Curriculum Vitae

            Some occupations require the use of the curriculum vitae instead of a resume. It is important to understand the difference and when to use one instead of the other.

            The curriculum vitae is also referred to as a CV. Some people mistakenly use the phrase interchangeably with the word “resume”. They are similar but not the same. A CV is a comprehensive biographical statement that should never be used in the U.S. unless required by the employer or recipient.

            There are specific fields that often require a CV. These are commonly found in the healthcare, science, research, academia, educational or legal professions. Quite often the seekers of grants and fellowships use a CV. This is because of the academia and research nature of the reviewing process.

            The primary similarity between a resume and a CV is that they both provide important information on the applicant to the reader. This includes name, contact information, major experience, major education, primary skills and appropriate dates. However, it is the level of detail that separates the two. A resume emphasizes brevity. A CV utilizes explanation.

            The level of detail in a CV can be quite extensive. Whereas a resume generally runs one to two pages, a CV usually runs three or more. In the latter, the applicant elaborates on his or her qualifications and skills. It typically includes an extensive summary of the applicant’s educational and academic background, including teaching and research experience. It includes honors and publications. A CV should have a complete list of professional accomplishments. Experience and employment should be explained in depth. All responsibilities and accomplishments should be referred to and elaborated upon for the reader. The result should be a greater sense of the applicants academic and work experience.

            Other sections can include certifications, awards, experience outside the field, training courses, presentations or speeches made, courses taught, grants received, professional memberships, committee membership, relevant travel, community service, interests and level of skills.

            The CV format may provide an advantage, sometimes overlooked, to the writer. That is the freedom to select headings and arrange them for the benefit of the applicant. Because of the extensive nature of the information provided, this can prove a significant advantage.

            Outside the U.S. a curriculum vitae is much more common than a simple resume. It differs from the academic style CV used in the U.S. In the countries of Europe, Asia, and Africa, expect the CV format to be used. The culture in these countries calls for more detail on the prospective employee. Employment law is one of the reasons for this. Their laws are typically less restrictive. Because of the diversity in the language and culture of their employees, the additional information is sought. Many employers expect to see nationality, place of birth and even health status, which are almost never required in the U.S.           

            Typically these resumes are six to eight pages of extreme detail and are often required to be in a chronological layout. 

            There are common principles to apply to both CVs and resumes which better demonstrate your background and abilities. Format selection is one. You want to select the format that best indicates your strengths. The way you arrange headings and highlights can make a great difference to the reader’s perception of your activities and experience. Use variations and see how they appear to you. Ask friends for their impressions.

            Second, make sure the CV, like a resume, is easy to read and follow. If the reader finds the document hard to understand he or she may stop reading.

            Third, select activities that show you are progressive and know how to accomplish goals.

            And finally, as you would for a resume, make sure you research the organization to which you are applying. Make sure you understand what they are expecting to see accomplished within the position.

            A good CV can give the same results as a good resume. A bad CV can give the same poor results as a bad resume.