When it comes to preparing for the job hunt, one of the most frequently asked questions of job seekers is: How is a CV different from a resume? After all, both serve the same general purpose of presenting your professional qualifications to employers. The difference is in format, content and purpose.

A CV (Curriculum Vitae) is a detailed, multi-page document that provides an exhaustive overview of your professional history, academic background, skills, publications and other achievements. It’s often used for positions in academia, research or roles where a comprehensive history is necessary.

In contrast, a resume is a concise, one-to-two-page summary of your work experience, education and skills tailored to the specific job you’re applying for. Resumes are most used in industries outside of academia, where employers expect a quick snapshot of the candidate’s qualifications.

If you’re curious about physician CV specifics or want to explore CV examples for inspiration, be sure to check out PracticeLink’s CV Builder.

What are 3 differences between a resume and a CV?

When deciding whether to create a CV or a resume, there are three primary differences to consider:

  1. Length
    A CV is typically much longer than a resume. It can span multiple pages, detailing your entire professional career. In contrast, a resume is typically a brief, one- or two-page document that highlights key qualifications tailored to a specific job.
  2. Content
    CVs are comprehensive, often including detailed sections on publications, research, teaching experience, certifications and professional development. Resumes focus primarily on work experience and relevant skills and are more streamlined to fit the job description.
  3. Usage
    CVs are mostly used for academic, research or medical positions where a detailed career history is essential. Resumes are preferred in most corporate and non-academic job markets, where hiring managers value brevity.

For those interested in examples of CV and resume, consider looking up templates that suit your industry and career stage.

Do employers prefer a CV or a resume?

The answer to whether employers prefer a CV or a resume largely depends on the industry and role in question. In general, employers in the U.S. and Canada lean toward resumes, especially in corporate and non-academic sectors. However, if you are applying for a position in academia, research or medicine, a CV is typically expected.

If you’re unsure which document you need, it’s essential to know how to write a CV that matches the expectations of your field. A CV for a teaching position, for instance, may emphasize your publications, research and academic contributions, while a CV for a clinical role will highlight your medical experience, certifications and clinical trials.

What are the 5 main things your CV should include?

A CV serves as a comprehensive overview of your qualifications, so it’s crucial to include the following five key sections:

  1. Personal Information
    Include your full name, contact details and any other necessary information like a professional website or LinkedIn profile.
  2. Professional Experience
    List your relevant work experience in reverse chronological order, detailing your roles, responsibilities and achievements.
  3. Education
    Include your degrees, institutions attended and dates of graduation. If you’ve completed any notable certifications or post-graduate training, be sure to add those as well.
  4. Publications and Research
    If relevant, this section can showcase your academic publications, research projects or contributions to professional conferences.
  5. Skills and Certifications
    Highlight your core skills, certifications and any technical proficiencies that align with the role you’re applying for.

For those seeking further structure, a CV template can help guide the formatting and organization of your content.

Whether you’re crafting a CV or a resume, knowing the distinctions and understanding what to include can significantly enhance your job application. The choice between the two depends on your career goals and the industry you’re targeting. To make sure you’re presenting yourself in the best possible light, always tailor your CV or resume to meet the specific requirements of each role.

Looking for more tips on how to craft the perfect CV? Check out our physician CV resources or review some CV examples to get started!