In today’s competitive job market, it’s more important than ever to impress employers from the first interaction. This means sending them the correct document to show your work experience: either a resume or a curriculum vitae (CV).
Which should you choose? It depends on the job. Let’s take a look at the differences between a resume and a CV, and when to use each for your job applications.
What’s a Resume?
A resume summarizes your relevant experience and skills for the job you want. It’s sort of like a Facebook page, but for work. When someone looks at it, even if they’ve never met you, they can get a quick idea of who you are and what you do.
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Resumes typically include things like work history, education, relevant skills, awards, and activities. Most resumes are one page and provide a short, compelling overview of why your experience is ideal for the job. You should tailor your resume for each job application to show how your experience is a good fit.
When to Use a Resume
A resume is the default choice for most job applications. Unless you’re applying in a field that specifically requires a CV (more on those below), use a resume.
What’s a CV?
While a resume presents a summary of your experience, a CV provides the full story.
CVs focus on your academic experience, but also include work and other activities. On a CV, you’ll list prior publications, scholarships, grants, projects, teaching experience, awards, and research, as well as the degrees you hold.
