CV vs resumé: Which one to use? Here are 5 key differences

In Singapore and many other Asian countries, employers may require either a curriculum vitae (CV) or a resumé from job seekers. But what exactly is the difference between the two documents, and why is the distinction important to understand? 

The Ministry of Manpower (MoM) said in its Statement of Labour Market Developments in 2022 that the job market grew significantly between 2021 and 2022, hitting 2.9% above its pre-pandemic level. While the hiring outlook also remained positive, global trends may affect labour demand. Manpower Minister Tan See Leng said that it was crucial for companies to strengthen the local workforce.

In a competitive market like Singapore, job seekers need a strategy for a better job hunt. Knowing the differences between the two can help you tweak your CV or resumé to ensure that your application stands out.

The two terms are typically used interchangeably in Singapore, but there are actually key differences between a CV and a resumé. Understanding these differences is crucial for job seekers. Submitting the wrong document could result in a missed opportunity, or even harm the applicant’s chances of securing an interview.

• What is a CV?
• Example of a CV
• What is a resumé?
• Example of a resumé
• Key differences between a CV and a resumé
• When to use a CV
• When to use a resumé
• How to write an effective CV
• How to write an effective resumé
• Tips for formatting a CV or resumé
• Common mistakes to avoid
• Conclusion
• Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

What is a CV?

“CV” is short for curriculum vitae, which is Latin for “course of life.” It is an extensive document that typically lists an individual’s academic background, research experience, publications, and other professional achievements in full detail. It can be several pages long. Applicants commonly use the CV to apply for academic or research positions, as well as specific high-level roles of particular importance and seriousness. It also highlights extensive work experience in a particular field. 

Employers typically expect a CV to be detailed and thorough, and it may include sections on teaching experience, grants, and fellowships, among other things.

How long should a CV be?

It is not uncommon for a CV to be several pages long, particularly for individuals with extensive academic or research experience. However, a well-structured CV should be concise, with a clear and logical layout that makes it easy for potential employers to scan. If you are applying for work in Singapore, it’s best to keep your CV to a maximum of 2 pages.

Sections of a CV

A well-structured CV should include the following key sections:

Professional summary

This is a brief overview of the individual’s skills, knowledge, and areas of expertise, and should provide potential employers with a clear understanding of their qualifications.

Personal information

Include the following information:

• Full name and current title
• Contact details such as mobile number and email address
• Links to the job seeker’s portfolio or website 

Avoid including these unnecessary personal details that may open you up to inadvertent bias:

• Age or birthday
• Marital status
• Religious beliefs
• Nationality, unless the information is needed for specific government jobs or private roles that invite citizens of a particular country to apply.

Education

List down all academic degrees, any relevant certifications, and professional qualifications.

Professional experience

A detailed summary of the job seeker’s employment history goes here. Include job titles, duties and responsibilities, and achievements.

If their work entails research, they may dedicate a separate section to discussing it – past and current studies, grants, and other relevant accomplishments.

Publications and presentations

This is a record of all academic journals and conference talks. If the job seeker presented at an event, include the title of the presentation, as well as the date and location. 

Honours and awards

This section includes accolades or special recognition. This is a great place to highlight any relevant awards or distinctions one has acquired throughout their career.

Skills

It is important to highlight both technical and transferable skills in this section. This is also where applicants may add any languages they speak or any specific software they are proficient in.

Professional affiliations

When listing professional affiliations, include the name of the group or society, the chapter or local branch, and the date of membership. This shows the job seeker’s network of competent and like-minded professionals within the same field.

Example of a CV

[Full Name], PhD

Contact information:

• Address: [your address]
• Phone: [your phone number]
• Email: [your email address]

Professional summary:

A professor of [field] with over 10 years of experience in teaching and research in [area of expertise]. Proficient in leading courses, mentoring students, and producing high-impact research publications.

Education:

• PhD in [your field], [University], [graduation date]
• MA in [your field], [University], [graduation date]
• BA in [your field], [university], [graduation date]

Teaching experience:

[Course Name], [Department], [University], [year]

• [Course description]
• [Teaching approach and methodologies]
• [Student evaluation and feedback]
• [Course Name], [Department], [University], [year]
• [Course description]
• [Teaching approach and methodologies]
• [Student evaluation and feedback]

Research experience:

[Research Project], [Funding Agency], [year–present]

• [Project description]
• [Collaborators]
• [Impact of research]

Publications:

• [your Last Name, your First Name], [co-author’s Last Name, co-author’s First Name], “[Title of Paper].” [Name of Journal], vol. [volume number], no. [issue number], [year], pp. [page range]
• [your Last Name, your First Name], [co-author’s Last Name, co-author’s First Name], “[Title of Book Chapter].” In [Book Title], edited by [editor’s Name], [year], pp. [page range]

Presentations:

• [your Last Name, your First Name], [co-author’s Last Name, co-author’s First Name], “[Title of Presentation].” [Name of Conference], [date], [Location]
• [Your Last Name, Your First Name], [Co-Author’s Last Name, Co-Author’s First Name], “[Title of Presentation].” [Name of Conference], [date], [Location]

Awards and honours:

• [name of Award/Honor], [Awarding Organisation], [date]
• [name of Award/Honor], [Awarding Organisation], [date]

Skills:

• Heading research teams and project management
• Critical thinking
• Design thinking
• Speaks three languages: English, Mandarin, Malay

Professional affiliations:

• [Name of Professional Organisation], [membership status], [date joined]
• [Name of Professional Organisation], [membership status], [date joined]

What is a resumé?

A resumé is much shorter and more straightforward than a CV. It is typically a one- or two-page document summarising an individual’s relevant work experience, skills, and education. One would tailor it to the job they are applying for, highlighting key accomplishments and skills most relevant to the position. 

Applicants in specific industries such as business, finance, and technology typically submit a resumé, as hiring managers require a concise and focused presentation of skills and qualifications.

The purpose of a resumé is to showcase your qualifications to the potential employer, and to entice them to invite you in for an interview.

How long should a resumé be?

The length of a resumé is typically one or 2 pages. A well-written resumé should be organised into sections, with each section highlighting a different aspect of the applicant’s qualifications. 

Sections of a resumé

Some of the typical sections of a resumé include:

Contact information

This section includes the applicant’s name, address, phone number, and email address. It is crucial to ensure that the contact information is up to date and professional.

Professional summary

This section provides a brief overview of the applicant’s qualifications, including their work experience, skills, and achievements. It should be tailored to the specific role the job seeker is applying for.

Education

This section lists the applicant’s educational background, including the degrees earned, the name of the institution, and the graduation dates.

Professional experience

This section lists the applicant’s previous work experience, including the job title, company name, and employment dates. It should also include a brief description of the duties and responsibilities of each position held.

Skills

This section highlights the applicant’s relevant skills, including technical skills, soft skills, and language proficiency.

Certifications and licences

This section lists any professional certifications or licences that the applicant holds, including the name of the certificate, the issuing organisation, and the date obtained.

Awards and honours

This section lists any professional achievements or awards that the applicant has received, including recognition for outstanding performance or contributions to the field.

Volunteer experience

This is not mandatory, but listing volunteer organisations, civic groups, or charities in this section showcases an individual who is well-rounded and passionate.  

Example of a resumé

[Your Name]

Contact information:

• Phone: [your phone number]
• Email: [your email address]
• Address: [your home address]

Professional summary:

A highly motivated and experienced manager with [number of years] years of experience in [industry/field]. Proven track record of [achievement/achievement/achievement]. Skilled in [skill/skill/skill], with a strong focus on [quality/efficiency/customer satisfaction].

Professional experience:

Manager, [Company Name], [employment dates]

• Oversaw a team of 10 employees in the sales aftercare department, ensuring that all tasks were completed accurately and efficiently
• Developed and implemented new processes and procedures that led to a smoother workflow between teams, resulting in a 15% increase in productivity
• Maintained positive relationships with clients and customers, resulting in a 10% increase in customer satisfaction ratings
• Conducted regular performance evaluations and provided feedback to team members, resulting in a 12% increase in employee engagement and satisfaction

Assistant Manager, [Company Name], [employment dates]

• Assisted the manager in overseeing a team of 8 employees, ensuring that all tasks were completed accurately and efficiently
• Worked closely with clients and customers to ensure that their needs were met, resulting in an 8% increase in customer satisfaction ratings
• Developed and implemented new training programs for team members, resulting in a 7% increase in employee productivity and engagement
• Provided support to the manager in developing and implementing new processes and procedures, resulting in a more agile workflow

Education:

• [Degree], [Institution Name], [graduation date]
• [Degree], [Institution Name], [graduation date]

Skills:

• Leadership and management
• Project management
• Budget management
• Strategic planning
• Customer service
• Team building
• Communication

Certifications:

• [Certification Name], [Issuing Organisation], [date obtained]
• [Certification Name], [Issuing Organisation], [date obtained]

Awards and honours:

• [Award], [year]
• [Award], [year]
• [Award], [year]

Volunteer experience

• Volunteer, Save Our Street Dogs
• Volunteer, Trash Hero Singapore
• Volunteer, Habitat for Humanity

Check out more resumé examples here.

Key differences between a CV and a resumé

For a better job hunting strategy, it would be helpful to know the difference between a CV and resumé, and when to use which format to achieve your goals.

Length

A CV is typically longer than a resumé and can be several pages in length, depending on the applicant’s experience and achievements. On the other hand, a resumé is usually limited to one or 2 pages, to keep it concise and focused on the most relevant information.

Content

A CV includes a detailed overview of an individual’s entire career. In contrast, a resumé focuses on an individual’s most recent and relevant work experience, skills, and education.

Purpose

A CV is typically used for academic or research positions, graduate school applications, or other opportunities where a detailed overview of an individual’s qualifications is necessary. A resumé is used for job applications in a variety of fields, including business, finance, marketing, and many others.

Focus

A CV focuses on an individual’s academic and research accomplishments, including publications, presentations, and other scholarly activities. A resumé focuses on an individual’s work experience, skills, and achievements in a specific field or industry.

Style and format

A CV typically follows a chronological order, starting with the individual’s most recent education and work experience and moving backwards in time. On the other hand, a resumé can be formatted in several ways, including a chronological format, a functional format that highlights skills, or a combination of both. 

Additionally, a CV typically includes more detail and uses a more formal tone, while a resumé is often formatted using bullet points and a more concise, action-oriented style.

Understanding the differences between a CV and a resumé is essential for job seekers to ensure they are using the correct document for their job applications.

When to use a CV

While CVs are often used in academic and research positions, they can also be appropriate for applications for international or creative roles.

Academic positions

A CV is valuable for establishing an individual’s teaching experience and philosophy, as well as their service to the academic community.

Research positions

A CV is used to demonstrate an individual’s research accomplishments, including publications, presentations, grants, and other relevant research experience. A CV is also helpful in presenting an individual’s expertise in their field, highlighting their potential for future research success.

International positions

CVs may be preferred over resumés when applying for international positions, particularly in countries such as the UK and Ireland, and in Europe. This is especially true for academic and research positions in these regions, where a CV is the standard document used for job applications.

When to use a resumé

Applicants vying for jobs in business and industry, government, non-profit, and entry-level positions, will be expected to submit a resumé.

Business and industry jobs

Applicants commonly use resumés in applying for business and industry positions – management, finance, marketing, and human resources. 

Government jobs

Resumés are also commonly used in applying for civil service jobs or positions in government agencies. 

Non-profit jobs

Resumés can be appropriate when applying for non-profit positions, such as in fundraising, advocacy, or community outreach.

Internships and entry-level positions

Those seeking internships and entry-level positions may use a resumé, especially in cases where a job seeker may not have significant work experience. 

How to write an effective CV

A well-written and effective CV can spell the difference between getting hired for your dream job or not. Here are some tips on how to write a CV that stands out:

Tailor your CV to the job you are applying for

To make your CV stand out, tailor it to the job you are applying for. This means understanding the requirements of the role and highlighting the skills, experience, and achievements that are relevant to the job.

Highlight your academic and research achievements

Are you applying for an academic or research position? Highlight your educational and research achievements, such as degrees earned, research papers published, and grants received. Also, emphasise your teaching experience, including courses taught and any related awards or recognition you have received.

Emphasise your relevant work experience

For CVs, it is also crucial to showcase your relevant work experience, including any leadership or management roles you have held, projects you have completed, and measurable results you have achieved.

Showcase your language and technical skills

Language can be essential in applying for specialised positions. Take note of which languages you speak. If the job requires specific technical skills, such as proficiency in a certain software program or programming language, include that in your skills section or relevant work experience.

Remember to proofread for spelling and grammar errors. Having someone else review your CV before submitting it is also a good idea, as they may catch errors or suggest improvements.

How to write an effective resumé

A well-written and effective resumé is crucial to your job search.

Tailor your resumé to the job you are applying for

Employers receive hundreds of resumés, so you need to tailor your resumé to the job you are applying. Edit your resumé to highlight the essential skills and qualifications that the employer specified in the job posting. 

Highlight your relevant work experience.

Start with your most recent job and work backwards. For each position, include your job title, company name, and dates of employment. Then describe your key responsibilities and accomplishments in bullet points.

Emphasise your achievements and contributions.

Instead of just listing your responsibilities, highlight your achievements and contributions to your previous employers. Indicate your previous roles’ key performance indicators (KPIs), how you were able to meet them, and how these contributed to bigger business goals. Use specific examples and metrics, such as “Increased sales by 30%” or “Reduced expenses by 20%.”

Showcase your skills and certifications.

Make sure to highlight your relevant skills and certifications. These include technical and transferable skills. If you have any certifications or licences relevant to the job, be sure to include them on your resumé.

Tips for formatting a CV or resumé

Whether you choose to submit a CV or resumé, make sure that you format your document properly. This makes it easier for recruiters to browse your document and assess if you are fit for the job. Some employers use Applicant Tracking Software (ATS) systems to run an initial vetting process for job applications. Having a well-formatted document means that key details and skills are not missed by these ATS systems. 

Use a clear and easy-to-read font.

Make sure to use a font in a standard size that is easily readable for everyone. 

Organise your sections logically and clearly.

Make it easy for the hiring manager to review your CV or resumé by organising the information in sections.

Use bullet points to highlight important information.

Bullet points emphasise crucial information. Use them to highlight facts you want to draw the employer’s attention to.

Keep it concise and error-free.

Make sure to proofread it at least three times before printing or sending it. Typos or spelling mistakes show you are inattentive to details and can create a negative impression.

Common mistakes to avoid

Here are some common mistakes to avoid in writing a CV or a resumé:

Using the wrong format for the job application

Using the wrong format can be a deal-breaker for potential employers. Some industries or companies may also have specific formatting requirements. Be sure to research the job application's requirements and use the appropriate format.

Including irrelevant information

Some information, such as personal details like your age or marital status, can detract from your application's focus and may even lead to discrimination.

Making grammatical and spelling errors

Grammatical and spelling errors indicate a lack of attention to detail – which can affect your job application.

Not tailoring your CV or resumé to the job application

Each job application is unique. Tailor your CV or resumé by reviewing the job description and including relevant keywords and skills in your application.

Conclusion

In general, job postings will specify whether a CV or a resumé is required. Otherwise, it is always a good idea to research the norms in the industry and location for the job. By understanding how hiring managers use a CV or a resumé to manage their expectations, you can present yourself in the best possible light and increase your chances of being considered for the position.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

1. What is the difference between a CV and a resumé?
   ⁠
   ⁠A CV (curriculum vitae) is a more detailed document that includes an individual’s education, work experience, skills, and achievements in chronological order. Individuals may submit a CV for academic and research positions. 
   ⁠
   ⁠A resumé is a more concise document summarising an individual’s relevant work experience, skills, and achievements. Applicants typically submit resumés for most industry and business positions.
   ⁠
2. When should I use a CV instead of a resumé?
   ⁠
   ⁠A CV should be used instead of a resumé when applying for academic, research, or international positions, or when a job posting explicitly requests a CV.
   ⁠
3. Can a CV be used in place of a resumé?
   ⁠
   ⁠Usually, one cannot use a CV instead of a resumé. An exception would be for high-level roles, where employers may ask applicants to submit a CV to showcase their range and depth of expertise.
   ⁠
4. How long should my CV or resumé be?
   ⁠
   ⁠The length of a CV or resume can vary depending on the individual’s education, work experience, and skills. However, a CV is typically longer than a resumé and can range from 2 to 5 pages, while a resumé is typically one to 2.
   ⁠
5. How do I format my CV or resumé?
   ⁠
   ⁠Formatting can vary depending on the individual’s preferences and the job posting requirements. However, using a clear and legible font is essential, as well as including appropriate headings and sections and ensuring consistency throughout the document.
   ⁠
6. Should I include references on my CV or resumé?
   ⁠
   ⁠It is optional to include references on a CV or resumé. Employers typically request references at a later stage in the application process.
   
7. How can I make my CV or resumé stand out to employers?
   ⁠
   ⁠Make a CV or resumé stand out to employers by tailoring it to the job posting, highlighting relevant skills and achievements, and using action verbs and quantifiable results.
   ⁠
8. Is it necessary to tailor my CV or resumé for each job application?
   ⁠
   ⁠Tailoring a CV or resumé for each job application is recommended to ensure that it highlights the relevant skills and experiences that match the job posting requirements.
   ⁠
9. What should I include in the education section of my CV or resumé?
   ⁠
   ⁠In the education section, it is essential to include the institution’s name, degree or certification, field of study, and graduation date. Additional information, such as relevant coursework, research projects, or academic achievements, may also be included.
   ⁠
10. How do I highlight my skills on my CV or resumé?
    ⁠
    ⁠Skills can be highlighted on a CV or resumé by including a section that lists relevant skills, using specific examples in the work experience section to demonstrate mastery, and using action verbs that showcase skills, such as “managed,” “organised,” or “developed.”

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