The difference between a CV and a Resume

What's the difference between a CV and a Resume - and which one do I need?

That's a very good question!

In Australia, most people refer to a 'resume' as a document which gives a summary of your career history - particularly relating to the position in hand which you are applying for - this is the most popular form of 'personal career document' and the one most employers expect to receive for job applications.

A CV (curriculum vitae) is a full record of your career history - dating back to whenever your training or career began (in any field) and including information such as publications, presentations, awards, scholarships, grants, community service, grants etc. This type of document is usually reserved for company executives, academia and high level government positions.

In countries like the UK and New Zealand, they refer to a resume as a CV - so when they ask to see your CV, they are really asking for the Australian version of a resume.

Confusing I know, but definitely worth knowing!