What Does CV Mean?
In the world of job applications, the term CV is often mentioned, but for many people, it remains a bit of a mystery. Many people wonder ‘What exactly does CV mean, and how is it different from a resume?’ Whether you’re applying for a professional position or seeking clarity for your next career step, understanding the difference between a CV and a resume will help you know where to start. In this blog post, we’ll discuss what a CV is, when you should use it, and how it differs from a resume.
What is a CV?
CV stands for Curriculum Vitae, a Latin term that translates to ‘course of life.’ Unlike a resume, which is typically a short document summarising a person's career, a CV is a comprehensive record of your professional life. It provides a detailed account of your educational history, work experience, skills, achievements, publications, certifications, and more.
A CV tends to be much longer than a resume, sometimes longer than three pages, as it includes a complete listing of your qualifications and accomplishments. It’s more about providing a complete overview of your professional journey, particularly when it comes to academic or research roles.
When is a CV Used?
CV’s are often used in situations where you need to present a detailed, chronological history of your career and academic background. Common scenarios include:
Academic Positions: If you’re applying for a university teaching or research role, a CV is often required. The detailed nature of a CV allows you to include your academic background, teaching experience, and research contributions.
Research Roles: Similar to academic roles, research positions - particularly in science, healthcare, or technology may require a CV to highlight not just work experience but also publications, research projects, and scientific contributions.
International Job Applications: In many countries outside of Australia, such as the UK, Europe, and the US, a CV is used in place of a resume for most job applications. So, if you're applying internationally, it’s important to understand whether the term ‘CV’ is used synonymously with ‘resume.’
Key Components of a CV
A CV typically consists of several key sections, and each plays an important role in showcasing your qualifications. While formatting can vary based on your industry and location, the following sections are standard in most CVs:
1. Personal Information
This section typically includes your full name, contact details (phone number, email address), and professional social media profiles like LinkedIn. For academic or research positions, you may also include your website or portfolio if applicable.
2. Professional Summary
While this section is optional, many CV’s include a brief personal statement or summary. This is a short paragraph that provides an overview of your career achievements and professional values. It's particularly useful if you're changing career paths or targeting a specific role.
3. Education and Qualifications
In this section, you’ll list your academic qualifications in reverse chronological order, starting with your most recent degree. Include the name of the institution, the degree obtained, and any additional certifications or courses related to your career. For academic CV’s, this section often includes details about your thesis work.
4. Work Experience
A CV's work experience section is more detailed than a resume's. Include each job position, the company or institution, the time period you worked there, and a list of your responsibilities and achievements. For academic roles, this can also include research experience, teaching assistantships, or relevant internships.
5. Skills
This section highlights specific technical and transferable skills that are relevant to the job you're applying for. This can include proficiency in particular software programs, languages spoken, project management skills, or other competencies you want to showcase. In the academic world, you may include laboratory skills, research methodologies, or teaching techniques.
6. Publications (for academic roles)
For academic roles, publications are often a key component of a CV. This section includes articles, journals, books, conference papers, and other works you’ve published. The more detailed your list of publications, the stronger your CV will be in the eyes of hiring committees.
7. Certifications and Awards
If you’ve received any certifications or awards that demonstrate your expertise and accomplishments, list them in this section. For example, teaching awards, research grants, or certifications in specialised programs can be included.
8. Volunteer Work or Extracurricular Activities
While a CV focuses heavily on professional qualifications, many employers also value volunteer work and extracurricular activities. This section can show your character, leadership abilities, and personal interests. For academic CVs, this may include mentoring, academic committee memberships, or volunteer teaching roles.
CV vs. Resume: What's the Difference?
While both a CV and a resume are designed to present your qualifications and experience, there are some key differences between the two. Understanding these differences will help you choose the right document for your job application.
1. Length and Detail
A CV is far more detailed than a resume. A resume is typically one to two pages long and focuses on a concise summary of your most relevant qualifications. A CV, on the other hand, can be several pages long and provides a comprehensive view of your entire career, including every detail of your professional and academic background.
2. Usage
A resume is used in most job applications, particularly in non-academic fields, while a CV is typically used for academic, research, and scientific positions. In Australia, resumes are more common, and understanding the nuances of writing a resume in Australia professionals expect can make a significant difference in your job application. However, both terms are often used interchangeably.
3. Scope
A CV covers everything - every role, every qualification, every achievement. It provides a thorough record of your career, which is important for academic or research positions. A resume, on the other hand, should be a curated document, tailored to specific jobs and only including the most relevant information.
For more insight into the differences between resumes and CV’s in Australia, check out this blog post: What is a CV versus a Resume in Australia? — TLW Resume Services
When Should You Use a CV Instead of a Resume?
If you’re applying for an academic position, research role, or a job abroad, you’ll most likely need a CV. When in doubt, it’s always a good idea to check the job listing or ask the employer directly if they prefer a CV or a resume.
In contrast, if you’re applying for most professional or trade-based jobs, a resume is usually the preferred document.
Resumes and CV’s aren’t the only important documents you need to know about in your job search. Cover letters and Key Selection Criteria responses (KSC) are also often required for professional roles. Check out these other blog posts for tips on how to create an impactful job application: How to Write a Cover Letter for the Australian Job Market — TLW Resume Services How to Address Key Selection Criteria — TLW Resume Services What Should a Resume Include? — TLW Resume Services — TLW Resume Services
If you are still unsure about which document to submit or how to write a standout resume or CV, TLW Resume Services is here to help. Contact us today for an obligation-free quote: Get in Touch with Us - TLW Resume Services — TLW Resume Services