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What is The Difference Between a CV and a Resume


The Difference Between CV and Resume Writing is Significant
When applying for a job, potential employers will ask you to submit a resume or curriculum vitae (CV). These documents detail your work history, awards and academic achievements. The goal of each is to put forward your qualifications. A resume or CV will be the first thing that a potential employer looks at. Clearly then, it is important to include the most impressive and appropriate document. However, the question becomes which to send? What is the difference between a CV and a resume? 

Resumes
Resumes need to be an easily scannable document. An easy-to-scan format will go a long way towards getting a resume through the initial readers. Limit the amount of fancy formatting and when in doubt, stick with simple and easy to read. A compelling resume should have four standard sections: Objective, Summary, Work History and Education. There should be enough information in the resume to sell the applicant, but no more. The general length is one page.

Potential employers need to understand what the applicant is capable of doing. Instead of listing just the job specs, list achievements, what has been accomplished above and beyond. Job responsibilities could apply to anyone who has held that particular job. They don't single the job applicant out as different, better and more capable than the rest.

It is also important to realize that there is more than one resume format. Most job seekers try to make their professional life fit into a chronological format, but it is not the best option for everyone. Another popular format is the skills-based resume. This allows the focus to be on abilities and potential, not just past achievements. Another option that is good for recent graduates is the education-based resume. There is a resume format for everyone.


CV's
A CV tends to be longer than a traditional resume and includes a detailed listing of a person's professional and academic history. A CV will include any position or job one has held, a complete list of academic credentials and achievements, and  information on publications. CVs can be many pages long, occasionaly up to 10 pages. Normally CVs are used in the medical and academic field.

The difference between  CV and resume writing is significant both in terms of style and substance and it pays to keep this in mind when applying for a new job.