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How to List Language Levels on Your Resume (With Examples)
Learning a new language is a significant achievement, and showcasing this skill on your resume is essential in today’s job market. However, accurately representing your language proficiency can be challenging. This article explains how to effectively list language skill levels on your resume, outlines the commonly recognized language proficiency levels, and provides guidance on when and how to include your language skills.
Key Takeaways
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Highlighting language skills on your resume can significantly enhance your profile, making you stand out from the competition and improve your chances of securing a job offer.
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Language skills consist of four key components: speaking, listening, reading, and writing.
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To accurately reflect your language proficiency, conduct a thorough self-assessment and consider taking a few online language proficiency tests.
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Before adding language skills to your resume, research the specific needs of the organization, department, and position to ensure you include the most relevant information, increasing your chances of capturing a hiring manager’s attention.
How to List Language Skill Levels on Your Resume
When listing language skills, specificity is crucial. Instead of vague phrases like “proficient in a foreign language,” provide clear and concise descriptions of your abilities.
Here are examples of how to effectively present your foreign language skills on a resume:
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“Fluent in Mandarin Chinese: Speaking, writing, and reading.”
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“Proficient in speaking Spanish and French.”
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“Conversant in German.”
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“Basic skills in speaking and writing in Hindi.”
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“Studied Spanish for four years at Columbia University – fluent in Spanish speech and writing.”
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“Bilingual: English and Dutch.”
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“Certificate in fluent French from Northwestern University.”
What Are Language Skill Levels for Resumes?
Language skills can be categorized across a spectrum. While skill levels are commonly grouped into beginner, intermediate, and advanced, language proficiency is typically assessed using four categories: basic, conversational, proficient, and fluent.
Here’s a breakdown of each proficiency level:
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Basic Level: You can recognize and use a few common words and phrases but cannot engage in real conversations.
Examples of basic phrases include:
- “Thank you!”
- “Excuse me…”
- “Yes, please!”
- “Where is the bathroom?”
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Conversational Level: You can handle simple conversations but may struggle with grammar and complex vocabulary.
Sample conversation starters include:
- “The weather is beautiful today!”
- “Do you know who is winning the soccer game?”
- “Can you please give me directions to the hotel?”
- “Did you enjoy the movie?”
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Proficient Level: You can use the language comfortably in various contexts but may not have the fluency of a native speaker.
Examples of proficient phrases include:
- “I’ve been enjoying the sunshine, but I heard on the news that it’s supposed to be colder tomorrow.”
- “Manchester United has defeated Arsenal ten points to seven.”
- “To get to the hotel, walk four blocks east and then turn left.”
- “I thought that the movie was funny, but it also made me feel sad.”
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Fluent Level: You have mastered the language and can confidently discuss any topic in any context.
Examples of fluent phrases include:
- “Entropy is the second law of thermodynamics.”
- “Aristotle was a Greek moral philosopher who lived during the fourth century BCE.”
- “Can you describe to me in detail how the greenhouse effect works?”
- “I remain hopeful about the prospects for diplomacy and economic cooperation in the European Union.”
How to Determine Your Language Skill Level
To gain a clear and objective understanding of your language proficiency, follow these three steps:
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Reflect on Your Skill Level: Consider which of the four categories you belong to: basic, conversational, proficient, or fluent. An honest self-assessment is crucial.
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Assess the Four Subcategories: Language skills include four components to consider: speaking, listening, reading, and writing. Recognize that your abilities may vary across these areas.
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Take Online Assessments: Leverage online tools for a more objective evaluation of your language skills. It’s advisable to take multiple tests for a comprehensive assessment.
When Should You Include Language Skill Levels on Your Resume?
Include language skill levels on your resume when they add value to your application. Although not all employers explicitly require language skills, many prefer candidates who can communicate in multiple languages.
Consider including language skills in the following scenarios:
- Applying for Jobs Overseas: If you’re seeking a position in a country where a specific language is spoken, clearly outline your proficiency in that language.
- Employers Focusing on Growth: If you’re applying to a company that plans to expand internationally, your language skills can be a significant asset.
- Multilingual Workplaces: If the company values a diverse workforce, highlighting your language skills can enhance your candidacy.
Why Should You Include Language Skill Levels on Your Resume?
Including language skills on your resume demonstrates your multicultural communication abilities, commitment to learning, and can be advantageous for roles that require international travel.
- Demonstrates Cultural Competence: Your ability to communicate across cultures is increasingly valuable in a globalized workplace.
- Shows Commitment to Learning: Listing language skills reflects your dedication to acquiring challenging new competencies.
- Enhances Your Value as a Candidate: If the role involves international travel, your language skills will make you a more appealing candidate.
- Resume Format
- Resume Templates
- General Resume Examples
- Resume Builder
- Resume Format
- Resume Margins
- Resume Header
- Work Experience On Resume
- Irrelevant Work Experience
- Listing Languages On Resume
- Volunteer Work On Resume
- GPA On Resume
- Resume Title
- Summary Of Qualifications
- Resume Picture
- Python Project On Resume
- Google Docs Resume Template
- Professional Bio On Resume
- Multiple Positions At Same Company
- Relevant Coursework Resume
- Where And How To Put Internships On Your Resume
- Professional Resume Formats
Author
Chris Kolmar is a co-founder of Zippia and the editor-in-chief of the Zippia career advice blog. He has hired over 50 people in his career, been hired five times, and wants to help you land your next job. His research has been featured on the New York Times, Thrillist, VOX, The Atlantic, and a host of local news. More recently, he's been quoted on USA Today, BusinessInsider, and CNBC.
Expert
Don Pippin is an executive and HR leader for Fortune 50 and 500 companies and startups. In 2008, Don launched area|Talent with a focus on helping clients identify their brand. As a Certified Professional Resume Writer, Certified Digital Career Strategist, and Certified Personal Branding Strategist, Don guides clients through career transitions.
