Often, yes. In the Philippines, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Vietnam, visually designed and colorful CVs are common, especially for creative and digital roles. A well-designed CV signals effort and attention to detail. In Singapore and for MNC applications, a clean ATS-friendly format is safer. Check the company's hiring culture before choosing your format.
A professional photo is common across much of Southeast Asia: Philippines, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, and Vietnam. In Singapore, the Tripartite Guidelines on Fair Employment Practices advise employers not to ask for photographs, so leave it out unless requested. Use a professional background, formal attire, and a confident expression. Source: TAFEP, tal.sg/tafep.
Philippines: JobStreet (dominant), Kalibrr, LinkedIn, and PESO for government jobs. For overseas: DMW, the Department of Migrant Workers (dmw.gov.ph), which replaced POEA. Indonesia: JobStreet, Glints (tech and startup focused), Kalibrr, and LinkedIn. Both markets: keep your JobStreet profile updated as recruiters search it actively. Source: SEEK 2024; Glints Indonesia; Kalibrr.
Philippines: civil status and sometimes height and weight are traditionally included, but under Republic Act 10911 employers may not require applicants to declare their age or birth date. Indonesia: detailed personal information is common. Singapore: TAFEP guidelines advise employers not to ask for age, race, religion, marital status or photos. Check the specific company's application requirements. Source: RA 10911; TAFEP, tal.sg/tafep.
For remote work with international companies, research current rates on Upwork, OnlineJobs.ph, and Remote.com for your role and level. Remote rates for Filipino and Indonesian professionals are usually higher than local salaries but lower than US domestic pay, and they vary widely by skill and client.