Writing a CV in Estonian: Useful Tips
Creating a Curriculum Vitae (CV) in a foreign language can be a daunting task, especially when you are not familiar with the cultural and linguistic nuances. For English speakers looking to work or study in Estonia, understanding how to write a CV in Estonian is crucial. This article aims to provide comprehensive guidance on creating an effective CV in Estonian, highlighting key elements, common phrases, and cultural considerations.
Estonia, a small yet vibrant country in Northern Europe, has a unique language that is part of the Finno-Ugric family. Writing a CV in Estonian requires not only an understanding of the language but also an appreciation of Estonian professional norms and expectations. Whether you are applying for a job, a scholarship, or an academic program, a well-crafted CV in Estonian will significantly enhance your chances of success.
Understanding the Structure of an Estonian CV
Before diving into the specifics, it’s essential to understand the general structure of a CV in Estonia. While the format may vary slightly depending on the industry or employer, the following sections are typically included:
1. **Personal Information (Isikuandmed)**
2. **Objective (Eesmärk)**
3. **Work Experience (Töökogemus)**
4. **Education (Haridus)**
5. **Skills (Oskused)**
6. **Languages (Keeled)**
7. **Certifications and Courses (Sertifikaadid ja Kursused)**
8. **Interests (Huvialad)**
9. **References (Soovitused)**
Personal Information (Isikuandmed)
This section is straightforward and includes your basic personal details. Here’s what to include and how to present it:
– **Full Name (Täisnimi):** Write your name as it appears on official documents.
– **Date of Birth (Sünniaeg):** Format it as DD/MM/YYYY.
– **Address (Aadress):** Include your full postal address.
– **Phone Number (Telefoninumber):** Use the international format (e.g., +372 for Estonia).
– **Email Address (E-posti aadress):** Ensure it is professional.
– **LinkedIn Profile (LinkedIn profiil):** Optional, but recommended.
Example:
“`
Täisnimi: John Smith
Sünniaeg: 15/08/1985
Aadress: Pärnu mnt 123, Tallinn, 10114, Eesti
Telefoninumber: +372 5555 5555
E-posti aadress: [email protected]
LinkedIn profiil: linkedin.com/in/johnsmith
“`
Objective (Eesmärk)
In this section, you should briefly outline your career goals and what you aim to achieve by applying for the position. Keep it concise and to the point.
Example:
“`
Eesmärk: Otsin väljakutset pakkuvat positsiooni rahvusvahelises ettevõttes, kus saaksin rakendada oma turundusalaseid teadmisi ja arendada oma professionaalseid oskusi.
“`
Work Experience (Töökogemus)
List your work experience in reverse chronological order, starting with the most recent position. For each entry, include:
– **Job Title (Ametinimetus):**
– **Employer (Tööandja):**
– **Dates of Employment (Töötamise kuupäevad):** Format as MM/YYYY – MM/YYYY.
– **Responsibilities and Achievements (Kohustused ja Saavutused):**
Example:
“`
Ametinimetus: Turundusjuht
Tööandja: ABC OÜ
Töötamise kuupäevad: 01/2018 – 12/2020
Kohustused ja Saavutused:
– Juhtisin turundusmeeskonda ja koordineerisin kõiki turundustegevusi.
– Tõstsin ettevõtte tuntust sotsiaalmeedias 30%.
– Algatasin ja juhtisin mitmeid edukalt lõppenud turunduskampaaniaid.
“`
Education (Haridus)
Similarly to the work experience section, list your educational background in reverse chronological order. Include:
– **Degree (Kraad):**
– **Institution (Õppeasutus):**
– **Dates of Attendance (Õppimise kuupäevad):** Format as MM/YYYY – MM/YYYY.
– **Additional Information (Lisainfo):** Optional, such as thesis title or relevant coursework.
Example:
“`
Kraad: Magistrikraad turunduses
Õppeasutus: Tallinna Tehnikaülikool
Õppimise kuupäevad: 09/2015 – 06/2017
Lisainfo: Magistritöö teema – “Digitaalne turundus ja selle mõju tarbijakäitumisele”.
“`
Skills (Oskused)
This section highlights your key skills relevant to the job. Be honest and specific about your abilities.
Example:
“`
Oskused:
– Digitaalturundus
– SEO ja SEM
– Projektijuhtimine
– Andmeanalüüs
– Meeskonnatöö ja juhtimine
“`
Languages (Keeled)
List the languages you speak, including your proficiency level. Use the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) to specify your level (A1-C2).
Example:
“`
Keeled:
– Inglise keel (C1)
– Eesti keel (B2)
– Vene keel (A2)
“`
Certifications and Courses (Sertifikaadid ja Kursused)
Include any relevant certifications or courses you have completed that add value to your application.
Example:
“`
Sertifikaadid ja Kursused:
– Google Analytics sertifikaat
– Projektijuhtimise professionaal (PMP)
“`
Interests (Huvialad)
Although optional, this section can provide insight into your personality and how you might fit into the company culture. Be genuine and include hobbies or activities that you are passionate about.
Example:
“`
Huvialad:
– Mägironimine
– Fotograafia
– Vabatahtlik töö loomade varjupaigas
“`
References (Soovitused)
In Estonia, it’s common to include references or mention that they are available upon request. If you choose to list them, include the referee’s name, position, company, and contact information.
Example:
“`
Soovitused:
– Maria Tamm, Turundusdirektor, ABC OÜ, [email protected], +372 5555 5555
“`
Common Phrases and Vocabulary
To make your CV more effective, using the correct terminology is crucial. Here are some common phrases and vocabulary that can be useful:
– **Kogemus (Experience)**
– **Oskus (Skill)**
– **Töö (Job/Work)**
– **Haridus (Education)**
– **Amet (Position/Title)**
– **Eesmärk (Objective)**
– **Tööandja (Employer)**
– **Kursused (Courses)**
– **Sertifikaadid (Certifications)**
– **Huvialad (Interests)**
Example Sentences:
“`
– Mul on kolm aastat kogemust turundusvaldkonnas. (I have three years of experience in the marketing field.)
– Olen osalenud mitmetel erialastel kursustel. (I have attended several professional courses.)
– Minu peamised oskused hõlmavad projektijuhtimist ja analüüsi. (My main skills include project management and analysis.)
– Minu eesmärk on leida väljakutseid pakkuv töö rahvusvahelises ettevõttes. (My objective is to find a challenging job in an international company.)
“`
Cultural Considerations
When writing a CV in Estonian, it’s important to consider cultural nuances that may impact how your CV is received:
– **Formality:** Estonians appreciate professionalism and formality. Ensure that your language is respectful and your format is clean and professional.
– **Honesty:** Be truthful about your skills and experiences. Estonians value honesty and integrity.
– **Conciseness:** Keep your CV concise and to the point. Avoid unnecessary fluff and focus on the most relevant information.
– **Visual Design:** While content is key, the visual presentation also matters. Use a clean, easy-to-read font and ensure there is plenty of white space.
Final Tips
Here are some final tips to ensure your CV stands out:
– **Proofread:** Carefully proofread your CV to eliminate any spelling or grammatical errors.
– **Tailor Your CV:** Customize your CV for each application, highlighting the skills and experiences most relevant to the job.
– **Use Action Verbs:** Start your bullet points with strong action verbs to make your responsibilities and achievements stand out.
– **Get Feedback:** If possible, ask a native Estonian speaker to review your CV and provide feedback.
Writing a CV in Estonian may seem challenging at first, but with careful attention to detail and an understanding of local customs, you can create a compelling and professional document that showcases your skills and experiences. Good luck with your job search or academic application in Estonia!
