What are the Differences between a Resume and CV?

Many job seekers are often confused with the terms CV and Resume. The terms can mean different things in different countries. This is because hiring conventions differ from country to country. For example, some countries require you to include details on your family while inclusion of this same personal information is frowned upon in another country.

Definitions

Let’s get the definitions settled. Résumé is French for Summary while Curriculum Vitae (CV) s Latin for “Course of life.”, in this case, the course of your work life.

Differences

The key differences between a CV and resume is basically down to Length and Purpose

1) Length

A resume is a concise, single page document that summarises your career while the CV is a detailed account of your career history.

2) Purpose

A resume is meant to function as a quick one-page summary who the individual is while a CV is meant to provide an in-depth, chronological overview of one’s career life.

The most important question. Which career document should I use?

A resume is the preferred application document in the US and Canada. Americans and Canadians would only use a CV when applying for a job abroad.

In the UK, Ireland and New Zealand, a CV is used in all contexts and resumes aren’t used at all. The CV is used in mainland Europe and there is even a European Union CV format available for download. You can find out more on European Union CV conventions here.

In Australia, India and Singapore, the terms resume and CV are used interchangeably. HR in these countries make little distinction between them and both can be used for job applications in the private sector. That said, a proper academic CV is sometimes (though rarely) requested for applications in the public sector.

Still not sure? You can reach out to us at CV Writer Singapore for assistance on your career documents. We offer CV Writing services at accessible rates. You can also send your resume or CV to me at arthur@cvwriter.com.sg for a complimentary Resume or CV Review.