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Writing a Canadian-Style Résumé

A résumé that worked well in your home country may need a few changes in Canada. Employers here expect something short, specific and focused on results, with very little personal information.

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In this guide

The basics

  • Length. One page for early-career roles and up to two pages for experienced professionals.
  • Format. A clean, single-column layout in a standard font. Many employers use software that scans résumés, and busy designs can confuse it.
  • Order. Contact details, a short summary, experience (most recent first), education, and skills.
  • File. Send a PDF unless the employer asks for something else.

What to leave out

Canadian human rights law discourages employers from basing decisions on personal characteristics, so a résumé normally leaves them out. Don't include:

  • A photo
  • Your date of birth or age
  • Marital status or number of children
  • Your nationality or religion
  • Your SIN or passport number

Show results, not duties

Instead of listing what your job description said, describe what you achieved. Start each bullet with an action verb and include a number where you can.

Instead of…Try…
Responsible for customer serviceResolved 40+ customer enquiries per day with a 96% satisfaction rating
Managed a teamLed a team of 8 to deliver a project two weeks ahead of schedule
Worked in salesGrew regional sales by 18% in one year by opening three new accounts

Describing experience from abroad

  • Use job titles Canadians will understand, and add context if needed, such as “Software Engineer (company of 500 staff, Mumbai).”
  • Briefly explain the size or reputation of employers that Canadians may not know.
  • Convert achievements to numbers that make sense here, such as percentages or Canadian-dollar equivalents.
  • Translate any non-English documents or certificates you mention.

Navak provides general information only. It is not legal, immigration, financial or tax advice.

Next guideFinding Your First Job in CanadaHow the Canadian job market works, where to look, how networking fits in, and what to do if you work in a regulated profession.

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