Format of German Tabular CV Question

Question

Could a German or person who works in Germany help me please? MBB websites say the Lebenslauf needs Tabular Form. I Googled and there are many different examples. Some are simple and boring and are just dates on the left and then the information. Other has kind of boxes with information. And more have a grey column on left with contact information and skills and job/education information in the main white part.

Are they all correct? Is none correct? Or what is better for MBB in Germany? My Lebenslauf now looks like the first picture but no 'About Me' and other information I put. I am a Master's student in Germany but people I ask for help say they do not know consulting business. Thank you for the help, I hope you understand my English.

What is the right CV format for consulting?

Answer 1

Hi Anonymous,

I am German, have worked in consulting in Germany and have seen my share of CVs, so I hope I can help.

So first of all: None of the three examples are total no-gos.

I would consider No 2 best / safest. It looks clean and modern, is well structured and you can find everything you're looking for.

No 1 looks good, but you really need to nail the "About me" section and the Skill-Thing with the stars is somewhat superfluous, and also kind of ridiculous to rank your skills on a 10-increments scale.

There's nothing wrong with #3, it's just a bit bloodless and less clean than #2.

Just one hint: The photos for 2 and 3 are no-go though. Suit and dress shirt (and probably tie) for a guy, similar standard for a girl.

Hope this helps.

Elias

Answer 2

My friend is working in Germany. I will contact him soon. I hope he will read this and answer all your questions.

Answer 3

Hi A,

I am German/ used to work in different consultancies in Germany before moving to Switzerland.

Go with the 2nd or 3rd option, but make a professional application picture - Bewerbungsphoto.

Best,

André

Answer 4

Hi!

To add on top what´s been said, CVs in Enflish don´t contain a picture.

Cheers,

Clara

Answer 5

All of these are ok - suggest to not focus too much on the format but more on the content.

At the end of the day, the format (as long as neat and clean) is secondary. What matters is that you put the right information on it and tailor the messaging / bullets to what consulting firms are looking for (relevant job experience, excellent academics, extracuriculars, international exposure etc).

Answer 6

Hi,

Option 2 but without any picture. Option 2 is the most clear and standard (i.e., easier to digest for the interviewer, HR).

In general, you want to avoid creative resumes in industries such as consulting, PE, banking.

Hopefully this helps!
Jorn

Answer 7

All are appropriate!