Job applications are full of requirements: certain skill levels, salary brackets, and certifications. But one thing most job seekers will need, regardless of the specific job, is a CV, or is it a resume? 

‍So, what are the main differences? Let's break it down.

‍What is a CV? 

Starting from the top, the term CV is an abbreviation of the Latin word Curriculum Vitae, which directly translates to "the course of your life". 

This is a specific document where you'd bullet point, in detail, your professional experience, work experience, work history, and milestones over your course of life in reverse chronological order. It should also include a comprehensive outline of your personal details, such as achievements in academia, your talents, hobbies, and interests. Plus, the basics like contact information. 

There's no hard rule as to how long a CV should be. If you've spent years in your field and have racked up some professional credit, it could range anywhere from 2-8 pages long. To get a better idea of how long yours should be, search for CV examples online.

To personalise a CV to the job you're applying for, they're usually accompanied by a cover letter. This lets recruiters know how the experience detailed in your CV suits the role you're applying for.

What to include in a CV:

- Full name
- Contact information
- Professional title/summary
- Personal statement
- Interests
- Education
- Work experience
- Certifications/certificates and courses
- Affiliations
- Skills
- Languages
- Volunteer work
- Grants of fellowships
- References

What is a Resume? 

A resume differs in the way that it's a more targeted summary of experience, crafted with a specific job in mind. 

When writing a resume, it's best to keep it short and to the point; in most cases, one page would be your maximum. If you think you need to add more, be ruthless and make sure the experience or information you're adding is vital to your overall application. 

Just like CVs, if you need help crafting one, there are many resume templates online to help you. These templates come with resume formats that help you keep focused on the kinds of information to include. For example, unlike a CV, you wouldn't add any background information or details that weren't entirely relevant to the job you're applying for. Before writing yours up, have a quick search for resume examples online to get a feel for the length and style.

What to include in a resume: 

- Full name
- Your job title
- Contact information
- Resume summary or resume objective
- Work experience
- Education
- Relevant skills
- Languages
- Certifications and interests (if relevant)

Bringing your CV or resume to life

Having a well-crafted and considered CV or resume will get you to the playing field. But, if you want to hit home runs, you have to find a way to be memorable; cue video.  

That's where PreviewMe can help. 

PreviewMe is a video resume builder, video editor, and video production platform all in one. The video CV or resume that you self-produce with a helping hand from PreviewMe, can be used as a stand-alone application or to complement existing application documents.  

Just like with CV or resume writing, you can break down your video resume into chapters and keep them as short and snappy or detailed and descriptive as you like! We recommend the following: 

- Chapter One: About Me
- Chapter Two: My Experience
- Chapter Three: My Fit for the Role  

To read up on the benefits of a video resume, head here. Then, once you're ready to record your first video resume, here are some tips and tricks for creating one!‍