Mastering the Art of CV Writing and Job Application in Burkina Faso
cta

Mastering the Art of CV Writing and Job Application in Burkina Faso

Crafting an exceptional resume for the Burkina Faso job market requires an understanding of the unique cultural and professional expectations of the region. With a workforce that values both formal education and practical experience, how can one navigate the nuances to present a compelling CV? This article offers insights into the resume writing techniques that resonate with Burkina Faso employers, providing a roadmap to success in this dynamic and evolving job market.

Below, we are providing a sample resume tailored for the Burkina Faso job market. Please note that French is predominantly used in professional settings in Burkina Faso. Feel free to adjust this template to suit your personal needs.

Last update:
1/8/2024

All resume examples in this guide

No items found.
Resume 1
Resume 1
Resume 2
Resume 3
two column burkina-faso-country resume example
Budapest
professional Burkina Faso resume template
Perth
modern Burkina Faso resume template
Rotterdam
simple Burkina Faso resume example
Chicago

Presenting a Sample Resume for the Burkina Faso Job Market

PERSONAL INFORMATION

Name: Ouattara Abdoulaye
Address: 02 BP 5893 Ouagadougou 02
Phone: (+226) 70 777 777
Email: abdoulayeouattara@email.com
Date of Birth: July 12, 1987
Nationality: Burkinabè

CAREER OBJECTIVE

Desired Position: Project Manager

PROFESSIONAL PROFILE

Graduate in project management with over 5 years of experience. Expert in project planning and coordination, resource management, problem-solving, and strategic decision-making.

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

Project Manager, 2016 - Present
National Resource Management Company, Ouagadougou

  • Project planning and coordination
  • Resource management
  • Problem-solving
  • Strategic decision-making

Assistant Project Manager, 2014 - 2016
Management and Development Company, Ouagadougou

  • Assisted in project management
  • Supported in project planning and coordination
  • Participated in resource management

EDUCATION

Master's in Project Management, 2014
University of Ouagadougou

Bachelor's in Project Management, 2012
University of Ouagadougou

SKILLS

  • Excellent project management skills
  • Good communication skills
  • Ability to work under pressure
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office

LANGUAGES

  • French (native)
  • English (proficient)

REFERENCES

Available upon request.

Resume Guide
best Burkina Faso resume template
Use this example
Content Score
of your resume
Get My Resume Score
INFORMATIONS PERSONNELLES

Nom et Prénom : Ouattara Abdoulaye

Adresse : 02 BP 5893 Ouagadougou 02

Téléphone : (+226) 70 777 777

E-mail : abdoulayeouattara@email.com

Date de naissance : 12 Juillet 1987

Nationalité : Burkinabè


OBJECTIF DE CARRIÈRE

Poste souhaité : Gestionnaire de Projet

PROFIL PROFESSIONNEL

Diplômé en gestion de projets avec plus de 5 ans d'expérience. Expert en planification et coordination de projets, gestion des ressources, résolution de problèmes et prise de décisions stratégiques.

EXPÉRIENCE PROFESSIONNELLE

Gestionnaire de Projet, 2016 à aujourd'hui

Société Nationale de Gestion des Ressources, Ouagadougou

  • Planification et coordination de projets
  • Gestion des ressources
  • Résolution de problèmes
  • Prise de décisions stratégiques

Assistant Gestionnaire de Projet, 2014 - 2016

Société de Gestion et de Développement, Ouagadougou

  • Assister dans la gestion de projets
  • Aider à la planification et coordination de projets
  • Participer à la gestion des ressources

FORMATION

Master en Gestion de Projet, 2014

Université de Ouagadougou


Licence en Gestion de Projet, 2012

Université de Ouagadougou


COMPÉTENCES

  • Excellente capacité de gestion de projet
  • Bonnes compétences en communication
  • Capacité à travailler sous pression
  • Bonne maîtrise de Microsoft Office

LANGUES

Français (langue maternelle)

Anglais (bon niveau)

RÉFÉRENCES

Disponibles sur demande

In the following article, we will be providing comprehensive guidance on how to draft a perfect CV for the Burkina Faso job market. We will also offer valuable tips on job searching and the application process in Burkina Faso. The essence of crafting an excellent CV cannot be overstated, as it is your first and often only chance to make a positive impression on potential employers. Therefore, we will delve into the specifics of what Burkina Faso employers are looking for in a CV. Furthermore, it is critical to note that while French is the official language, English is also widely accepted. Therefore, CVs can be written in either French or English, depending on the job and the applicant's preference.

Burkina Faso Country


Strategies for Job Hunting and Application in Burkina Faso


Looking for a job in Burkina Faso may seem daunting but with the right strategies, it can be a rewarding experience. This West African country has a diverse economy offering opportunities in various sectors including mining, agriculture, and services. There are several ways to go about your job search in Burkina Faso.

  • Start by researching the job market: Identify the sectors that are booming and those that have a high demand for foreign employees.
  • Leverage online job platforms: Websites such as Jobberman, Careers in Africa, and Burkina Faso's own national employment agency can provide a wealth of information.
  • Networking: Make connections with professionals working in Burkina Faso. They can provide valuable insights and may even alert you to job openings.
  • Learn French: While English is understood by some, French is the official language of Burkina Faso. Knowing French can significantly increase your job prospects.

Once you have identified potential job opportunities, the next step is to apply. The application process may vary depending on the company and the position, but there are some general steps you can follow to increase your chances of success.

  • Tailor your resume and cover letter: Highlight your skills and experiences that are most relevant to the job you're applying for.
  • Apply online: Most companies in Burkina Faso accept online applications. Be sure to follow their specific instructions.
  • Prepare for the interview: If you are selected for an interview, prepare thoroughly. Research the company and prepare answers to common interview questions.
  • English resumes: While Burkina Faso is a French-speaking country, English resumes may be accepted by international companies or organizations. However, having a French version of your resume can be advantageous.
  • Follow up: After submitting your application or completing an interview, follow up with a thank you note. This shows your continued interest in the position.

The Significance of Professional Email Etiquette When Applying for Jobs in Burkina Faso

Applying for a job in Burkina Faso involves several steps that are largely similar to job application processes elsewhere. The first step is to find a job opening that matches your skills and interests. After identifying the position, you should write a professional email to the hiring manager or the relevant party to express your interest. This email should include a brief introduction of yourself, the reason why you're interested in the job, and how your skills and experience make you a suitable candidate. Attach a well-prepared CV or resume with your email detailing your educational background, work experience, skills and references. It is vital that this initial email is professional and well-written because it forms the hiring manager's first impression of you. Make sure to tailor your resume and cover letter to the job requirements and the Burkina Faso job market, highlighting your adaptability and understanding of the local market dynamics. Below, a sample email is provided to guide you through this process.

Anglais

Subject: Job Application - Vacant Position

Dear Sir/Madam,

I am writing to apply for the job opening you recently advertised. I am highly interested in this opportunity, and I firmly believe that my skills and experiences make me the ideal candidate for this position.

Please find attached my CV for your review. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my application with you in detail.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,

[Your name]


Français

Sujet: Demande d'emploi - Poste vacant

Cher Monsieur/Madame,

Je vous écris pour postuler à l'offre d'emploi que vous avez récemment publiée. Je suis vivement intéressé par cette opportunité et je crois avec conviction que mes compétences et mes expériences font de moi le candidat idéal pour ce poste.

Veuillez trouver ci-joint mon CV pour votre examen. J'attends avec impatience l'opportunité de discuter de ma candidature avec vous en détail.

Je vous remercie de votre temps et considération.

Cordialement,

[Votre nom]


Exploring Entry-Level Job Opportunities in Burkina Faso


  1. Understand the job market: Before starting your job search in Burkina Faso, take time to understand the local job market. Identify the industries that are flourishing and the ones that frequently hire entry level employees. This could be agriculture, mining, or service sectors, among others.
  2. Learn French: The official language of Burkina Faso is French. While there are other local languages, most employers would require a basic understanding of French. If you don't know the language very well, consider attending French language classes or using online language learning platforms.
  3. Networking: Networking can be an effective way to find job opportunities in Burkina Faso. Try to connect with locals, expatriates, or other professionals in your field of interest. Use social media platforms such as LinkedIn or join local community groups.
  4. Online Job Portals: Use online job portals to search for entry level jobs. Websites like JobAfrique, Careers in Africa, and Emploi Burkina could provide you with multiple job options to choose from.
  5. Volunteer or Intern: If you don't have any work experience, consider volunteering or interning in your field of interest. This will not only provide you with valuable experience but also help you create a network in Burkina Faso.
  6. Tailoring your CV: For someone with no experience, your CV should focus on your academic qualifications, any relevant skills, volunteering experiences, internships, or any projects you've been a part of. Make sure to highlight your willingness to learn and adapt.
  7. Language for CV: Your CV can be written in French, as it is the official language. However, if the job posting is in English or if the company is an international one, you might want to consider writing your CV in English.
  8. Cultural Awareness: Understand the cultural nuances of Burkina Faso. This will not only help you in your job search but also in your overall adjustment in the country.
  9. Be Patient: Job hunting can be a long process, especially for entry level positions. Be patient and persistent in your search.
  10. Consultancies: Consider getting in touch with job consultancies. They could guide you on the job market scenario, help you with your CV, and even connect you with potential employers.
  11. Visas and Work Permits: Make sure you understand the visa and work permit necessities for working in Burkina Faso. It is essential to have all your paperwork in order before you start working.

Essential Documents for Job Applications in Burkina Faso


Applying for a job in Burkina Faso, like in many other countries, requires a collection of certain essential documents to validate your qualifications, identity, and eligibility to work in the country.

First and foremost, you'll need a Curriculum Vitae (CV) or a resume. This document should detail your educational background, work experience, skills, and references, if any. It's crucial to tailor your CV to the job you're applying for, highlighting relevant experiences and skills. Also, consider translating your CV into French, as it's one of the official languages in Burkina Faso.

You will also need copies of your academic qualifications. This includes transcripts and certificates from your high school and any higher education institutions you attended. If your qualifications are from a foreign country, it might be necessary to have them translated and authenticated.

For foreign applicants, a valid passport is required. This is to verify your nationality and identity. In addition, you will need a work permit or visa that allows you to work in Burkina Faso legally. The requirements for obtaining these documents can vary, so it's essential to check with the local embassy or consulate.

Additionally, some employers might require a medical certificate to ensure you're physically and mentally fit for the job. Other documents that could be necessary include a police clearance certificate to verify that you don't have a criminal record, and a cover letter, which is a brief introduction of yourself and why you're suitable for the job.

Remember, always check the specific requirements for each job opening, as they may vary. It is also recommended to have several copies of each document, and keep the originals in a safe place.

Essential Resume Phrases for the Burkina Faso Job Market and their Translations


This section provides a comprehensive list of key terminologies related to resume writing specifically for the Burkina Faso job market. These terms have been translated into French, the official language of Burkina Faso, to assist you in understanding and applying them appropriately when creating your resume.

  • Resume structure: Structure de CV
  • Resume formatting: Formatage de CV
  • Education: Éducation
  • Skills: Compétences
  • Internship: Stage
  • Work experience: Expérience professionnelle
  • Contact information: Informations de contact
  • References: Références
  • Career objective: Objectif de carrière
  • Certifications: Certifications
  • Professional summary: Résumé professionnel
  • Languages: Langues
  • Achievements: Réalisations
  • Hobbies and interests: Loisirs et intérêts
  • Volunteer work: Travail bénévole.

These terms should guide you in creating a comprehensive resume that is tailor-made for the Burkina Faso job market.

Guidelines for Creating a Structured, Well-Formatted Resume with Appropriate Photos for the Burkina Faso Market


Pursuing a career in Burkina Faso can be both exciting and challenging. The initial step of applying for a job, which includes presenting a well-structured and attractively formatted resume, is crucial. A carefully crafted resume, with attention to layout, not only demonstrates professionalism but also significantly influences the potential employer's first impression. It helps to convey your career objectives distinctly while highlighting your qualifications and experience.

When applying for a job in Burkina Faso, consider the following stylistic tips for your resume:

  • Use a professional, easy-to-read font like Times New Roman or Arial. These are universally recognized, thus ensuring your resume appears polished and organized.
  • Follow a consistent format throughout the document. This builds coherence and helps the reader to follow your career trajectory smoothly.
  • Pay attention to the margins. A one-inch margin on all sides makes the document look neat and easy to read.
  • Use bullet points to list skills, qualifications, and achievements. This enhances readability by presenting information in a digestible format.
  • Employ separators, like horizontal lines or distinct headings, to demarcate different sections of your resume. This makes it easy for a potential employer to locate specific information.

Selecting a template that is clean, professional, and allows for these stylistic elements is key. The choice of black font color is advised, given its universal acceptance and ease on the eyes, while the paper white background ensures maximum readability.

In the Burkina Faso job market, it is generally acceptable and sometimes even expected to include a professional photo in your resume. This can help forge a personal connection with the potential employer, and make your application stand out from the rest. Remember, a clearly formatted, well-structured resume can be your gateway to a successful career in Burkina Faso.

Besides the Resume Template for Burkina Faso, we also have other related templates you might be interested in.

Mastering the Essentials: Header, Experience, Education and Skills for the Burkina Faso Job Market


Burkina Faso Country

Mastering the Art of Resume Headers for Success in Burkina Faso's Job Market

In creating a resume for the Burkina Faso market, the header is of utmost importance as it needs to be clearly visible and contain all vital contact information. To create a proficient header, one must start with their last name, followed by their first name, ensuring that these personal identifiers are boldly and clearly written. Next, the profession and discipline should be stated, offering potential employers immediate insight into one's field of expertise. Following this, the individual's mailing address should be included, allowing for efficient and direct communication. Subsequently, the phone number should be listed, ensuring that potential employers have a quick and direct line to the applicant. Finally, the e-mail address should be provided, serving as a modern and accessible line of communication, completing the header of a perfectly crafted resume for the Burkina Faso market.

English

Last Name, First Name

Profession and Discipline

Postal Address

Phone

Email

Traore, Amadou

Civil Engineer

01 BP 3456, Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso

+226 70 12 34 56

amadou.traore@email.com


French

Nom de famille, Prénom

Profession et discipline

Adresse Postale

Téléphone

Adresse électronique

Traore, Amadou

Ingénieur en Génie Civil

01 BP 3456, Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso

+226 70 12 34 56

amadou.traore@email.com


The Crucial Role of Experience in Resumes for the Burkina Faso Job Market

The experience section of a CV carries significant weight in the Burkina Faso job market as it not only demonstrates a candidate's skills and competencies but also signifies their adaptability to the work environment and commitment to career development. Specifically, in Burkina Faso, employers value candidates with practical experience in their respective fields, thus making the experience section a critical determinant during the hiring process.

  • Chronological Order: Ensure to list your work experiences in reverse chronological order, starting with the most recent job. This approach is particularly important in Burkina Faso where employers prefer to see your growth and progression within your profession.
  • Contract Dates: Clearly specify the start and end dates of each previous engagement. This gives potential employers in Burkina Faso an insight into your job history, stability, and the level of commitment you can offer.
  • Job Title: Provide precise job titles for each role listed. This allows Burkina Faso employers to understand your level of expertise and the kind of responsibilities you have handled.
  • Bulleted List: Employ bullet points to succinctly describe your roles and responsibilities. This format is preferred in Burkina Faso as it makes your CV easier to read and allows hiring managers to quickly identify your skills and competencies.
  • Job Description: Provide a concise but comprehensive description of your previous roles. Ensure to highlight significant accomplishments, as Burkina Faso employers appreciate candidates who can demonstrate their impact in previous roles.
  • Use of Key Words: Incorporate industry-specific keywords and jargon in your CV. This is particularly crucial in the Burkina Faso job market where the use of relevant keywords can increase your visibility in applicant tracking systems and demonstrate your familiarity with the field.

English

Position: Project Engineer

Employer: Mining Company of Burkina Faso

Dates: January 2016 - December 2020

Description:

  • Supervision and coordination of mining projects.
  • Development of strategic plans and budgets.
  • Management of human and technical resources.
  • Ensuring compliance with environmental standards.
  • Continuous improvement of operational processes.

French

Position: Ingénieur de Projets

Employeur: Société Minière de Burkina Faso

Dates: Janvier 2016 - Décembre 2020

Description:

  • Supervision et coordination des projets miniers.
  • Élaboration de plans stratégiques et de budget.
  • Gestion des ressources humaines et techniques.
  • Assurer la conformité aux normes environnementales.
  • Amélioration continue des processus d'exploitation.

Burkina Faso Country


Significance of Education in Enhancing Job Market Opportunities in Burkina Faso

The education section of a CV is crucial when applying to jobs in Burkina Faso's job market. It provides a clear picture of the candidate's academic qualifications, which are an important consideration for most employers in the country. Burkina Faso, being a developing country, places significant emphasis on education as a means to foster development and growth. As such, employers value educational qualifications, particularly in sectors such as education, healthcare, and government roles where technical skills and knowledge are required.

In general, the education section should not necessarily appear first in a CV for the Burkina Faso job market. This is because, in many instances, employers are more interested in practical experience and skills gained in the workplace. Therefore, it would be more beneficial to highlight work experience and skills before education, especially for positions in sectors like agriculture, mining, and construction, which constitute a significant portion of Burkina Faso's economy. However, a counterexample would be if the applicant is a fresh graduate with minimal work experience. In such a case, it would be more advantageous to place the education section first, as it would be the main selling point for the candidate.

English

Education and Formation

2016 - 2020: Bachelor's in Business Administration, University of Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso

2012 - 2016: High School Diploma in Economic and Social Sciences, Koudougou Provincial High School, Burkina Faso


Certifications and Additional Formation:

2019: Certificate in Leadership and Team Management, African Institute of Management, Burkina Faso

2018: Certificate in Computer Science and Office Automation, Ouagadougou Professional Training Center, Burkina Faso


Languages:

French: Native language

English: Proficient (written and spoken)

Mooré: Local language, fluent spoken


French

Éducation and Formation

2016 - 2020: Licence en Gestion des Entreprises, Université de Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso

2012 - 2016: Baccalauréat en Sciences Économiques et Sociales, Lycée Provincial de Koudougou, Burkina Faso


Certifications et Formations Complémentaires:

2019: Certificat en Leadership et Gestion d'Équipe, Institut Africain de Management, Burkina Faso

2018: Certificat en Informatique et Bureautique, Centre de Formation Professionnelle de Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso


Langues:

Français: Langue maternelle

Anglais: Bon niveau (écrit et parlé)

Mooré: Langue locale, couramment parlé


Note: In Burkina Faso, the official language is French, so the CV is written in French. The example shows a person who has completed a bachelor's degree in Business Administration, high school diploma in Economic and Social Sciences, and additional certificates in Leadership and Team Management and Computer Science. The languages section indicates the proficiency in French, English, and Mooré, a local language in Burkina Faso.

Highlighting Skills in Resumes: A Key to Success in Burkina Faso's Job Market

Burkina Faso Country


In the Burkina Faso job market, the importance of clearly articulated skills in a resume cannot be overstressed. This is because employers and recruiters in the country are looking for individuals who are not only equipped with the necessary academic qualifications but also possess relevant practical skills that can be applied directly to the job. As such, a comprehensive and well-detailed skills section in a resume provides potential employers a glimpse into your abilities and expertise, thus increasing your chances of securing a job.

Burkina Faso, being a developing economy, has a strong demand for professionals in sectors such as agriculture, mining, education, and public health. Therefore, skills related to these areas are highly sought after. Additionally, due to the increasing digitalization and globalization, skills in information technology, languages (particularly French and English), and project management are also highly desirable. Soft skills such as leadership, problem-solving, and effective communication are equally important. Hence, in order to stay competitive in the Burkina Faso job market, it is crucial to continuously develop and update relevant skills, and to effectively communicate these in your resume.

In the following section, we will present a comprehensive list of both soft and hard skills, tailored specifically for enhancing your resume in the Burkina Faso job market

Soft Skills:

  • Teamwork (Travail d'équipe)
  • Communication (Communication)
  • Problem-solving (Résolution de problèmes)
  • Time management (Gestion du temps)
  • Leadership (Leadership)
  • Adaptability (Adaptabilité)
  • Creativity (Créativité)
  • Conflict resolution (Résolution de conflits)
  • Decision making (Prise de décision)
  • Emotional intelligence (Intelligence émotionnelle)

Hard Skills:

  • Computer literacy (Compétences informatiques)
  • Data analysis (Analyse de données)
  • Foreign languages (Langues étrangères)
  • Project management (Gestion de projets)
  • Technical writing (Rédaction technique)
  • Sales Experience (Expérience de vente)
  • Digital marketing (Marketing numérique)
  • Machine operation (Opération de machine)
  • Budgeting (Budgétisation)
  • Coding (Codage)

Please note that Burkina Faso is a multilingual country, and while French is the official language, there are also numerous regional languages spoken. The translations provided are in French.

Additional Sections to Enhance Your Resume for the Burkina Faso Job Market


In the Burkina Faso job market, including additional headings in your CV can increase your chances of landing a job. These categories can showcase your unique skills, interests, and qualifications that may set you apart from other applicants. The additional categories can also help employers get a more rounded view of your personality and potential fit within their team. For this particular market, the categories "Languages" and "Certificates" can be particularly beneficial.

The "Languages" category can significantly boost your competitiveness in the Burkina Faso job market. As Burkina Faso is a multilingual country with French as the official language and several local languages widely spoken, fluency in multiple languages can be a strong asset. This can show your ability to communicate effectively in diverse teams and handle international business transactions. It is essential to provide the level of proficiency in each language.

The "Certificates" category is equally important. This section provides evidence of the special skills or training you have undergone which might be relevant for the job you are applying for. This can range from IT certifications, project management, first aid qualifications, language certificates, or any other professional development courses. Employers in Burkina Faso are likely to appreciate candidates who have taken the initiative to further their skills and knowledge, as it indicates a commitment to self-improvement and professional growth.

Enhancing Your Resume for the Burkina Faso Job Market


When applying for jobs in Burkina Faso, it's important to understand the local job market and culture to maximize your chances of landing a job. Your resume, or CV, is usually the first point of contact with potential employers, so it needs to be tailored to meet local expectations. Here are some tips to improve your resume for the Burkina Faso job market:

  1. Include Personal Information: Unlike in some western countries, it's common in Burkina Faso to include personal information such as age, marital status, and nationality on your resume. This information can help employers understand more about your background.
  2. Emphasize Language Skills: Burkina Faso is a multilingual country, with French being the official language. If you are fluent in French, make sure to highlight this on your resume. Proficiency in local languages, such as Mossi, can also be a plus.
  3. Highlight Relevant Experience: Job experience is highly valued in Burkina Faso. Be sure to include any relevant work experience, internships, or volunteer work. Make sure to focus on the skills and knowledge you gained that would be applicable to the job you're applying for.
  4. Include Educational Details: In Burkina Faso, it's important to include detailed information about your educational background. Don't just list your degrees; include information about your coursework, thesis, or any awards or honors you received.
  5. Use a Professional Photo: It's common to include a professional photo on your resume in Burkina Faso. Make sure it's a high-quality, professional image.
  6. Presentation Matters: Burkina Faso employers appreciate well-organized, neat, and error-free resumes. Double-check your resume for any typos or grammatical errors, and make sure it's easy to read.
  7. References are Important: Include references in your resume, preferably from previous employers or educators. This is more important in Burkina Faso than in some other countries, as personal connections and recommendations carry a lot of weight.
  8. Tailor Your Resume: Like anywhere else, it's important to tailor your resume to the job you're applying for. Highlight the skills and experiences that are most relevant to the job description, and use similar language to what's used in the job posting.
Burkina Faso Country


Crafting Cover Letters for the Job Market in Burkina Faso


Including a cover letter with your resume while applying for a job in Burkina Faso is crucial as it personalizes your application. It provides an opportunity to introduce yourself, highlight the skills and experiences that make you suitable for the job, and demonstrate your knowledge about the company or industry. In the context of Burkina Faso, where interpersonal relationships are highly valued in business, a cover letter can establish a connection with potential employers. Moreover, it sets you apart from other applicants who may have similar qualifications but did not take the time to write a cover letter. Therefore, enclosing a cover letter can significantly increase your chances of landing a job interview.

Preparing for Job Interviews in Burkina Faso: A Comprehensive Guide


In Burkina Faso, as in any other country, preparing adequately for a job interview is crucial. This preparation could be the difference between landing the job or not. It is important to understand the cultural, social, and professional expectations of Burkina Faso to present yourself as the best possible candidate. Here are some do's and don'ts to keep in mind:

Do's:

  • Research the company: Understanding the company's values, mission, and operations can help you align your skills and experiences with their needs during the interview.
  • Dress appropriately: Burkina Faso is a modest country, so it's crucial to dress professionally and conservatively for the interview.
  • Learn some French: French is the official language in Burkina Faso. Even if the job doesn't require French, showing that you've made an effort to learn the language can impress the interviewer.
  • Be respectful: Respect for elders and authority figures is deeply ingrained in Burkinabe culture. Address your interviewer with the appropriate title and show politeness at all times.
  • Be punctual: Arriving late for an interview could be seen as disrespectful. Make sure to arrive on time, or ideally a little early.

Don'ts:

  • Don't criticize the government or political situation: Burkina Faso has had a turbulent political history. It's best to avoid discussing politics unless it's relevant to the job.
  • Don't assume everyone speaks English: While many Burkinabes do speak English, it's not universally spoken. If you're unsure, ask politely what language they prefer.
  • Don't interrupt: Allow the interviewer to finish their questions or statements before you respond. Interrupting may be seen as disrespectful.
  • Don't offer a firm handshake: In Burkinabe culture, a light handshake is the norm. A firm handshake may be interpreted as aggressive or rude.
  • Don't neglect to prepare questions: Having prepared questions shows your interest in the job and the company. However, avoid questions about salary or benefits in the first interview, unless the interviewer brings it up.

Best Practices for Job Applications in Burkina Faso


In Burkina Faso, as in many other countries, a well-structured and detailed CV is crucial when applying for a job. It's important to highlight your qualifications, skills, and work experience that are relevant to the job you're applying for. Also, ensuring your CV is clear, concise, and free from grammatical errors will make a positive impression on potential employers. It's also recommended to include references from previous employers to enhance your credibility.

A cover letter is equally important and should be tailored specifically for each job application. This document should reflect your interest in the position and the company, and demonstrate how your skills and experience make you an ideal candidate. It should also be free of grammatical errors and be structured in a professional and formal manner.

Finally, the job interview is your opportunity to make a lasting impression. It is essential to prepare thoroughly by researching the company and understanding the job requirements. Dress appropriately, arrive on time, and be polite and confident throughout the interview. Remember to ask intelligent questions about the role and the company, as this shows your interest and enthusiasm for the job.

FAQs on Job Applications and Resume Writing for the Burkina Faso Job Market

What should be included in my CV for a job application in Burkina Faso?

In Burkina Faso, your CV should include your personal details, educational background, and work experience. Additionally, it is helpful to list skills relevant to the job you are applying for and any professional or academic references. As French is the official language, your CV should be written in French, unless the job posting specifies otherwise.

Are there any cultural specificities I should take into account when applying for a job in Burkina Faso?

Yes. In Burkina Faso, it is important to show respect for hierarchy and authority. This should be reflected in your cover letter and during any interviews. It's also important to note that while French is the official language, many people also speak local languages. If you have any proficiency in these, it could be beneficial to include this in your CV.

What is the standard format for a CV in Burkina Faso?

The standard format for a CV in Burkina Faso is similar to the European standard. It should be concise, typically one to two pages, and presented in a clear and professional manner. Make sure to include your name, contact information, education, work experience, skills, languages, and references. As Burkina Faso is a francophone country, your CV should be written in French unless the job advertisement specifies otherwise.

Create your resume with the best templates

Resume Guide
Use this example
Content Score
of your resume
Get My Resume Score

FAQs on Job Applications and Resume Writing for the Burkina Faso Job Market

What should be included in my CV for a job application in Burkina Faso?

In Burkina Faso, your CV should include your personal details, educational background, and work experience. Additionally, it is helpful to list skills relevant to the job you are applying for and any professional or academic references. As French is the official language, your CV should be written in French, unless the job posting specifies otherwise.

Are there any cultural specificities I should take into account when applying for a job in Burkina Faso?

Yes. In Burkina Faso, it is important to show respect for hierarchy and authority. This should be reflected in your cover letter and during any interviews. It's also important to note that while French is the official language, many people also speak local languages. If you have any proficiency in these, it could be beneficial to include this in your CV.

What is the standard format for a CV in Burkina Faso?

The standard format for a CV in Burkina Faso is similar to the European standard. It should be concise, typically one to two pages, and presented in a clear and professional manner. Make sure to include your name, contact information, education, work experience, skills, languages, and references. As Burkina Faso is a francophone country, your CV should be written in French unless the job advertisement specifies otherwise.

This is some text inside of a div block.

What’s a Rich Text element?

The rich text element allows you to create and format headings, paragraphs, blockquotes, images, and video all in one place instead of having to add and format them individually. Just double-click and easily create content.

Static and dynamic content editing

A rich text element can be used with static or dynamic content. For static content, just drop it into any page and begin editing. For dynamic content, add a rich text field to any collection and then connect a rich text element to that field in the settings panel. Voila!

How to customize formatting for each rich text

Headings, paragraphs, blockquotes, figures, images, and figure captions can all be styled after a class is added to the rich text element using the "When inside of" nested selector system.

Create your resume in 15 minutes

Our free collection of expertly designed cover letter templates will help you stand out from the crowd and get one step closer to your dream job.

Create my resume