CV and Cover Letter Format for Industry Roles vs. Consulting in Germany

Question

Hello PrepLounge Community,

I hope you're all doing well!

I have a question about transitioning from consulting-specific applications to industry roles, particularly in Germany. For internships or working student positions in business development or strategy departments at industry companies, is it possible to apply using the same CV and cover letter format and structure typically used for consulting roles?

Alternatively, do industry companies expect a different structure or format in the application documents? If there are any specific adjustments or elements that candidates should include for these types of roles, I would greatly appreciate your insights.

Thank you in advance for your help!

Answer 1

Hello, transitioning from consulting-specific applications to industry roles can indeed require some adjustments to your CV and cover letter. Having done this myself, very recently, I am happy to offer my views here.

While the core content of your application documents can remain similar, there are a few key differences to keep in mind when applying at industry companies in Germany.

CV Adjustments:

Focus on Relevant Experience: Highlight experiences that are directly relevant to the industry role you're applying for. Emphasize any business development or strategy projects you've worked on, even if they were part of your consulting roles.
Skills Section: Tailor your skills section to include industry-specific skills. For example, if you're applying for a role in a tech company, highlight any technical skills or familiarity with industry tools.
Achievements: Quantify your achievements with metrics that are relevant to the industry. For instance, instead of just mentioning that you led a project, specify the impact it had on the client's business.

Cover Letter Adjustments:

Customization: Customize your cover letter for each application. Mention the specific company and role, and explain why you're interested in that particular industry and how your background in consulting makes you a strong fit.
Industry Language: Use language and terminology that are common in the industry you're applying to. This shows that you understand the industry and are genuinely interested in it.
Motivation and Fit: Clearly articulate your motivation for transitioning to an industry role and how your consulting experience has prepared you for this new challenge. Highlight any relevant industry knowledge or passion you have.

In addition, dont underestimate the cultural fit in your applications. Demonstrate your understanding of the company's culture and values. This is particularly important in Germany, where cultural fit is often a key consideration in hiring decisions.