Ask ten people about the difference between a CV and a resume and you may get ten different answers. The short version: it depends on where you are applying. Here is what each term means and how to get the format right.
The short answer
In the UK, Ireland and much of Europe, employers ask for a CV (curriculum vitae). In the United States and Canada, the equivalent document for most jobs is called a resume. In other parts of the world, such as Australia, the Middle East and much of Asia, you will see both terms, sometimes used interchangeably.
To add to the confusion, in the US a “CV” usually means a longer academic document listing research, publications and teaching. So the label alone does not tell you everything. The expectations behind it matter more.
What a UK CV usually looks like
- Around two pages for most roles, although senior or highly technical candidates may need a little more
- A short personal profile at the top that sums up who you are and what you offer
- Work history in reverse chronological order, focusing on achievements rather than duties
- Education, qualifications and relevant training
- Contact details, usually your town or city, phone number, email address and LinkedIn URL
- No photo, date of birth, marital status or nationality. UK employers do not generally expect these, and leaving them out helps reduce the risk of bias
What an international resume usually looks like
A North American resume tends to be shorter and punchier, often one page for early-career candidates and up to two for experienced professionals. It leans heavily on measurable results, uses concise bullet points and leaves out personal details for the same anti-bias reasons.
Elsewhere, expectations vary. In some countries it is still common to include a photo or personal details, while others follow the North American style closely. Applicant tracking systems (ATS) are widely used almost everywhere, so a clean, simple layout with clear headings is a safe choice wherever you apply.
How to decide which you need
Check the job advert
If the employer asks for a CV or a resume, use their term and follow any instructions on length or format.
Think about location
Match the conventions of the country where the job is based, not the country where you live now.
Consider the sector
Academic, medical and research roles often expect more detail. Corporate and technology roles usually value brevity.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Leaving out a short profile, so the reader has to guess what you offer
- Turning a US resume into a UK CV simply by changing the spelling
- Using complex designs, tables or graphics that applicant tracking systems may struggle to read
- Listing duties instead of showing the difference you made
- Leaving career gaps unexplained, when a brief line of context is usually better than silence
One document or two?
If you are applying in more than one country, it is worth keeping separate versions. Your core experience stays the same, but the length, emphasis, spelling and personal details should follow local expectations. A document that fits the market shows employers you understand how they hire.
Want a hand? Our UK CV writing service is built around what UK employers look for, and our international resume writing service covers applications overseas. You can also get started by telling us about the roles you are targeting.