The terms “Resume” and “Curriculum Vitae,” commonly referred to as CV, are used differently in different parts of the world.

In the US and in the English-speaking Canada, the term “resume” is usually used. “CV” is used in Europe, New Zealand, and French Canada. In some other countries, such as Australia or India, the terms are by and large interchangeable.

Whenever a distiction is made between the two, it can be described as follows:

A curriculum vitae (or CV) is a longer (usually two pages or more), more detailed outline of your professional background and expertise. A CV provides a summary of educational and academic backgrounds as well as teaching and research experience, publications, presentations, honors, grants and fellowships, awards, professional associations and licenses, and other details. As with a resume, you may need different versions of a CV for different types of positions.

When should job applicants use a curriculum vitae, rather than a resume? In the US, a curriculum vitae is used primarily when applying for academic, education, scientific or research positions. It is also applicable when applying for fellowships or grants.

When asking for a job in Europe, the Middle East, Africa, or Asia, expect to submit a CV rather than a resume. Keep in mind that overseas employers often expect to read the type of personal information on a CV that would never be included on an American resume, such as date of birth, marital status, nationality and place of birth. United States law on what information job applicants can be asked to provide does not apply outside the country.

Whether your prospective employer uses the term “resume” or “CV”, make sure that you know what he or she is looking for in the document. Once you have this information, you can work on creating a great CV or resume and cover letter that will help you get hired.

Tags: Business