From Resume to Interview: How to Impress as a Waiter in Romania

Engaging introduction

Romania's hospitality scene is booming. From the lively Old Town in Bucharest to the tech-fueled dining culture in Cluj-Napoca, the refined cafes of Timisoara, and the university-driven restaurant buzz in Iasi, there are more opportunities than ever for skilled waiters. Yet the competition is stronger too. Employers are searching for service professionals who combine speed and accuracy with warmth, sales savvy, and professionalism.

If you want to stand out in Romania's waiter job market, you need more than a standard CV and a polite greeting. You need a sharply targeted resume, evidence of measurable results, credible references, and confident interview skills. This guide walks you step by step from resume to interview, with practical, Romania-specific tips on salary expectations, language skills, common employer types, and cultural nuances. Whether you are applying in Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Timisoara, or Iasi, you will learn how to present your strengths, avoid common pitfalls, and secure better offers.

The Romanian waiter job market at a glance

Where the jobs are

• Bucharest: The largest and most competitive market. Expect opportunities in fine dining, hotel restaurants, casual chains, bistros, and clubs. Employer types include international hotel brands (for example, Marriott, Hilton, Radisson, Accor), upscale independent restaurants, and established local groups.
• Cluj-Napoca: Strong cafe and bistro culture fueled by tech and universities. Popular among modern eateries, specialty coffee shops, and boutique hotels.
• Timisoara: Growing gastronomy with a blend of traditional and contemporary venues, plus international chains entering the market.
• Iasi: University city with steady demand in cafes, pubs, casual dining, and hotel restaurants.

Typical employers you may encounter:

• International hotel chains: Marriott, Hilton, Radisson, Accor (Ibis, Novotel), and hotel-affiliated restaurants.
• Restaurant groups and chains: Casual dining brands, local bistro groups, steakhouse and grill concepts, pizzerias, and gastropubs.
• Independent venues: Fine dining restaurants, wine bars, specialty coffee shops, brunch spots, and themed eateries.
• Event catering companies: Banquet service roles with fluctuating schedules.

Salary expectations and what influences them

Compensation varies by city, venue type, experience, language skills, and shift patterns.

Approximate monthly base salary ranges (net, take-home) commonly seen in job ads and reported by candidates in 2024:

• Bucharest:
  • Entry level: 3,000 - 4,000 RON (about 600 - 800 EUR)
  • Experienced or senior waiter: 4,000 - 6,000 RON (about 800 - 1,200 EUR)
• Cluj-Napoca:
  • Entry level: 2,800 - 3,800 RON (about 560 - 760 EUR)
  • Experienced: 3,800 - 5,200 RON (about 760 - 1,040 EUR)
• Timisoara and Iasi:
  • Entry level: 2,600 - 3,600 RON (about 520 - 720 EUR)
  • Experienced: 3,500 - 4,800 RON (about 700 - 960 EUR)

Important notes:

• Tips: Tips can add 10 - 30% or more to your monthly income, depending on venue, location, and season. In busy Bucharest venues or fine dining, tips may significantly boost take-home pay.
• Service charge: Some venues add a service charge and distribute it to staff; ask how it is calculated and shared.
• Benefits: Meal vouchers (tichete de masa), transport allowance, uniform, laundry, paid leave, and training are common. Ask for specifics in writing.
• Net vs gross: Ads may list net (take-home) or gross (before tax and contributions). Always clarify which one applies and request an example paycheck breakdown.

Schedule patterns and seasonality

• Shifts: Split shifts, late nights, weekends, and holidays are standard. It is common to work 5 or 6 days per week depending on the venue.
• Seasonal peaks: Summer terraces in Bucharest and Timisoara, student intake seasons in Cluj-Napoca and Iasi, and December holiday events all drive demand.
• Trial shifts: A short trial or proba de lucru is common. Clarify if it is paid and for how many hours.

How to build a resume that wins interviews

What Romanian employers look for in a waiter CV

• Clear customer-service achievements with numbers
• Evidence of reliability: long tenures, references, punctuality
• Sales skills: upselling, menu knowledge, special promotions
• Speed and accuracy: table turns, order error rates, check closing
• Communication: Romanian and English (plus any other languages)
• Technical: POS proficiency, cash handling, basic wine service, allergy awareness
• Hygiene and compliance: hygiene course certificates and medical checks where required

Structure your CV for impact (1-2 pages)

1. Header
   • Full name, phone, email, city (e.g., Bucharest). Include LinkedIn if professional.
   • Optional photo: In Romania, a professional photo is common but not mandatory.
2. Professional summary (3-4 lines)
   • Example: "Friendly and fast waiter with 3+ years in busy Bucharest bistros. Upsold daily specials to increase average check by 18%. Fluent in Romanian and English; basic Italian. Confident with Micros/Oracle Simphony and r_keeper."
3. Core skills (bulleted)
   • Table service, menu knowledge, upselling, wine-by-the-glass, espresso-based drinks, POS (Micros/Simphony, r_keeper), cash handling, complaint resolution, allergen awareness, Romanian B2, English C1
4. Experience (reverse-chronological)
   • Job title, venue, city, dates (month/year - month/year)
   • 4-6 bullets per job with quantified results
5. Education and certifications
   • Hospitality training, language courses, hygiene course (Curs igiena - Certificat DSP), barista or wine basics
6. Extra
   • Awards, "Employee of the Month," volunteer event service, availability (immediate or notice period)

Use keywords recruiters and ATS search for

Include a natural mix of Romanian and English terms that match job ads:

• Ospatar / Ospatarita, Chelner / Chelnerita, Head Waiter, Senior Waiter
• Servire la masa, Protocol, Banqueting
• POS, Micros/Oracle Simphony, r_keeper, cash handling
• Engleza avansat, Limba romana B1/B2, Italian/Spanish/German
• Upselling, cross-selling, wine service, specialty coffee, latte art
• Alergeni, HACCP basics, hygiene certificate

Quantify your impact with strong bullet points

Transform generic tasks into accomplishment statements:

• Weak: "Served tables and took orders."
• Strong: "Managed 10-12 tables per shift, maintaining average ticket time under 12 minutes and reducing order errors below 1%."
• Strong: "Upsold specials and wine pairings to lift average check by 15% over 3 months."
• Strong: "Trained 3 new waiters on POS r_keeper, closing checks and payment workflows."
• Strong: "Handled private banquets of 50-80 guests, coordinating with kitchen to deliver courses on schedule."
• Strong: "Achieved 4.7/5 average on customer feedback tablets across 220+ reviews in one quarter."

Tailor your CV by city and venue type

• Bucharest fine dining or hotel: Emphasize wine service, English fluency, VIP protocol, multi-course pacing, and upselling premium items.
• Cluj-Napoca cafes and bistros: Highlight specialty coffee, brunch rush management, and friendly service with student customers.
• Timisoara modern restaurants: Stress speed, teamwork, and new menu launches; note any German or Italian language skills if relevant.
• Iasi casual dining and pubs: Emphasize approachability, efficiency, sports-night crowds, and handling large table bookings.

Education, credentials, and extras

• Hygiene course: Many employers require a hygiene course certificate (Curs igiena - Certificat DSP) for food handlers. If you do not have one, state willingness to obtain it immediately.
• Wine and barista basics: Even a short course helps. Add WSET Level 1 (if applicable) or barista training with espresso calibration and milk texturing.
• First aid: Useful in venues with large footfall.
• Language training: If you are not a native speaker, list CEFR levels (e.g., Romanian B1, English C1) and be ready to demonstrate.

Formatting and presentation tips

• Keep to 1-2 pages, clean layout, consistent fonts, and plenty of white space.
• Save as PDF; file name example: "CV_Ospatar_Andrei_Popescu_Bucharest.pdf".
• Use concise bullets starting with action verbs (Served, Managed, Upsold, Trained, Coordinated).
• Avoid dense paragraphs, spelling errors, or inconsistent dates.
• Include updated phone and email; add WhatsApp if you prefer rapid scheduling.

Common CV mistakes to avoid

• Listing duties only; no results or numbers
• Mixing gross and net compensation inaccurately in descriptions
• Vague language skills without levels (write "English C1," not "good English")
• Overloaded skills lists that you cannot demonstrate live
• Unprofessional email addresses or missing location
• Photos that are casual, filtered, or low-resolution

Write a short, targeted cover letter or email

The purpose of your message

Your application email or cover letter should quickly connect your strengths to the job's needs. Focus on 3-4 points: speed, guest experience, sales, and reliability.

Subject line examples

• "Application - Waiter - Bucharest - Immediate availability"
• "Ospatar - Cluj-Napoca - English C1 - Barista skills"
• "Senior Waiter - Timisoara - Wine service and VIP protocol"

Email template you can adapt

Subject: Application - Waiter - Bucharest - English C1

Hello [Hiring Manager Name],

I am applying for the Waiter position at [Venue Name]. I bring 2+ years of experience in busy bistros, strong upselling results (average check +18%), and fluent English. I am confident with Micros/Oracle Simphony and r_keeper, and I hold a hygiene course certificate.

Highlights:

• Average ticket time under 12 minutes with 95% on-time order delivery
• Trained 3 new team members on POS and service standards
• 4.7/5 guest feedback across 200+ reviews in 2023

I would welcome the chance to discuss how I can contribute during your peak shifts and events. I am available for interview this week after 14:00 or on Saturday.

Thank you for your time, [Full Name] [Phone] | [Email] | [City] LinkedIn: [URL]

Strengthen your online presence

LinkedIn basics for hospitality

• Profile photo: simple, professional, well-lit.
• Headline: "Waiter - Bucharest | Fast, friendly service | POS: Micros, r_keeper | English C1".
• About section: 3-4 lines summarizing your service style and achievements.
• Experience: Mirror your CV with bullet-point achievements.
• Skills: Table service, upselling, wine basics, latte art, POS, customer conflict resolution.
• Recommendations: Ask a former manager to write a short, specific recommendation.

Extra portfolio ideas

• Barista or latte art photos (clean, professional; avoid branding you do not own).
• Awards or certificates images.
• Short video (30-45 seconds) introducing yourself and service values.

Where to find waiter jobs in Romania

Online job boards and company pages

• eJobs.ro and BestJobs.eu: High volume of hospitality listings.
• Hipo.ro: Useful for hotel and event roles.
• Company career pages: Check international hotel chains and local restaurant groups.

Social media and local groups

• Facebook groups: City-specific hospitality job groups (e.g., "Locuri de munca horeca Bucuresti").
• WhatsApp and Telegram groups shared by colleagues.

Walk-in applications

• Dress neatly and visit during quiet hours (e.g., 15:00 - 17:00 on weekdays) to avoid rush times.
• Ask to speak to the manager; bring 2-3 printed CVs (Romanian and English versions if needed).
• Prepare a 60-second pitch: name, experience summary, availability, and immediate value you can bring.

Work with a recruitment partner

Agencies like ELEC can:

• Match your profile to venues in Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Timisoara, and Iasi
• Advise on pay benchmarks and benefits
• Arrange interviews and trial shifts
• Provide feedback to fine-tune your CV and interview skills

Prepare for the interview: research, practice, and presence

Research the venue in 20 minutes

• Menu and concept: Casual, fine dining, fusion, steakhouse, bistro, cafe.
• Price range: Helps frame upsell suggestions.
• Reviews: Check what guests praise or complain about and be ready to address those themes.
• Busy hours: Understand lunch vs dinner traffic to discuss how you handle rush times.

Bring a compact interview kit

• Printed CV (2 copies), certifications, and references.
• Pen and small notebook.
• Black non-slip shoes (if a short trial might be requested).
• Clean, neutral outfit: white or light shirt, dark trousers or skirt, minimal accessories.

Common interview questions and high-impact answers

1. "Tell me about yourself."

   • Strong answer: "I am a fast, friendly waiter with 2 years in busy bistros in Bucharest. I manage 10-12 tables per shift, keep ticket times under 12 minutes, and consistently upsell specials to lift average check by about 15%. I am fluent in English and comfortable with Micros and r_keeper. I enjoy staying calm during rushes and helping teammates close out smoothly."

2. "How do you handle a mistake on an order?"

   • Strong answer: "I apologize immediately, take full ownership, and fix it fast. I offer a quick solution such as expediting the correct dish and updating the guest on timing. I inform the kitchen to prevent repeat errors and tell my manager if compensation might be appropriate. I then note the cause to avoid it next time, for example re-reading modifiers before sending to POS."

3. "Explain your upselling approach."

   • Strong answer: "I upsell by educating, not pushing. I mention two relevant add-ons at natural moments, for example pairing a steak with a Romanian red wine by glass, or suggesting a side and dessert. I tailor suggestions to guest cues and budget. I track results by average check per head and share top-sellers with the team."

4. "What do you know about our menu and concept?"

   • Strong answer: Briefly summarize what you learned: "You focus on modern Romanian cuisine with local ingredients. Average mains are around [X] RON, plus rotating specials. Lunch is busy on weekdays; weekends have strong dinner service."

5. "Can you work weekends and late shifts?"

   • Strong answer: "Yes, I am open to weekends and late shifts. I keep my schedule organized and prioritize rest between shifts to maintain service quality."

6. "Describe a time you handled a difficult guest."

   • Strong answer framework: Listen fully, acknowledge feelings, propose a solution, follow up, and thank the guest. Keep it brief and outcome-focused.

7. "What is your expected salary?"

   • Strong answer: "Based on my experience and performance in similar venues in Bucharest, I am targeting a base in the 3,800 - 4,500 RON net range, plus tips and any service charge. I am open to discuss depending on responsibilities and shift patterns."

Short Romanian phrases that help

• Greeting: "Buna ziua. Bine ati venit!" (Good day. Welcome!)
• Seating: "Doriti masa la interior sau pe terasa?" (Would you like a table inside or on the terrace?)
• Order taking: "Cu ce va pot ajuta? Doriti sa incepem cu o apa sau o bautura?" (How may I help you? Would you like to start with water or a drink?)
• Allergies: "Aveti alergii sau preferinte alimentare?" (Do you have any allergies or dietary preferences?)
• Recommendation: "Va recomand specialitatea casei si acest vin local. Se potrivesc foarte bine." (I recommend the house special and this local wine. They pair very well.)
• Check: "Doriti nota acum sau mai tarziu?" (Would you like the bill now or later?)
• Farewell: "Va multumim! O zi frumoasa!" (Thank you! Have a nice day!)

Body language and presence

• Smile naturally; make brief eye contact; stand upright with relaxed shoulders.
• Keep a small notepad visible; it signals professionalism.
• Speak clearly and at a calm pace. Confirm complex orders by repeating them briefly.

Demonstrate technical skills that matter

POS proficiency and cash handling

• Know two common POS platforms: Micros/Oracle Simphony and r_keeper are frequently used. If you have not used them, learn basic flows (open table, split checks, apply discounts with authorization, close cash/card).
• Practice bill splitting scenarios: equal split, itemized split, and managing service charges when applicable.
• Be accurate with change and receipts. Have a personal routine: count back change aloud; verify table number and seat positions to avoid mix-ups.

Speed without errors

• Use a shorthand for modifiers: "no onion," "well-done," "gluten-free."
• Send drink orders immediately to start service while mains are discussed.
• Batch tasks: clear plates on the way back, refill water while passing, and pre-bus to speed table turns.

Product knowledge and allergy awareness

• Learn the 5-8 key allergens on your menu and 2-3 safe alternatives.
• Know basic wine service: present the label to the host, open cleanly, taste pour, and serve clockwise.
• Espresso basics: grind setting, extraction time, milk texturing for cappuccino vs latte.

Upselling with authenticity

• Pairing suggestions: "For the grilled salmon, a crisp local white by the glass works well."
• Time-based add-ons: offer dessert when you clear mains; suggest a digestif for guests celebrating.
• Social proof: "Our most popular starter is the eggplant salad; many guests pair it with warm bread."

Cultural fit and soft skills employers value

Romanian service expectations

• Warmth and courtesy matter. A friendly "Buna ziua" and a sincere "Va multumim" go a long way.
• Efficiency is valued: keep guests informed about wait times and fix issues quickly.
• Team play: Managers appreciate waiters who help colleagues and communicate with the kitchen.

Language flexibility

• Bucharest and Cluj-Napoca: English is widely used with tourists and expats. Romanian is still essential for most local guests.
• Timisoara and Iasi: Romanian is primary; English helps during events and with tourists.
• If you speak another language (Italian, Spanish, German), highlight it. It can unlock higher-end venues or hotel roles.

Professional grooming and uniform standards

• Clean, pressed clothing; neutral colors. Closed, non-slip black shoes.
• Natural makeup, minimal jewelry, tidy hair. Visible tattoos and piercings vary by venue; check policy.
• Fresh breath, minimal fragrance, and spotless hands/nails.

Interview day checklist

What to wear

• Men: White or light shirt, dark trousers, black belt, black non-slip shoes, simple watch.
• Women: White or light blouse, dark skirt or trousers, black non-slip shoes, minimal accessories.
• Bring a spare pen and a small notepad; keep your phone on silent.

What to bring

• 2 printed CVs, copies of certificates (hygiene course), and a reference letter if available.
• A list of professional references with phone and email.
• A small bottle of water; arrive 10-15 minutes early.

What to ask the employer

Prepare 4-5 questions that show you plan ahead:

• "How are tips or service charges pooled and distributed?"
• "What is the shift structure and how many tables per waiter at peak times?"
• "What training do you offer during the first month?"
• "How do you measure performance - average check, feedback scores, speed?"
• "What is the probation period and overtime policy?"

After the interview: follow-up and negotiation

Send a short thank-you note

Subject: Thank you - Waiter interview - [Your Name]

Hello [Hiring Manager Name],

Thank you for the interview today. I appreciated learning about your menu and service style. I am excited about the chance to help during your busy weekend shifts and to lift the average check with thoughtful wine and dessert suggestions. Please let me know if you need any additional information.

Best regards, [Your Name] [Phone]

Trial shifts and next steps

• If you are invited to a trial shift, confirm duration, tasks, and whether it is paid. Many venues offer at least partial pay or a meal; clarify expectations.
• Treat the trial like a real shift: arrive early, ask clarifying questions, and focus on speed, teamwork, and guest care.
• After the trial, ask for feedback and next steps politely.

Understand your offer and negotiate respectfully

• Base pay: Clarify if net or gross. Use local benchmarks for your city and experience.
• Tips and service charge: Ask how often they are paid out (daily, weekly, or monthly) and how they are split.
• Benefits: Meal vouchers, transport help, uniform and laundry, training, and scheduling preferences.
• Shifts and tables: Understand typical station size and peak hours.
• Probation period: Many employers use a probation period (often 30-90 days). Confirm evaluation criteria.
• Holidays and overtime: Clarify if overtime is paid or compensated with time off, and how holiday shifts are handled.

Negotiation phrase examples:

• "Given my experience managing 10-12 tables and my upselling performance, could we consider 4,200 RON net as a starting base?"
• "If the base cannot move, is there flexibility on meal vouchers or guaranteed shift patterns on weekends?"

Special notes for international candidates

Language

• A1-A2 Romanian can be enough to start in casual venues, but aim for B1-B2 for broader options. Learn service phrases quickly and build vocabulary from the menu.

Work authorization

• EU/EEA citizens: Generally can work in Romania without a work permit, but must follow local registration processes.
• Non-EU citizens: Typically require a work permit and residence authorization sponsored by the employer. Processing times vary.
• Always verify current regulations with official sources or your employer's HR team.

Credentials and cultural transition

• Emphasize transferable skills: speed, accuracy, guest focus, and POS proficiency.
• Highlight multilingual abilities - English plus another European language is valued.
• Be open to a short initial contract to prove your value, then renegotiate.

Practical, actionable checklists

10-point CV checklist

• 1-2 page limit, clean layout
• Professional summary tailored to the venue
• Skills list includes POS, languages, and service strengths
• Experience bullets with numbers and results
• Certifications: hygiene course, barista or wine basics
• Languages with CEFR levels
• City clearly stated (Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Timisoara, or Iasi)
• PDF file name with your name and role
• No spelling or grammar errors
• References prepared on request

8-point interview prep checklist

• Research menu, price range, and reviews
• Prepare 5 accomplishment stories with numbers
• Practice Romanian service phrases
• Outfit pressed and shoes clean
• CVs and certificate copies ready
• Travel route tested; arrive early
• 5 thoughtful questions for the manager
• Thank-you email template saved and ready

6 service standards to demonstrate on trial

• Greet within 60 seconds; offer water or drinks promptly
• Confirm allergies and preferences
• Input orders accurately and quickly into POS
• Check back after food arrives; resolve issues fast
• Pre-bus and reset tables without delay
• Present desserts or upsell gently before the check

Examples by city: how to tailor your approach

Bucharest

• Emphasize: English fluency, handling international guests, wine and cocktail knowledge, VIP protocol.
• Salary aim: Entry 3,000 - 4,000 RON net; experienced 4,000 - 6,000 RON net; tips can be strong.
• Interview tip: Share a story about managing high-volume dinner services or terrace seasons in Old Town.

Cluj-Napoca

• Emphasize: Specialty coffee knowledge, brunch rush, friendly service to student and tech crowds.
• Salary aim: Entry 2,800 - 3,800 RON net; experienced 3,800 - 5,200 RON net.
• Interview tip: Bring examples of latte art or dessert upselling that boosted the average check.

Timisoara

• Emphasize: Teamwork, speed, and comfort with both traditional and modern menus.
• Salary aim: Entry 2,600 - 3,600 RON net; experienced 3,500 - 4,800 RON net.
• Interview tip: Discuss how you handle event nights or live-music crowds efficiently.

Iasi

• Emphasize: Approachability, managing large student groups, and handling pubs and casual dining.
• Salary aim: Entry 2,600 - 3,600 RON net; experienced 3,500 - 4,800 RON net.
• Interview tip: Showcase your ability to keep calm and accurate during peak evenings.

Putting it all together: a mini case study

Candidate: Ana, 2 years experience in a busy Bucharest bistro.

Before:

• CV listed tasks only: "took orders," "served tables."
• No numbers, no POS names, and generic "good English."
• Interview answers lacked structure.

After applying this guide:

• CV bullets: "Managed 10-12 tables per shift; average ticket time under 12 minutes; upsold specials for +18% average check; trained 2 new staff on Micros; maintained 4.6/5 guest rating."
• Summary: "Friendly, fast waiter - Romanian B2, English C1 - Micros and r_keeper - hygiene certificate."
• Interview: Prepared examples of handling a wrong order, describing the menu confidently, and upselling two add-ons.
• Result: 4 interview invitations in 10 days, 2 offers near the top of her salary range with meal vouchers and scheduled training.

Conclusion: your next steps

Standing out as a waiter in Romania is achievable with the right preparation. Build a results-driven CV, prepare targeted examples for your interview, and approach trial shifts with energy and professionalism. Tailor your message to each city and venue, learn key Romanian phrases, and be transparent about your expectations.

If you want a faster, more confident job search, ELEC can help you match with quality employers in Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Timisoara, and Iasi. Our team can refine your CV, coach you for interviews, and connect you with roles that fit your strengths and schedule. Reach out to ELEC to start your next step in Romania's hospitality market.

FAQ

1) Do I need to speak Romanian to work as a waiter?

Not always, but it helps a lot. In tourist-heavy venues in Bucharest or hotel restaurants, strong English can be enough to start. However, most venues expect at least basic Romanian. Aim for B1-B2 for the best opportunities. Learn service phrases quickly and practice daily.

2) What should I wear to a waiter interview in Romania?

Keep it clean, simple, and neutral: white or light shirt/blouse, dark trousers or skirt, black non-slip shoes, minimal accessories, and tidy grooming. If you are asked to do a short trial, you are ready to step onto the floor.

3) How much can I earn as a waiter in Bucharest?

Typical base net pay ranges from 3,000 to 4,000 RON for entry-level roles and 4,000 to 6,000 RON for experienced waiters, depending on venue, shifts, and duties. Tips and service charges can add significantly. Always confirm whether salary is net or gross and ask for a breakdown.

4) How are tips handled in Romania?

It varies. Some venues allow you to keep individual tips; others pool tips or add a service charge distributed among staff. Ask how it is calculated, when it is paid out, and whether it covers back-of-house teams too. Clarify policies before accepting an offer.

5) Can I get hired without experience?

Yes, especially in casual venues, cafes, or event catering. Show motivation, fast learning, and basic service language skills. Obtain a hygiene course certificate quickly and be open to evening and weekend shifts. Emphasize reliability and a positive attitude.

6) What is a trial shift (proba de lucru) and is it paid?

A trial shift is a short, practical assessment. Policies vary: some venues pay for it, others offer partial pay or a meal. Clarify in advance: duration, tasks, and compensation. Bring non-slip shoes and be prepared to demonstrate speed, accuracy, and guest care.

7) Should I include a photo on my CV in Romania?

A professional photo is common but not mandatory. If you use one, keep it simple, well-lit, and neutral. Focus on a clean layout and quantified achievements; that is what wins interviews.