Resume writing services offered here in the U.S. are now gaining popularity abroad. However, most of the time, foreigners get confused about what they really need – a resume or a curriculum vitae (CV)? Do different countries treat resumes and CVs differently? Read on.
- In the United Kingdom, a resume is sometimes called a CV and it should always have a cover letter, addressed to a specific person (CvTips.com, 1999);
- In Japan, their traditional form of a resume is called “Rirekisho,” which is more of a personal profile than a way to show your talents and what you can contribute to a certain company (CvTips.com, 1999);
- In France, is important not to send an exhaustive résumé/CV. Two pages can be justified when the applicant has—at the very least—eight years of professional experience; otherwise, one to one-and-a-half pages will suffice (Going Global, 2009);
- Canadians use resume over CV and they prefer computerized applications as well (CvTips.com, 1999);
- In the Philippines, the word resume is more used over CV (Askville, 2009). But CV is perceived to be the more formal term for resume and is often used for top executive vacancies;
- In Australia, a resume is more often than not referred to as a CV. Australians frequently deem incorrect those perceived as American English (SelfGrowth.com, 1996);
- In the United Arab Emirates, a CV is more commonly used though it means the same with resume. To become effective, a resume should include your photograph and nationality (Dubai, Ltd., 2009);
- In India, a resume and a CV may be used interchangeably. A resume, however, has a free-form organizational style and is used in the private sector. A CV, meanwhile, has a more standardized look and format and is usually used in educational institutions (Wikipedia, 2009);
- In South Africa, the terms CV and resume are often used interchangeably, as well. A comprehensive CV is best received when it is brief and in reverse chronological order (JobERA.com, 2000); and
- In Mexico, resumes commonly include a cover page that lists only the job seeker’s name and curriculum vitae. They are also not restricted to one or two pages (Going Global, 2009).
Generally, a resume and a CV mean the same – a job search tool describing the qualifications of an applicant. Despite their generally similar meaning, different countries address and perceive resumes and CVs in practically different ways. To clarify things, here’s how they are called and treated in different countries:
