Although the structure of the resume and the basic information of each section may be similar in the different countries of Latin America, there are particularities that need to be known to create an effective job application and succeed in the job search. In this article, we explain the differences when writing a CV in Latin America and how the format varies depending on the region.
Curriculum or resume?
The first difference in the labor language in Latin America lies in the denomination of the document: "hoja de vida" in some countries, "curriculum" in most of them. "Hoja de vida" is used in Colombia and Panama, while CV is more widespread throughout the rest of Latin America. However, if in Ecuador, Chile, Mexico or Argentina you say "hoja de vida", they will understand that it is the curriculum vitae.
CV length
Although resumes used to be more extensive, especially those of candidates with a lot of experience and extensive academic training, today less is more and the CV (or resume) should take up a maximum of two pages, with the ideal length being just one. This "rule" applies to all Latin American countries.
It should be clarified that for academic or research positions, this document can be as extensive as necessary and it is not uncommon to find writings of more than 10 pages, but only in these cases.
Header
Recruiters from different countries emphasize the importance of including a header in your resume or CV that includes your name and profession (or position you are applying for). The purpose is to provide context about your application and make you easy to remember.
Photo, yes or no?
In Latin America, it is (or was) common to put a photo on the CV. However, nowadays many companies consider it unnecessary because appearance has nothing to do with professional skills.
In Colombia, putting a photo on the resume is recommended because it helps recruiters remember the candidate and, in addition, it is considered that an applicant dressed and groomed professionally leaves a good impression. On the other hand, in Mexico it was prohibited to include photographs in job applications in order to prevent discrimination, being a pioneer within Latin America.
Let's consider another case. If you have to make a CV for Argentina, the decision of whether or not to include a photo can vary depending on the region, for example, in Buenos Aires city it is prohibited for companies to require a photo (or other type of personal information), but this may differ within the country. Many areas request a resume that includes a "4 cm x 4 cm" photo.
The ideal is to check with the company or institution if there is any policy regarding the photo in the resume or CV, and adapt to this requirement.
Personal data
Something similar happens with the photo topic. In Chile, Mexico, and Argentina, for example, in line with anti-discrimination measures, it is enough to mention the location where you live (without street or number), your phone number, and email address. In Uruguay, for example, it is up to the applicant whether to provide information about their gender, ethnicity, and other personal data.
Keep in mind that, regardless of the country, for international companies from the United States, Canada or Europe, the CV should not include marital status, nationality, and age, as they do not provide any information about your professional performance and may encourage discriminatory behavior.
Professional profile to stand out
To a greater or lesser extent, current recruitment trends value CVs and resumes that include a professional profile at the top. Summarize in a few lines your years of experience, studies, skills, and abilities that make you the right applicant.
Experience and education
Experience and academic training are essential in any CV. The different Latin American countries agree that the best way to add jobs and studies is following a reverse chronological order, that is, starting with the most recent.
Regarding education, always mention the name of the institution, the city, and the period during which you studied there. Keep in mind that the titles upon graduation vary from one country to another. For instance, in Argentina, Mexico, and Colombia, "Bachillerato" refers to secondary education and "Bachiller" to the person who completes it. However, in Chile, this level is usually included as "Nivel Medio education". In Peru, a "Bachiller" (for example, "Bachiller in Nutrition") is someone who has graduated from university after completing a 4 to 6-year career, which in Argentina or Mexico would be a "Licenciado". Therefore, you should research the equivalences of your titles according to the country in which you are looking for a job.
Regarding experience, all recruiters value that the main tasks and responsibilities of each job, as well as the achievements reached, are specified.
Focus on skills
Technical skills (for example, computer programs) and personal ones (leadership, creativity, assertive communication, etc.) are highly appreciated in any company or organization, so regardless of the country in Latin America where you want to work, include a "Skills" section in your CV.
Job references, only when asked
Including job references at the end of the CV is an old habit that has become obsolete. Recruiters and Human Resources specialists from Chile, Colombia, Argentina, Peru and Panama agree that they should only be sent when asked and in a separate document.
CV format
The format of the CV or resume does not differ too much from one country to another. The basic structure of header, personal data, profile, experience, education, skills, and languages is always respected, and studies and work experience can alternate places depending on which is more significant.
As for the design, it should be clean, clear, and legible. Choose simple fonts (Calibri, Arial, Verdana, Poppins), of size 10-12 points. Using a spacing of 1.15-1.5 facilitates reading. Colors can be used without abusing bullets, icons, or blocks, although classic black and white is usually the recruiters' favorite.
CV templates usually make the task of creating this document easier and help organize the content and present it in an attractive way. You can edit your CV according to the particularities of each country, for example, one for Colombia with a photo and another for Mexico without a photo.
Final recommendations
The staff selection processes are becoming more homogeneous due to globalization and greater international contact. However, it is always important to consider cultural differences and the professional standards of each country to minimize the risk of making mistakes and make the best impression.
Now you know how the resume format varies in Latin America, get to work to create yours and prepare to succeed.
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Leer "Formato del currículum en Latinoamérica" en Español