sample resume for jobs in canada

Canadian Resume [Format, Tips & Examples for 2024]

Canada is a unique country that combines some traits you’ll find in the USA with some you’ll find in Europe.

This goes for resumes, too.

That’s why, when applying for a job in Canada, you have to make sure your resume conforms to Canadian application standards.

Naturally, you might be wondering - what does a Canadian resume even look like?

If you’re a foreigner, you’re likely drawing a blank trying to figure out what makes a Canadian resume different from the one in your own country. Even if you’re Canadian, you might still need to brush up on your resume writing skills.

Luckily for you, we’re here to show you how to write a compelling Canadian resume.

Here’s what we’re going to go over:

• Differences Between Canadian, US, and European Resumes
• Canadian Resume Formatting
• A Step-By-Step Breakdown on How To Write A Canadian Resume

And more!  Let’s get started!

Canadian Resume Example

Let’s take a look at a Canadian resume example:

Here’s what this resume does right:

• Reverse-chronological format. This format highlights your most recent work experience first and is a recruiter favorite all around the world.
• Relevant contact details. This resume example highlights the candidate’s first and last name, phone number, email address, location, and LinkedIn URL.
• Captivating resume summary. The paragraph nested in the header summarizes the candidate’s most essential skills and accomplishments.
• Action words. The candidate uses action verbs and power words to describe work responsibilities.
• Bullet points. The resume leverages bullet points to appear easy to read, organized, and reader-friendly.
• Additional sections. Language proficiency, certifications, awards, and interests all give a holistic view of the candidate and add value to their application.

Free Canadian Resume Templates

Creating a resume from scratch is time-consuming work. 

You need to twitch the margins, keep the fonts uniform, carefully align every element you add, and make sure it never spills over to page two.

But you can skip all that hassle if you use a resume template .

Novoresume’s templates are created in collaboration with recruiters and meet all job market requirements. 

Any template you use can save you time and let you write your resume in minutes.

Canadian Resume Specifics

There are a few basic things to keep in mind when crafting your Canadian resume. First things first:

The terms resume and CV can be used interchangeably in parts of Canada. In Quebec, for example, both terms refer to a one or two-page-long summary of a candidate’s career that’s tailored to the job they’re applying for.

Outside of Quebec, however, a CV is different from a resume in that it’s far more detailed and appropriate for academic positions or specific senior-level applications. 

Most job postings will ask for a resume unless explicitly stated otherwise.

Some other things to keep in mind about Canadian resumes include:

• Keep your resume one to two pages . A one-page resume is more than enough if you’re a recent graduate or new to the job market. Two-page resumes are recommended for seasoned professionals, and in certain cases, a three-page resume can be acceptable.
• Write your resume in the same language as the job offer. If you’re going for a position in Quebec and the advertisement is in French, then use French. Don’t assume they’ll accept a resume in English unless it’s explicitly written so on the job posting.
• Skip personal information and photos. Your resume should never give away your appearance, gender, age, ethnicity, nationality, religion, marital status, number of children, or any personal identification numbers.
• Don’t list references with your application unless the employer has requested them. Assumably, you can provide references if requested, so dedicating space on your resume when you’re not asked to is a waste.

Canadian Resume vs. US Resume

Both the USA and Canada prefer using resumes over CVs. In fact, Canadian and US resumes are almost identical.

The biggest difference? The language the document is written in.

You might be thinking - wait, I thought Canada used English?

Only partly.

Canada has two official languages - English and French. Both of these languages have standardized Canadian spellings, so that means they are not 100% the same as American English or European French.

Most of the terminology on your Canadian resume will be just about the same as it would be on its US equivalent. The biggest difference will probably be the added “u” to words like colour, and favourite , and the spelling of words like catalogue, centre, and cheque, as opposed to catalog, center, and check.

Before submitting your application, consider using a grammar checker like Grammarly or QuillBot to make sure your resume is up to par with Canadian spelling conventions .

Canadian Resume vs. European Resume

Typically, a resume in most of Europe, Asia, and the Pacific is referred to as a CV. The term resume in Canada refers to the same document that a CV refers to in Europe.

Both documents are meant to be one to two pages long, and list skills and experience relevant to the position you’re applying for. So in this sense, a European CV is actually different from a Canadian CV.

In Canada, a CV is an extensive document and is usually required in academic settings rather than for corporate job applications. The CV can be anywhere from two to ten pages long since it’s meant to list everything - from work experience to projects to publications.

European resumes also tend to be more detailed. For example, they can include details on high school education and grades, even if the candidate has a college degree. In Canada, that’s not the case. Your high school education is irrelevant if you have a higher degree of education.

The biggest difference between Canadian resumes and European ones is the amount of personal information you’re allowed to give away. For example, in Germany including a picture of yourself on your resume is common, but that’s absolutely not the case in Canada. There, your date of birth and nationality are a no-go.

These bits of information can be used to discriminate against you, so you’re supposed to keep them out of your resume as a precaution to give everyone a fair chance. Recruiters often consider resumes that overshare details of the candidate’s life (e.g.: race, age, date of birth, religion, political affiliation, etc.) unprofessional.

Step-By-Step Guide to Writing Your Canadian Resume

You’ve seen what a Canadian resume looks like. Now it’s time to write your own.

If you’re not sure where to start, don’t worry -  we’ve here to help you get it right.

Just follow these steps:

#1. Use the Correct Format

The most popular resume format in Canada is the reverse-chronological format (which is also called the chronological format).

It’s so widely used that it’s expected by most recruiters. The chronological format puts your most recent work experiences first and then goes back in time.

Here’s an example of what it looks like:

One of the other formats is the functional resume format , also known as the skills-based resume format, which focuses on your key strengths and abilities. It’s recommended for career changers or recent graduates with little-to-no experience in the field they’re applying for.

Then, we have the combination resume format . As the name suggests, it mixes elements of both the chronological and functional format. This format gives equal attention to a candidate’s experience and skills. It provides a detailed skill summary and is a good choice for applicants who have a noticeable employment gap but plenty of work experience nonetheless.

#2. Follow These Layout Tips

If your resume looks cluttered and unorganized, the hiring manager is less likely to want to read it.

But paying attention to your resume’s layout can get you a better chance.

Stick to these formatting tips when building your Canadian resume:

• Have separate sections for all the information you want to add.
• Use a professional and easily legible resume font . 
• Let your resume breathe - leave in enough white space so the contents are easier to read, by setting your resume margins to 1” on all sides. 
• Save your resume in the correct document size. Canadian resumes use a standard North American letter size (8.5 x 11 inches), instead of the A4 size common elsewhere. You can do this easily in the Novoresume editor by choosing “Layout” in the top menu and choosing “US Letter Format”.

#3. List the Right Contact Information

Once you’ve sorted out your resume layout, it’s time to start filling in its content.

The contact information section is the first thing you should list. Here’s what to include:

• Name and surname
• Canadian phone number
• Address (City and Province)
• Professional email address

Optionally, you can include a link to your LinkedIn profile, a personal website, or an online portfolio. Just make sure they’re updated and relevant to the application.

#4. Write Your Resume Summary

Each resume only has a few seconds to catch a recruiter’s attention, so you have to make yours eye-catching and easy to read.

Here’s where a resume summary comes in. 

Going at the top of your resume, a resume summary is a two or three-sentence-long summary of your career. It includes:

• Your professional title and years of experience. 
• Two-three of your biggest achievements.
• One-two of your top relevant skills for the position.

If you’re less experienced, you can opt for a resume objective instead. A resume objective focuses on your skills and motivation to grow in your chosen field, rather than on prior experience and professional achievements.

When applying for a remote job for a company based in Canada, mention this in your resume summary. If you’re looking for a company that’s going to relocate you to Canada , make sure to mention that in your resume instead, so you don’t waste time for yourself or the hiring manager.

#5. Include Your Work Experience

Work experience is the most important section on a Canadian resume . 

It lets you expand on your past achievements and responsibilities, proving to the hiring manager you’re the best candidate for the job.

Here’s how you should structure this section:

• Start with your most recent job and go back in time. That said, don’t go back more than ten or 15 years ago, even if you’re a senior professional. The hiring manager doesn’t care about your job as a server from back in college.
• Start with your job title. The recruiter will immediately know if you have the necessary experience for the job from reading your job title.
• Add your company name and location. Sometimes you can even add a brief description of your former employer, particularly if it’s a smaller business that isn’t well-known.
• Include your dates of employment. There’s no need to be super detailed, so just stick to the mm/yyyy format.
• List your job responsibilities and achievements. Provide 4-6 bullet points for your most recent position and 2-3 bullets for older jobs.

Structuring your work experience the right way is only half the work. To stand out from the competition, you want this section to be as impressive as possible.

Here are a few tips and tricks to help with that:

• Reference the job ad, and focus on the top skills and qualifications required from candidates. Tailor your work experience around the skills that you do have to draw attention away from the ones you don’t.
• Focus more on achievements over day-to-day responsibilities. The hiring manager already has an idea of what your responsibilities for a certain job were. What they’re interested to know is what you achieved while doing it.
• Quantify your accomplishments as often as possible. Use the Laszlo Bock formula ( “accomplished X as measured by Y by doing Z” ) to provide a timeframe, scale, and results for what you’ve achieved. e,g: “ Increased annual revenue growth from 5% to 10% through the implementation of a financial roadmap. ” 
• Use powerful words and action verbs . Recruiters hate hearing generic phrases like “responsible for” or “team player,” so using the right vocabulary can help you stick out. 

Are you a recent graduate with no work experience on your resume ? Don’t sweat it - we’ve got a guide to help you find your first job .

#6. Add Your Education

In Canadian resumes, the education section typically goes right under your work experience.

Here’s how you should format this section:

• Program Name. E.g: “B.A. in Computer Science”
• University Name. E.g: “Ohio State University”
• Years Attended. E.g: “08/2018 - 06/2022”
• Achievements (optional). E.g. “Minor in Linguistics” 

It should look something like this:

B.A. in Computer Science

Concordia University

08/2019 - 06/2023

• Summa Cum Laude
• Minor in Business Analytics

Follow these tips to make this section pop:

• Don’t describe your high school education if you have a university degree.
• Mention courses you’ve taken that are relevant to the industry you’re applying to. (E.g: Statistics and Probability for a Data Analyst)
• Stick to a reverse chronological format when listing your degrees. E.g: A Ph.D. is listed above a Master’s Degree, which is listed above a Bachelor’s degree, etc.
• If you don’t have work experience, you can emphasize your academic background. Just list your education at the top of your resume instead of the work experience.

#7. Highlight Your Greatest Skills & Strengths

The skill section shows which candidates have the necessary expertise for the job, and no Canadian resume is complete without it.

Skills are typically divided into two categories:

• Soft skills consist of personality traits and characteristics developed in your personal and professional life. They involve communication skills , people skills, interpersonal skills , etc.
• Hard skills, or technical abilities, are skills you can gain from experience, training, or education. These can include computer skills or proficiency in the use of specific tools.

The trick here is, don’t list every skill you’ve ever learned, just the ones relevant to the job you’re applying for.

If you’re going to be a graphic designer, your Photoshop skills are more important than your forklift certification. Recruiters want to know which skills make you the right candidate for them, not which skills make you the most well-rounded individual.

Scan the job description and jot down which of your skills the company is looking for. Then add them to your Canadian resume.

Just make sure you don’t focus solely on one type of skill over the other. A good application covers both soft skills and hard skills, depending on the job requirements.

Here’s an example:

#8. Leverage Additional Sections

If you’ve covered all the essential resume sections and have some space left, consider adding some optional resume sections.

These sections aren’t as vital as the ones we’ve covered so far, and they won’t do as much heavy lifting on your resume as your work experience, skills, or education.

However, they can help set you apart from candidates with similar work experience and skills as yours. 

For example, if choosing between two equally qualified professionals, and the position includes collaboration with French-speaking employees or business partners, the hiring manager is likely to choose a candidate who can speak French.

Here are the additional sections you can include on your resume:

• Languages . Being able to communicate in more than one language gives you an advantage over other candidates.
• Internships. Adding any relevant internships to your resume shows you have some experience that’s prepared you for the job you’re applying to.
• Volunteer experience . Any experience volunteering is a great addition to any resume since it shows you’re a caring person who wants to give back to your community.
• Hobbies and interests . Certain hobbies or interests might give the hiring manager a look into who you are as a person, and work in your favor.
• Certifications and awards. Any relevant qualifications or awards, such as online classes, can go here.
• Publications. If you’ve published anything, ranging from magazines to research articles, you can add it to your resume.
• Projects. Interesting projects you’ve worked on can show the hiring manager your passion and dedication to your field.

#9. Include a cover letter

Cover letters are still an essential companion piece to any resume.

Adding a cover letter to your application shows the hiring manager you’re ready to take all the necessary steps to land the job.

Cover letters also complement resumes by allowing you to elaborate on things you don’t have the space for in your resume, such as certain achievements or employment gaps.

Here’s a quick breakdown of what your cover letter should include:

• Header. As with your resume, include your updated contact information with your name, surname, Canadian phone number, and professional email address. Be sure to include the employer’s contact information as well.
• Greeting line. Make sure you address the cover letter correctly with a greeting line like “ Dear John Doe, ” or “ Dear Mr. Doe, ”. If you can’t find the hiring manager’s name, just use something like “ Dear [Department] Team. ” 
• Introduction. Start off with a brief summary of why you’re writing the letter and which position you’re interested in. To grab the hiring manager’s attention, use your opening paragraph to also describe two or three of your top achievements.
• Qualifications and motivation. The body of your cover letter should emphasize your skills, experience, and enthusiasm for the position. Use it to explain exactly what makes you the right candidate and how you’re the right fit for the company.
• Closing paragraph . Wrap up your letter with a call to action and an official signature line.

Struggling to write your cover letter? Check out these cover letter examples to get inspired.

FAQs About Canadian Resumes

Do you still have any questions? Check out the answers to the most frequently asked questions about Canadian resumes.

1. How can I create a Canadian resume as an international student?

Whether you’re looking to apply to a university in Canada, secure an internship , or land your first job after your graduation, your main focus should be on your academic achievements.

Education is highly valued in Canada and your credentials and relevant coursework will boost your resume, so long as you keep it relevant to the position you’re applying for.

When describing your education, you can also add the location next to your school or university’s name. E.g.: “Marmara University, Turkey” instead of just “Marmara University”.

2. Should the Canadian resume be in a PDF or Word file format?

Generally speaking, a PDF is the preferred format for resumes since it remains the same regardless of what operating system or device you use to open it. Moreover, it keeps your formatting and illustrations in place, and can’t be edited by accident when a recruiter mislicks.

Most career websites in Canada accept resumes as both PDF and Word files. Nonetheless, we recommend you have your Canadian resume exported to PDF unless the job ad specifically requests Word.

3. Do Canadians say CV or resume?

Depending on what part of Canada you’re in, people might say CV and resume interchangeably. However, outside of Quebec, these are two different documents.

Resumes are typically not longer than two pages and are meant to be tailored to the job you’re applying for. CVs, on the other hand, are far more detailed and appropriate for academic settings or specific senior-level applications.

4. What should you NOT include on a Canadian resume?

As an anti-discrimination measure, pictures of yourself and personal information, are legally prohibited from job applications. This means your nationality, age, gender, religion, immigration status, political affiliation, marital status, and social insurance number, have no place on your resume.

Another thing to keep in mind is that it’s taboo for applicants to include their salary expectations on a Canadian resume. Salary expectations should only be provided if requested by the employer, and even then, they are best included in a cover letter, never on your resume.

Key Takeaways

And that’s a- boot it for Canadian resumes!

Let’s recap the main things you need to know on the subject:

• Canadian resumes are essentially the same as US resumes. You won’t have any difficulties applying with a US resume for a position in Canada, but Canadian English is preferred over standardized American English.
• A Canadian resume is the equivalent of a CV in Europe and most other parts of the world. However, a CV in Canada is a much longer document that’s used mostly to apply for jobs in academia.
• Keep your formatting clear, and use separate sections and legable fonts when building your resume.
• When applying to jobs in Canada, you should never include anything that could be used to discriminate against you, such as information about your age, nationality, and immigration status, or pictures of yourself.

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How to write a good resume.

Your resume must clearly, concisely and strategically present your qualifications to get a recruiter interested in meeting you. It should convey your skills, work experience and assets. The resume is used to describe what you can accomplish professionally in a manner that also illustrates what you can do for an employer. Job opportunities can arise unexpectedly. An updated modern resume is the key to a successful job search. Here are some do's and don'ts of how to write a good resume and what to include.

Resume Writing Do's

An employer takes an average of 30 seconds to skim a resume. You want them to see right away that you are qualified for the position.

Be sure there are no spelling or grammar mistakes. Have someone else read it over as well. A simple spelling mistake on a resume can give a negative impression to the employer. It can even prevent you from getting the job.

Place the emphasis of your resume on your most recent experience. Older jobs and experience that are more than 15 years old should either be cut out or minimized. This way, the employer can focus on more relevant information.

Specify work experience or achievements that are related to the position you are applying to. This can be done by reviewing the job description or the employer website.

You want to be able to identify the best examples of where you demonstrated your skills. These examples should speak to what you achieved in your role, and should demonstrate what kind of employee you are. It is best to include this information in the "Work experience" section of the resume.

Lying on your resume is never a good idea. You don't want to overstate your skills or results as it will mislead the employer. Have confidence in what you have to offer.

Use firm numbers that the employer will understand and be impressed by. For example, how many people you supervised, how many products you sold, by what percentage you increased sales, etc.

The person reading your resume might not always be the employer. Resumes can be reviewed by recruiters or Human Resources specialists who may not be familiar with your specific field. Use simple and plain language, but also persuasive verbs such as handled, managed, led, developed, increased, accomplished, leveraged, etc.

If you have volunteered with a well-known organization or worked for an important cause, put it in your resume. You should include these experiences under the "Work experience" or the "Volunteer work" section, especially if they are related to the position you are applying for.

Your resume should list your name, address, email and phone number. This information should be placed at the top of the first page. Also, make sure this information is accurate. Otherwise, the employer won't be able to contact you.

Resume Writing Don'ts

Make sure your email is easy to read, easy to type, professional and non offensive. In general, your email address should be based on your name. Exclude any nicknames, numbers, or special characters.

It is best to leave out any personal details such as age, weight, height, marital status, religious preference, political views, or any other personal attributes that could be controversial. This will prevent any potential bias. Most importantly, never include your Social Insurance Number in your resume.

Although in some countries it may be acceptable to include a photo, it is not the norm in Canada. It can actually lower your chances of obtaining a position and divert the whole focus of your resume. You want the employer to focus on your skills and experience, not what you look like.

Make your resume easy to read by limiting each resume section or sub section to 5-7 bullet points. This will make it easier for the employer to scan your resume and identify your potential. Each bullet point should be used wisely by keeping the information relevant and concise.

Do not use "I," "my," or "me". Write your resume in the third person, as if it's being written by someone else.

Your job duties will be obvious from your job title. Instead, highlight your achievements by putting a personal spin on your job duties and providing specific examples.

Steer clear from vague statements that don't highlight your actual contribution. Unclear statements such as, "Responsible for improving efficiencies and making cost savings", does not provide any information to an employer. Personalize your experience!

The main purpose of your resume is to promote you, your skills, experience and achievements. It should be entirely positive, and therefore should not include reasons for leaving as it does not add any value to you as a candidate.

An employer only requires references if they are seriously considering hiring you. Keep references on a separate sheet and provide them only when they are specifically requested.

It is not recommended to mention hobbies because of the judgments potential employers can make. However, if your hobbies relate to the position, you may include them as they can demonstrate to the employer why you are a good fit.

Want to create a professional resume in a few minutes? Sign up for a Job Bank account to use our free Resume Builder tool.

It looks like you are visiting Job Bank from outside Canada.

If you are not legally authorized to work in Canada, you can’t apply for every job on Job Bank . Most Canadian employers will not hire you if you do not have a valid visa or work permit.

Visit Job Bank’s page for foreign candidates to review your options and find jobs from employers who are recruiting outside Canada.

Canadian Resume Format: Complete Guide (2023)

The Canadian job market has its own set of standards, and therefore, it is crucial to tailor your resume accordingly. It is common for job seekers to wonder how their resume should be formatted according to Canadian standards.

In this article, we will explore the key components of a Canadian resume format , including the preferred length, format, and content. We will also provide you with expert tips and examples to help you create a winning resume that will catch the attention of Canadian employers.

Whether you are a recent graduate or an experienced professional, this guide will help you tailor your resume to the Canadian job market and increase your chances of landing your dream job.

How is the Canadian Resume Format Different from Other Formats?

What is the standard page size for a resume in canada, 9. references, which format is best suited for you, understanding the canadian resume format, what is a canadian resume.

A Canadian resume is a document that job seekers use to apply for employment in Canada. It is a summary of the applicant’s work experience, education, skills, and other relevant information.

Canadian resumes can be in either chronological or functional format . Chronological resumes list work experience in reverse-chronological order, starting with the most recent job. Functional resumes focus on skills and experience rather than work history. We will discuss them in detail later.

Why is the Canadian Resume Format Important?

The Canadian resume format is important because it helps job seekers present their qualifications in a way that is clear and easy to read for Canadian employers.

Since Canadian employers receive many resumes for each job posting, it is important for job seekers to make their resumes stand out. By using the Canadian resume format, job seekers can ensure that their resume meets Canadian standards and is more likely to be considered by employers.

While the Canadian resume format is generally similar to other formats used in North America, such as the American resume format, there are a few key differences.

• For instance, Canadian resumes often include a section on language proficiency , as bilingualism (especially knowledge of French) is highly valued in Canada.
• Canadian resumes also often include a summary or objective section at the beginning of the resume, which is not common in other formats.
• Canadian resumes may include a section on professional development or training . This highlights any relevant courses, seminars, or certifications that the applicant has completed.
• Another key difference between Canadian resumes and some Asian countries is that Canadian resumes normally do not include personal information such as the job seeker’s age, marital status, and nationality. Photos are also avoided in most cases unless your looks are important for your profession.
• Canadian resumes typically include contact information such as the applicant’s address, phone number, and email at the top of the document. However, in some countries, this information is only added to a cover letter or given at the end of the document.
• Finally, Canadian resumes may use British English spelling and terminology, which differs slightly from American English. 

Canadian Resume Length

The recommended length of a resume in Canada is typically one to two pages , depending on the individual’s work history and experience. For those with a few years of experience, a one-page resume may suffice, while those with more experience may require a two-page resume. Three pages may be acceptable if you have more than 10 years of experience.

Canada Government’s Job Bank website also recommends limiting your resume to two pages.

However, it’s important to prioritize the content of the resume over its length . Focus on effectively highlighting your skills, experience, and education to make a strong impression on potential employers.

How long is a resume in Canada?

It is typically recommended that you limit your resume in Canada to two pages. In the case of a person without much experience, a single page should be sufficient.

Canadian resumes are typically letter-sized (8.5 x 11 inches, 22 x 28 cm), containing one or two pages of information.

Canadian resumes also use standard margins of one inch on all sides and left-aligned text for easy reading.

Key Components of a Canadian Resume

A Canadian-style resume typically includes several sections that provide a comprehensive overview of the applicant’s qualifications and experiences . These sections are crucial in making a strong first impression with potential employers. Here are the key components of a Canadian resume:

1. Resume Header

The resume header typically includes the applicant’s name, contact information, and a professional title. The professional title should be relevant to the job applied for and should showcase the applicant’s skills and experience.

The contact information section should include the applicant’s address, phone number, and email address. It is essential to ensure that all the information provided is accurate and up-to-date. A professional email address is recommended, and it is advisable to avoid using personal email addresses.

2. Resume Summary

The resume summary is a brief statement that highlights the applicant’s skills, experiences, and career goals. It is recommended to keep the summary concise and focused on the job applied for. The summary should be written in a way that captures the employer’s attention and encourages them to read further.

3. Work Experience

The work experience section should include the applicant’s previous work experience, including the job title, company name, dates of employment, and job responsibilities. It is essential to highlight the achievements and accomplishments in each role and quantify them wherever possible.

4. Education

The education section should include the applicant’s educational qualifications, including the degree, school name, and dates of attendance. It is recommended to include any relevant coursework, academic achievements, and certifications.

The skills section should include the applicant’s relevant skills, including technical, soft, and transferable skills. It is recommended to tailor the skills section to the job applied for and highlight the skills that are most relevant to the position.

6. Achievements

The achievements section should highlight the applicant’s accomplishments, including awards, recognition, and other notable achievements. It is recommended to quantify achievements wherever possible and tailor them to the job applied for.

7. Volunteer Experience

The volunteer experience section should include any relevant volunteer work, including the organization name, dates of volunteering, and job responsibilities. It is recommended to highlight any transferable skills gained through volunteer work.

8. Publications

The publications section should include any relevant publications, including books, articles, and research papers. It is recommended to highlight the publication’s relevance to the job applied for and include any relevant details, such as co-authors and publication dates. If you don’t have anything to show or it is irrelevant to the job you are applying for, you can skip this.

The references section should include the applicant’s professional references, including their name, job title, company name, phone number, and email address. It is recommended to ask for permission before including someone as a reference and to inform them when they are contacted by an employer.

Types of Canadian Resume Formats

Canadian resumes come in two main formats: chronological and functional . Each format has its own advantages and disadvantages, and the choice ultimately depends on the job seeker’s experience and career goals.

1. Chronological Resume

A chronological resume is the most common type of resume used in Canada.

It lists the job seeker’s work experience in reverse chronological order, starting with the most recent job and working backwards. This format is best suited to job seekers who have a consistent work history and want to highlight their career progression. This is also more suited for someone who doesn’t have career gaps.

Some tips for formatting a chronological resume include:

• Keep the resume concise and relevant, focusing on the most important details.
• Use bullet points to highlight accomplishments and responsibilities.
• Include relevant keywords to help the resume get past applicant tracking systems (ATS).

2. Functional Resume

A functional resume focuses on the job seeker’s skills and abilities, rather than their work history. This format is best suited to job seekers who are changing careers, have gaps in their work history, or have limited work experience .

Some tips for formatting a functional resume include:

• Highlight skills and achievements that are relevant to the job.
• Use bullet points to organize information and make it easy to read.
• Include a summary section at the top of the resume that highlights the job seeker’s key skills and qualifications.

The choice of resume format depends on the job seeker’s experience, career goals, and job requirements.

• If you are someone with a consistent employment history and no career gaps, a chronological format would be the best for you.
• If you are a fresher, or someone changing careers, or have career gaps, a functional resume would be more suited.

Job seekers should choose a format that highlights their strengths and accomplishments, and makes it easy for employers to see why they are the best fit for the job.

When creating a Canadian resume, it is essential to have a well-structured resume as it is the first impression that a potential employer has of you. Employers receive hundreds of resumes, and therefore, a lengthy resume with irrelevant information may not get the attention it deserves.

A well-structured Canadian resume should have a clear and concise summary or objective, work experience, education, skills, and additional sections, if necessary. By following the Canadian resume format, job seekers increase their chances of getting noticed by potential employers.

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• Guide To Canadian Resume Format
• Difference Between CV and Resume in Canada
• How To Write A Summary Statement For A Canadian Resume
• 300+ Action Words For Canadian Resume

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Canada Resume Formats, Templates, and Writing Tips

Applying for a job in Canada? This Canada Resume guide has the templates, tips, examples, & format requirements needed to write the perfect resume.

“Software developer looking to work for prestigious software companies…”

“Software developer with 10+ years of experience scaling data-intensive software companies…”

The difference between those two lines while appears to be small creates a big difference when you use them on your Canadian resume.

Read further.

This Canadian resume writing guide will help you if:

• You are someone outside of Canada creating a resume for Canadian jobs
• Or, someone within Canada trying to best adapt an existing resume

We will go over the following details in this article:

• Popular Canadian resume formats and how to select the right one for you
• How to write a Canadian resume
• 10 Canadian resume examples to inspire you
• How to convert your current resume to a Canadian-style resume

Before we get into that, try out VisualCV’s resume-building platform - built with love out of Vancouver, Canada - the best way to build a Canadian resume.

The 3 Popular Canadian Resume Formats

The top 3 Canadian resume formats are:

• Reverse chronological resume format
• Functional resume format
• Combination resume format

These are the resume formats that are popular across Canada. We saw chronological and functional resumes top the choice while combination resume format was the third choice.

Surprisingly, job seekers in Toronto preferred a reverse chronological resume over any other resume format.

Let’s now take a look at these Canadian resume format examples.

Chronological Canadian Resume Format Example

Here’s what a Canadian resume built using the chronological resume format would look like:

Is a Reverse Chronological Format Right for Your Canadian Resume?

Reverse chronological resume right for you if:

• You have relevant work experience to highlight.
• You aren’t changing careers (e.g. software engineer applying for a marketing position)
• Your total work experience is less than 20 years.

Functional Canadian Resume Format Example

Here’s what a Canadian resume built using the functional resume format would look like:

Is a Functional Format Right for Your Canadian Resume?

Functional resume right for you if:

• You have to explain how your skills are relevant to the advertised position
• You wish to highlight your outstanding skills and achievements
• If you wish to lead with your skills instead of experience

Combination Canadian Resume Format Example

Here’s what a Canadian resume built using the combination resume format would look like:

Is a Combination Format Right for Your Canadian Resume?

Combination resume right for you if:

• If you are right a resume with more than 15 years of experience
• You’ve worked across a range of companies, industries of jobs
• You wish to highlight your overall qualifications in terms of skills and expertise over work experience

Combination resumes are not that popular across Canada though, so if you are planning on using one - exercise caution. Make sure to revisit your resume to ensure it conveys your skills in a meaningful way.

Alright, you now know what a typical Canadian-style resume looks like. But, what should you add to it? Let’s cover that now.

How to Write a Canadian Resume?

After helping hundreds of thousands of job seekers optimize their Canadian resumes, we can assure you that the best way to write a Canadian resume is:

• Based on your experience and skills, select the right resume format.
• Pick a resume template that supports your important resume sections.
• Add your full name, contact information, and link out to Linkedin or relevant portfolio
• Write a resume summary/objective of two lines.
• Write your work, volunteer, or project experience following the STAR method.
• List your top skills - make sure to customize them based on the job ad.
• List your education in a separate section.

If you follow these 7 points listed above, you can easily beat 9/10 applicants for the job.

But, let’s not leave it here. Let’s show you how you can go from the top 10% to the top 1% of applicants.

To be the best, you’ll have to write each section of your Canadian resume with care. This is where the top 1% of applicants differentiate themselves.

To help you craft your resume’s section with ease, we created these templates that you can use and write those sections. You can find them below.

Work Experience Format for a Canadian Resume

[Job title] [Company name, City, Province] [Date started] - [Date ended]

• [Task 1] [Situatuation faced and the solution used]
• [Task 2] [Situatuation faced and the solution used]
• [Task 3] [Situatuation faced and the solution used]
• [Task 4] [Situatuation faced and the solution used]

Important things to keep in mind when using this Canadian resume’s work experience template:

• Ideal to keep each task/achievement to one line
• Using simpler words would help as it improves readability
• Customize your work experience based on the job ad

Canadian Resume Summary Format

"[Job title] with [number of years] experience of [top 2-3 skills] across [industries]. Achieved [top achievement]. Expert at [X], [Y], and [Z]."

You can additionally list the following within your resume summary too:

• Any awards that you’ve received
• Any passions you have

A simple glance by a Canadian hiring manager would provide them with all the right information they need to continue reading further.

You can also adapt this Canadian resume summary format to write an objective too.

Note : If you are writing your Canadian resume for a career transition or your first job - write an objective instead of a summary.

Objectives help connect your skills and experience to the job that you are applying for.

Format to List Skills on Your Canadian Resume

To list skills on your Canadian resume, try the format provided below: Technical Skills

Make sure to list skills that are relevant to the role that you are applying for and are impactful.

Let’s now look at 10 Canadian Resume Examples. If you wish to access resume examples specific to your job title, click the button below and sign-up.

10 Canadian Resume Examples

Canadian resume example for data engineering.

Sales Canadian Resume Example

Canadian Resume Example for Accountants

Writer Resume Example for Canada

Canadian Resume Example for Executives

Canadian Software Engineering Resume Example

Canadian Designer Resume Example

Project Management Resume for Canada

Retail Canadian Resume Example

Canadian Resume Example for Teachers

Now that you understand how to create a Canadian resume, let’s clear some frequently asked questions.

Is a Canadian Resume Format Different from An American Resume Format?

No, Canadian resumes are extremely similar to American resumes.

Applying for Jobs, but Getting no responses? Maybe, it’s your resume!

How to Convert my Indian Resume to a Canadian Resume?

To convert your Indian resume to a Canadian resume, follow these steps:

• Customize your resume to ensure it is relevant to the job you’re trying to land.
• Remove any hard English words (e.g. esteemed), instead, use easy-to-read words.
• Remove photo, nationality, race, gender, and your full address. Those aren’t required in Canada.
• Follow the STAR method while writing your work experience.
• While listing your certifications, make sure they are recognized by Canadian employers.
• Add a short summary or objective at the top of your resume. Make sure it isn’t more than two lines and is very impactful.
• While listing your education be careful not to list CGPA, instead standardize your scores to a GPA scale and list it. GPAs greater than 3.7 look good, else it is better to not list them.
• While listing your contact information, make sure to list the Canadian city and province along with a Canadian phone number. +91 numbers won’t help here.
• Finally, resumes in India generally appear to be more than two pages. Make sure yours isn’t more than two pages. Ideal to have a relevant resume of one page.

Once you follow these additional instructions and follow our general guidelines at the top - it should be easy to transform your Indian resume into a Canadian resume.

How to Convert my European CV to Canadian Resume?

To change your European CV to a Canadian resume, follow these steps:

• While European CVs differ from country to country, some common things to remove from your resume - birthdate, citizenship, photo, etc.
• Hobbies constantly surface in entry-level EU CVs, we recommend that you remove them when applying for Canadian jobs.
• Select one of the following Canadian resume formats: chronological, functional, or combination.
• Make sure you have a summary/objective, work history, skills, education, and certifications section (if any).
• Follow the STAR method while writing your resume. It is a must!
• Avoid adding paragraphs as it would reduce the readability of your resume.
• Scan your resume for grammatical errors.

Checkout our other international resume guides here.

How Long Should my Canadian Resume be?

A rule of thumb - for students and professionals with less than 15 years of experience the resume should be one page or a maximum of two pages. For Canadian job seekers with more than 15 years of relevant experience, more than two pages is acceptable.

Should I Add a Photo to my Canadian Resume?

No, avoid adding a Photo while creating a Canadian resume.

Is it a Good Idea to List Marital Status on a Resume for Canada?

No Canadian employer would ever ask for this information as a part of their recruitment process. So, we would recommend that you don’t list marital status on your resume.

Should I List My Nationality on a Canadian Resume?

Legally, no Canadian employer can ask you about your nationality. So, we would not recommend that you list it on your resume.

Can I Lie on My Canadian Resume?

Don’t lie on your Canadian resume. With background checks, reference checks, etc being so common, you’ll be caught. Even a small-innocent lie like a difference of month or days in starting dates of your employment could lead to rejection.

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