WHEN YOUR RESUME NEEDS TO BE CONVERTED INTO A CV

by Darlene Zambruski, ResumeEdge.com Managing Editor, CPRW, SME

Generally speaking, CVs or Curriculum Vitaes, are only used in the United States when the candidate is:

1. Seeking an academic position or a fellowship

2. Has been published frequently within their career field

3. The company or institution to which the CV is being submitted requests a longer, more
detailed version of the candidate’s history

Overseas, however, the situation is far different. Although some countries will accept resumes, most still want CVs. If you are applying to another country for a position it’s important that you note how candidate data differs in that country and in this one. Overseas employers may ask for a listing of:

1. Personal information such as date of birth, marital status, nationality, religion,
and number of children.

2. Linguistic and computer capabilities (this is nearly standard in other countries)

Additionally, presentation of data may vary from country to country (some prefer Education to be listed first, while others want Professional Experience or Work History)

General Rules for Converting a Resume to a CV

Font Type & Format

When creating a CV from a resume, it’s important to note that CVs tend to be more formal. Whereas a stylish format and “designer” font can be used in resume creation, it’s best to err on the conservative side with a CV.

Choose the Times New Roman font and a standard template that separates data under appropriate subheadings – i.e. Career Accomplishments, Licensing, Professional Experience, Publications, etc. CVs are generally so lengthy, they should be easy to navigate.

Data Inclusion

Because most resumes are two-pages or less, information such as publications, extensive training, and career history that spans decades is rarely included.

In a CV, however, all publications should be listed, as well as all relevant training. Full work history should also be provided even if it encompasses twenty years or more.