A lot of people often wonder why some organizations request for a CV and others ask for a resume. A CV is the abbreviated form of the Latin term “Curriculum Vitae”. A resume, on the other hand, is a French term that means “Summary” or “Abstract”. But is there really a difference between a CV and a resume? Let’s find out through a few strategic points.
Length and Content
The length of a resume should ideally not exceed two pages. This is because it is limited in content. A resume is meant to summarize your career history and experience, skills and educational qualifications. You may also decide to include a statement of objective, membership of associations and volunteer work.
A CV, on the other hand, can take as many pages as necessary. However, you should be careful not to bore the recruiter with too much information. A CV is a more detailed document containing education, career history, professional references, fieldwork, coursework, information on research projects or dissertations, skills, interests and hobbies, and any other information that may be deemed necessary.
Geography/Location
The country where the Applicant is applying to is also a factor. While some countries refer to a resume-styled document and a CV as a CV (not using the term “resume”), some others provide a distinction between the two. Canada and the United States identify a resume as different from a CV. In fact, a resume is more popular in these climes. Meanwhile, some countries use the term interchangeably. India and Australia are good examples.
Field/Career Type
It is common for academic institutions to demand a CV. Research institutions, universities and colleges will often require a CV from applicants. Most other organizations and fields of endeavor often ask applicants to send in a resume. This is another important difference between a CV and a resume.
Flexibility
A resume is also known for its flexibility. You should write a new resume for every new position you wish to apply to. A CV, on the other hand, is more or less static. One CV can be sent to 10 different organizations. A CV may only be updated occasionally based on educational upgrade or career history. Nothing else needs to change, unless of course you require an overhaul.
