As you start your job search, you might be confused about the difference between a CV and a resume. Both are important documents used in the job application process, but they serve different purposes. Read on to know more about different types of resume format and CV format.

What is a CV?

A CV, or curriculum vitae, is a comprehensive document that outlines your education, work experience, skills, publications, and other achievements. The purpose of a CV is to showcase your entire academic and professional history, including research and publications. In addition to your work experience and education, you may also include sections on grants, awards, professional affiliations, and other accomplishments.

What is a Resume?

A resume is a brief summary of your education, skills, work experience, and other relevant information. It is usually no more than two pages in length and focuses on your most recent work experience and relevant skills for the job you’re applying for. Also, Read: Interview Self Introduction- Job Search Basics

CV vs Resume

The CV and resume difference is not something everyone knows clearly. A CV is a more detailed and comprehensive document that is used primarily in academic and research contexts, while a resume is a shorter, more concise document that is used for most other types of jobs. Here are the main differences between a CV and a resume:

• Length: A CV is typically much longer than a resume, often several pages or more, while a resume is usually limited to one or two pages.
• Focus: A CV provides a comprehensive overview of your academic and professional background, including details about your education, research, publications, and other achievements, while a resume focuses on your most recent work experience and relevant skills.
• Purpose: A CV is typically used for academic, research, or scientific positions, while a resume is used for most other types of jobs.
• Structure: A CV typically includes sections such as education, research experience, publications, presentations, honors and awards, while a resume includes sections such as work experience, skills, and education.
• Formatting: A CV is usually formatted in a specific academic style, while a resume can be more flexible in terms of formatting and layout.
• Language: A CV may include technical or academic language that is specific to your field, while a resume should use more general language that is easily understandable by employers in any industry.
• Audience: A CV is typically submitted to academic or research institutions, while a resume is submitted to employers in the private or public sector.

Types of CVs and Formats

There are several types of resume/CV formats, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Chronological resumes/CVs list your work experience in reverse chronological order, functional resumes/CVs highlight your skills and accomplishments rather than your work history, and combination resumes/CVs combine elements of both. There are also targeted resumes/CVs tailored to specific jobs, international resumes/CVs that conform to different cultural norms, and creative resumes/CVs that use unique design elements to stand out. Also, Read: Top 15 FAQs Before Accepting Abroad Work

Skills to Put on Resume and CV

When it comes to skills to put on a resume versus skills to put on a CV, there can be some overlap but also some differences. The skills you choose to include on your CV should depend on the different types of resume formats, CV format, job or industry you are applying for, as well as your individual experience and achievements. It's important to choose the most relevant and impressive skills to highlight in order to make the best possible impression

Skills to Put on a Resume:

• Job-specific skills: These are skills that are directly relevant to the job you are applying for, such as coding skills for a software developer role or marketing skills for a marketing position.
• Soft skills: These are interpersonal or communication skills that are important in any job, such as teamwork, problem-solving, and adaptability.
• Technical skills: These are specific skills related to the use of technology, such as proficiency in Microsoft Office or experience with a particular software program.
• Language skills: If you are bilingual or multilingual, or have proficiency in a specific language, this can be a valuable skill to include on your resume.

Skills to Put on a CV:

• Academic skills: These are skills related to your academic or research work, such as statistical analysis, research methodology, and data interpretation.
• Teaching and mentoring skills: If you have experience teaching or mentoring others, such as as a TA or lab instructor, this can be a valuable skill to include on your CV.
• Presentation and publication skills: If you have presented at conferences or published research papers, these are important skills to include in your CV.
• Leadership and project management skills: If you have experience leading projects or managing teams, this can be a valuable skill to highlight on your CV.

Now that you know the difference between CV and resume and clearly understand what to put in your CV and resume, get writing one even if you are not looking to switch your job.