Creating an Effective CV: A Comprehensive Guide to Writing a Resume in Estonian

Crafting a CV for the Estonian job market requires an understanding of its unique characteristics and expectations. With a high-level of digital literacy, a competitive job market, and a preference for concise, clear communication, how does one design a CV to stand out in Estonia? This article will provide insights into writing techniques, cultural nuances, and strategic tips for creating an effective Estonian CV.
Last update:
01/01/2024

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Sample Resume in Estonian Language: A Detailed Overview

Isiklikud andmed:

Nimi: Mart Laanemäe
Aadress: Pärnu mnt 12, 10148 Tallinn, Eesti
Telefon: +372 555 12345
E-mail: mart.laanemae@gmail.com

Haridus:

2014-2018 Tartu Ülikool, õigusteaduskond, bakalaureusekraad

2010-2014 Pärnu Sütegümnaasium, keskkooli lõpetamine

Töökogemus:

2018-2020 Advokaadibüroo Õigusnõu, jurist

  • Olen aidanud koostada lepinguid ja muid juriidilisi dokumente.
  • Olen esindanud kliente kohtus ja teistes õigusasutustes.
  • Olen osalenud erinevates õigusalastes koolitustes.

2014-2018 Tartu Ülikooli õigusteaduskond, uurimisasistent

  • Olen aidanud koostada ja läbi viia teadusuuringuid.
  • Olen aidanud korraldada konverentse ja seminare.
  • Olen koostanud erinevaid õppematerjale.

Keelteoskus:

  • Eesti keel – emakeel
  • Inglise keel – väga hea
  • Vene keel – hea
  • Soome keel – algtase

Arvutioskus:

  • MS Office – väga hea
  • Internet, e-post – väga hea
  • Õigustarkvara – hea

Lisainfo:

Olen osalenud erinevates õigusteaduslikes projektides ja konverentsidel.

Olen avaldanud mitmeid artikleid juriidilistes ajakirjades.

Viited:

Viited on saadaval taotlusel.

Kuupäev ja allkiri:

Mart Laanemäe

1 mai 2022

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In the following sections of this article, we will guide you step-by-step on how to craft a compelling CV in Estonian, specifically tailored to meet the requirements of the Estonian job market. The purpose of drafting your CV in Estonian is fundamental when seeking opportunities in Estonia, as it not only helps in connecting with potential employers more efficiently but also demonstrates your respect for the local culture and language. It further underlines your adaptability and readiness to integrate, key attributes that are highly valued in the Estonian workspace.

estonian language

Mastering Key Phrases for Crafting a Resume in Estonian


In the following section, you will find a comprehensive list of important terms that are commonly used when writing a resume in Estonian. These terms have been translated into Estonian to make it easier for you to understand and use them in the appropriate context. Here are some of these key terms:

  • Resume structure - Elulookirjelduse struktuur
  • Resume formatting - Elulookirjelduse vormindamine
  • Education - Haridus
  • Skills - Oskused
  • Internship - Praktika
  • Work experience - Töökogemus
  • Objectives - Eesmärgid
  • References - Soovitajad
  • Personal details - Isikuandmed
  • Achievements - Saavutused
  • Hobbies - Hobid
  • Languages - Keeled
  • Certifications - Sertifikaadid
Remember, a well-structured and detailed resume can make a significant difference in your job application process. Therefore, understanding these terms and using them correctly could greatly enhance the quality of your resume in Estonian.

Understanding the Essentials of Estonian Grammar for Resume Writing


Estonian grammar in resume writing is very similar to English grammar. You should use the past tense when describing your previous work experience or completed projects. The conjugation should match the subject of the sentence, usually in the first person, and the verb should agree with the subject in person and number. For example, if you are describing a task you accomplished, you might say "Ma korraldasin konverentsi" (I organized a conference).

In Estonian, the use of the third person is common when describing skills or competences. For example, "Tal on suurepärased suhtlemisoskused" (He/She has excellent communication skills). It's also worth noting that in Estonian, adjectives should agree with the noun they modify in case, number, and gender. For instance, if you are stating that you are a creative person, you could say "Ma olen loov inimene" (I am a creative person). However, in most resumes, the narrative is usually kept impersonal and direct to the point. Therefore, bullet points and short, concise sentences are preferred. Be sure to maintain consistency in tense and person throughout your resume.

Understanding the Importance of Structure and Formatting in Estonian Resumes


CV struktuur on karjäärieesmärkide saavutamisel oluline komponent, see aitab silma paista konkurentide seas ning näitab teie professionaalsust ja organiseeritust. Eriti Eesti tööturul, kus konkurents on tihe, on hästi struktureeritud CV üks peamisi vahendeid, mis aitab teil end potentsiaalsetele tööandjatele soodsas valguses esitleda. Korralikult kujundatud CV võib olla määrava tähtsusega, kui tööandja peab valima suure hulga kvalifitseeritud kandidaatide seast. Hea CV kujundus aitab esile tõsta teie kõige tugevamaid külgi ja oskusi. Seega on oluline investeerida aega ja energiat oma CV korrektseks, selgeks ja professionaalseks struktureerimiseks, et seista silmitsi karjääri väljakutsetega ja saavutada oma eesmärgid.

Besides the Estonian Resume Template, we also have other similar templates that you might be interested in.

Unlocking the Secrets of Estonian Resume Formatting: A Comprehensive Guide

  • Fonts: For an Estonian CV, it is advisable to stick to professional and easy-to-read fonts such as Arial, Times New Roman, or Calibri. These fonts are widely accepted in the Estonian job market due to their clarity and simplicity, which makes the CV easy to read for the employer.
  • Format: The CV should follow a reverse chronological format, starting with the most recent job or education. This is a widely accepted format in Estonia as it enables employers to quickly see the most relevant and recent experience.
  • Margins: Keep the margins between 1 and 1.5 inches. This allows enough white space for the CV to look clean and organized, which is highly valued in the Estonian job market.
  • Bullet Points: Use bullet points to list your job responsibilities and achievements. This makes your CV easier to read and comprehend, which can increase your chances of getting an interview.
  • Separators: Use lines or different font weights to separate different sections in the CV. This helps to organize the information and makes the CV easier to navigate.
  • Advice: Ensure the CV is concise and straight to the point. The Estonian job market values efficiency and precision, hence, a CV that is direct and free of unnecessary information will be more appealing to Estonian employers.

Mastering the Art of Resume Structure for Job Success in Estonia

estonian language


When creating a CV for the Estonian job market, certain sections are crucial to include. The structure of your CV should be clear and concise, highlighting your qualifications and experience to potential employers. Here are the primary sections that should be included in your CV:

  • Personal Information: This should include your full name, contact information, and date of birth. Unlike some countries, it's standard in Estonia to include a professional photo in your CV.
  • Career Objective: This section should briefly state your career goals and why you are applying for the position. For example, if you are applying for a managerial role, you might mention your desire to lead a team and contribute to the company's growth.
  • Work Experience: Here, list your previous jobs, internships, or any relevant experiences. It's essential to mention the name of the company, your role, and the duration of your employment. Use bullet points to highlight essential duties and achievements. For instance, if you worked as a teacher, mention any improvements in student grades or successful projects you've led.
  • Education: Detail your academic background starting from your highest degree. Include the school's name, the degree earned, and the years of study. If you studied abroad or have qualifications from international institutions, this is highly regarded in Estonia's globalized job market.
  • Skills: List both hard and soft skills relevant to the job you're applying for. For example, if you're applying for a tech job in Estonia's booming IT sector, be sure to include any coding or software skills.
  • Languages: In a multilingual society like Estonia, your language skills could set you apart. Mention your proficiency level in different languages, especially if you're proficient in Estonian, Russian, or English.
  • References: Estonian employers often require references, so it's good to include this section in your CV. Ensure you have the permission of your referees before listing them.

Lastly, remember to keep your CV concise and tailored to the specific job you're applying for. This increases your chances of catching the attention of potential employers.

Mastering the Art of Crafting an Impressive Resume Header in Estonian

estonian language


The header of an Estonian language resume is paramount as it should be clearly visible and comprise all vital contact information. To construct an effective header, start with your last name, followed by your first name; this provides immediate identification. Next, list your profession and discipline to give a clear understanding of your field and expertise. Subsequently, your mailing address should be added; this helps prospective employers know your location and the feasibility of you commuting to their office, if needed. Your phone number should be the next detail on the header; this allows potential employers to contact you quickly for any further discussions or interview scheduling. Lastly, include your email address which is a standard form of communication and also serves as an alternative means for employers to reach you.

Sepp, Jaan

Arhitekt ja ehitusdisain

Tallinna tee 123, 10120 Tallinn, Eesti

+372 12345678

jaan.sepp@email.com


Unlocking the Power of a Photo in Your Estonian Resume

Adding a photo to a resume is not a mandatory requirement in the Estonian job market. However, including a photo can add a personal touch and help the potential employer to remember the candidate better. It is important to remember that the photo should be professional and present the candidate in the best possible light.

The photo should be recent, preferably taken within the last six months. It should be a headshot, where the candidate is looking directly into the camera. The background should be neutral and free of distractions. The candidate should be dressed in appropriate professional attire.

The size of the photo should not be too large as it may distract from the content of the resume. A good size would be around 4x6 cm. It is also recommended to place the photo in the upper right or left corner of the first page of the resume.

However, it is important to remember that the decision to include a photo should be based on the specific job application. If the job posting does not specify whether a photo is required or not, it might be a good idea to leave it out to avoid any potential bias. Finally, it's always crucial to focus on presenting relevant skills and experiences rather than relying solely on physical appearance.

Highlighting Your Experience: An Essential Element for Estonian Resumes


Crafting the Experience Section for Your Resume in the Estonian Job Market

In an Estonian CV, the experience section is of paramount importance. It serves as a testament to the applicant's capabilities and suitability for the job in question, providing an overview of their professional history and achievements. It offers potential employers a detailed look into the applicant's skills, competencies, and significant contributions in their previous roles.

  • Chronological Order: The experience section should always be arranged in reverse chronological order, starting with the most recent position. This layout allows potential employers to quickly understand the progression of an applicant's career, their current skills, and the level of their experience.
  • Contract Dates: It is essential to include the start and end dates for each position held. This information provides an indication of the applicant's job stability, longevity, and their career growth pace.
  • Job Title: Clearly stating the job title for each role is fundamental. It gives the employer an immediate understanding of the applicant's responsibilities and the level of their position within the organization.
  • Bulleted List: Use a bulleted list to outline duties, responsibilities, and achievements in each role. This format aids in readability and allows potential employers to quickly ascertain the applicant's suitability for the job.
  • Job Description: Offer a concise yet comprehensive description of the role, duties, and achievements for each position. This should be tailored to highlight the most relevant experience for the job being applied for.
  • Use of Key Words: Incorporate industry-specific keywords and jargon that are relevant to the job. This not only demonstrates a strong understanding of the field but can also be beneficial if the employer uses an Applicant Tracking System (ATS) to scan CVs for keywords related to the job.

Töökogemus:

Ametikoht: Turundusjuht

Tööandja: Eesti Energia

Kuupäevad: Jaanuar 2015 - Detsember 2020


Kirjeldus:

  • Juhtisin meeskonda, mis koosnes 10 turundusspetsialistist.
  • Vastutasin ettevõtte turundusstrateegia väljatöötamise eest.
  • Korraldasin mitmeid edukaid turunduskampaaniaid, mis suurendasid müüki.
  • Töötasin välja uusi turunduskanaleid ja -strateegiaid.
  • Optimeerisin turunduse eelarvet, vähendades kulutusi 15%.

estonian language

Navigating the Challenge of Writing an Estonian Resume with No Prior Experience

Navigating the process of creating a CV in Estonian with no prior experience can be challenging. However, it is not impossible. Below, you'll find straightforward and easy-to-use tips that will guide you in crafting an effective CV in Estonian, even if you're starting from scratch.

  • Start with Personal Details: Begin with your full name, contact details including your phone number and professional email address.
  • Objective Statement: Write a strong objective statement that focuses on your career goals and how you can contribute to the company.
  • Skills: List out all the skills relevant to the job you are applying for. These can include language proficiency (including Estonian), computer skills, or other soft skills like communication, teamwork, problem-solving, etc.
  • Education: Mention your educational qualifications, major subjects, the name of the institution, and the years of study.
  • Extracurricular Activities: If you have been part of any clubs, societies, or sports during your school or college, mention them. These activities can demonstrate qualities like leadership, teamwork, and dedication.
  • Volunteer Work or Internships: If you have done any volunteer work or internships, even if unpaid, include these. They can provide practical examples of your skills and work ethic.
  • Certificates and Achievements: Include any certificates or achievements that you have received. These can be from school, college, or any other courses that you may have taken.
  • Hobbies and Interests: Don't forget to mention your hobbies and interests. They can give a glimpse of your personality and show that you are a well-rounded individual.
  • References: If possible, provide references. They can be from your school, college, or any internship or volunteer work that you have done.
  • Keep it Professional: Use a professional tone and language throughout the CV. Avoid using slang or informal language.
  • Proofread: Make sure to proofread your CV carefully to avoid any spelling or grammar mistakes. If possible, get someone else to proofread it as well.
  • Keep it Concise: Keep your CV concise and to the point. Do not include unnecessary information or details.
  • Format: Keep the formatting consistent throughout the CV. Use bullet points for easy reading and make sure each section is clearly marked.
  • Tailor your CV: Tailor your CV according to the job you are applying for. Highlight the skills and experiences that are most relevant to the job.
  • Use Action Verbs: Start your sentences with action verbs like 'led', 'managed', 'developed' to make your CV more impactful.
  • Be Honest: Be honest in your CV. Do not lie or exaggerate about your skills or experiences.

The Significance of Including Your Education in an Estonian Resume


The education section in an Estonian CV holds significant importance as it provides a clear insight into the candidate's academic qualifications. It showcases the level of knowledge and skills the candidate possesses, which can be a decisive factor for employers when considering the suitability for a specific job role. Furthermore, this section also demonstrates the individual's dedication, discipline, and commitment to complete a particular level of education, which can reflect positively on their work ethic.

Moreover, the education section can signify a candidate's field of expertise, and can often be a prerequisite for certain job positions. For instance, technical jobs may require specific degrees or certifications, which should be clearly mentioned in this section. Therefore, it is crucial to provide detailed and accurate information about one's educational background in an Estonian CV, making it a valuable tool in the job application process.

Prioritizing Educational Details in Your Estonian Resume

In an Estonian CV, education is typically not the first section listed, especially for experienced job seekers. Instead, the focus is primarily on work experience, particularly relevant experience for the job applied for. For instance, if you are applying for a managerial role, listing your job experiences in management or team-leading roles would be more beneficial to you. This order allows recruiters to quickly see the applicant's practical skills and experiences, which are often more relevant to the job at hand.

However, for fresh graduates or those with little work experience, it may be more appropriate to list education first. In this case, the focus is on academic achievements, relevant coursework, and any school projects that demonstrate the skills required for the job. Similarly, if the job requires a specific educational background, it can be beneficial to list this first so it's immediately clear to the recruiter that this criterion is met.

A counterexample could be when applying for academic or research positions. In such cases, education, research, and publications should be highlighted before work experience. This is because these positions often require a specific level of education and value academic achievements and contributions more than other roles.

Haridus:

Tartu Ülikool, Tartu, Eesti

Bakalaureusekraad, Majandusteadus, 2015-2018


  • Lõpetas esimese klassi autasuga
  • Kursused: Makroökonoomika, Rahandus, Ärijuhtimine, Turundus

Tallinna Tehnikaülikool, Tallinn, Eesti

Magistrikraad, Finantsjuhtimine, 2018-2020


  • Magistritöö: "Investeerimisstrateegiad Eesti finantsturgudel"
  • Kursused: Ärijuhtimine, Investeerimisjuhtimine, Riskijuhtimine, Finantsanalüüs

Täiendkoolitus:

EBS Executive Education, Tallinn, Eesti

Kursus: Projektijuhtimine, 2021


  • Omandatud teadmised: Projektijuhtimise põhimõtted, aja- ja ressursijuhtimine, riskijuhtimine projektides

Tartu Ülikool, Tartu, Eesti

Kursus: Digitaalne turundus ja sotsiaalmeedia, 2021


  • Omandatud teadmised: Digiturunduse strateegiad, sotsiaalmeedia turundus, SEO, Google AdWords

Keeleoskus:

  • Eesti keel - emakeel
  • Inglise keel - suurepärane kõnes ja kirjas
  • Vene keel - hea kõnes ja kirjas
  • Soome keel - algtasemel

Honing Your Skills Section for an Effective Estonian Resume


estonian language


In Estonia, skills play a crucial role in a resume as they provide recruiters with a clear understanding of a candidate's potential and suitability for a role. The importance of skills in a resume can't be understated because they not only highlight the candidate's competencies and abilities but also indicate their potential to grow and adapt in a dynamic job environment. A well-crafted skills section can significantly increase a candidate's chances of standing out in the competitive job market of Estonia and landing the desired job.

Estonian recruiters are looking for a balanced mix of hard and soft skills. Hard skills refer to the technical knowledge and training required for a specific job, such as IT skills, language proficiency, or project management abilities. Soft skills, on the other hand, are interpersonal skills that determine how effectively a candidate can work within a team, manage time, and solve problems. These include communication, teamwork, and leadership skills. Additionally, with Estonia being a digitally advanced country, recruiters are also looking for individuals with digital competencies and a good understanding of the digital work environment.

Allpool esitame näidiste loetelu pehmetest ja kõvadest oskustest, mis võivad olla kasulikud, kui koostate oma CV-d eesti keeles.

Soft skills:

  • Communication skills - Suhtlemisoskus
  • Teamwork - Meeskonnatöö
  • Problem-solving - Probleemide lahendamine
  • Time management - Aja juhtimine
  • Adaptability - Kohanemisvõime
  • Leadership - Juhtimisoskus
  • Decision-making - Otsuste tegemise oskus
  • Creativity - Loomingulisus
  • Conflict resolution - Konflikti lahendamise oskus
  • Empathy - Empaatia

Hard skills:

  • Computer proficiency - Arvuti kasutamise oskus
  • Project management - Projektijuhtimine
  • Data analysis - Andmeanalüüs
  • Foreign languages - Võõrkeeled
  • Graphic design - Graafiline disain
  • Coding - Programmeerimine
  • Digital marketing - Digitaalne turundus
  • Financial literacy - Finantskirjaoskus
  • Technical writing - Tehniline kirjutamine
  • SEO/SEM marketing - SEO/SEM turundus

Additional Sections to Include in an Estonian Resume


Additional headings in an Estonian CV can provide further insight into a candidate's qualifications and personality, beyond just their work experience and education. They can highlight skills or experiences that are relevant to the job but do not fit neatly into the main categories. The additional categories could include Languages, Hobbies or interests, Certificates, Driving licenses, References, and IT tools. These categories can be used to enhance the CV and make the applicant stand out from the rest.

One important category to consider is Languages. As Estonia is a multilingual country with a strong emphasis on international relations, having proficiency in multiple languages is a valuable asset. This section allows candidates to showcase their linguistic abilities, which could potentially open up opportunities for roles requiring these specific skills. It's not just about listing the languages a candidate can speak or write in, it's also about indicating the level of proficiency in each.

Another significant category to add to an Estonian CV is IT tools. In today's digital age, being proficient in various IT tools and software is a valuable skill in virtually any job. This is especially true in Estonia, which is known as a leading country in digital innovation and e-governance. In this section, candidates can list any software or IT tools they are comfortable with, such as Microsoft Office Suite, Adobe Creative Suite, or specific project management tools or programming languages. This shows potential employers their technical skills and familiarity with digital tools, which can be a major asset in many roles.

Honing Your Skills: How to Improve Your Estonian Resume


Improving your CV for the Estonian job market can greatly enhance your chances of securing employment. Here are some specific tips to help you make your CV more appealing to Estonian employers:

  1. Use the European CV format: Make sure your CV follows the Europass format, which is widely accepted and used in Estonia.
  2. Language Proficiency: Include your level of proficiency in Estonian, English, and Russian as these are commonly spoken languages in Estonia. If you are fluent in Estonian, make sure to highlight this, as it can give you an edge over other candidates.
  3. Personal Details: Estonian CVs typically include personal information such as date of birth and nationality. However, it's important to note that marital status and number of children is optional and not typically required.
  4. Work Experience: When listing your work experience, do so in reverse chronological order. Include the company name, your role, and the period of employment. Be specific about your responsibilities and achievements in each role.
  5. Education: Just like work experience, list your educational qualifications in reverse chronological order. Include the name of the institution, the period of study, and the qualification obtained.
  6. Skills: Highlight specific skills relevant to the job you're applying for. These can include computer skills, language skills, or any other job-specific skills.
  7. References: It's common practice in Estonia to include references in your CV. Make sure to include the name, position, and contact information of your reference.
  8. Keep it Concise: Estonian employers prefer CVs that are concise and straight to the point. Try to keep your CV to two pages or less. If possible, tailor your CV to the specific job you're applying for, highlighting the most relevant skills and experiences.

Key Elements to Include in Your Estonian Resume


estonian language


In conclusion, crafting an effective Estonian CV requires attention to detail, cultural understanding, and a clear representation of your skills and experiences. The following tips are designed to help you make a CV that stands out in the Estonian job market, highlighting your strengths and suitability for the desired position:

  1. Use a Formal Structure: Estonian CVs usually follow a chronological format, starting with your most recent job or education.
  2. Personal Details: Include your name, contact details, date of birth, and nationality. In Estonia, it's also common to include a professional photo.
  3. Language Skills: Being a multilingual country, it's crucial to mention your language skills, including Estonian, Russian, and English.
  4. Education and Qualifications: List your educational background and any relevant qualifications, starting from the highest or most recent.
  5. Work Experience: Include your employment history, detailing your responsibilities and achievements in each role.
  6. Skills: Highlight key skills relevant to the job you're applying for, and provide examples of how you've used these skills in a professional setting.
  7. References: Estonian employers often contact references, so make sure you include reference information, or state that references are available upon request.
  8. Proofread: Ensure your CV is free from mistakes – this is crucial as it reflects your attention to detail. Consider having a native Estonian speaker check for any language errors.

Crafting an Impressive Cover Letter in Estonian for Your Resume


Enclosing a cover letter with your Estonian resume is crucial when applying for a job in Estonia. It offers the opportunity to present yourself in a more personalized manner and elaborate on your qualifications beyond the bullet points in your resume. A well-written cover letter can provide context for any gaps in employment, explain career changes, or highlight specific skills relevant to the job. It also shows the employer your writing skills and your commitment to the application process. Therefore, a cover letter is an important tool to differentiate yourself from other candidates and to make a strong case for your candidacy.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Writing Resumes and Job Applications in Estonian

Is there a specific format for writing a CV in Estonian?

Yes, like in most countries, Estonian CVs should be clear, concise, and include personal details, education, work experience, skills, and references. However, cultural nuances may vary.

Do I need to write my CV in Estonian when applying for jobs in Estonia?

It's recommended to write your CV in Estonian if you are applying for a job in Estonia, especially if the job requires proficiency in the language. Some employers may accept English, but it's best to clarify beforehand.

Are there any unique aspects to include in an Estonian CV?

In Estonia, it's common to include a photo and personal identification number in your CV. Also, Estonians prefer a brief and concise CV, usually not exceeding two pages.

How should I list my skills and qualifications in an Estonian CV?

List them in a clear and structured manner, starting with the most relevant to the job you're applying for. If you speak Estonian, make sure to highlight your language proficiency level.

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