who is able to conduct limited conversations in the language but who requires some assistance to navigate more complex interactions.

Elementary proficiency

This is the lowest level of actual proficiency and typically indicates the ability to speak and understand simple sentences. Basically, it is beginner-level knowledge.

No proficiency/Novice

If you only know a few words of a language, you have no proficiency. You also should avoid mentioning the language on your resume.

As you consider which category your proficiency aligns with, remember to be honest with yourself. You should strive to be as accurate as possible in your level selection, since hiring managers and companies are likely to quickly discover the truth if you exaggerate too much. At the same time, make sure that you are not underestimating your skills either, especially if you are simply concerned that your language proficiency has declined from lack of use. In most instances, a language skill can be easily restored once you begin to use it again.

Where should you include your language proficiencies on a resume?

The next question is “Where on your resume should I list those language skills?”. As it turns out, there are several places where you can choose to list those language skills, including the education or skills section , or in its own section. The choice will depend on how important the skill is for the job you are seeking, and the number of languages that you know.

Skills section: if it's an additional skill

In cases where the job makes no mention of the need for language proficiency, you may want to simply include that skill within your skills section. That way, the employer will be made aware of your level of fluency in a second (or third) language, but you won't waste valuable space on your resume that can be devoted to more relevant abilities and experiences.

Language Skills section: if the job requires that language

On the other hand if the job requires you to be able to communicate in that language, you should consider highlighting it in its own “Language Skills” section. A brief language skills section can help to ensure that your proficiency gets noticed. Simply place that section after your other core resume sections, including information about the level of your proficiency. If you studied the language in school, include that study in your education section.

Resume Summary: if you have extensive experience using the language

Finally, you may also want to include mention of your proficiency in your resume summary when the language is a job requirement. If so, then you can also include a brief mention of any extensive experience you have had using the language in a professional setting, or if you lived in that part of the world for any length of time. For example,

Bilingual marketing executive with 10 years of experience working in the Costa Rica field office.

How to list language skills on your resume

The final step in learning how to list language skills on your resume is to figure out the format needed for those listings. As noted earlier, a non-relevant language skill can just be added as another bullet point in your skills section. But for essential job-related language skills, you will want to know how to list language skills on your resume in a way that highlights their importance. 

How to list language skills in a language skills section

Obviously, the easiest way to do that is to create a Language Skills section.While some may argue that a separate section is only needed if you know multiple foreign languages, we suggest using one even if you only have one proficiency other than your native tongue. That separate section will enable you to include the language, level of proficiency, and some detail about your experience using the language.

Language Skills

English - Native (ILR Level 5)

Spanish – Bilingual (ILR Level 5) – 10 years continuous usage in Costa Rica field office

Mandarin Chinese – Professional working proficiency (ILR Level 3) – Two years usage in Beijing office

The above example provides the reader with necessary details about your language proficiencies, while also briefly describing your real-world experience with those languages. That can be a quick and simple way to convey that experience to an employer without taking up too much space in your resume. Note, though, that you should only list your proficiency in English if you are applying for a role with a company outside of the U.S. As a rule, most hiring managers will assume that you are proficient in English if that's the language used for your resume!

You may have also noticed that each listing includes a reference to the Interagency Language Round-table scale (ILR) and the proficiency ranking. Including that information in your resume can be a great way to demonstrate your understanding of language proficiency and helps the reader to know which scale you are referring to as you describe your expertise.

How to list language skills in your education section

 If you studied overseas and developed a language skill at a university in another country, you should include that information in your  education section . Be sure to include details about the university, its location, how long you studied there, and what you achieved. For example

Name of University, City and country, Dates of study

Name of Degree and your Major

-          Completed [duration] year(s) of study, including study of [language]

When and how to list language skills in your experience section

If you have worked in a job where you utilized your language skills on a regular basis, you may also want to highlight that fact within your work experience section . While this should be obvious if any of your jobs were overseas, it may also be useful if your work has included roles where you regularly interacted with foreign language speakers. For example, that work experience listing might look like this:

Global Company Name

Your Job Title

Start Date to End Date

Led a 10-person team responsible for onboarding new customers in the Chinese market, boosting contract success rate by 15%, and expediting onboarding process times by 20%.

Oversaw activity on the company's Chinese outreach social media accounts, increasing customer interactions by 25%.

Developed multiple new product and service strategies in Mandarin that were used during new partnership launches between [date] and [date]

In a world that seems to be getting smaller and more interconnected every day, the ability to speak, write, and understand different languages can make you a valuable commodity for many companies.  As a result, you should never be afraid to leverage that proficiency in a resume to ensure that your language skills are on prominent display. With this guide, you can learn how to list language skills on a resume in a way that ensures hiring managers instantly recognize your potential value for their company.

Not sure how to proceed with your resume or still struggling to figure out how to list language skills on your resume? Get a free resume review from our experts at TopResume today and learn how our professional resume writers can help you create the compelling resume you need to secure interviews and land a great job!

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Resume Language Skills: How to Describe and List Language Proficiency Levels on Resume

In a globalized world, where organizations often operate in multiple countries, language skills have become an invaluable asset for job seekers. Including your language proficiency levels on your resume can help set you apart from other candidates, showcasing your ability to communicate effectively in diverse environments.

In this article, we will discuss how to describe and list language proficiency levels on your resume, when to include them, and some mistakes to avoid.

• How to Describe Language Proficiency Levels on a Resume

When describing your language proficiency levels on a resume, it's important to use standardized terminology to convey your abilities accurately. The most common scale used is the Interagency Language Roundtable (ILR) scale, which categorizes language skills into five levels:

Elementary Proficiency (ILR Level 1)

At this level, you can understand and use basic phrases and expressions related to common, everyday situations. You can introduce yourself and others, ask and answer simple questions, and engage in brief conversations on familiar topics. However, your vocabulary is limited, and you may struggle with more complex grammar and sentence structures.

Limited Working Proficiency (ILR Level 2)

With limited working proficiency, you can understand and communicate in routine social and work situations. You can discuss your background, education, and work experience, as well as describe and compare objects, people, and places. While you may still make grammatical errors and have difficulty understanding complex or idiomatic language, you can generally handle tasks related to travel, shopping, and daily life.

Professional Working Proficiency (ILR Level 3)

At this level, you can understand and communicate effectively in most professional and social situations. You can participate in extended conversations, discuss abstract or complex topics, and provide detailed explanations. While you may still have a foreign accent or make occasional errors, you can generally comprehend spoken and written language in various contexts and interact with native speakers without significant difficulty.

Full Professional Proficiency (ILR Level 4)

With full professional proficiency, you can understand and use the language fluently and accurately in virtually all professional and social contexts, including specialized and technical subjects. You can comprehend idiomatic expressions, slang, and cultural references, as well as produce written and spoken language that is well-organized, coherent, and stylistically appropriate. At this level, your language skills are equivalent to those of a highly-educated native speaker.

Native or Bilingual Proficiency (ILR Level 5)

This level indicates that you have native-like fluency and can understand, speak, read, and write the language with complete ease. You have a deep understanding of cultural nuances, idiomatic expressions, and regional dialects, and you can communicate effectively in both formal and informal situations. Bilingual proficiency means that you have native-like fluency in two languages.

• Should You List Language Skills on a Resume?

Including language skills on your resume can be advantageous in several situations, as they can set you apart from other candidates and demonstrate your ability to communicate effectively in diverse environments. Here are some scenarios when it's a good idea to list language skills on your resume:

• When the job posting specifically mentions a required language

In this case, highlighting your language proficiency can directly contribute to meeting the job requirements, significantly increasing your overall chances of being considered for the vacant position. 2. When applying to a company that operates in multiple countries Companies with a global presence often value employees who can communicate with clients or colleagues from different backgrounds. By showcasing your language skills, you demonstrate your ability to adapt and contribute to an international work environment. 3. When your language skills complement your other skills For example, if you're a customer support specialist who is fluent in a language spoken by a significant portion of the company's clients, your language skills may improve customer satisfaction and retention.

When Not to Include Language Skills on a Resume

While language skills can be an asset, there are a couple of instances when including them on your resume may not actually be beneficial or necessary:

• When your language proficiency is at a very basic level

If your language skills are limited to basic greetings and phrases, they may not be valuable enough to include on your resume. Employers are typically more interested in candidates with a functional level of proficiency that can be utilized in a professional setting. 2. When the job posting does not mention any language requirements In this case, listing your language skills may not add significant value to your resume. Focus on emphasizing your relevant skills, experience, and accomplishments instead.

• Where to List Language Proficiency Levels on Resume

The placement of your language proficiency levels on your resume typically depends on its format and layout. Some of the most common locations include:

Skills Section

Including your language proficiency levels alongside other relevant skills can help create a comprehensive overview of your abilities. This approach is particularly suitable for functional or combination resume formats that emphasize skills over chronological work history.

Additional Information Section

Creating a separate section at the end of your resume to list your language proficiency levels can be an effective way to highlight your language skills without detracting from your core qualifications. This approach works well for chronological resume formats.

Education Section

If you have formal language training or certifications (e.g., a degree in a foreign language or a recognized language examination certificate), you can include your proficiency levels in the Education section of your resume. This approach can help demonstrate your commitment to learning and mastering a language.

• How to List Language Skills on a Resume (with Examples)

When listing language skills on your resume, it's essential to use clear and concise wording. Here are some examples for different proficiency levels: Elementary Proficiency: "Spanish - Elementary Proficiency (ILR Level 1)" Limited Working Proficiency: "French - Limited Working Proficiency (ILR Level 2)" Professional Working Proficiency: "Japanese - Professional Working Proficiency (ILR Level 3)" Full Professional Proficiency: "Chinese - Full Professional Proficiency (ILR Level 4)" Native or Bilingual Proficiency: "English - Native Proficiency (ILR Level 5)"

• Common Mistakes to Avoid While Listing Language Skills on Resume

To ensure that your resume accurately and effectively showcases your language skills, you should avoid these common mistakes:

Overstating Your Language Proficiency

Be honest about your abilities to avoid any potential issues in the future. Exaggerating your language skills may lead to misunderstandings or even jeopardize your credibility if your language abilities are tested during an interview or on the job.

Using Ambiguous Terminology

Stick to standardized terminology, such as the ILR scale or the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), to ensure clarity and avoid confusion. Non-standard terms like "intermediate" or "advanced" can be vague and may not accurately convey your proficiency level.

Listing Irrelevant Languages

Only include languages relevant to the position or industry. Including too many languages or languages that have no bearing on the job can make your resume appear unfocused or cluttered. Instead, prioritize languages that are directly related to the position or demonstrate your ability to work in a diverse, global environment.

• Proficient vs Fluent on Resume

"Proficient" and "fluent" are often used interchangeably on resumes, but they represent different levels of language proficiency. In the context of the ILR scale, "proficient" typically refers to Professional Working Proficiency (ILR Level 3), while "fluent" corresponds to Full Professional Proficiency (ILR Level 4). Ensure you accurately represent your language skills by using the appropriate term for your proficiency level.

• Conversational vs Fluent on Resume

"Conversational" is another term frequently used on resumes to describe language proficiency. It generally indicates a level of language skill that allows for casual communication, falling between Limited Working Proficiency (ILR Level 2) and Professional Working Proficiency (ILR Level 3). If you choose to use "conversational" on your resume, make sure it accurately reflects your language abilities and the requirements of the position.

• How to Determine Your Language Proficiency Level for Resume

If you want to accurately determine your language proficiency level, then you should consider each of the following factors: Formal training and education: Reflect on your language courses and certifications, as they can provide a benchmark for your proficiency level. Professional experience: If you have used a language in a professional setting, evaluate the complexity of the tasks and the level of communication required. Self-assessment: Be honest with yourself when evaluating your reading, writing, speaking, and listening abilities in a given language. Use the ILR scale descriptions as a guide to determine your level of proficiency.

• Key Takeaways

Including language proficiency levels on your resume can be a valuable addition when applying for positions that require or prefer multilingual candidates. By using standardized terminology, accurately assessing your proficiency, and strategically placing this information on your resume, you can effectively showcase your language skills and increase your chances of landing the job.

Maggie Horne

Content Manager & Resume Expert

Maggie is the Content Manager at VisualCV, with years of experience creating easy-to-understand resume guides, blogs, and career marketing content. Now, she loves helping people learn how to leverage their skills to start their dream jobs.

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Languages on Your Resume: How to Include Them in 2024

When it comes to creating a polished and effective resume, one crucial element to consider is adding language skills. In today’s globalized job market, being bilingual or multilingual can give you a significant edge over other applicants.

For those unfamiliar with how to showcase language proficiency, we will provide a brief definition of the different types of language skills commonly listed on resumes. This article will explore the importance of language skills in the current job market and offer tips on how to include them effectively in your resume.

Definition of Languages on Your Resume

There are four primary categories when it comes to identifying language proficiency on a resume:

Bilingual  means you are fluent in two languages, with the ability to speak, read, and write with a high level of proficiency.

Native  means you grew up speaking a language and have complete fluency in it.

Fluent  means you have a thorough understanding of the language, can speak it with ease, and have a strong hold over grammar, vocabulary, and syntax.

Basic  means you have a fundamental understanding of the language, can understand it in its spoken and written form, and can carry on a simple conversation.

Importance of Language Skills in Today’s Job Market

Today’s job market demands an increasingly diverse set of skills and experiences from job seekers. Being multi-lingual can set you apart from others, enhance your competitiveness, and increase your chances of career growth and mobility.

Knowing a foreign language enables individuals to interact better with culturally diverse clients, which is essential in many industries where consumers expect and appreciate personalized treatment. Additionally, language abilities provide employers with the confidence that you can be an asset in the global marketplace.

Assessing Your Language Skills

When it comes to including languages on your resume, it is important to accurately assess your language proficiency. This will not only help you choose the right words to describe your skills, but it will also help potential employers understand the level of proficiency you have.

Self-Assessment: How to Evaluate Your Language Proficiency

Self-assessing your language proficiency can be done through a variety of methods, including self-evaluation, language proficiency tests, and language exchange programs. Self-evaluation involves reflecting on your ability to speak, read, write, and understand a language. Language proficiency tests, such as the TOEFL or TOEIC, can provide an official assessment of your language skills. Language exchange programs involve conversing with a native speaker to assess and improve your language proficiency.

When self-assessing your language proficiency, it is important to be honest and reflective. Consider the following questions:

• Can you hold a conversation in the language?
• Can you read and understand written material in the language?
• Can you write in the language?
• Can you understand and accurately use grammar rules in the language?
• Can you understand the language spoken at a native level?

The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR)

The CEFR is a framework for language proficiency that is widely recognized in Europe and beyond. It provides a standard for evaluating language proficiency across six levels, from A1 (beginner) to C2 (proficient). When including your language skills on your resume, using the CEFR can provide potential employers with a clear understanding of your proficiency level.

Choosing the Right Words to Describe Your Language Skills

When describing your language skills on your resume, it is important to use the right words to accurately convey your proficiency level. Some common words used to describe language proficiency include:

• Intermediate

However, it is important to note that these terms can be interpreted differently by different people. To provide a more accurate understanding of your language skills, consider including your CEFR level or a brief explanation of your abilities.

Accurately assessing and describing your language skills is crucial when including them on your resume. Use self-assessment methods, consider the CEFR framework, and choose the right words to convey your proficiency level to potential employers.

Types of Languages to Include on Your Resume

When it comes to creating your resume, language skills can be a major asset. Though the exact list of languages to include may vary depending on your industry and the location of the position you are applying for, there are generally three types of languages that can help make your resume stand out.

Mother Tongue

Your mother tongue, or first language, should be prominently featured on your resume. This shows that you have a strong command of the language used in your home country, which can be a significant advantage in many industries. Make sure to mention any certifications or awards you have received for your language skills, as this can help demonstrate your expertise.

Second Languages

Second languages are languages you have studied and become proficient in, but are not your mother tongue. Depending on the industry you are in, a second language could be a major asset. For example, a job in international business might require fluency in a language other than your first language. Even if the position you are applying for doesn’t require it, being proficient in another language demonstrates your ability to learn, adapt, and communicate effectively.

Foreign Languages

Foreign languages are those that are not commonly spoken in your country or region. These skills are highly valuable in global businesses and organizations, and may give you an edge over other applicants. Fluency in a foreign language shows that you have a deep understanding of the culture and language of another country, which can be highly valued in today’s globalized world.

When including language skills on your resume, it’s important to be honest about your level of proficiency. If you are unsure of your abilities, it’s best to err on the side of caution and indicate that you have basic proficiency or are still in the process of learning. Additionally, be sure to tailor your language skills section to the specific position you are applying for. For example, if the job is based in Spain, highlighting your fluency in Spanish will be much more relevant than highlighting fluency in French.

Highlighting your language skills can be a key factor in helping your resume stand out from the crowd. By emphasizing your mother tongue, second languages, and foreign languages, you can demonstrate your expertise and your ability to communicate effectively in a globalized world.

How to List Languages on Your Resume

As someone who speaks more than one language, you possess an invaluable skill that can make you stand out on your resume. However, it’s important to know how to effectively list your language skills in order to make the best impression on potential employers. In this section, we’ll cover four tips for including languages on your resume: choosing the right resume format, including language skills in your summary or objective statement, listing languages in your skills section, and mentioning language skills in each job description.

Choosing the Right Resume Format to Showcase Your Language Skills

When it comes to listing your language skills, choosing the right resume format is key. If language skills are a significant part of the job requirements, consider using a functional resume format. This format allows you to showcase your language skills prominently at the top of the page, before your work experience. However, if your language skills are only one aspect of your qualifications, a chronological resume format may be more appropriate.

Including Language Skills in Your Summary/Objective Statement

Your summary or objective statement is the first thing potential employers will read on your resume. Including your language skills in this section can catch their attention and make them more interested in learning more about you. For example, you could write: “Multilingual professional with fluency in English, Spanish, and French seeking a position in international business.” This statement highlights your language skills and gives employers an idea of what you’re looking for in a job.

Listing Languages in Your Skills Section

Another option for showcasing your language skills is to list them in your skills section. When listing your language skills, be sure to specify your proficiency level (e.g. native speaker, proficient, intermediate, basic) and any relevant certifications (e.g. TOEFL, DELE, JLPT). You can also include any specific dialects or variations of a language that you know (e.g. British English vs. American English).

Mentioning Language Skills in Each Job Description

Finally, when describing your work experience, don’t forget to mention your language skills if they were relevant to your job responsibilities. For example, if you worked as a customer service representative at a global corporation and had to communicate with clients in their native languages, emphasize this in your job description. This shows employers that you not only have language skills, but that you have practical experience using them in a professional setting.

Including your language skills on your resume can help you stand out in a competitive job market. By following these four tips, you can effectively showcase your language skills and make a strong impression on potential employers.

Ranking Your Language Proficiency

When including your language skills on your resume, it’s essential to rank them accurately to demonstrate your level of proficiency to potential employers. Here are the steps to follow:

Understanding the Levels of Language Proficiency: A1 to C2

The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) is used to describe language proficiency levels in various languages. It is used worldwide to standardize language learning, teaching, and assessment. CEFR has six levels, ranging from A1 for beginners to C2 for proficient users.

• A1 – Breakthrough or beginner:  Basic communicative ability that allows you to communicate in everyday situations using simple and familiar expressions.
• A2 – Waystage or elementary:  Ability to communicate in basic situations and understand simple sentences and phrases related to personal and everyday life scenarios.
• B1 – Threshold or intermediate:  Communication in a range of familiar situations and understanding the main points of clear input on familiar matters.
• B2 – Vantage or upper-intermediate:  Ability to understand and produce complex text on various topics and communicate with native speakers without much difficulty.
• C1 – Effective Operational Proficiency or advanced:  Excellent command of the language and the ability to use advanced vocabulary and a wide range of complex structures to convey complex ideas effectively.
• C2 – Mastery or proficiency:  Near-native proficiency, with the ability to understand and communicate effectively in all contexts, including academic and professional settings.

How to Rank Your Language Skills on Your Resume

To indicate your language proficiency level on your resume, you should use the following system:

• Native speaker: This means that you have spoken the language your whole life.
• Basic: You have limited knowledge of the language and can understand and speak only fundamental phrases.
• Conversational: You have adequate knowledge of the language to hold a conversation on general topics.
• Intermediate: You are fluent in the language and can communicate effectively in most situations, although there may be some areas where you struggle.
• Advanced: You have an excellent command of the language and can communicate effectively in all contexts, including professional and academic settings.
• Fluent: You are a native speaker or have near-native proficiency in the language.

Examples of Language Proficiency Ranking

Here are some examples of how you can rank your language proficiency level on your resume:

• Spanish (Native Speaker)
• French (Conversational)
• Italian (Intermediate)
• German (Advanced)
• Mandarin Chinese (Fluent)

Remember to be honest about your language skills while preparing your resume. Exaggerating your proficiency in a language could get you in trouble later on. This is especially true if you are being hired for a position that requires you to use the language regularly.

Describing Your Language Skills

Using action words to describe your language skills.

When describing your language skills on your resume, it is critical to use strong and relevant action words that will showcase your expertise in the language. Using a combination of action words and accurate terminology will demonstrate to potential employers that you have a real understanding of the language and can utilize it efficiently.

Some action words that you can use to describe your language skills are:

• Communicate

However, it is not just about using action words; your language skills section must also contain information about your proficiency level. You can’t solely rely on action words without qualifying your skill level because it won’t provide enough insight to a potential employer when evaluating you for a particular role. Therefore, you should provide proof of your skill level by mentioning standardized language tests like TOEFL or ILR, where appropriate.

Avoiding Common Mistakes in Describing Your Language Skills

When it comes to describing your language skills, there are a few common mistakes that you must avoid:

Don’t exaggerate or misrepresent your proficiency level: it’s essential to be honest about your skill level. Exaggerating can lead to serious misunderstandings in communication at work, which can negatively impact your performance and reputation.

Don’t only highlight your speaking skills. Writing, reading, and listening skills are equally important in most job positions, so make sure to feature all the skills users expect from being competent in that language.

Don’t use buzzwords or cliches: phrases like “fluent in the language” or “a native speaker” are relatively subjective and can be overused by most candidates, making them less effective or informative when relevant.

Always provide context: If you have lived, worked, or studied in a country where the language is spoken, make sure to note it. It will show potential managers that you have immersed yourself in the language and are familiar with its use in a real-life setting.

Avoid exaggeration, use accurate action words, provide context, avoid banality, and highlight all the critical aspects of your language skills, and your language proficiency section in your resume will leave a great impression on the potential employers.

Adding Language Certifications on Your Resume

Adding language certifications on your resume can not only demonstrate your language skills but also give potential employers an idea of your dedication and commitment towards mastering a language. In this section, we will discuss the types of language certifications, how to add them on your resume, and provide examples of language certifications on resumes.

Types of Language Certifications

There are various types of language certifications available, with varying levels of difficulty and recognition. Some popular certifications include:

TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) : This certification is commonly used to assess proficiency in English language for non-native speakers. It is widely recognized by universities, employers and governments worldwide.

IELTS (International English Language Testing System) : This certification is also used to assess English proficiency for non-native speakers. Like TOEFL, it is recognized and accepted by universities, employers, and governments globally.

DELF (Diplôme d’Études en Langue Française) : This certification assesses proficiency in French as a foreign language. It is issued by the French Ministry of Education and is recognized internationally.

HSK (Hanyu Shuiping Kaoshi) : This certification assesses proficiency in Mandarin Chinese. It is widely recognized by academic institutions and employers in China.

How to Add Language Certifications on Your Resume

When adding language certifications on your resume, it is important to highlight your achievements and the level of proficiency attained. Here are some tips on how to add language certifications on your resume:

Be specific : Include the name of the certification, the level of proficiency attained, and the score obtained (if applicable).

Prioritize : If you have multiple certifications, prioritize the ones that are most relevant to the job you are applying for.

Include a brief description : Include a brief description of the certification to give the reader an idea of its level of difficulty and recognition.

Place it under the education section : Place the language certification under the education section to highlight your efforts in mastering a language.

Examples of Language Certifications on Resumes

Here are some examples of how you can include language certifications on your resume:

TOEFL : TOEFL iBT, Score: 115/120, Certificate Number: 123456789

DELF : Diplôme d’Études en Langue Française, Level: B2, Certificate Number: 987654321

HSK : HSK Level 5, Score: 250/300, Certificate Number: 567891234

By including language certifications on your resume, you not only showcase your language skills but also demonstrate your ability to commit to long-term goals. Make sure to highlight your achievements and the relevance of the certification to the job you are applying for. Good luck!

Highlighting Language Skills for Specific Jobs

Your language skills can give you a competitive edge in the job market. If you know how to showcase them effectively, you can impress potential employers and land your dream job. However, it’s not enough to simply list the languages you speak on your resume. You need to tailor your language skills to the specific job you’re applying for. Here are some tips on how to highlight your language skills for three types of jobs:

Language Skills for Customer Service Jobs

If you’re applying for a customer service job, it’s likely that you’ll be interacting with customers who speak different languages. Therefore, you should highlight your language skills that match the needs of the company’s customers. For instance, if you’re applying for a job with a company that has a significant number of Spanish-speaking customers, you’ll be a more attractive candidate if you can speak Spanish fluently.

In addition to listing the languages you speak, you might want to describe your language proficiency level. For example, if you’re a native speaker of a language, you might say something like “native proficiency” or “bilingual” to describe your language skills.

Language Skills for Translators and Interpreters

If you’re applying for a job as a translator or interpreter, your language skills are obviously of paramount importance. However, it’s not enough to simply state that you’re bilingual or multilingual. You need to specify which languages you can translate or interpret.

Moreover, you might want to indicate your level of expertise in each language. For example, you can mention if you’re a certified translator or interpreter for a particular language, or if you have experience in interpreting in specific fields (e.g. legal or medical).

Language Skills for International Business Jobs

If you’re applying for a job in international business, your language skills can be an asset in communicating with clients, partners, or suppliers from different countries. However, not all international business jobs require the same language skills. For example, if you’re applying for a job in a Francophone country, you may need to be fluent in French. Meanwhile, if you’re dealing with clients in China, you may need to speak Mandarin or Cantonese.

It’s important to research the language requirements of the job you’re applying for and highlight the languages that are most relevant. Additionally, you should show how your language skills can benefit the company’s international business objectives, such as facilitating negotiations or developing new partnerships.

Highlighting your language skills for specific jobs requires a tailored approach. By emphasizing the languages that are most relevant to the job and showing your level of expertise, you can make your language skills a valuable asset in your job search.

Example Resumes Featuring Languages

Including your language skills on your resume can greatly enhance your chances of landing a job, especially if you are applying for positions that require strong communication skills or dealing with international clients.

To give you an idea of how you can present your language skills on your resume, we have provided examples for three different positions:

Example Resume for a Customer Service Position

Name:  Jane Doe Contact Info:  jane.doe.

Tips for Including Language Skills on Your Resume

If you speak more than one language, including language skills on your resume can make you stand out to potential employers, especially if the job requires bilingualism. However, it’s important to know how to properly include language skills and avoid common mistakes that can make your resume appear unprofessional.

How to Make Your Language Skills Stand Out

Here are some tips on how to make your language skills stand out on your resume:

1. Clearly state the languages you speak

Make sure to clearly state the languages you speak and your proficiency level. This can be done in a separate “Language Skills” section or under a “Skills” section. Be honest about your proficiency level and avoid over-exaggerating.

2. Provide context for your language skills

Include specific examples of how you have used your language skills in a professional setting. For example, you can mention that you have conducted business meetings in Spanish or translated documents for a French client.

3. Highlight your cultural knowledge

If you have cultural knowledge related to the language(s) you speak, make sure to highlight that as well. This can be especially relevant for jobs that involve working with diverse populations or international clients.

4. Tailor your resume to the job

If the job description mentions that bilingualism is preferred or required, make sure to highlight your language skills prominently in your resume. You can also customize your resume to include specific examples of how your language skills can benefit the company.

Common Mistakes to Avoid when Including Language Skills

Here are some common mistakes to avoid when including language skills on your resume:

1. Using vague or misleading terms

Avoid using terms like “basic,” “intermediate,” or “advanced” without providing any context for what those terms mean. Instead, be specific about your proficiency level and provide examples of your language abilities.

2. Including irrelevant language skills

If a language is not relevant to the job you are applying for, it’s better to leave it off your resume. Including irrelevant language skills can make your resume appear cluttered and unfocused.

3. Not proofreading for errors

Make sure to proofread your resume for errors in spelling, grammar, or formatting. Even minor mistakes can make you appear unprofessional and careless.

What to Do if You Don’t Have Any Language Skills to Include

If you don’t speak any other languages, don’t worry! There are still ways to showcase your skills and experience on your resume. Here are some tips:

1. Highlight other skills

Focus on other skills you possess that are relevant to the job. For example, if the job requires excellent communication skills or attention to detail, make sure to highlight those skills on your resume.

2. Showcase work experience

Highlight your work experience and accomplishments.

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How to List Language Skills on Your Resume

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Foreign language resume sample.

• Self-Assessment Tools

One of the most valuable skills that job candidates can offer potential employers is strong fluency in a foreign language. If you have strong foreign language skills, including this fact on your resume will likely give you an advantage over most of your competition whenever the ability to speak another language is a prerequisite for the job.

The Most Requested Languages on Resumes

The level of demand for job candidates with specific foreign language skills depends on a few factors, including the industry and the geographical location of employers. According to the “Not Lost in Translation” study by New American Economy (NEA), the five most in-demand foreign languages requested by U.S. employers are Spanish, Chinese, French , Arabic, and Korean .  

Oftentimes, the second language requested depends upon the industry. Spanish fluency is frequently sought for customer service roles in the financial services and auto parts sectors. The hospitality and luxury retail industries have a high demand for Chinese speakers. French and Arabic, on the other hand, are desirable languages for job candidates seeking work with international humanitarian aid associations. Korean speakers, meanwhile, are targeted by the pharmaceutical, education, telecommunications, and banking industries.

Demand for employees with foreign language competencies also varies from state to state. The states with especially large immigrant populations—California, Texas, Florida, and New York—naturally have the most job postings for bilingual applicants. Other states with a high demand for second language fluency are Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, and Oregon.

Jobs That Require Foreign Language Skills

There is a wide range of employers who list foreign language qualifications for consideration on their job listings. For some positions, candidates are expected to provide a standardized measure of their level of proficiency in a foreign language on their resume.

Depending upon your industry, you may be asked to use a specific proficiency framework/test to self-assess and quantify your command of a foreign language.    

Customer Service Jobs

The vast majority of jobs where foreign language fluency is desirable are in customer service, sales, and medical positions—roles requiring extensive interaction with clients within our global economy. The NEA study mentioned above notes that bilingual customer service representatives are most in demand (7.8%), followed by wholesale/manufacturing sales representatives (6.3%), retail salespersons (6.1%), registered nurses (3.2%), and financial services sales agents (3.2%).

When applying for most of these sorts of jobs, it is fine to describe your fluency in general terms such as bilingual, native, near-native, advanced, intermediate, or competent. If you have a LinkedIn account , you can use the proficiency designations provided there (native or bilingual proficiency, full professional proficiency, professional working proficiency, limited working proficiency, or elementary proficiency) to add your language skills to your profile.

Here’s an example of how to cite your foreign language competency level on your resume:

• Foreign languages : English (native proficiency), Mandarin Chinese (full professional proficiency)

If you only have a basic understanding of a second language, it is generally best not to mention the language at all on your resume (except when this is required, as it is for some federal job applications). Never exaggerate your foreign language proficiency.

Federal Government and Military Jobs

Federal agencies that actively recruit personnel with foreign language skills include the Department of Defense, Central Intelligence Agency, Department of State, Federal Bureau of Investigation, National Security Agency, Defense Intelligence Agency, Bureau of Labor Statistics, National Virtual Translation Center, and the Peace Corps.  

Foreign language skills are in high demand for these federal government jobs, and there is a shortage of qualified applicants. The United States Government Accountability Office reports that 23% of Foreign Service Officers appointed by the State Department to work overseas lacked the required language proficiency.  

The demand for talented foreign language speakers in the government sector is so great that many agencies now offer hiring incentives to job applicants with fluency in priority languages.  

Required proficiency framework: Candidates for federal jobs may be asked to prove their language proficiency by taking a test based on the Interagency Language Roundtable (ILR) scale. This scale ranks one’s language competency at six different skill levels (0-5). Here’s what a citation of this scale might look like on a resume:

• Foreign Languages: Spanish-Native/Bilingual (ILR Level 5); English-Native/Bilingual (ILR Level 5); French-Professional Working Proficiency (ILR Level 3)

Foreign Language Teaching Jobs

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that there were approximately 27,240 foreign language teachers in the American workforce in 2017. Colleges and universities, junior colleges, and local governments are the leading employers of foreign language teachers.

Required proficiency framework : The American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages   (ACTFL) has created a series of guidelines used to evaluate one’s functional language ability. This scale, commonly used both by teachers and employers to assess foreign language competency, analyzes proficiency in speaking, writing, listening, and reading.  

Here’s an example: 

• Foreign Languages : English (Native); Spanish (ACTFL: Speaking-“Superior,” Writing-“Superior,” Listening- “Advanced High,” Reading-“Distinguished”)

Jobs With European Companies

Most Europeans begin learning a second language early in their primary education. If you hope to work abroad for EU employers, a solid command of a second language may well be required.  

A good way to learn which languages are required in order to work overseas is to scan the listings on one of these best international job search engine sites .

Required proficiency framework: Employers in the EU use the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages  (CEFR) to determine their job candidate’s degree of language proficiency. A basic understanding of a language is ranked as “A1” or “A2” (“Basic User”), an intermediate command is scored as “B1” or “B2” (“Independent User”), and advanced competency is described as “C1” or “C2” (“Proficient User”). 

Here’s what a citation looks like:

• Foreign Languages:  English (Native, CEFR C2); German (CEFR B2); French (CEFR B1)

Where to List Foreign Language Skills on Your Resume

If foreign language competency is one of the “preferred” or “required” qualifications on a job listing, then you need to mention this skill throughout your resume.

Although this might seem repetitive, multiplying the mentions of your language skills on your resume will ensure that it “passes” its initial review by the automated applicant tracking systems that many employers use to narrow down their pools of candidates. These systems are programmed to identify both the placement and the number of times specific keyword phrases are incorporated within your resume.

The best places to showcase your language skills on your resume are in an initial qualifications profile , a dedicated languages skills section or table, and within your “Education and Certifications” section. 

You should also describe your professional use of a foreign language as a “key achievement” in your “Experience” section. 

Qualifications Summary Example

The qualifications profile (also called a “ summary of qualifications ”) of your resume provides the important first impression to an employer, so it’s important to highlight your language skills prominently here. You can do this by mentioning them both in a resume headline and in the text of the profile itself:

Jordan German 123 Railroad Avenue Bethlehem, PA 18020 (123) 456-7890 jgerman@email.com www.linked.com/in/jordangerman

CUSTOMER SERVICE PROFESSIONAL

Bilingual Customer Service Representative with 6-year track record of excellence in auto parts sector .

Service-oriented support specialist offering proven communications strengths within fast-paced call center environments. Easily engage customers from diverse cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds through attentive needs identification and consultative dialogues. Bilingual command of English (native tongue) and Spanish (near-native fluency).

Language Skills Section Example

Another good way to showcase your language skills is to set them off in a dedicated “Language Skills” section or table. This should be placed either directly after your summary of qualifications or (especially on federal resumes) at the end of the resume following the description of your education and training.

Foreign Language Competencies

• English : Native (ILR Level 5)
• German : Professional Working Proficiency (ILR Level 3)
• Dutch : Professional Working Proficiency (ILR Level 3) 

Experience Section Example

If you have used a foreign language frequently as part of your day-to-day work experience, be sure to highlight this in your “Experience” section.

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

ABC GENERAL HOSPITAL, Quincy, Massachusetts Registered Nurse  (February 2008 – Present)

Provide attentive and empathetic nursing care to mothers and infants in 50-bed labor and obstetrics ward. Implement treatment plans, monitor stages of labor and delivery, and educate new parents in neonatal care. 

Key Contributions :

• Willingly stepped up to work overtime and weekend shifts when needed.
• Leveraged bilingual command of Spanish to translate for physicians and Spanish-speaking patients and their families.

Education and Certifications Section Example

Any academic or professional training you have had in a foreign language should be mentioned in the “Education” section of your resume, along with language certifications you have earned.

EDUCATION & CREDENTIALS

CLEMSON UNIVERSITY, Clemson, South CarolinaBachelor of Arts in French

Junior Year Abroad: University of Paris, Paris, France (20XX to 20XX)

Language Certification : International Centre for French Studies: Diplôme d'études en langue française (DELF) diplomas (CEFRL C1 and C2)

(compatible with Google Docs and Microsoft Word) to use as a starting point for your own resume.

Sonya See 17017 Riverwalk Road Arlington, VA 98223 (555) 555-1212 Sonya.see@email.com

Multilingual, customer-focused Concierge with 7 years’ experience serving an international clientele .

Charismatic and focused professional offering world-class service to patrons of upscale hotels, conference centers, and cruise ships. Seamlessly discern and respond to client requirements to ensure unique and memorable experiences. Bilingual in English and Chinese (Mandarin and Cantonese), with advanced command of Korean and Japanese. 

WELLINGTON HOTEL AND CONFERENCE CENTER, Arlington, VA

Concierge (June 2014-Present)

Orchestrate local travel, restaurant, tourism, and entertainment arrangements for hotel guests. Respond to customer inquiries and mediate service issues; work closely with local vendors to provide enjoyable entertainment opportunities.

• Leverage superb command of spoken and written Mandarin Chinese, Cantonese, Korean, and Japanese to ensure positive guest experiences and generate business referrals.
• Recruited by marketing team to help develop email communications and collateral targeted to customers from Asia and Southeast Asia.

SOUTHSEAS CRUISES, Singapore

Concierge (August 2012-May 2014)

Worked closely with Guest Relations Manager to fulfill requests for on-board services and coordinate shore-side services at ports of call in Langkawi, Phuket, and Penang.

• Spearheaded highly successful programming that brought local dancing groups to perform onboard at each port of call.
• Stepped up to serve as personal translator and as tour guide for English-only speaking guests.

University of San Francisco, San Francisco, CA

BS of Business Administration in Hospitality Management (Minor: Japanese) 2012

Study Abroad: Summer Abroad Program, Seisen University, Japan (2011)

Foreign Language Certifications :

• JLPT Japanese-Language Proficiency Test (N5), Japan Foundation / Japan Educational Exchanges and Services
• Test of Proficiency in Korean (TOPIK II, Level 6), Korean Institute for Curriculum and Evaluation

Foreign Language Self-Assessment Tools

Not sure just how good your foreign language skills are? You can take self-assessments using the ILR proficiency scale (for federal jobs), the CEFR scale (for jobs overseas in the EU), and the 10-level ACTFL proficiency scale .

The New American Economy. " Not Lost in Translation ," Page 21.

The New American Economy. " Not Lost in Translation ," Page 22.

The New American Economy. " Not Lost in Translation ," Page 18.

The New American Economy. " Not Lost in Translation ," Page 13.

The New American Economy. " Not Lost in Translation ," Page 8.

LinkedIn. " How To Include Language Skills On Your LinkedIn Profile (and Resume) ."

Interagency Language Roundtable. " Federal Foreign Careers Information ."

United States Government Accountability Office. " Foreign Language Proficiency Has Improved, but Efforts to Reduce Gaps Need Evaluation ."

Interagency Language Roundtable. " How Can I be Tested and Rated on the ILR Scale? "

Interagency Language Roundtable. " What are the “ILR Language Skill-Level Descriptions? "

Bureau of Labor Statistics. Occupational Employment Statistics. " Foreign Language and Literature Teachers, Postsecondary ."

American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages. " ACTFL Proficiency Guidelines ."

Pew Research Center. " Most European Students Are Learning a Foreign Language in School While Americans Lag ."

How to list language skills on your CV + examples

Not sure how to showcase your language skills on your CV? Highlighting them can sometimes be challenging.

In the present global job market, speaking multiple languages is a valuable strength.

In this guide, we’ll reveal how to list language skills on your CV, ensuring employers declare, “Wow, this applicant has talent!”

We also have  10  examples that’ll show you how to make your CV shine.

CV templates 

What are language skills on a CV?

Detailing your language skills on a CV is essential, as they show you can speak a second or even a third language. For example, if you have basic skills in French, it’s worth mentioning. Or if you’re fluent in Spanish, be sure to brag about these language skills.

The importance of language skills

Language skills on your CV are a pretty big deal.

Employers love candidates with diverse language skills because they demonstrates that you can speak a different language, which can come in super handy if you run into a client or colleague who doesn’t speak the same tongue as most individuals in your work setting.

Basically, language abilities give you the building blocks to interact with others and provide you with culture-specific knowledge, too.

And guess what? Companies are really into this these days because they need people who can communicate with others from all around the world in every kind of job. It’s a win-win!

You, the job seeker, can really benefit from communicating your foreign language skills, as it boosts your CV’s appeal and opens up opportunities.

Speaking the likes of Arabic, French, Spanish, and German is incredibly important for your future.

Where to put language skills on a CV

Showcasing your language mastery on your CV is essential. But where do you insert them?

There are several places you can add your language skills on a CV, which we’ll look at in more detail below.

1. Your personal details

The personal details section of your CV includes your name, professional title, phone number, email , and location, and often additional details such as your LinkedIn profile and personal website.

Adding language skills in your personal details gives a quick snapshot of your language talents, so it’s easy for would-be employers to gain insight into what languages you can speak and your skill level.

Let’s say you’re fluent in Spanish – you’d write it like this:  Languages: Spanish – Fluent, French – Intermediate.

2. Your personal profile

The personal profile section of your CV is a 3-5-line paragraph at the very top that summarises your top skills, qualifications, and what you know. But don’t dive too deep into the nitty-gritty – it’s just a mini intro about you.

Adding your language skills here can improve your appeal, especially if the role needs solid language proficiency. If you’re applying for a position that depends on you speaking a certain language, such as a translator or tour guide, it’s worth highlighting at the top of your CV.

3. Your core skills section

The core skills section of your CV is the bit that comes after your personal profile. It’s where you create a bullet-pointed list of your main skillsets and certifications relevant to the job you’re applying for – it’s essentially a list of skills that show why you’re perfect for the job you’re after.

When you add a bullet-pointed list at the very top of your CV, recruiters can quickly see why you’re an excellent fit for the position without digging too deep into your CV. You make a brilliant first impression with your skills right from the get-go.

If you’re exceptionally capable in numerous languages, adding linguistic talents to your core skills section is a smart move. This is arguably the most sensible place to add your language skill level in a bullet-point format , like  French – Native  or  Spanish – C2.

4. Your employment history

The employment history section of your CV is where you insert all your past work experiences and job roles.

It’s important to list your language skills in this section as you can show employers how you’ve put your language skills into action.

Mention any relevant work experiences where you used your language skills. State how you used your language abilities in your job and whether it entailed interacting with foreign customers.

For instance, if you were a sales associate and expanded the client base for Spanish-speaking clients, mention it.

5. Your education section

The education section of your CV is the section where you outline your academic certifications, like degrees, diplomas, and qualifications.

You’d mention your language skills in this section to emphasise any language-specific qualifications or language-related coursework that strengthened your fluency.

So, if you earned yourself a Bachelor of Arts in International Relations, here’s where you’d mention it. Or maybe you obtained a  DELE Diplomas of Spanish  certificate at the C1 level.

Or if you have a particular language certification such as a  B2 First Certificate  or the  Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) , note it here as well.

Highlighting language-based qualifications gives recruiters tangible evidence of your foreign language proficiency and shows you’ve applied those language capabilities on the job. They’ll regard you as a well-rounded applicant with practical language expertise – something hiring managers really love.

6. Your additional information section

The additional information section of your CV is the space where you can give extra details about your skills, certifications or hobbies relevant to the jobs or companies you’re applying to. Usually, this part only applies if you have little work experience, to help give employers more info about what you do outside of work.

Detailing your language skills in this section doesn’t just share what languages you speak. It also says how good you are in them, and any impressive language-related certificates you’ve achieved.

Create a dedicated ‘Foreign Languages’ subsection under the Additional Information right at the bottom of your CV.

This is where you can mention your language abilities, such as any unique dialects or regional variations you’re fluent in. You’d write it like this:

“Foreign Language: Fluent in French and Polish, with a profound understanding of Southern European dialect. Adept in business-level Spanish. Conversational in Mandarin Chinese.” 

3 examples of language skills on a CV

Below are three examples of how to write language skills on a CV for 3 different language proficiency levels.

Candidate with basic language skills

If you have basic skills, you can handle daily conversations and easy interactions in the language. However, you may find it trickier to tackle more complicated tasks or professional interactions.

In this case, you can just add your language skills to the ‘Additional Information’ section, as you only need to make a small mention of them so you don’t oversell them.

Candidate with intermediate language skills

If you have intermediate skills, you might be able to take part in work-related chats, take care of client enquiries or even engage in basic business situations.

In this instance, add your language skills to your personal profile, employment history, education, and additional info section at the  intermediate level.

This makes your profile more interesting and shows you aren’t just about your main skills but have something extra to offer.

Adding language skills to your personal profile tells recruiters you have skills that go beyond your main ones. Listing them in your work history demonstrates you’ve used those language abilities in the work setting, which a hiring manager will find incredibly helpful.

When you list them in your education section, it proves you’re not just studying theory but actually putting it into practice. Lastly, when you add your language prowess to the additional info section, you’re showing off a new hobby which adds depth to your entire CV.

Candidate with experienced language skills

Well-versed in certain languages? Able to charm your way through both casual and formal settings?

Then you’ll need to list your language skills as fluent throughout your CV, with any certifications you’ve achieved. Add your language skills to every section of your CV – that’s the personal details, personal profile, core skills, employment history, education, and additional info sections – to ensure they get noticed

How to write languages on a CV

If you want to describe your language skills in a way that will be universally understood, the  Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR)  is the globally accepted standard. It describes language ability on a six-point scale, from A1 (beginners) through to C2 (proficient) and is well-known in the UK.

When you list your language skills, it’s best to start with your strongest language skills. Prioritise languages in line with the job you’re applying for.

Here’s how you’d write your language skills on your CV:

Let’s say fluency in Spanish is an essential requirement. Mention this early on in your CV and reinforce it throughout.

Only mention languages you have a professional-level grasp of. Don’t bother mentioning a language you don’t have much experience in – this gives them an exaggerated idea of your language skills.

Remember to specify your native or bilingual languages underneath a dedicated ‘Foreign Languages’ subsection under the ‘Additional Information section.

How to describe your CV language abilities

When describing language skills on your CV, use universally understood terms to detail your proficiency level, including beginner, intermediate, advanced, and native .

These widely understood phrases serve as a universal language for hiring managers:

• Beginner –  You’re   in the early phases and can understand basic phrases and hold easy discussions. For example:  Basic proficiency in French (Beginner). 
• Intermediate –  This means you can have conversations and navigate daily situations but with several restrictions. For example,  Intermediate level in Italian (Conversational).
• Advanced –  You’re confident in professional environments and can talk about complicated topics. You can also handle business communications.   For example,  Advanced proficiency in Spanish (Professional). 
• Native –  You can speak the language fluently as if it’s your mother tongue. For example,  Native in German. 

Discovering your fluency level in different languages

Working out how to get across your language expertise on your CV plays a critical role.

Thankfully, the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) makes it a cinch. It’s essentially a fluency map with levels varying from A1 (learner) to C2 (expert).

Firstly, A1 and A2 are your elementary levels, while B1 and B2 are for when you’re cruising at intermediate. C1 and C2 demonstrate you have superior language skills.

For instance, your levels may fall into:

• Beginner (A1) –  You have a basic understanding and introductory communication.  
• Elementary (A2)  – You’re familiar with common expressions and direct interaction.
• Intermediate (B1) –  Understand everyday subjects and elementary writing.  
• Upper intermediate (B2) –  You’re aware of complicated context, spur-of-the-moment communication, and thorough writing.  
• Advanced (C1) –  You can grasp lengthier content, talk about your ideas well, and produce structured writing.
• Mastery (C2) –  You have a high-level perception and can summarise complicated info articulately.  

If you’re unsure of your proficiency, the best way to find your CEFR level is to take a well-designed standardised test that adheres to the CEFR guidelines. You can do these tests for a range of languages and they’re completely free.

Once you know these secret codes, you’ll be able to communicate your language superpowers correctly on your CV so you match up with the right opportunities.

UK language courses and exams

If you really want to prove your language knowledge to employers, you can add any language related courses you have taken to your CV.

Or if you don’t have any – perhaps you could take one to give your CV a quick boost.

Some widely established examples of courses and exams include:

• International English Language Testing System (IELTS) –  assesses your English language skills for work, study or relocation reasons.
• Cambridge English exams –  The First Certificate in English (FCE), Advanced (CAE), and Proficiency (CPE) exams are among the widely accepted criteria for assessing English language skills.
• Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) –  A commonly accepted exam welcomed by educational institutions and hiring managers to evaluate the English language dexterity of non-native speakers.
• Trinity College –  Provides an assortment of language exams such as Graded Examinations in Spoken English (GESE) and Integrated Skills in English (ISE).
• The European Consortium for the Certificate of Attainment in Modern Languages (ECL) –  Evaluates language skills in European languages such as French, German, Italian, and Spanish.

These are just some of the language courses and examinations on offer – you’ll find numerous other veritable options for ascertaining language proficiency in the UK .

Make sure you choose the right course or exam in line with the language you want to assess and the specific needs of your employer or company you’re aiming for.

After all, claiming you speak fluent French won’t do you much good if you’re applying for a German international sales job !

Choosing the right languages

When it comes to picking languages for your CV, select the ones that match the job you’re interested in.

If the role you’re applying for involves global customers, highlight the languages you speak. Planning to work overseas? Concentrate on languages prevalent in those areas.

Let’s say you’re applying for a job in international sales which entails talking to clients all over Latin America. If you can speak fluently in Spanish and Portuguese, this shows you hold a special key to connect with those big markets.

When you choose the right foreign languages for the job, you give employers an insight into your personality and signal that you’re willing to build relationships across the world.

The takeaway

So, there you have it – a guide to make your language dexterity sparkle on your CV.

Don’t forget – demonstrating your linguistic skills goes beyond ticking boxes. It shows your cultural sensitivity, adaptability, and your eagerness to bridge global gaps.

Don’t miss out on opportunities by overlooking your language skills – be the one who wows hiring managers and co-workers alike with your multilingual talents.

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How to Indicate Language Proficiency on your Resume

by Felix Tarcomnicu

Globalization is a by- product of uncertain and volatile economic times. Businesses are exploring opportunities in other regions in order to capitalize on comparative cost advantages and economies of scale. This is why outsourcing and offshoring strategies have become prevalent in the last 15 years. As offshore arrangements flourish, language proficiency becomes a more valuable skill to have on your resume.

When writing a resume , relevancy is very important. If your content is not relevant to the needs of the company, it will be disregarded. You have to write your resume with a sense of purpose; put more thought and strategy in its content. Studies show recruiters spend on 6.25 seconds reviewing a resume. Therefore, you must make every second count by indicating only relevant information.

However, when it comes to language skills, there should be no argument that it should be included in your resume. Learning a foreign language tells a recruiter you’ve invested in yourself.

Most companies will be impressed to find out that you know other languages. It does not matter if it’s Spanish, Chinese, French, Tagalog or Swahili. It takes time, effort and resources to learn a new language.

But before you list language as a skill in your resume, you should first determine what your level of proficiency is. The last thing you would want is to indicate “Proficient in Spanish” in your resume only for your employer to discover you are not fluent enough to carry a conversation as a customer service agent for the Hispanic market.

What Does Language Proficiency Mean?

Language proficiency is your ability to speak or perform in an acquired language. There are different levels of language proficiency. Your level will determine the value of your skill with the company.

You should first assess your level of proficiency so you can accurately present it in your resume. Here are common terms used to describe language proficiency levels:

• Basic – If you were taking a college course, basic knowledge would be identical to studying 101 or 102 subjects. You know simple words, phrases with very limited reading skills and cannot keep up with conversations in the language. You still second guess your choice of words and constantly refer to guidelines.
• Conversational – You are able to carry on a conversation in the language although not fluently. The speed by which you are able to understand sentences remains measured and there is still uncertainty in your choice of words.
• Proficient – The word proficient is overused in resumes. In linguistic terms, proficiency does not translate to the same meaning as fluent. To state you are proficient means you are comfortable with the use of the language in spoken and written form but not at the same level as a native speaker.
• Fluent – Assessing your skill level as fluent means your use of the language is fluid not halting. You can read, write, converse and speak the language in the same manner as a native speaker.

Of course, “Native Speaker” means this is your primary language; your mother tongue that has been taught since birth and honed through various educational institutions.

If you want a more precise assessment of your language proficiency level you can refer to the guidelines and definitions established by the American Council for the Teaching of Foreign Languages or the US Department of State .

Once you’ve assessed your language proficiency, how should you indicate this on your resume?

The first thing you should find out is how important is having language skills in the job position? If it ranks high among the priorities for candidates, you should dedicate a specific section in your resume entitled, “Languages”. Companies that regularly transact business with multinational entities will surely put languages near the top of their list of qualifications.

However, if the language requirement is more of a “plus”, you should simply include it as a bullet point in the Skills section in your resume. The Skills section should remain behind Work Experience and Educational attainment in its location.

In order to support your contention for language proficiency, indicate in your resume if you took additional seminars, classes and forms of instruction. You can state this in the Skills section and attach a copy of the certificate or diploma as evidence.

The standard rule in writing skills and experiences is to validate your claims with facts, figures and other forms of measurable evidence. The same rule applies to languages. Otherwise, what you indicate will only be regarded as nothing more than a blanket statement.

It is not enough to merely state “Speaks Japanese”. You should compose your statement in a way that makes the recruiter see how the skill will benefit the company. Therefore, you should relate it to actual experiences at work.

For example:

• Handled customer service for the company’s Japanese market in Tokyo and Osaka which required mastery of Kansai and Shikoku dialects.
• Translated documents in Japanese for the purpose of creating marketing collaterals.
• Performed duties as translator during annual meetings, international conferences and visits of Japanese dignitaries.

As a word of caution, do not overstate your language proficiency level. The real test will be during the interview. The recruiter may hire a native speaker to assess your proficiency level as it corresponds with the needs of the company. Among the tests may be:

• Simple question and answer forum
• Translation of documents
• Reading sections from a book
• Panel interview with native speakers
• Translating audio

When evaluating your level of proficiency at a language, you should be comfortable with the assessment without overselling your abilities.

Most companies that require language skills prefer to hire native speakers. However they can be quite expensive. A candidate who studied a foreign language as an additional skill can be a more viable alternative if the level of proficiency is near or at the level of a native speaker.

The ability to speak different foreign languages will always be considered a strong point regardless of the specific needs of the job position. It becomes more important in this day and age of globalization as linguistic skill provides the company an integral component for business flexibility.

You should include it in your resume because it will propel you ahead of others who do not have language proficiency as a competence.

About the writer

Felix Tarcomnicu is the founder of ResumeOK , a site that helps job seekers write better resumes and easily pass job interviews. You can follow more of his posts on Twitter .

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