EXPLAINED: Difference Between A CV And A Resume

When it comes to applying for a job, two of the most important documents you’ll need are a CV (Curriculum Vitae) and a resume. While both documents are used to showcase a person’s professional qualifications and experiences, there are some key differences between the two. In this article, we’ll explore the differences between a CV and a resume, and when to use each document.

What is a CV?

A CV is a detailed summary of a person’s academic and professional achievements. It typically includes a person’s education, research experience, publications, awards, and other relevant information. A CV is commonly used in academic and research fields, as well as for positions that require extensive experience and qualifications.

A CV is usually longer than a resume and can be several pages in length. It is important to tailor a CV to the specific job you are applying for and highlight your most relevant experience and qualifications.

What is a Resume?

A resume is a concise summary of a person’s work experience and skills. It typically includes a person’s work history, education, and relevant skills. A resume is commonly used in business, industry, and other non-academic fields.

A resume is usually limited to one or two pages and should be tailored to the specific job you are applying for. It is important to highlight your most relevant work experience and skills that are applicable to the job.

Differences between a CV and a Resume

Length: As mentioned earlier, a CV is typically longer than a resume and can be several pages in length. A resume is usually limited to one or two pages.

Content: A CV focuses on a person’s academic and professional achievements, including research experience, publications, and awards. A resume focuses on a person’s work experience and skills.

Purpose: A CV is commonly used for academic and research positions, or for positions that require extensive experience and qualifications. A resume is commonly used for business, industry, and other non-academic positions.

When to use a CV vs. a Resume

CV: A CV is appropriate when applying for academic and research positions, or for positions that require extensive experience and qualifications. It is also appropriate when applying for grants, fellowships, or other funding opportunities.

Resume: A resume is appropriate when applying for business, industry, and other non-academic positions. It is also appropriate when applying for internships or entry-level positions.

In conclusion, while both a CV and a resume are important documents for job applications, it is important to know the differences between the two and when to use each document. A CV is a detailed summary of a person’s academic and professional achievements and is commonly used in academic and research fields, while a resume is a concise summary of a person’s work experience and skills and is commonly used in business, industry, and other non-academic fields.