A resume in the South African format: how to create yours

See what recruiters in South Africa expect to find in your CV.

What changes in the South African CV?

In that country, a resume is called a CV and is usually written in English.

It can be two or three pages long, as long as it's easy to read.

CV Step-by-Step

Follow this order, which is the most common in local ads.

1Personal information and contact details

Name, phone number, email address, city, and whether you have a driver's license. A photo is not required.

2Professional summary

Two or three lines describing what you do and what type of job you're looking for.

3Experience with results

Start with your most recent job and show numbers whenever possible.

4Education and courses

Please provide your registration number, which is your high school diploma, technical course certificate, and other certifications, along with the year of completion.

5Skills and languages

Separate your technical skills, such as the programs you are proficient in, from the languages ​​you speak and at what level.

6References

List two or three people who can vouch for your work, with their permission.

How to get a job with a good salary →

Format and shipping

Save as a PDF with your name in the file and only provide your ID number when the ad asks for it.

Many companies use automated screening, so repeat the wording of the ad when it resonates with you.

Proofread your spelling and have someone proofread your CV before sending it.

LinkedIn icon

1. LinkedIn

Google Play

Your profile functions as an online CV.

Recruiters in the country search for candidates there.

Download on Google Play
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2. Careers24

It allows you to submit your CV and apply using a saved version.

There are job openings in various sectors.

Go to the official website
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3. SAQA

It evaluates degrees obtained outside of South Africa.

Useful for those who studied abroad.

Go to the official website

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a cover letter?

When the job posting asks for it, yes. Write a few paragraphs related to that specific position.

Should I include a photo on my CV?

It's not necessary, and most recruiters don't expect a photo.

Is a foreign diploma valid?

Generally, it needs to be assessed by SAQA, the country's qualifications authority.

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How to get a job → How to get a job with a good salary → How to view job openings →