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August 30, 2024
If you're a US tax professional looking to move your career to the UK, tweaking your CV to fit UK standards is crucial. While resumes in the US and CVs in the UK have some similarities, there are key differences that can make a big impact on your job search. Here’s how you can adjust your CV to appeal to UK employers.
Length:
In the UK, CVs are typically expected to be around two pages. Unlike the one-page resumes often seen in the US, UK employers prefer a more detailed overview of your experience.
Personal Details:
Start with your full name and contact details, including your phone number, email address, and home address. There’s no need to include a photo or date of birth, as UK law discourages this to prevent discrimination.
Professional Profile:
Include a short professional summary at the top, highlighting your key strengths, relevant experience, and what you’re looking to achieve in your next role. Make sure this section is tailored to the specific job you’re applying for, focusing on how your US experience can benefit a UK employer.
Relevant Experience:
Make sure to emphasize experience that’s directly transferable to UK tax practice. For example, if you’ve worked with multinational clients or have experience in international tax, these should be front and center.
Skills Section:
Dedicate a section to your skills, showcasing things like proficiency in tax software, knowledge of US GAAP and IFRS, and understanding of international tax treaties. Highlight skills that are particularly valued in the UK, such as adaptability and strong analytical abilities.
Order and Detail:
List your work experience in reverse chronological order, starting with your most recent position. For each role, include your job title, the company name, and dates of employment. Instead of just listing duties, focus on achievements and specific contributions you made in each role.
Quantify Success:
Where possible, include metrics to quantify your achievements. If you managed a client portfolio or helped reduce tax liabilities, provide the figures to back it up. UK employers appreciate seeing the impact of your work in numbers.
Educational Background:
Include your educational history, starting with your highest qualification. List the degree, institution, and year of graduation. If your degree is from a US institution, it might be helpful to explain or equate it to a UK qualification for context.
Certifications:
Highlight any relevant certifications, such as CPA (Certified Public Accountant), EA (Enrolled Agent), or any UK-specific qualifications like ATT (Association of Taxation Technicians) or CTA (Chartered Tax Adviser). If you’re working on any UK-specific certifications, mention them too.
Customization:
Tailor your CV for each job you apply to by using the language and keywords from the job description. This not only helps with applicant tracking systems (ATS) but also makes your application more relevant to the specific role.
Relevant Experience:
Focus on the experience that’s most relevant to the job you’re applying for. If you’re moving into a slightly different role, emphasize your transferable skills and how your US experience can offer a unique perspective.
Reference Section:
In the UK, it’s common practice to state “References available upon request” rather than listing them outright. Make sure you have them ready if asked, but there’s no need to include them on your CV.
UK English:
Use UK English throughout your CV. For instance, use "organisation" instead of "organization" and "specialise" instead of "specialize." This shows attention to detail and that you’re serious about working in the UK.
Tax Terminology:
Be aware of the differences in tax terminology between the US and UK. For example, use terms like “corporation tax” instead of “corporate tax” and be familiar with UK-specific terms like “turnover” (revenue) and “profit” (net income).
Attention to Detail:
Make sure your CV is free from spelling and grammar errors. It’s a good idea to have someone else review it or use a professional proofreading service. Small mistakes can make a big difference in how your application is received.
By adjusting your CV to fit UK expectations, you can better showcase your US tax experience and make a strong impression on UK employers. Tailoring your CV not only helps you stand out but also shows that you’re ready to integrate into the UK tax profession.
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