How to Create an Effective CV for the Finnish Job Market

The first step is to decide which software or tool you will use to write your CV. The most important thing is that it’s easy for you to update and edit your CV in the future. There is no single correct CV format. The right choice depends on your skills, your field, and the tool you prefer to work with.

Traditional word processing tools like Microsoft Word or Google Docs are often the easiest option. They also offer ready-made CV templates. These formats are easy to edit and can be made ATS-friendly (ATS = Applicant Tracking System). A Word-based CV is a safe and flexible choice.

If you want a more visual style, you can use PowerPoint or Canva (opens in a new tab). Canva offers stylish CV templates, which work especially well in creative fields or when you want to stand out visually. Just remember to keep the content clear. 

There are also many online CV builders and AI-powered tools that help you create and format your CV based on a fixed template. These can be helpful when you are getting started, but there are some risks to consider:

• You usually need to create an account – make sure to save your login information carefully.
• Many platforms are free at first but later ask for payment to access your documents.
• Your CV might not be stored permanently, or the platform may shut down.
• Customising or editing your CV can be difficult if the layout is locked to a specific template.

Tip: Choose a tool that allows you to save your CV in a format that’s easy to edit later. That way, you can update it anytime you need to.

In most cases, your CV and cover letter should be written in the same language as the job advertisement. Always follow the employer’s language preferences. Also consider the main working language in your field – this is usually a good choice for your CV.

Writing a CV in a language other than your native language

If you are still improving your language skills, start by writing your first version in your strongest language. This helps you describe your skills more clearly and include more detailed examples.

Don’t worry if your CV contains some grammar mistakes. Small errors do not usually matter and they can show that you are not a native speaker, which is completely fine. What matters most is that your content is easy to understand and that your skills are presented clearly.

Using AI tools to help with language and translation

AI-based tools can support you in writing clear and grammatically correct documents. This can be especially useful if your language skills are still at a basic or intermediate level. You can, for example, use AI to translate your original text or help you improve the grammar and tone.

However, If you use AI when preparing your application, be open about it. You might mention in your CV or application, especially in the language skills section or introduction, something like:

“This CV has been prepared with the help of an AI tool. My English/Finnish skills are at a basic level. I can understand work-related situations and manage basic communication.”

This shows your honesty and also highlights your ability to use digital tools – both of which are valuable skills in the job market.

Tip: An AI-generated text does not reflect your actual language level. That’s why it’s important to describe your language skills honestly. This helps the employer understand how well you are likely to manage different communication situations at work.

AI can be a helpful tool when creating your CV, especially when you’re getting started, organising the structure, or editing your text. It can support you in many ways, such as:

• summarising your professional profile in a short but informative way
• identifying keywords from a job advertisement
• improving language and clarity
• tailoring your CV for different positions

However, remember this: AI does not know your personal experience. It can make up or generalise information if it doesn't receive clear input. Avoid copying the text as it is. Instead, keep your own voice and make sure that everything in your CV is accurate and true.

You can try following prompts:

“Write a professional profile for a person who has studied logistics and worked in warehouse operations and customer service. The person is easy-going and enjoys working with people. They are now applying for a position as X. Use a clear and concise tone.”
(You can also paste the job advertisement you are applying for.)

“Here is a job advertisement. Find the most important keywords and suggest how I could reflect them in my CV. I’ve also included a short description of my background.”

To learn more how you can utilise AI tools, visit the page: AI in jobhunting and recruitment

In Finland, visual two-column CVs have long been popular. Visual elements can help you stand out, and a two-column layout can make your CV easier to read for the human eye. This type of CV also allows you to highlight key skills and bring them to the top of the first page – where a recruiter’s eyes often go first.

However, the use of AI tools and ATS systems (Applicant Tracking Systems) is becoming more common. These systems help employers manage large numbers of applications. An ATS scans your CV and cover letter and compares them with the job advertisement. It looks for things like keywords, job titles, education, and language skills.

The challenge with a visual CV is that ATS software cannot always read graphic elements, multiple columns, tables, or text boxes correctly. This means important information might be missed or misinterpreted, and your application could be filtered out – even if it’s excellent.

So, should you design your CV for human readers or software systems?

Understand the context: who will read your CV?

• If you're applying to a small or medium-sized company, it's very likely that a person will read your CV. In that case, a visual and personal layout can work well.
• If you're applying to a large company, international organisation, or tech company, it's possible they use an ATS to scan applications. In that case, it's safer to keep the layout simple and ATS-compatible.

The only way to know for sure whether your application will be scanned by an ATS or read by a person is to contact the company and ask. If you're not sure, write your CV in a format that works for both:

A visual CV can work if the structure is clear

• Canva-style CVs may look great, but they are often built using text boxes, tables or graphic elements that an ATS cannot read reliably.
• Multi-column layouts are not necessarily a problem if the content is logically organised and easy to follow even without the visual design. However, this is often not the case in formats made with Canva or PowerPoint.

One solution: create two versions of your CV

• ATS-friendly version: Made with Word or another tool using a clear, simple structure with no tables or graphics. This version is a safe choice if you're not sure whether your CV will be read by a person or a system.
• Visual version: A more designed, graphic CV made with Canva or similar tools. This version works well for portfolios, introductions, creative fields, or smaller recruitments. You can also link it to your online job search profiles.

Practical tips for a safe, ATS-friendly CV

• Use a single-column layout with clear structure and headings
• Write your contact details as text, not as part of an image
• Avoid tables and text boxes
• Include keywords from the job advertisement
• Save your file as .docx or PDF, not as an image
• Use basic fonts like Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman

• Your CV should be 1–2 pages long, depending on how much work experience you have. For students or recent graduates, 1 page is usually enough. If you already have more experience, 2 pages are fine – as long as the content is clear and to the point.
• Pay attention to clear layout, logical structure, and easy readability. Use clear section headings. Can the recruiter quickly find the most important information just by scanning your CV?
• Content is the most important part of your CV – not design, colours or visuals.
• Make sure your contact details are easy to find at the top of your CV and that everything is spelled correctly.
• Use a font size that is easy to read, at least 10 or 11 points.
• Check the spelling and grammar carefully.
• Always send your CV as a PDF file, unless the employer specifically asks for another format.

You don’t need to write “CV” at the top of your document – the recruiter already knows what they’re reading.

Instead, use your name as the main heading, and under it, write a professional title that gives a quick first impression of your skills or career focus. This title helps the employer understand who you are as a candidate – right from the start.

Your professional title can be:

• your current role or field (e.g. Logistics student, Marketing assistant)
• your career direction or goal (e.g. Aspiring UX designer, Looking for a role in international sales)

Examples:

• Sofia Khan
  Business student with a strong interest in marketing and project coordination
• Daniel Lee
  Data analyst with background in logistics and Excel reporting

A Tip: Think of it as a short label that tells the recruiter what kind of professional you are, or aim to become.

At the top of your CV, always include your basic contact details such as your phone number and email address. Double-check that everything is correct. Even a small typing error might prevent the employer from contacting you.

If you have a LinkedIn profile, it’s a good idea to include the link in your contact section. You can also add other links that are directly related to your professional skills, such as:

• GitHub, if you study ICT or have coding skills
• Instagram, if you study visual communication, graphic design or marketing and use the account to showcase your work
• Personal portfolio or website, if it presents your professional projects and strengths

Only include links that are relevant to the job you’re applying for and provide additional evidence of your skills.
Personal social media accounts (such as private Instagram or TikTok profiles) do not belong in your CV.

Note: These details are not included in a Finnish CV

In Finland, it is not customary to include personal details that are not directly related to your professional skills. Employers focus on your qualifications and experience, not your background or personal life. Leaving out this information helps promote fair and equal recruitment.

You do not need to mention:

• Age or date of birth
• Gender
• Marital status or family situation (for example, whether you have children)
• Nationality
• Home address

A photo is not required on your CV, but in Finland, it is still fairly common practice. If you decide to include one, choose a simple and neutral headshot – something that looks professional but still natural. A relaxed, friendly expression is a good choice. A smile is always a plus!

Cultural note:
In many countries, adding a photo to a CV is discouraged to avoid unconscious bias in recruitment. In Finland, the use of photos is still quite common, especially in small or medium-sized organisations. However, it is always optional. Whether or not you include a photo, employers should focus on your skills and experience.

💡If you are unsure whether to add a photo, you can check the company’s website or ask the recruiter. If in doubt, it is perfectly acceptable to leave the photo out.

A profile summary is a short introduction (just a few sentences) placed at the top of your CV, right after your name and contact details. It helps you target and tailor your CV for a specific job.

In your profile summary, try to answer three questions: Who are you? What can you do? What are you looking for?

A good profile summary briefly explains:

• Your education and work background
  “I am a Bachelor of Business Administration student specialising in financial management, with 3 years of experience in customer service roles.”
• Your key skills or strengths
  “I am detail-oriented and analytical, and I’m especially interested in using data analytics to support financial monitoring and decision-making in business.”
• What kind of position you are looking for
  “I’m currently looking for an advanced internship related to my studies, where I can develop my data skills further.”

Use keywords from the job advertisement. This shows the recruiter that you understand the language and needs of the position.

Tip: your profile summary should not repeat your entire CV. Instead, it gives a clear and engaging first impression and encourages the recruiter to keep reading.

You can practise writing your profile summary using the exercises on the page Talking about your skills

Work experience is one of the most important parts of your CV and something employers are especially interested in. It shows the recruiter 

• what you’ve done,
• what you can do
• what you could bring to the new role

Just listing your job title is not enough. The same title can mean very different tasks in different organisations. That’s why it’s important to explain clearly what you did and what your responsibilities were.

Use active verbs (for example: planned, implemented, managed, developed) and include results, numbers or things you learned, when possible. This shows your skills in action – not just a list of duties.

If you’re applying for different types of jobs, you’ll likely stand out more if you tailor your CV and highlight the tasks and skills that are most relevant for each position.

Example: Same work experience – two different versions

Version 1 – Student applying for customer service jobs (e.g. in retail):

Café worker, Café Sävy, 06/2023–08/2023

• Was responsible for cashier and customer service in a busy city café
• Took care of product displays and cleanliness
• Guided and supported new summer workers
• Learned to handle pressure and stay friendly during busy shifts

Version 2 – Same student applying for internship or HR assistant role:

Café worker, Café Sävy, 06/2023–08/2023

• Trained and guided new staff in daily café routines and customer service
• Worked as part of a team and practised informal on-the-job instruction
• Learned to give clear instructions and help others join the work community
• Developed communication skills and a sense of responsibility for others' learning

Also remember:

• List your most recent experience first
• Write the time period in the format MM/YYYY – MM/YYYY
• Internships and summer jobs are valuable experience, especially if you're at the beginning of your career
• It's usually enough to show your work experience from the past 10 years. Older experience can be summarised if needed.

Tip: If you need help with recognising or describing your skills based on your work experience, check the pages Recognition your skills and Talking about your skills.

The education section of your CV usually includes two main parts: 

• Degree education
• Other education

If relevant for the position, you can also add separate sections for Qualifications and licences and Certificates.

Degree education

• Always list your most recent education first!
• If you have already graduated, write the date in the format MM/YYYY.
• If your studies are ongoing, you can write something like: 08/2021 – expected graduation 12/2025

How much you describe your degree depends on your work experience in the field.

• If you have little or no work experience, it’s good to explain your studies in more detail, including course content, internships or your thesis topic.
• If you already have strong work experience, a shorter description with your degree title, level, school and graduation year is usually enough.

You can include the following details:

• Name and level of degree
• Name of institution
• Graduation date (or study period)
• Major subject or specialisation
• (Optional) Key study modules or coursework
• (Optional) Thesis topic and a link, if relevant for the job

Other education

This section includes non-degree studies, such as:

• Open university courses
• Individual courses or workshops
• Online courses (MOOCs)
• Continuing professional education

Include at least: the name of the course, credits if available, organiser, and year of completion. Only add courses that are relevant for the job you’re applying for.

Qualifications and licences

If you have completed work-related qualifications or licences, you can list them in their own section.
Mention the validity period if the qualification expires. Again, only include qualifications that are relevant for the position.

Examples:

• Hygiene passport (Hygieniapassi)
• First aid training (EA1 / EA2)
• Occupational safety card (Työturvallisuuskortti)
• Hot work card (Tulityökortti)

Certificates

Certificates show specific technical or professional expertise. They may be commercial, industry-related, or software-based. You can list certificates under a separate heading or include them in the other education section.

Always mention: certificate name, provider, and year of completion.

Examples:

• Google Digital Garage: Fundamentals of Digital Marketing
• Microsoft Office Specialist (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
• AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner
• LinkedIn Learning certificates (e.g. project management, Power BI, Canva)
• PMP® – Project Management Professional (PMI)
• Google Project Management Certificate (Coursera)
• Scrum Master certifications
• KLT certification (Finnish financial management expert qualification)

Tip: Highlight the education and courses that are relevant to the job. You can leave out education that is not useful for the position. For example, an old hygiene passport is not needed when applying for an office job, but it is essential when applying for your first café summer job.

In your CV, it’s a good idea to present your key skills and competencies under clear headings. These may include language skills, digital tools, software knowledge, or other professional strengths.

The goal is to highlight the skills that are most relevant for the position and to make your core competencies easy to find. This helps the recruiter quickly understand what you are good at. In a single-column, ATS-friendly CV, the skills section is usually placed near the end. In a visual two-column layout, you can bring your skills forward to the first page, for example in a side column – this way your most relevant skills are visible at a glance.

Choose headings that reflect the kind of skills you want to highlight. Some good options include:

• Professional skills
• Digital skills / IT skills
• Software and tools
• Strengths
• Language skills

You can use multiple subheadings if you have skills in different areas. Organise your skills so the recruiter can quickly see what matters for the role you are applying for. Don’t fill the space with skills that are not relevant.

Language Skills

• If a certain language is required for the job, list it first
• If your language skills are very basic and the language is not needed in the job you are applying for, you don’t need to mention it in your CV.
  • Exception: If you are applying for jobs in Finland, it’s a good idea to mention that you are studying Finnish or have recently started learning it. This shows the employer that you are committed to staying in Finland and motivated to learn the language, which can be seen as a positive sign.

For each language, give a brief description of your level, for example:

• Native
• Professional working proficiency
• Excellent
• Fluent
• Good
• Basic / Beginner

A Tip: Do not describe your language skills using levels such as A1 or B1. These are mainly understood by language learners or teachers, not by employers. Instead, describe your skills using adjectives as mentioned above. 

Digital Skills and Software Knowledge

Group your digital skills in a way that is easy to read. For example, you can use categories like:

• Programming languages (e.g. Python, HTML, Java)
• Data tools and visualisation (e.g. Excel, Power BI, Tableau)
• Graphic design tools (e.g. Canva, Adobe Illustrator)
• Project management and collaboration (e.g. Trello, Miro, Asana, Teams)

If you have a wide range of digital skills, grouping them will help recruiters see your strengths more clearly.

Tip: Always highlight the skills that support the job you are applying for.

Hobbies, volunteering, and positions of trust can help show skills that support your job search goals – especially if you don’t yet have much work experience in your field.

You don’t have to include hobbies in your CV, but it’s a good idea when they demonstrate useful skills or show that you are active and committed.

Examples:

• For physically demanding jobs, an active fitness or sports hobby can support the employer’s impression of your stamina
• Coding projects, web design or game development show motivation for technical roles
• Coaching, guiding others, or volunteering in organisations can demonstrate communication and leadership skills
• Creating social media content can support job applications in marketing or communications

If a hobby doesn’t relate to the job in any meaningful way, it’s okay to leave it out. For example, “I enjoy reading” or “I go jogging” usually doesn’t add value to your application.

Tip: If you’re unsure what to include, ask yourself: "Does this show skills related to competence, responsibility, teamwork, goal-setting, or other qualities that are relevant for the job?"

In Finland, using references is a common and trusted way to support your job application. Instead of writing formal reference letters (as is often done in other countries), Finnish employers usually contact the referee directly during the final stages of the recruitment process. They may call or email and ask: “What kind of employee or student has this person been?”

The purpose of a referee is to confirm the impression you’ve given of yourself in your CV and interview. A good referee knows your working style, strengths and attitude – and can explain them using real-life examples.

Who can be your referee?

• A former or current supervisor
• A teacher, instructor or mentor
• A supervisor from an internship or volunteering position
• A colleague, especially if you worked closely together
• A project or student organisation supervisor (if you have little work experience)

How to Include a Referee in Your CV?

If you have a referee, it’s a good idea to include their name, organisation, and your relationship to them in your CV (for example: former supervisor, internship mentor, or project partner). This strengthens your CV and adds credibility to your application.

However, you don’t need to include their contact details. Instead, write: “Contact details available upon request.”

This approach protects your referee’s privacy and gives you the chance to double-check that their details are up to date. You can also let them know in advance if an employer might get in touch – this helps them prepare and provide a stronger, more relevant recommendation.

What If I Don’t Have a Referee Yet?

This is very common at the beginning of your career, or if your previous work experience is from outside Finland. Once you gain experience from studies, internships, or volunteering, think about who might be a good referee. It can also be someone from a project, course, or group work situation.

In Finnish work culture, direct and open communication is appreciated, so don’t hesitate to ask someone politely: “Would you be willing to be my referee for future job applications?”

Remember: A referee is not required to get a job in Finland. It is possible to find work even without professional networks or references. However, providing a referee can strengthen trust and trust is a key value in Finnish working life.

No worries! You can highlight skills you’ve gained through school projects, internships, volunteering, summer jobs, or any other activities where you’ve used skills that are relevant to working life.

Also explain what you learned in those situations – for example: teamwork, responsibility, communication, or time management.

Tip: If you need help recognising and describing your skills based on experience, visit the pages Recognising your skills and Talking about your skills

No, a photo is not required, but it is quite common in Finland. If you choose to include one, use a neutral and professional-looking photo.

What matters most is that your CV content is clear and professional. If you prefer not to include a photo, that’s completely acceptable – it won’t disqualify your application.

For students or recent graduates, your CV is usually 1 page long. If you already have more work experience, 2 pages is perfectly fine.

The most important thing is that your content is clear, relevant, and well-structured, not how many pages you have.

In Finland, referees are a common and trusted way to support your job application. Employers may want to know what you’re like as an employee, student, or team member. A referee is someone who knows you through work, studies, internships, or other types of collaboration.

You can either include your referee’s name and professional background in your CV, or simply write: “Contact details available upon request.”  Before naming someone as your referee, always ask for their permission and make sure they are ready to recommend you.

A good referee can confirm what you have said about yourself – and in the best case, help you get the job.

Your referee could be:

• A former or current supervisor
• A teacher or instructor
• An internship or volunteer supervisor
• A colleague (especially if you worked in a small team)

A Tip: If you don’t have work experience yet, you can also ask a teacher, project advisor, or organisation mentor to be your referee. What matters most is that the person knows how you work and can give honest, positive feedback about you.

Gaps in work history are not unusual and you don’t need to be afraid of them. In fact, these gaps often worry the job seeker more than the recruiter. You don’t have to explain the gap directly in your CV, but it’s a good idea to be prepared to discuss it if asked during an interview.

More important than the gap itself is how you present your skills, attitude, and motivation for the role you’re applying for.

If you want, you can mention briefly what you were doing during that time (for example: studying, parental leave, medical leave, job searching, or other life situation). You can also reflect on what you learned during that period.

Examples:

Parental leave 06/2022–08/2023
During this time, I developed skills in organisation, prioritisation, stress management, and adaptability. I learned to manage time and handle several responsibilities at once – valuable skills in working life as well.

Integration period and Finnish language studies 01/2023–
I have been studying Finnish intensively and learning to navigate a new cultural environment. This period helped me develop resilience, self-management, and problem-solving skills. Moving to a new country has strengthened my adaptability, persistence, and ability to handle uncertainty.

Military service and team leadership training 07/2021–01/2022
I completed my military service in the Finnish Army and received training as a team leader. My duties included leading a small group, planning training situations, and mentoring new conscripts. I developed leadership, teamwork and decision-making skills under pressure.

Personal break from work/studies

If your gap is due to illness or other personal reasons, you do not need to explain the details. In Finland, employers are not allowed to ask about your health or personal life, and you are not required to share it.

You can, however, briefly acknowledge the break and focus on what you’ve learned or how you’re ready to move forward now.

Example 1 – highlight motivation and the present moment:
“I took a break from working life, which gave me time to reflect on my goals. I’m now highly motivated to return to work and grow professionally.”

Example 2 – show active development:
“During my break, I kept my skills up to date through online courses and self-study. I’m now ready to return to working life with a fresh perspective.”

Remember:

• You don’t need to justify your past. Focus on what you can and want to do now.
• Even a small step, such as a course, volunteering, or starting a project, can help bridge the gap.
• Be honest, but stay positive. Your past does not define you – what matters is what you’re building now and in the future.

In most cases, your CV and cover letter should be written in the same language as the job advertisement. Always follow the employer’s language preferences.

Also think about the main working language in your field, that’s often a good choice for writing your CV.

Writing a CV in a language that is not your native language

If you are still building your language skills, you can start by writing your first draft in your strongest language. This helps you describe your skills more clearly and include concrete examples.

Don’t worry about small grammar mistakes – they are not a problem, and they may even show that you are genuinely using a second language. What matters most is that your CV is easy to understand and that your skills are presented clearly.

Using AI tools to translate or improve your CV

AI tools can help you write documents that are clear and grammatically correct. If you use AI to translate or improve your text – especially when your language skills are still at a basic level – it’s a good idea to mention this openly.

For example, you could include a note in your cover letter or in the language skills section: “This CV has been written with the help of an AI tool. My English skills are at a basic level – I can understand work situations and manage basic communication.”

This shows both your honesty and your ability to use digital tools – both of which are valued in the Finnish job market.

Remember: A well-written AI-generated CV does not reflect your actual language skills. That’s why it’s important to describe your true language level honestly. This helps the employer assess how well you could manage communication at work.

Yes, absolutely! You should confidently highlight your skills and experience, even if they are from outside Finland.

Work practices may differ between countries, but you’ve gained many transferable skills and important workplace experience. You can also show your motivation to learn and your willingness to adapt to Finnish working life.

For more support, see the page Understanding your international competencies.