One of the first questions that many jobseekers have when it comes to applying to a job is whether they need a Curriculum Vitae (CV) or a resume. The two words CV and resume are normally interchanged, but there is a big difference when it comes to job applications in Canada. It is important that issues of the difference between these two documents are understood by jobseekers so that they do not portray themselves in the wrong manner before prospective employers. This paper discusses the main differences between a resume and a CV, and it also gives information on the type of resume that is generally used in Canada.
What is a Resume?
A resume is a brief document, usually one- or two-pages, summary of the education, skills and work life of a jobseeker. The purpose of a resume is basically to give an overview of the qualifications of the candidate, so that the employers can get a quick glance of an individual and determine easily, whether the individual is fit or not for the position. In Canada, resumes apply as the most common document to be used when one is applying to a job in most industries. A resume that is written in Canada normally comprises personal information, a professional outline or objective, professional experience, education, and skills that have relevance to the job. Resumes can be extremely versatile and are specific to the job applications. Canadian employers typically have many resumes to go through when there is one job and thus, the resumes should be non-confusing, brief and to the point of skills and work experiences that are most suitable to the position.
What is a CV?
Curriculum Vitae (CV) is a more detailed resume. It is most often found in a scholarly, scientific, or medical context, where a full recording of the education of the person, work experiences, research, publications, awards, and other academic achievements are needed. Standardly, a CV is longer than a resume, and it is usually several pages long, and it is intended to furnish a full account of a career, accomplishments, and qualifications of a specific individual. Differing considerably in the amount of information that they contain, a CV easily surpasses a resume in volume of information that it describes as it may go into more detail on academic and research interests, teaching experience, professional affiliations and publications. In Canada, the CV is used when applying to academic, research, or scientific positions, as well as when applying to a grant or fellowship. It is not as usual in the private sector, unless a job specifically demands a lengthy explanation and record of either an academic or professional background of a candidate.
How to Use a Resume in Canada?
A good resume is a must-have when making an application in Canada. It is the initial perception that an employer gets about you, and therefore vital to make your resume specific to each job that you are applying to. To utilize resume in Canada, the first thing you should do to make sure that it is as short as possible, i.e. one or two pages. Education and certifications also need to be included, but only when they are pertinent to the job you are applying. Bullet points should be used to make the resume easy to scan as most employers in Canada skim through resumes. To be noticed, it is best to use action words and measurable accomplishments to demonstrate what you have achieved in the past roles. Resume Services Canada, which can provide expert assistance in creating a standout resume that will increase your chances of landing an interview.
When to Use CV in Canada?
As indicated above, CVs tend to apply in academic, research and scientific settings or where international applications required, especially jobs that warrant detailed record of an individual career and accomplishments. As an example, a scholar wishing to obtain fellowship or university scholar seeking a full-time employment asked to submit a curriculum vitae in which they would require to provide details about education, research, publications, and developed accomplishments. Employers can indicate in the job advert how they require their document, either a resume or a CV and so it is advisable not to ignore such guidelines. Submission of a wrong document would leave a bad impression on the hiring manager and could even land them on another list of applicants who have been rejected.
How to Decide on a CV or a Resume
A CV or a resume writing in Canada is decided by the job that you are applying. Generally, in most cases when you are seeking employment in the private sector, business, technology and customer service, you have to provide a resume. But when seeking academic/research intensity work or when asked to include a CV in the job posting, then this is the procedure that will be required. Before applying to the employer, it is always necessary to do some research about the expectations of the employer. Even when you are not sure which one to use, you can always address the employer or the recruitment agency and confirm with them about that.
Conclusion
In Canada, resumes or CVs are not encouraged depending on the type of job, the industry or position applied. The resume is more desirable when applying to most jobs because it gives a brief overview of experiences and qualification of a candidate. In academic, research, or scientific disciplines, a CV can be necessary to give an extensive account of the professional and academic achievements of an individual. It is important to know the difference between these two documents and when each should be used so that the chances of success of job application are increased.
