Introduction
Landing a job in Belgium’s diverse and multilingual job market starts with one critical document: your CV. Whether you’re eyeing a role in Brussels’ EU institutions, Antwerp’s bustling port, or Ghent’s thriving tech scene, your CV isn’t just a summary of your career—it’s your first impression. And in a country where language, culture, and industry expectations vary dramatically, a one-size-fits-all approach won’t cut it.
Why Your CV Needs a Belgian Touch
Belgium’s job market is unique. With three official languages (Dutch, French, and German) and a mix of local and international employers, recruiters look for candidates who demonstrate both professionalism and cultural awareness. Common pitfalls include:
- Language confusion: Submitting a CV in the wrong language for the region (e.g., French in Flanders or Dutch in Wallonia).
- Format mismatches: Overly creative designs that clash with Belgium’s preference for clean, structured layouts.
- Cultural blind spots: Failing to highlight skills like multilingualism or EU project experience, which are highly valued.
“A CV for Belgium isn’t just about qualifications—it’s about showing you understand the local context. Even small details, like including a professional photo or listing language proficiency levels, can make or break your application.” — Brussels-based HR consultant
What This Guide Will Cover
This article isn’t just another generic CV checklist. You’ll get a step-by-step blueprint to:
- Tailor your CV for Flanders, Wallonia, or Brussels-based roles.
- Navigate language requirements (including when to use a multilingual CV).
- Structure your content to align with Belgian recruiters’ preferences.
By the end, you’ll have a CV that doesn’t just check boxes—it tells a compelling story of why you’re the perfect fit for Belgium’s dynamic job market. Ready to transform your application? Let’s dive in.
Understanding the Belgian Job Market
Belgium’s job market is a patchwork of regional nuances, language expectations, and industry-specific quirks. Whether you’re eyeing a role in Brussels’ EU institutions, Flanders’ tech hubs, or Wallonia’s manufacturing sector, understanding these subtleties can mean the difference between landing an interview and getting lost in the pile.
Regional Differences: Flanders, Wallonia, and Brussels
Belgium’s three regions operate like distinct job markets. In Flanders, Dutch is the lingua franca—even if the company operates internationally, a CV without Dutch proficiency might raise eyebrows for client-facing roles. Meanwhile, Wallonia leans heavily French, with employers often expecting cover letters and CVs in flawless French unless explicitly stated otherwise. Brussels is the exception: as the de facto capital of the EU, English is widely accepted, especially in international organizations, though bilingual (French/Dutch) candidates still hold an edge.
Pro tip:
- Research the company’s headquarters. A Antwerp-based firm will likely prefer Dutch, while a Liège employer expects French.
- For Brussels roles, check the job description’s language—it’s your clearest hint.
Language Expectations: More Than Just a Checkbox
Belgium’s multilingualism isn’t just a cultural footnote—it’s a career accelerator. Here’s when to prioritize each language:
- Dutch: Essential for local roles in Flanders (e.g., teaching, government, healthcare).
- French: Non-negotiable for Walloon public-sector jobs or customer service positions.
- English: Safe for tech startups, EU institutions, or multinationals, but adding a Belgian language (even at A2 level) shows commitment.
“A candidate who lists ‘French: conversational’ gets a second look—it signals adaptability, which Belgian employers value,” notes a Liège-based recruiter.
Industry-Specific CV Norms
Belgian recruiters don’t just want skills—they want proof you understand their sector’s unwritten rules:
- Tech/IT: Prioritize certifications (AWS, Scrum) and concrete outcomes (e.g., “Reduced server costs by 30%”). English CVs are standard.
- Finance: Quantify everything (e.g., “Managed €2M portfolio”), and highlight local qualifications like a Belgian accounting certification.
- Healthcare: Emphasize language skills (patient-facing roles require native-level Dutch/French) and EU-recognized credentials.
- Creative fields: A LinkedIn portfolio or PDF CV with visual elements can work—but only if the employer is progressive.
What Belgian Recruiters Prioritize
Belgian hiring managers are notoriously detail-oriented. Here’s what tops their checklist:
- Precision: Dates with months (e.g., “Jan 2020–Mar 2023”), not just years. Gaps raise questions.
- Modesty: Avoid flashy titles like “Marketing Guru.” Stick to “Digital Marketing Specialist.”
- Local relevance: Did you volunteer at a Belgian NGO? Include it. Even small local ties help.
Remember, your CV isn’t just a resume—it’s a cultural handshake. Nail these details, and you’ll show employers you’re not just qualified, but belong in Belgium’s professional landscape.
Essential Components of a Belgian CV
Crafting a CV for the Belgian job market isn’t just about listing your qualifications—it’s about striking the right balance between professionalism and cultural nuance. Belgian employers value clarity, precision, and a touch of personal flair. Here’s how to structure your CV to make an impact.
Personal Details: Keep It Professional (But Private)
Belgian CVs typically include:
- Full name (no nicknames)
- Professional email (e.g., firstname.lastname@domain.com)
- Phone number with country code
- LinkedIn profile (if polished)
- Optional but common: A professional headshot (neutral background, business attire)
What to skip: Marital status, birth date, or national ID numbers—Belgium’s GDPR laws take privacy seriously. Pro tip: If applying in Flanders, list your city; for Brussels or Wallonia, just your country is fine unless relocation is required.
Professional Summary: Your Elevator Pitch
This 3-4 line opener should answer: Who are you, what do you offer, and why does it matter to this employer? Avoid generic statements like “experienced professional.” Instead, try:
“Digital marketing specialist with 5+ years scaling e-commerce brands in Benelux markets. Fluent in Dutch and English, with a track record of increasing ROAS by 30% through data-driven ad strategies. Passionate about bridging tech and creative storytelling.”
See the difference? Specificity sells.
Work Experience: Reverse Chronology with Results
Belgian recruiters scan quickly—format for impact:
- Job title, company, dates (month/year for Belgian roles)
- Bullet points starting with action verbs (Launched, Optimized, Spearheaded)
- Metrics wherever possible (e.g., “Grew LinkedIn followers by 200% in 6 months”)
For example:
Digital Project Manager | XYZ Tech, Antwerp
Jan 2020–Present
- Led a cross-functional team of 8 to deliver a SaaS platform 2 weeks ahead of deadline, securing €500K in client upsells
- Reduced customer onboarding time by 40% by redesigning training modules
Avoid: Dense paragraphs or irrelevant roles (your high school internship at a bakery won’t impress a fintech recruiter).
Education & Certifications: Relevance Is Key
List degrees with:
- Institution name and location
- Degree title and major (e.g., Master of Business Administration – Finance)
- Graduation year (no need for start dates)
Bonus points:
- Add honors (cum laude) if applicable
- Include professional certifications (e.g., Prince2, C1 Dutch language diploma)
- For recent grads, mention thesis topics if industry-relevant
Skills Section: Hard + Soft = Belgian Gold
Belgian employers look for a mix of technical abilities and interpersonal skills. Structure it like this:
- Technical: Data analysis (SQL, Power BI), Adobe Creative Suite, Fluent in Dutch (C2)
- Soft: Stakeholder management, Agile teamwork, Negotiation (closed deals worth €1M+ in 2023)
Pro tip: Use the job description’s language. If they mention “Scrum,” mirror that instead of “Agile methodologies.”
By nailing these components, your CV won’t just meet expectations—it’ll stand out in Belgium’s competitive, multilingual job market. Ready to refine yours? Start with the section that needs the most work, and polish until it shines.
Language and Localization Tips
Belgium’s linguistic landscape is as layered as its famous waffles—deliciously complex but rewarding when you get the balance right. Whether you’re applying to a French-speaking Walloon firm or a Dutch-focused startup in Flanders, your CV’s language strategy can make or break your chances. Here’s how to navigate it like a local.
Multilingual CVs: One Size Doesn’t Fit All
Should you submit separate CVs or a combined version? It depends on the role:
- Separate versions work best when:
- The job ad specifies a language (e.g., “CV en français requis”).
- You’re applying to public-sector roles (government jobs often require monolingual submissions).
- Your proficiency levels vary significantly (e.g., fluent French but intermediate Dutch).
- A combined CV makes sense for:
- International companies or EU institutions where English dominates.
- Highlighting multilingualism as a skill (e.g., listing “Trilingual: Dutch (C2), French (C1), English (C2)” at the top).
Pro tip: Always match the CV’s primary language to the job ad’s wording. If it says “Sollicitatie in het Nederlands,” your Dutch version should be flawless—even if you’re applying from abroad.
Keyword Optimization: Speak the ATS’s Language
Belgian recruiters increasingly use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS), especially in tech and corporate sectors. To get past the digital gatekeeper:
- Mirror the job description’s phrasing. If the ad seeks “ERP implementation,” don’t write “enterprise software rollout”—even if it means the same thing.
- Prioritize local terminology. For example:
- Use “Baccalauréat” (French) or “Bachelor” (Dutch) instead of “high school diploma.”
- Swap “team player” for regionally preferred terms like “collaboratieve aanpak” (Dutch) or “esprit d’équipe” (French).
A Brussels-based IT recruiter recently told me: “We search for ‘Java’ and ‘Spring Boot’—not ‘coding.’ If your CV doesn’t include those exact terms, you’re invisible.”
Cultural Nuances: Confidence Without Arrogance
Belgians value modesty but respect competence. Strike the right tone by:
- Using facts over fluff. Instead of “I’m a marketing genius,” write “Grew Instagram followers by 200% in 6 months through targeted campaigns.”
- Avoiding superlatives. Words like “best,” “unparalleled,” or “world-class” can feel brash. Let your achievements speak for themselves.
- Balancing team vs. individual wins. Phrases like “contributed to” or “part of a team that” show collaboration—a cultural must-have.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even small missteps can land your CV in the “no” pile:
- Direct translations (e.g., “Curriculum Vitae” instead of “CV” in French/Dutch).
- Informal language (e.g., “Hey, I’m John!” → “Dear Hiring Manager, I am John Doe.”).
- Irrelevant details (marital status, hobbies like “collecting stamps”—unless it’s directly related to the role).
Quick Localization Checklist
Before hitting “send,” ask:
- Does my CV’s language match the job ad’s requirements?
- Have I replaced generic terms with local keywords?
- Is my tone confident but culturally appropriate?
- Are there any awkward translations or informal phrases?
Nail these details, and your CV won’t just cross borders—it’ll resonate with Belgian employers on their own terms. After all, in a country with three official languages, fluency isn’t just about vocabulary. It’s about showing you understand the unwritten rules.
Design and Formatting Best Practices
Your CV’s design isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about usability. Belgian recruiters often skim hundreds of applications daily, so clarity and professionalism trump creativity. But how do you strike the right balance between standing out and fitting in? Let’s break it down.
Europass CV vs. Creative Formats: Know When to Use Each
The Europass template is widely recognized in Belgium, especially for roles in government, academia, or EU institutions. It’s a safe choice, but it’s also generic. Pros? It’s ATS-friendly and familiar to recruiters. Cons? It lacks personality and can blend into the pile.
For creative industries (e.g., marketing, design, or startups), a custom format can showcase your skills visually. Just keep these rules in mind:
- Don’t sacrifice readability for flair: Avoid hard-to-read fonts or excessive colors.
- Prioritize scannability: Use clear headings and white space to guide the reader’s eye.
- Test for ATS compatibility: Some creative layouts break when scanned by applicant tracking systems.
“A junior graphic designer once sent me a CV designed like a festival poster—it was memorable, but I couldn’t find her work history. Creativity should enhance, not obscure.” — Antwerp-based creative director
Visual Hierarchy: Make Your CV Skimmable in 10 Seconds
Recruiters spend an average of 7 seconds on a first scan. To keep their attention:
- Use bold headings (e.g., “Work Experience,” “Education”) with consistent formatting.
- Bullet points > paragraphs: Break dense text into 1–2 line achievements. For example:
- Increased social media engagement by 40% through targeted ad campaigns
- Streamlined inventory processes, reducing waste by €20K annually
- Left-align text: Centered or justified text is harder to read quickly.
Length Guidelines: How Much Is Too Much?
In Belgium, brevity is valued, but senior roles get more leeway:
- Entry-level candidates: Stick to 1 page. Focus on relevant coursework, internships, and transferable skills.
- Mid-career professionals: 1–2 pages max. Cut older roles (e.g., your 2005 summer job) unless they’re directly relevant.
- Executives: 2 pages are acceptable, but every line must justify its place.
File Formats and Naming Conventions
- Always submit as a PDF (unless the job posting specifies Word). It preserves formatting across devices.
- Name your file professionally:
- Bad: “CV_2024_FINAL(2).docx”
- Good: “FirstName_LastName_CV_MarketingManager.pdf”
- Digital submission tips:
- If uploading to a job portal, check if their system strips formatting. When in doubt, use a simple layout.
- For email applications, include a brief message in the body (e.g., “Dear [Hiring Manager], please find my CV attached for the [Job Title] role”).
A well-formatted CV isn’t just easy on the eyes—it’s a strategic tool that quietly convinces recruiters you’re worth a closer look. Polish yours until it’s crisp, clean, and impossible to ignore.
Case Studies and Real-World Examples
Ever wondered why some CVs land interviews while others vanish into the void? The difference often lies in real-world tweaks—small changes that align your story with what Belgian employers actually want. Let’s break down tangible examples where strategic CV edits opened doors.
Before-and-After CV Transformations
Take “Sophie,” a Brussels-based marketing professional who struggled to get callbacks. Her original CV listed vague responsibilities like “Managed social media accounts.” After a revamp, her bullet points became achievement-driven:
- Before: “Posted content on LinkedIn.”
- After: “Grew LinkedIn engagement by 120% in 6 months through data-driven content calendars and A/B testing.”
The result? Three interviews in two weeks. The lesson? Belgian recruiters crave specificity.
Common fixes we’ve seen:
- Ditching clichés: Swap “team player” for “Collaborated with UX designers to reduce customer support tickets by 25%.”
- Localizing language skills: Listing “French (B2)” instead of “Fluent” shows self-awareness—critical in Belgium’s linguistically nuanced market.
Success Stories: Tailored CVs That Worked
When “Luca,” an Italian engineer, applied for a role at a Flemish tech firm, he assumed his EU experience would speak for itself. But after adding Dutch keywords (even with an A2 proficiency note) and reordering his skills to match local job ads, he landed the job. His secret? Mirroring the employer’s priorities:
- Added: “Experience with Agile methodologies (Scrum, Kanban) — certified by Dutch-speaking team.”
- Cut: Irrelevant internships from 10+ years ago.
Another win: “Amina,” a Moroccan finance professional, secured a role at a Walloon bank by:
- Leading with her French fluency
- Highlighting her familiarity with Belgian tax laws (even as a newcomer)
- Using Euro-centric metrics (e.g., “Optimized €2M portfolio”)
Industry-Specific Wins
- Tech: A Ghent startup hired a Java developer who replaced “Coded software” with “Reduced API latency by 40% using Spring Boot—adopted company-wide.”
- Hospitality: A bilingual (FR/NL) hotel manager candidate got hired after adding “Trained 15 staff on cross-cultural guest service—TripAdvisor ratings rose from 3.8 to 4.6.”
- Academia: A PhD graduate broke into a Leuven research lab by reframing publications as “3 peer-reviewed papers on renewable energy, cited in EU policy drafts.”
“The CVs that stand out don’t just meet requirements—they anticipate the unspoken ones,” notes a Liège-based HR director. “Did you adapt your format for our ATS? Mention a local professional network? That’s the polish we notice.”
Your Turn: Spot the Difference
Compare these two excerpts for a customer service role in Antwerp:
- Generic: “Handled client inquiries via phone and email.”
- Belgium-optimized: “Resolved 30+ daily inquiries in Dutch/French for B2B clients, achieving 95% satisfaction scores (internal metrics, 2023).”
See the shift? One’s a job description; the other’s a value proposition. Now, audit your CV: Where could you swap vague statements for proof? Start with your most recent role and work backward—your future Belgian employer will thank you.
Conclusion
Crafting a CV for the Belgian job market isn’t just about listing your skills—it’s about speaking the language of local employers, both literally and culturally. Whether you’re targeting Flanders, Wallonia, or Brussels, your CV should reflect an understanding of regional preferences, from language prioritization to the subtle art of presenting your achievements.
Key Takeaways for a Winning Belgian CV
- Language matters: Tailor your CV to the region’s dominant language (Dutch or French), but don’t underestimate the power of even basic proficiency. A “French (A2)” note can signal cultural commitment.
- Quantify your impact: Belgian recruiters love concrete results. Swap vague statements for metrics like “Boosted client retention by 30%” or “Managed a €500K budget.”
- Localize your format: Skip creative designs unless you’re in a visual field. Stick to clean, ATS-friendly layouts with clear headings like “Work Experience” and “Education.”
Experiment and Refine
There’s no single “perfect” CV—only the one that resonates with your target employer. Test different versions:
- Try leading with a skills summary for tech roles or a career objective for public-sector jobs.
- Adjust your language emphasis based on feedback. One Antwerp recruiter told me, “Even a basic Dutch greeting in the cover letter can break the ice.”
Your Next Steps
Ready to put these insights into action? Download our free Belgian CV template (link below) to jumpstart your application. For deeper customization, consider:
- Running your CV by a local contact or career coach.
- Using tools like JobTeaser or StepStone to compare your CV with Belgian job ads.
Remember, your CV is more than a document—it’s your first impression. Polish it until it doesn’t just say “qualified” but “the right fit.” Belgium’s job market is competitive, but with these strategies, you’re not just applying—you’re standing out.
“The best candidates don’t just meet requirements—they make it easy for me to imagine them in the role.” — Brussels-based HR manager
Now, go make your CV impossible to ignore. The right opportunity is waiting.