The words Resume and Curriculum Vitae (CV) are normally used interchangeably, but there is a difference between the two. A resume and CV are different on the basis of their length, format and details mentioned in them.
Differences between a Resume and a CV
· A resume is a summary, whereas a CV is detailed description of your career in chronological order.
· A resume may be wrapped in a page whereas a CV is detailed and lengthy.
· A resume can be modified as per the interview you have to appear in, whereas a CV remains the same.
Points to remember while drafting a Resume
· It should be short, to the point and crisp.
· It should be easy to read and understand.
· Keep the font size and font type same throughout the whole paper. Don’t forget to run a spell check after drafting.
· Mention your educational qualifications.
· Specify your contact details like-Name, contact number, address, email address etc.
· Do include your awards and recognition if any.
· Highlight your qualities and strengths and how you can be beneficial for the organization.
· Do not forget to mention the training you have undergone.
· Use bullet points and not paragraphs so that it is easy to read and understand. Paragraphs would make it boring, avoid them.
· Go through the Job description thoroughly and create and write an objective so that your resume gets shortlisted and you are called in for the interview.
· Include soft skills, like – team player, good interpersonal skills, good communication skills, eagerness to learn etc. that you possess, the interviewer will definitely notice it.
· Include your hobbies as well. Don’t include very random hobbies. Try including some serious ones.
· If you have been part of any extra-curricular activities do not forget to include them too. It will make your resume interesting.
· Remember to include your technical skills, it is very important.
· Also mention your interpersonal skills, like – good listener, negotiating skills, interpersonal communication, personal appearance etc.
· Include your marks if they are worth mentioning on paper.
· Avoid providing references without informing people about it. The reference checks should not be a surprise for people whom you include in your references. This will negatively impact your candidature.
If your resume contains the skills and qualities an employer is looking for, chances of you being shortlisted and selected increases.
Don’ts to keep in mind while drafting
· Do not lie about your experience, references, education, pay package and length of service, because these days, strict reference checks are done and you can lose your job even if your selected if any information is found to be untrue.
· Be specific while creating your paper because that is your chance to create an impression, don’t be vague.
· Don’t include family details or marital status, these don’t really matter when you are going in for a job interview.
· Always carry a computer typed resume, never carry a handwritten one.
· Don’t mention your salary package or expected salary. That can be verbally discussed during the interview.
Jennifer Broflowski is a blogger and contributor to resume blog
