How to Write an English Resume
Applying to Google, multinationals, or roles abroad means writing an English resume — and it differs from a local-format CV in both structure and phrasing. The essentials: a one-page, summary-first layout, impact bullets that start with a strong verb, and avoiding the literal-translation, tense, and passive-voice traps that trip up non-native writers.
AI checks your English resume for free — phrasing, structure, and impact, plus improved English examplesStartHow to write an English resume
One page · summary first
Most English-speaking markets prefer one page (even for senior roles). Open with a Summary of your core strengths and headline achievements, and leave out photo, age, and gender.
Start with a strong verb
Begin each bullet with a strong past-tense verb like "Led / Built / Improved / Designed / Drove". "Was responsible for / Helped with" is weak.
End with a number
Quantify results (%, time, scale, money). Not "improved performance" but "cut P99 latency 320ms→90ms".
Check literal phrasing and grammar
Don’t translate your native language word for word — write natural English. Check tense (consistent past), articles, prepositions, and excess passive voice.
Weak English → strong English (common non-native mistakes)
Turning "literal phrasing + weak verbs" into "strong verbs + quantified results" is what lands with native-speaker recruiters.
I was in charge of payment system and did various works.
Led the payment platform serving 2M daily transactions, cutting P99 latency from 320ms to 90ms.
Why it’s better — Replaces "was in charge of / did various works" (literal, weak) with a strong verb + scale + a quantified result.
I have participated in developing many APIs.
Designed and shipped 40+ REST APIs, reducing front-end integration time by 30%.
Why it’s better — Turns "have participated in" (passive, vague) into "Designed and shipped" + output + result, with a consistent past tense.
Through this project, I could learn a lot of things.
Drove a 0→1 recommendation feature, lifting weekly retention by 12 points.
Why it’s better — Swaps "could learn a lot" (self-introduction tone) for impact (retention). An English resume shows results, not lessons learned.
English resume mistakes non-native writers make
- ✕ Literal translation — copying your native phrasing word for word reads awkwardly. Rework it into natural English.
- ✕ Weak verbs — "was responsible for / helped / participated" is weak. Start with "Led / Built / Drove".
- ✕ Mixed tenses — keep past roles consistently in the past tense (present tense only for your current job).
- ✕ Too much passive voice — write "Developed …" instead of "was developed by me", active and concise.
- ✕ Including photo, age, or gender — most English-speaking markets omit these over discrimination concerns.
Free tools to use alongside your English resume
You can check an English resume’s structure and keywords too: resume self-check. Good companion reads: country-by-country resumes · resume examples.
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Get a free AI reviewFor country-specific resume conventions, see the US resume guide and the country guides; for role-specific tips, see the resume guides.