What a Canadian Resume Format Looks Like and How to Write It

The Canadian resume format isn’t much different from other resumes. It’s a one to two-page job application document designed to highlight how you’re qualified for a particular role. List your work experience in reverse chronological order. Use clear section headings, bullet points, and a professional font such as Arial. Start with your contact details, followed by a professional summary or objective. Next, outline your work experience, education, and key skills. 

Thinking of moving to Canada or applying for a job with a Canadian company? 

You’re not alone — plenty of people are making the leap to the Great White North. But before you start braving the snow, there’s one thing you’ll need to get right first: your resume. 

From switching to the metric system (yep, it’s kilometres and litres here) to understanding how Canadian companies handle job applications, this guide has you covered. 

The Ideal Canadian Resume Example

Here’s an example of a well-rounded Canadian resume, with notes to show you what each section should look like. Whether you’re updating your resume or starting from scratch, these tips will help you showcase all the important stuff. 

How is a Canadian Resume Different From a US Resume?

In short: Canadian resumes generally use British English rather than American English for spellings. Plus, Canada typically uses the YYYY-MM-DD format, while the US uses MM/DD/YYYY. One and two-page resumes work for both Canadian and US resumes. 

Canada and the US might be neighbors, but they have their differences. Canada has Thanksgiving in October, the US in November. Tim Hortons reigns supreme in Canada, while Starbucks dominates in the US. Just like these cultural quirks, Canadian resumes have their own unique twists.

Here are the key differences between Canadian and US resumes: 

Language and spelling 

Canadians use British English spellings, so make sure to write “favourite” instead of “favorite,” “centre” instead of “center,” and “colour” instead of “color.” Run your resume through Grammarly to check you’re using the right spelling.

In bilingual regions, like Quebec, your resume might need to be in French, so it’s important to match your resume’s language to the job listing. And mention your proficiency in both languages. 

Date format

Canada uses the YYYY-MM-DD format, while the US uses MM/DD/YYYY, so keep that in mind when listing dates. 

Measurements 

Canadians use the metric system. If you mention distances or weights, convert them to kilometres, kilograms, or litres. For example, "managed the logistics for over 50,000kg of goods over 200km.” 

Resume length 

Canadian resumes are generally two pages long when you’re an experienced professional, but one-page resumes also work. However, stick to one page if you’re just out of school, starting your career, or making a significant career change. 

Resume vs. CV

In most of Canada, a resume is a concise, tailored document (one to two pages) showcasing your relevant skills and experience, just like in the US. A CV is longer and includes a full work history, publications, and more, typically for senior or academic roles. In Quebec, however, “resume” and “CV” are used interchangeably. 

What to Include on a Canadian Resume 

Add the standard sections: header, summary or objectives, work experience, education, and skills. Include your contact information and key projects, tasks, and achievements that show you’re qualified for the role.

Here’s what to include and leave out in your Canadian resume: 

When putting together your Canadian resume, consider following a few simple rules that align with local expectations. 

How to Format a Canadian Resume

Here’s how to format a Canadian resume:

• Use a reverse-chronological layout, starting with your most recent experience. It’s the easiest format for Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) and keeps things clear for recruiters. 
• Keep it brief and to the point — one page for new grads or entry-level candidates, and two pages for seasoned professionals. If you’re short on experience, lead with the education section right after your objective, followed by your work experience.
• Choose a professional font like Arial or Calibri in 10–12 pt for body text and 14–16 for headings. 
• Go with single or 1.15 spacing and one-inch margins on all sides. 
• Use bold text for section headings like “Experience,” “Education,” and “Skills.” 
• Keep the design simple — a subtle pop of color in your headings is fine, but avoid flashy elements that might distract from your content. 
• Save and send your resume as a PDF (unless the job ad says otherwise) to preserve formatting. 

A neat format isn’t just about aesthetics — it’s about making your qualifications shine. To learn more, check out our guide on The Best Resume Format. 

When applying for jobs in Canada, your resume’s presentation is just as important as its content. A polished, organized layout can highlight your strengths and increase your chances of landing an interview. 

How to Create a Canadian Resume Step-by-Step

In short: to create a standout Canadian resume, start with a clear header featuring your name, contact details (phone number, email address, location by city and country), and job-specific links like your LinkedIn profile. Write a tailored summary or objective that highlights your experience and enthusiasm, using keywords from the job posting. Showcase your work experience with achievements and metrics, list relevant education and certifications, and balance hard and soft skills. Add extras like volunteer work, awards, or personal projects to show personality and align your resume with the job description. 

1. Start with a header 

Your resume header provides key details about who you are and how to reach you. Keep it clear, professional, and tailored to Canadian standards. 

• Put your full name in a larger font (20–24 pt). 
• List your phone number (with country code if needed), professional email, and LinkedIn profile (don’t have one yet? Check out How to Make a Good LinkedIn Profile). 
• Include your city, province, and postal code (or state if you’re outside Canada). 
• Link to any portfolios, personal websites, or relevant social media, like a GitHub for developers or a coffee-themed Instagram for baristas. 

Leave out full addresses and unrelated social media. For extra tips, explore our guide on Resume Header Best Practices. 

2. Write a professional summary or objective 

Your resume summary or objective is your chance to grab the hiring manager’s attention and make them want to keep reading. 

In two or three sentences, talk about your experience, skills, and career goals. Use keywords from the job description to align with what the employer’s looking for, and make sure your resume’s tailored for every application to show why you’re the perfect fit. 

Go for a resume summary if you’re an experienced professional: 

• Highlight your professional title and years of experience. 
• Emphasize key achievements with measurable results, like “increased sales by 25%” or “managed a team of 15 to exceed project deadlines.” 
• Include a few skills relevant to the role. 

Here’s an example of a Canadian resume summary: 

Experienced marketing specialist with over six years in digital strategy and campaign management. Proven ability to boost ROI by 40% through innovative, data-driven solutions. Eager to join [Company Name] to drive impactful marketing initiatives while relocating to Canada for long-term growth.

If you’re new or switching fields, go for a resume objective section: 

• Focus on your enthusiasm to learn and contribute. 
• Showcase transferable skills like communication, teamwork, or problem-solving, even if they’re from other fields. 
• Mention relevant education or certifications. 

Here’s an example of a Canadian resume objective: 

Motivated IT professional with a passion for system optimization and cybersecurity. Seeking to leverage problem-solving skills and network administration knowledge to contribute to [Company Name]’s commitment to cutting-edge technology. Excited to relocate to Canada and collaborate with a forward-thinking team. 

Need help writing yours? Our AI Resume Summary Generator can do it for you.

3. Outline your work experience 

This section is where you prove your value with clear, results-driven descriptions of your work experience. 

• List your job history in reverse chronological order, including the title, company, location, and dates. 
• Focus on achievements, not just duties and responsibilities. Use action verbs like “coordinated,” “managed,” or “developed.” 
• Add numbers to outcomes and tasks to make your impact clear, like “increased sales by 30%” or “managed a team of 4.” 
• If you don’t have formal experience, spotlight transferable skills like communication, leadership, or problem-solving gained through internships, volunteer work, or other roles. 

Here’s an example of a work history for a Canadian resume: 

Marketing Coordinator
‍ABC Marketing Solutions | London, UK
March 2021–Present 
• Led a team of 5 to develop and execute digital marketing campaigns, increasing website traffic by 40% over 6 months. 
• Managed social media accounts, growing Instagram followers by 25% and boosting engagement rates by 15%. 
• Developed content strategies for clients in various industries, tailoring messaging to target audiences and achieving a 20% increase in conversions. 
• Analyzed market trends and customer data to optimize campaign effectiveness, contributing to a 30% ROI increase in the first quarter. 

Customer Service Manager
‍Global Retail Co. | New York, USA
June 2018–February 2021
• Supervised a team of 12 customer service agents, improving team efficiency and reducing response times by 35%. 
• Trained new hires in customer service protocols, resulting in a 95% employee retention rate. 
• Developed training materials and customer service strategies that led to a 10% increase in customer satisfaction scores. 
• Handled escalated customer complaints and ensured resolution, leading to a 15% improvement in customer loyalty. 

Junior Project Manager
‍Tech Innovations Ltd. | Sydney, Australia
August 2016–May 2018
• Coordinated cross-functional teams of 6-8 members to deliver projects on time and within budget.
• Managed project timelines, ensuring 100% of projects were delivered on schedule.
• Created project documentation and reports, improving team communication and reducing project misunderstandings by 20%.
• Conducted weekly project reviews, identifying risks early and proposing solutions to mitigate potential delays.

If you need help writing bullet points, use our AI Bullet Point Writer. It can generate tailored sentences based on your field, job description, and target role.

Alternatively, for help fine-tuning your bullet points, check out the AI Bullet Point Editor. You can highlight any sentence (even if it’s incomplete) and get up to three refined suggestions. 

4. Add your educational qualifications 

Showcase your education in a way that supports your career goals. 

• Start with your most recent degree or qualification, listing the degree or certification, institution, location, and graduation date (or expected date if you’re still studying). 
• Leave out high school education if you have a university degree or higher. 
• Add your GPA if it’s 3.5 or higher and you’ve graduated within the last two years. 
• If you’re a recent grad, showcase relevant coursework. For example, include the title of your classes, such as “Consumer Behavior” or “Digital Marketing Strategies” when applying for a marketing job.
• Highlight any honors or awards received, like Dean’s List.
• Mention job-specific certifications. For example, “First Aid and CPR Certification” or “Infection Control Practices” for a healthcare job application. 
• Summarize practical experience gained through your education. Show how you’ve applied your skills, e.g., “Developed a marketing plan that increased social media engagement by 25%.” 

Here’s a sample education section for a Canadian resume: 

Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering
‍University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX | Graduated May 2023
• Relevant coursework: Structural Analysis and Design, Surveying and Mapping, Construction Project Management
• Honors: Dean’s List (Fall 2022, Spring 2023)
• Capstone Project: Designed a sustainable stormwater management system for a local community, reducing runoff by 30%.

Certifications
• AutoCAD Certified Professional
Autodesk | Completed July 2022
• OSHA 30-Hour Construction Safety and Health Certification
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) | Completed January 2023

For more detailed guidance, read How to List Your Education Section. 

5. List your hard and soft skills 

Your skills section should show off both your technical expertise and people skills. Align them with the job description to appeal to hiring managers and ATS. 

Don’t just list the skills — back them up with examples in your experience section. If you say you’re great at teamwork, detail a project where you worked with others to achieve a goal. 

Hard skills are the technical abilities you’ve learned through education, training, or hands-on experience. 

Examples of hard skills for Canadian resumes: 

• Data analysis
• Programming languages (Python, Java, C++) 
• Web development (HTML, CSS, JavaScript) 
• Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint)
• Project management (Agile, Scrum) 
• CAD Software (AutoCAD, SolidWorks) 
• Social media management (Hootsuite, Sprout Social) 
• Technical writing 
• Accounting software (QuickBooks, SAP)
• SEO/SEM 
• Database management (SQL, Oracle)
• Graphic design software (Photoshop, Illustrator)
• Languages (French, Spanish)
• Process automation 

Soft skills reflect your ability to interact with others and handle various situations. 

Examples of soft skills for Canadian resumes: 

• Communication 
• Teamwork 
• Problem-solving
• Adaptability 
• Time management 
• Attention to detail
• Leadership 
• Critical thinking
• Work ethic
• Conflict resolution
• Self-motivation 
• Creativity
• Customer service
• Negotiation
• Organization

If you’re looking for more skills advice, explore The Best Skills to Put on a Resume. 

6. Finishing touches 

If relevant, extra resume sections can add personality and help you stand out. 

Here are some examples of additional sections:

• Volunteer work. Include any relevant volunteering, like working at a hospital if you’re applying for a healthcare role. 
• Publications. Add any articles, reports, or research you’ve published. 
• Extracurricular activities. If you’re light on experience, mention activities like student council, organizing events, or leading a sports team to show leadership and teamwork.
• Languages. Being bilingual is a big plus, especially if you speak French. List your languages and proficiency level (native, fluent, intermediate, basic). 
• Awards and honors. Mention accolades like “Employee of the Month” or a scholarship. 
• Personal projects. Talk about if you’ve created a blog, an app, or a creative project, as it shows initiative and passion. 

For more resume help, check out How to Write a Resume Guaranteed to Win a Job Interview. 

7. Tailor your resume to the job description

Customizing your resume to match the job description demonstrates that you’re not just qualified, but you’re exactly what the company is looking for. 

• Study the job posting. Look closely at the skills, qualifications, and keywords they highlight. 
• Speak their language. Many Canadian companies use applicant tracking systems (ATS) to screen resumes, so including keywords from the job description helps your resume get noticed. 
• Adjust your achievements. Focus on accomplishments that align with the role. For example, if the job calls for project management skills, describe when you successfully led a project and delivered results. 
• Keep the format consistent. Your content should change for each application, but the structure and style of your resume can stay the same. 

Need help pinpointing those keywords and weaving them into your resume? Use Rezi AI Keyword Targeting to make it easy. Simply copy and paste the job description, then Rezi AI will automatically generate a list of essential keywords, along with suggestions on where to include them in your resume. 

What to Expect in the Canadian Hiring Process 

In short: the Canadian hiring process typically involves tailored applications, screening, interviews, reference checks, job offers and time to negotiate, potential work permits, and onboarding with a probation period. 

Once you’ve perfected your resume and checked you’re eligible to work in Canada (if you’re unsure, check out Canadian Immigration and Citizenship), it’s time to focus on getting a job. Here’s a simplified look at the typical hiring process in Canada so you can feel prepared and confident. 

Job search and application 

Start by finding roles that match your skills and interests. Job seekers in Canada often use platforms like Indeed, LinkedIn, or company or recruiting websites to search for opportunities. Networking is also key in Canada — it’s a successful way to connect with potential employers and find unadvertised jobs. 

When applying, tailor your resume to match the job description. Use keywords that align with the role and craft a cover letter showing your problem-solving skills and enthusiasm for the company.

For cover letter inspiration, check out our Cover Letter Templates & Samples.

The screening phase 

Once you’ve submitted your application, it goes through an initial screening. Many companies use ATS to filter resumes, so it’s important to highlight the right keywords. 

Your application will only reach the hands of hiring managers if it successfully passes through the ATS.

Interviews: time to shine 

If you’re shortlisted, you’ll likely be invited to one or more interviews. These could be over the phone, via video, or in person. Canadian interviews often combine technical and behavioral questions to see if you’re the right fit for the role and the company culture.

Be ready to share examples of how you’ve demonstrated key skills from the job description. Prepare thoughtful questions about the role, the team, and the company — but save discussions about salary and benefits for after you get the offer. 

Reference checks 

Employers typically ask for two or three professional references from past managers or colleagues to verify your work ethic and performance. Make sure your references are prepped and ready to give glowing feedback. 

Job offer and negotiation 

You’ll receive a formal job offer with details on salary, benefits, and responsibilities. This is your chance to negotiate terms, so know your worth and be ready to discuss it. Each province has its own minimum wage, so double-check what’s fair in your area. After negotiating, it’s time to sign and celebrate. 

Work permits and background checks 

If you’re not a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, the company might help you secure a work permit. Background checks, including criminal record checks, are also common, especially for roles involving trust or security. 

Onboarding and probation 

You’ve made it — this part typically includes training, meeting your team, and getting familiar with your new responsibilities. Many companies in Canada also have a probationary period of usually a few months to ensure it’s a good fit for you and the employer. 

Summary

Here’s a recap of the most important points to keep in mind when writing a Canadian resume: 

• Use British English spellings (“favourite,” “centre,” “licence”) and the metric system (kilograms, kilometres, litres). 
• In bilingual regions like Quebec, your resume might need to be in French — tailor the language to the job listing and mention proficiency level. 
• Keep your resume to one page if you’re a new graduate or have limited experience, and up to two pages if you’re experienced. 
• Do not include personal details like age, marital status, or nationality. Only share your name, contact information, and LinkedIn. 
• Craft a concise objective or summary that highlights your skills, experience, and career goals. Tailor it to the specific job, focusing on what you can bring to the position and how you align with the company’s values.
• List work experience in reverse chronological order. Use action verbs and focus on achievements with measurable results, like “increased sales by 20%.” 
• Add relevant degrees, certifications, and coursework, but leave out high school education if you have a university degree. 
• Balance hard skills (programming, project management) with soft skills (communication, teamwork), and match them to the job description. 
• Customize your resume for each job application, using keywords from the job posting. 
• Use a clean, simple design with clear section headings and consistent font and spacing. 

FAQs

What makes a good Canadian resume?

A strong Canadian resume is clear, concise, and tailored to the job. Focus on your skills, experience, and achievements using bullet points for easy scanning. Include your contact details, a professional summary or objective, work history, education, and a mix of hard and soft skills. Use action-driven language and incorporate job-specific keywords to ensure your resume aligns with ATS requirements. 

Does Canada mainly use a resume or CV?

Canada primarily uses resumes for job applications. A CV is longer, includes your full work history, and is mainly for academic, research, or medical roles. In Quebec, “resume” and “CV” are used interchangeably. 

Are Canadian resumes and American resumes basically the same?

Canadian and American resumes are similar in structure, but there are some key differences. Canadians use British English spelling, like in “centre,” “licence,” “defence,” and “colour.” They also use the metric system, so stick to kilograms, litres, and kilometres when providing measurements. For full dates, follow the format Year-Month-Date. 

What’s the difference between a Canadian resume and a UK CV? 

Resumes and CVs generally have a few differences, but Canadian resumes and UK CVs pretty much follow the same format. If you’re listing your GPA, make sure you add the UK equivalent. A GPA of 3.7–4.0 is First Class (1st) in the UK, 3.3–3.6 is Upper Second Class (2:1), 2.7–3.2 is Lower Second Class (2:2), and 2.0–2.6 is Third Class (3rd). 

Is it better for a Canadian resume to be one page or two pages long? 

It depends on your experience. If you’re early in your career, aim for a one-page to keep things concise. For seasoned professionals with more achievements to show off, two pages are fine — just make sure the extra space adds value and remains relevant to the job. Always prioritize readability and job-specific details.

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