Job hunters, employers, and students might already have encountered the two commonly used job search tools: CV and resume. But even though these are both professional documents, CV and resume have their differences. Learn more about these two job application tools as we go along with this topic.
What is a CV
CV is a widely used job search term that came from the Latin words curriculum vitae, which means “courses of life.” As it were a ‘course of life’, CV is a comprehensive job search tool that usually runs two or more pages long, depending on one’s career journey. CV includes all the professional experiences of a job seeker, such as academic background, skills, work history, organizations, and hobbies. Aside from that, it may also mention notable awards, honors, and publications throughout one’s career. In short, a CV is a job seeker’s career biography.
What is a Resume
By contrast, a resume is a job search tool that outlines one’s career journey. It includes academic background, work history, skills, and other job-winning feats relevant to the specific job post. Unlike CVs, resumes must be kept short and concise. Career experts from Resume Professional Writers advise to limit it at optimal length, which means only one to two pages long. If you’re having a hard time with this, you can always ask for our experts’ help. Call Resume Professional Writers or view our best resume writing services.
Learn more about CV and resume. Read: How Do Curriculum Vitae and Resume Differ from Each Other?
CV vs. Resume: Proper Usage and Difference
CV and resume are both popular job application tools. That’s why many job seekers often perceive that they can be used interchangeably. However, even though these documents are similar, they have their own distinct features that set them apart from each other. Here are the factors that will help you determine which one’s the best for your job hunt.
Length
A CV, being a career biography, is lengthier than a resume. It has no page limit and can stretch up to three pages or even more. Despite the liberty to use more pages, you must still keep your document comprehensive yet concise. On the other hand, resume writing follows stricter guidelines. Usually, a resume doesn’t exceed two pages. For fresh graduates, it’s best to summarize your accomplishments into a single-page document to optimize it for your job search.
Purpose
Resume is commonly used for job search. It’s one of the basic requirements that hiring managers look for in a job application for any job post, along with other documents. Meanwhile, aside from job search, a CV can also be used for academic purposes or scientific job posts. If you need help in writing your job search tools, don’t hesitate to call our career experts.
Format
CV doesn’t change as often as resume. It is because the CV narrates one’s career journey and only needs constant updating. On the other hand, resumes are more specific and highlights achievements for a single position. Because of this, job seekers can often use a single CV for several job posts, whereas they must tailor their resume for every specific job position.
Start Your Career Journey Today!
Now is the best time to write or update your CV or resume. Since most of us are staying indoors because of health and safety reasons, we have enough time to set our career goals and review our job search tools. Plan and align your visions to your career choices. Level up your job search with an improved CV and resume. You can check our resume writing and CV writing services to see the best package for your job search needs. Contact us for more details.
