Resume vs CV
What is the difference?
While in some countries the terms Curriculum Vitae (CV) and resume are used interchangeably, the case is not so for most of Canada.
If you are planning on applying for a job in Quebec then the two are considered to be the same thing. In other provinces of Canada, including British Columbia, a CV is quite different from a resume.
Resume
A resume should not be more than two pages. It should also be concise and should generally be tailored to whatever position that you are applying for.
A CV, on the other hand, should be detailed. A more senior position should also have a longer CV.
So what should be included in a resume? (And a CV, for that matter).
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Resume
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Short summary (100 words or less)
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Work History
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Special Skills (relevant to the job you are applying for)
Tips on writing resume
Length
Keep it short. Most people in Canada have a resume that is 2 pages long but a recent graduate should keep it to 1 page.
Tailor to the Job
Do not send the same style resume to apply for different jobs. Customize it to fit with each job, enhancing the skills required for that job.
Social Media
LinkedIn is practically a must-have for a job seeker. It is very likely that your potential employer will first look you up on LinkedIn. Be sure to keep it up to date and make sure that the information on your resume matches with what is on your LinkedIn profile.
How it Looks
Make sure that your resume is organized and clear. Check for any errors or have someone else check it for you. Formatting is crucial to make sure certain things stand out. Be sure to check how your resume looks on someone else’s computer. Send it to a friend and see if the formatting looks OK. And print a copy of your resume to see if the hardcopy looks right.
Additional Notes
If you have done any Volunteer Work, add that to your resume.
Don’t Forget Your Cover Letter
Having a cover letter is essential! In a company that receives a high volume of job applications, not having a cover letter can mean that your resume won’t even be read.
CV
A CV should have all those listed above but should also include other things:
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Be more detailed! You are showing your entire work history!
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Includes things such as: achievements, not just your job history
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Includes certifications that you may have
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List courseworks or any work that has been published
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Includes cultural experiences or places you’ve been
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Any hobbies related to the position or if you are a member of any Professional Clubs or Associations
Other Resources
