Introduction
Do you know the difference among these 3 types and what and how recruiters look for them?
How you prepare them ahead can help you land a job or not. To stand out among many candidates, you have to know exactly what the recruiters are looking for and apply. Let’s check the difference between these types:
| CV | Resume | Cover Letter | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Length | Unlimited | Minimum: 1 page, Maximum: 2 pages | 1 page (within 250 to 400 words) |
| How long recruiters spend time to read your application in screening process? | 6s | 6s | 6s |
| Which type to use for applying jobs? | People with over 5 years experiences, mid-level positions | Entry-level positions | Depend on industries. Prepare ahead to send when the recruiter requests. |
| Term of use | Europe uses the “cv” term to describe both cv and resume. Other countries use it interchangeably. | Europe uses the “cv” term to describe both cv and resume. Other countries use it interchangeably. | Cover letter |
| About address | due to current work from home situation, it’s better not to include it. If you want to put, just include township and city or city and country | due to current work from home situation, it’s better not to include it. If you want to put, just include township and city or city and country | city, country, postal code |
| Include picture? | Depending on the country, in Europe, it’s not required. In Asia, it’s optional. | Depending on the country, in Europe, it’s not required. In Asia, it’s optional. | No |
| Include date? | No | No | Yes |
| Purpose of content | Detail information of academic, professional and accomplishments | summary of professional experience, skills, qualifications | Explain and describe what you included in resume |
| Abbreviations | Don’t add if possible. If you must add, explain it. | Don’t add if possible. If you must add, explain it. | Don’t add if possible. If you must add, explain it. |
| Pronouns | No pronouns | No pronouns | Use “I” |
| Tone | Professional tone, formalized document | Professional tone, formalized document | Conversational, personal touch |
Conclusion
With these differences, you can avoid what you shouldn’t include and be cautious when writing an application form. Depending on industry and location of the company, recruiters may ask for a CV or resume, CV or cover letter. As mentioned above, “cv” term can be either cv or resume but not cover letter. If you are unsure about what you are being asked for, consider the base location, its industry. If it’s a research or academic position, it is likely to be a cv. If you are still unclear about which type, you can reach out to the recruiter for clarification.
Content Writer by Win Win Maw
