A CV Or A Resume?

Here in the UK, a CV or Curriculum Vitae to give it its proper name, is the standard document which is requested by potential employers for the majority of job applications and is used across various industries to give a complete picture of your career path. This then allows employers to gain a clear understanding of your overall experience, qualifications and suitability for the job.

However, you may have heard of a resume and are wondering what exactly is the difference. A resume is far less common in the UK but is occasionally requested for certain roles here, especially international vacancies. Often used in the U.S, they may be used here when employers have requested one and only require a brief snapshot of your most prominent skills and experiences, especially when there may be a large amount of applications to sift through or they need to make a quick decision. It is a condensed version of relevant work experience, expertise, training and attainments which sums up your suitability for this particular vacancy. A resume can grab an employer's attention quickly in just a single page or two and can be likened to a quick advertisement all about you!

The structure of a CV, which is more like a documentary about you, covers your entire professional journey. It is far more rigid and tends to follow a chronological order which is very easy to understand. It will include sections such as personal details, a personal statement, work experience, educational background, skills and any other relevant information such as details of any voluntary work, achievements or publications. On the other hand, a resume is more flexible and can be adapted to highlight the most relevant information first. It might include sections like a summary statement, key skills, professional experience, education and additional sections that are tailored to the job you are applying for such as previous successful projects or technical proficiencies in a similar setting.

As you can see from the above, the format is similar but not the same. The main difference is within the content and length as well as where the document will be submitted. The typical CV is longer with the intent to provide comprehensive and detailed background information regarding academic and professional achievements whereas resumes are shorter and tend to focus more on work experience and skills.

It can feel confusing when initially applying for a job but do read carefully what the prospective employers wants you to do as this is usually mentioned on the job description, i.e. ‘Please submit your CV…’ and send what the employer is asking for. Bear in mind that although they are sometimes used in the UK, the majority of job applications will be accompanied by a CV so if in any doubt, always submit your well crafted, up to date and relevant CV!