News

What is The Difference Between CV and Resume: 5 Things to Know

If you happen to be a fresh graduate looking for that first job, then you would assume that CV and resume are one and the same. You didn't give it some thought (when you were in the university), even dared to ask your tutor (or anyone in the Guidance Office) about it. And you didn't wonder that CV would be an acronym for something. Everyone has assumed without checking out the details, but this one could hurt your chances of getting hired sooner or later.

CV would stand for Curriculum Vitae, a Latin term that would mean course of life. The meaning should have given you a hint that CV pertained to academics, an overview of your experience in the university. This should be your choice if you aspire to an academic career. Geography would be another thing, as citizens of Commonwealth of Nations rather used “CV”. You might not be interested in this aspect of the English language, but you should keep it in mind if you like to set foot on the other side of the Atlantic (or go Down Under). Is there a difference between a CV and resume? Yes.

There are five things that differentiate a CV from a resume, namely the length (of the document), the layout, purpose, your location, and specific cases.

5 Differences of CVs and Resumes

The length doesn't mean one would be easier than the other. The goal is to stand out from the other candidates (or applicants if you're finding your place in the corporate world). The CV doesn't set any limit, so don't hesitate to list down all your academic achievements. Volunteerism should be highlighted as well, as this could show the extent of your network. You would come across as an impressive candidate, but be cautious if you opt for a gap year. (You may be selective about the information, as some employers look at it unfavorably. Blame it on social media, where some college students/graduates embark on a journey far away from home. They may be thinking of fun activities instead of making a significant contribution to the economy of a foreign country.) To sum it up, a CV can be two or three pages long. It can be several pages, but it may be wise to be selective about your list of achievement. (Most, if not all, may not have the time to go through it.) On the other hand, a good resume can be one page long. The next item will show you why.

A CV doesn't require change while the layout of the resume depends on the employer. There won't be any exclusions (or omissions) in your CV, so it would be pointless to make any change (unless it screams of proofreading). It comes down to your cover letter, and it will be a mistake not to make any changes if you'll submit it to different people. On the other hand, you must visualize how a recruiter (or employer) will assess you. If you want to be looked at as the best candidate, then target certain skills that will match the ones that the recruiter is looking for. In this regard, you don't have to present a chronological history of your work experience. The recruiter must look at the other resumes, so analyze your skills and previous tasks thoroughly. Choose wisely.

Know thy purpose. If you're aspiring for an academic career, then you might end up undecided for a while. You're looking for a job, so you must prepare your resume. A wise applicant will not discount the CV, though. (You can save your CV as an attached document, if not a file in your Google Docs.) If you aim to publicize your academic works, then think of your CV (and nothing else).

Take note of your location. If you're based in the UK or Australia, then you must know that CV is widely used than the resume. If you've been living in Canada, then don't be surprised that resume is more preferred than the CV. (Neighbors do have similar traits.) Don't assume that recruiters are too jaded not to notice the differences, as a blink (on your part) might cost your good chance of getting called for an interview.

There are case-to-cases bases. Aside from the academia, there are other cases for you to figure it out. You're the only one who can know it, so pay attention to the details.

Some rules don't change at all, so here are three (friendly) reminders

It will be better to use bold fonts to highlight your contact details and relevant skills. It can also be applied to your CV, as the bold font might distract the recruiters (or employers) from looking at your achievements (and potential). It's the same thing with your choice of a letter font, but pick the one that has a professional look. It doesn't mean that Times New Roman is your first option. And don't ever think of putting emojis in your CV.

Your CV/resume must be subjected to proofreading. Ask someone you know, whom you know have good judgment, to look through it. You must be open to change(s), as the second opinion is important as yours. Ask question(s) if you're unsatisfied (or if you want to clarify something).

You have the final say on your final draft, so look through the document again and again (until you're satisfied with it).

Read all news
Best packages for you
  • Package:
    Resume + Cover Letter Writing
    • Resume
    • Cover Letter
    • Unlimited Revisions
    • Direct contact with your writer through our messaging system
    Original Price: $148
    Sale Price: $125
    order now
  • Full Package:
    Resume + Cover Letter +
    Thank-you/Follow-up Letters
    • Resume
    • Cover Letter
    • Thank-You/Follow-up Letters
    • Unlimited Revisions
    • Direct contact with your writer through our messaging system
    Original Price: $197
    Sale Price: $159
    order now
  • Package: CV + Resume
    • CV
    • Resume
    • Unlimited Revisions
    • Direct contact with your writer through our messaging system
    Original Price: $228
    Sale Price: $195
    order now