How can I write a Polish-style CV or resume?
Looking to work in Poland and wondering how to make a strong first impression? One of the most important steps is creating a professional, Polish-style CV (Curriculum Vitae) that matches local expectations. Whether you’re applying as a skilled worker, engineer, IT specialist, or forklift operator, this guide will help you craft a resume that gets noticed.
What Employers in Poland Expect from a CV
Polish employers value clear, concise, and well-structured CVs. Here's what you should aim for:
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Length: 1–2 pages (max)
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Format: Reverse chronological (latest experience first)
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Language: English or Polish, depending on the job (use Polish if the job listing is in Polish)
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Style: Professional, clean, and to-the-point
Key Sections of a Polish CV
1. Personal Information
At the top of your CV, include:
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Full Name
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Phone number (with country code)
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Email address (professional)
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Location (e.g., Warsaw, Poland or “Willing to Relocate”)
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Optional: LinkedIn profile or photo (see note below)
Photo?
Photos are common but not required. If you include one, use a passport-style professional photo.
2. Professional Summary (Optional but Recommended)
A 2–4 sentence overview of your experience and career goals. Example:
Experienced warehouse worker with 5+ years in logistics and forklift operations. Skilled in inventory management, safety procedures, and fast-paced environments. Eager to contribute to a reliable team in Poland.
3. Work Experience
List your most recent jobs first. Include:
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Job Title
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Company Name
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Location (City, Country)
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Dates (Month/Year – Month/Year)
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Key Responsibilities (use bullet points)
Use action verbs like: Operated, Managed, Delivered, Coordinated, Assisted, Supervised, etc.
4. Education
Only list your highest level of education or relevant certifications. Include:
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Degree or Certificate
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School Name
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Country
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Year of Graduation
5. Skills
Create a bullet list of relevant skills, such as:
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Forklift operation (UDT certified)
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Polish language (basic/intermediate)
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Teamwork and communication
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Microsoft Office / ERP systems
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Welding or technical maintenance (if applicable)
6. Languages
This is important for working in a foreign country. Example:
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English – Intermediate (B1)
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Polish – Basic (A2)
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Ukrainian – Native
7. Additional Certificates
Mention any training or licenses, for example:
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UDT Forklift License
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First Aid Training
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Manual Handling Safety Course
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Driver’s License (Category B, C, CE, etc.)
8. References
Optional – most Polish companies do not require references on the CV. Instead, write:
References available upon request.
Formatting Tips
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Use standard fonts (Arial, Calibri, Times New Roman)
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Font size: 11–12 pt for text, 14–16 pt for headings
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Keep margins clean and avoid decorative elements
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Save and send your CV as a PDF
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Writing a CV longer than 2 pages
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Using slang or casual language
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Including unrelated jobs from over 10 years ago
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Forgetting to update your contact info
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Using a selfie instead of a professional photo
Final Tip: Tailor Your CV to the Job
Always customize your CV for the specific job you're applying for. Highlight the skills and experience that match the job description. A forklift operator’s CV should emphasize safety, licenses, and efficiency. An IT CV should focus on languages, frameworks, and certifications.
