How to Translate Your CV Without Sounding Awkward

If English isn’t your first language, translating your CV can feel like walking a tightrope.

You want to sound professional — not stiff. Confident — not arrogant. Clear — but not robotic.

And when you throw in phrases like “results-oriented multitasker,” you might wonder if anyone actually talks like this.

Here are some simple tips to help you translate your CV into English (especially UK English) without sounding awkward — or like a corporate cliché.

🧭 1. Translate Tone, Not Just Words

A good CV translation doesn’t just change language — it adapts tone.

• In Serbian or Bosnian, short phrases are common.

• In English, especially UK-style, CVs often use complete, flowing sentences.

• But not too formal. Avoid sounding like you copied a textbook.

Instead of:

“Professional with many skills. Looking for opportunity.”
Try:
“A proactive translator with experience across creative and academic projects.”

💬 2. Ditch the Empty Buzzwords

Phrases like:

• “Team player”

• “Results-driven”

• “Detail-oriented”

…are so overused they’ve become meaningless.

Instead, show those qualities through examples:

“Worked closely with a cross-functional team to deliver three client projects ahead of deadline.”

That’s better than “team player” — and actually says what you did.

🧠 3. Choose the Right English: UK or US?

• If you're applying in the UK or EU, use British spelling (organise, programme, travelling).

• For the US, use American spelling (organize, program, traveling).

• Adjust your vocabulary too:

  • CV in the UK

  • Résumé in the US

  • Secondary school vs high school, etc.

Need help deciding? Ask yourself: Who is going to read this?

🎯 4. Keywords Still Matter

Many companies use automated systems to filter CVs. That means:

• Use keywords from the job description

• Avoid odd or uncommon translations (e.g. "executor of tasks")

• Use plain, professional English — not Google Translate filler

🧰 5. Format for Clarity

English-language CVs often follow this order:

• Contact Info

• Personal Summary (2–3 lines)

• Work Experience

• Education

• Skills / Certifications

Keep it clean. One page if possible. Two max.

👋 Final Tip: Ask a Native Speaker (Like Us)

We offer translation and editing support for:

• CVs

• Personal statements

• Cover letters

• LinkedIn profiles

We’ll help you sound like you — just clearly, confidently, and in the right English for your audience.