Resume vs CV: what is the difference?
The words are used differently around the world. Knowing what a recruiter means by “CV” or “resume” helps you send the right document.
The difference
A resume is a short, targeted summary of your experience for a specific job, usually one or two pages. A CV (curriculum vitae) traditionally is a fuller record of your career, used especially for academic, research and medical roles, and can run several pages.
What employers mean in different countries
In India, “CV” and “resume” are often used interchangeably for a one-to-two-page job document. In the UK, “CV” usually means that short document. In the US and Canada, “resume” is the job document and “CV” means the long academic version.
When in doubt, read the job post: if it asks for a CV for a corporate role, a well-structured resume is usually what they want.
Adapt one document for each application
Whichever name the employer uses, they want to see quickly that you fit the role. Keep a complete original, and tailor a shorter version to each job. Waywright is free and does that from your uploaded resume or CV for each job description you paste. An account is required.
Put the checklist into practice
Upload your resume and paste a job description. Review the generated draft and approve the changes before downloading. Waywright is free to use. An account is required.
Tailor my resumeRelated guides
- How to write a resume summary (with examples)
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- How to write resume bullet points that show your impact
Write resume bullet points that show what you did and achieved: a simple action-task-result pattern, strong action verbs, fictional before-and-after examples and mistakes to avoid.
- How to write a resume headline (with examples)
How to write a resume headline for Naukri, LinkedIn and your resume: a one-line formula with fictional examples for freshers and experienced professionals.
- Resume in PDF or Word: which format should you send?
Should you send your resume as PDF or Word (DOCX)? When each is better, how ATS handles both, and how to name and check the file before you apply.