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Writer's pictureRenata Bernarde
Oct 30, 2023

CVs vs Resumes

Episode 210 - The Ultimate Guide to CVs and Resumes for Corporate Professionals


In the corporate recruitment process, the importance of a well-crafted CV or Resume cannot be overstated. Furthermore, as the job market becomes more globalized, understanding the distinction between CVs and Resumes has become pivotal for job seekers. The "Job Hunting Podcast" recently celebrated its four-year anniversary, marking 210 episodes of essential guidance for professionals worldwide. As a tribute, we’re diving deep into this important topic: the nuanced differences between CVs and Resumes.


The Job Hunting Podcast: A Podcast Celebrated Worldwide


The "Job Hunting Podcast", initiated in October 2019, has achieved international acclaim. It is now broadcasted in over 100 countries, with thousands of professionals listening to it every week, seeking transformative insights to navigate their corporate careers successfully. The show has persistently resonated with professionals, focusing on professional growth and development, and the intricacies of career planning.


CV vs. resume: The key differences


CVs, or "Curriculum Vitae", Latin for "course of life", are detailed records of professional and academic milestones. They are the preferred format in academia worldwide, and they're the go-to format in Australia and European countries. CVs include a detailed account of your professional and academic achievements. They are longer than a resume and can stretch beyond a couple of pages, especially in academia.


On the other hand, Resumes are more concise summaries of careers and skills, and are favored in the US and Canada and many other countries as well. It’s essential to discern which one is relevant based on the job's geographical location. It offers a brief summary of career skills, education, and experiences in one or two pages, with a short and precise, listing qualifications, awards, and other key achievements.


In episode 210 of The Job Hunting Podcast, I address my position on some aspects of both resume and CVs that I believe can greatly affect a candidate's chances of success, such as adding referees, hobbies and interests, and tailoring them for specific job applications.


Common mistakes and misconceptions about Resumes and CVs


Job seekers often fall into pitfalls, such as overcomplicating things or being overly verbose. Here are some prevalent errors:

  • Overloading with Information: A resume or CV isn't an exhaustive life history. It's a tailored reflection of relevant experiences.

  • Generic Formats: Each job application is unique. Customizing the document to suit the role can increase chances manifold.

  • Misunderstanding Length: CVs and resumes have distinct length guidelines. Ensure they're adhered to for optimal impact.


Expert tips for writing successful CVs and resumes


While we may have the best qualifications, it's the presentation that often sets us apart. Here's what to keep in mind:

  • Your document reflects you: Ensure clarity, relevance, and professionalism.

  • Understand the job role and tailor your document accordingly.

  • Avoid fluff: Fancy fonts, images, or tables can affect the readability, especially in systems like ATS (Applicant Tracking Systems).

  • Your online presence, especially on platforms like LinkedIn, should be in harmony with your CV or resume. This consistency ensures recruiters view you as authentic and genuine.

  • When in doubt, seek assistance if you are unsure about formatting or content. Investing in a short career program like Reset Your Career, or an hour with a career coach can be a gamechanger and save you weeks or months of job hunting!


Make sure you're always on top of career trends


The "Job Hunting Podcast" has been a beacon for professionals for the past four years. With its insights into CVs and resumes, job interviews, career planning and topics, job seekers have access to an educational resource and can gain more insight into what they need to do to have a successful career. So, to continue your job-hunting journey with confidence, armed with these insights, subscribe to The Job Hunting Newsletter so you're the first to access new episodes of the podcast, as well as additional tools, resources and special events.



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