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Resume Examples & Samples

Cv vs resume: what's the difference [side-by-side examples].

Dayana Aleksandrova

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Table of Contents

This is when you should use a resume, this is when you should use a cv, what information goes where, cv vs resume in the academic world, what the cv means in europe.

I was brought up thinking that the resume was the holy grail of getting a job.

A single page of glowing, noteworthy accomplishments showing perseverance, strength, expertise - that’s what the resume was to me. When I moved to Europe from the United States, however, it seemed as though no one had a single drop of respect for the resume. Instead, everyone demanded my “CV.”

So I learned the hard way.

The CV & resume are not identical at all.

At first glance, it seems like the CV & resume are pretty much the same thing - they both aim to get you a job and present your work history. Truth is, however, that they are two different things.

The CV and resume are not interchangeable and they don’t have quite the same function. The resume is the best way to showcase your relevant experience and education in the United States, allowing you to talk about the hobbies and interests that make you a good fit for the job.

The CV is the preferred document for an application in Europe, showing all of your experience, going into detail about your education, listing your courses and certifications, hobbies, interests, volunteer work and publications. Essentially, it's a lot longer and more detailed.

We will take a look at both and learn how and when to use each, so you don’t have to spend many sleepless nights trying it figure it out.

in this guide we will teach you:

• Why the CV has a different objective than the resume
• What to put on your CV and what on your resume
• How to use both the CV and resume
• What the role of the CV is in Europe

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Don’t have a resume yet? Check out our resume builder .

#this-is-when-you-should-use-a-resume

The resume is the most commonly used document for job application in the United States. The idea is basically to provide a short, interesting and concise summary of your career and skills.

This is what you will find on a resume:

• Contact information
• Awards & Certifications
• Skills, Hobbies & Interests

The standard resume is only one page long. Recruiters are some of the busiest people you will ever meet, so they need to be able to quickly scan the entire page and make a judgment. If you resume has so many pages that it needs to be stapled, you’re doing it wrong.

A good resume is:

• No longer than one or two pages
• Shows your skills that are specifically tailored to the job
• Include numerical information

It’s always a good idea to customize your resume to the position you are applying for. You shouldn't use the same resume to apply for an investment banking analyst and a marketing analyst positions.

Does your resume have to include every single job that you’ve ever held?

ANSWER: No. Only include your relevant experience. You can leave off that summer you made bagels at your local shop.

Now, let’s have a look at what the CV aims to accomplish.

#this-is-when-you-should-use-a-cv

While the CV aims to show your professional experience, it does it with much more information and is much longer than the resume. On your CV, you have the freedom, and in fact are encouraged to, provide more details about education, work, values.

It’s very common that the CV is a few pages long. That’s not a bad thing, because after all, you want to demonstrate that you’ve been working hard and getting things done, right?

The CV is very commonly used in the United States as an application for academic positions. While a simple resume can be plenty when you apply for a job in finance or hospitality, a more elaborate curriculum vitae is needed when you apply to be a professor.

On a CV you will find:

• Experience in detail
• Courses taken
• Published work
• Certifications

Now that we’ve had a look at the basic aim of both the resume and CV, let’s have a look at what to include in each.

#what-information-goes-where

The CV vs resume have a similar core body of information and the differences lie in the fact that the CV requires further details. Both the CV and resume include:

If you need some extra inspiration, check out these resume templates .

Now, the CV is longer and more elaborate. Besides those 5 core points, it will also include:

• Short biography
• Courses completed
• Research experience
• Graduate school
• Scholarships and grants you’ve won
• Study abroad and international experience
• Theses and dissertations
• Presentations and lectures
• Public speaking experience
• Memberships of groups (Phi Beta Kappa)

The CV paints a much more complete picture of you, the candidate vs the resume. This is why it’s ok for it to be longer. Make sure to format it well so that it is easy and clear to read. In this example, you will see all of the extra sections that go into a CV:

#cv-vs-resume-in-the-academic-world

When it comes to deciding whether to use a CV vs a Resume, it really depends on the position. In the United States, the resume is the most frequently requested document for most positions.

Academic jobs such as researcher, professor, teacher usually require a CV. CV contains more information about yourself and about your education and certifications.

Usually, the job itself would ask for the appropriate documents, so there is no room for confusion.

#what-the-cv-means-in-europe

If you move abroad for work, you will quickly discover that everyone needs a CV. No, that’s not because everyone wants to be a professor. European countries like England, Spain, Portugal, Bulgaria, Norway, and Germany will most likely require a CV instead of a resume.

While in the US, it’s not encouraged to have a photo on your resume, some European countries may require one. Make sure you have one ready and make it professional. No selfies.

Countries in Europe may use the terms “resume” and “CV” interchangeably. Essentially, the European CV is the American resume.

Make sure to have a great LinkedIn profile set up as well, with thorough information and a professional photo. Chances are that recruiters will compare your CV/ resume with your LinkedIn page .

LinkedIn is a great way to connect with the company as well. Follow them for frequent updates and know what they are up to. Connect with the recruiters as well. See what you have in common and use it during the interview.

If you aren’t sure whether you should go with a CV or a resume, simply message the recruiter on LinkedIn and ask. They will appreciate the care you put into the application.

If you connect before the interview, the recruiter is more likely to spend more time reviewing your CV or resume and will be able to put a face to the name. This is a great way to stand out from the competition. For an extra boost, have a look at these resume templates .

While both the CV and the resume have the same idea - get you hired, they are not identical. The main difference lies in the length and level of detail in each. You may also need a CV specifically depending on the job you are applying for.

In the United States, a resume is commonly used as a method of application for most industries, while the CV is preferred for academic positions. In Europe, the CV is a common means of application, but the resume is still helpful.

While they contain the same type of information - professional experience, skills, hobbies, the CV includes a lot more detail. This is why there is a striking difference in length. While the resume is a short and sweet one page, the CV can go on well past two pages, which gives you plenty of space to demonstrate why you are the perfect candidate.

Bear in mind the difference in requirements . While in the United States the resume should not have a photo attached unless specifically required, the CV in Europe needs to have a photograph.

With all that in mind, choose your perfect job and get to applying.

Need extra help? Check out How to Make a Resume [The Visual Guide] .

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CV vs Resume: Is There Even a Difference? (+Examples)

• Jakub Kaprál , 
• Updated November 9, 2023 5 min read

Although these two career documents are both used as part of job applications, they're not interchangeable. Differences between a resume and a CV are many.

And anyone hoping to score a new job should be able to tell them apart .

The first thing you need to realise is that resumes revolve around your competencies . These personal marketing documents showcase your skills, notable achievements and work experience in a concise and powerful way.

On the contrary, CVs are based on your credentials . For that reason, job seekers usually use them for positions in academia, scientific research and medical fields. As opposed to the brevity of the resume, CVs provide information about your whole career.

Table of Contents

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The curriculum vitae (CV)

Cv example: new york university associate director, resume example: intel it analyst, cvs and resumes around the world, differences between resume and cv.

"CV" is short for Curriculum Vitae. The phrase comes from Latin and means 'course of life'.

A CV is an in-depth career document that provides extensive information about your academic and research background .  Besides that, any good CV should include a basic contact information.

The chronological order of the included information makes it easy for the reader to get a good idea of the candidate's full career path . In the end, e verything is as detailed and comprehensive as it can be.

Apples and oranges?

Whether you create a resume or CV, you will always stand out.

As a result, CVs tend to run much longer than a resume. Anything between 1-10 pages is perfectly acceptable.

Unlike resumes, CVs are static. Tailoring them to different positions is not an option. On the other hand, that doesn't mean that you should never update your CV. On the contrary, each time you get an academic or professional achievement, add it to your CV. You should always keep it up to date .

New York University Associate Director

This resume sample was contributed by a real person who got hired with Kickresume’s help.

What to include in a CV:

• Full name and contact information
• Professional profile, personal statement, summary or research objective
• Awards and honors
• Grants and fellowships
• Publications
• Conferences and courses
• Academic memberships
• Research and lab experience 
• Graduate fieldwork
• Teaching experience
• Work experience
• Certifications
• Professional skills
• Soft and transferable skills

The resume — or résumé, is originally a French word that means “to sum up”. It's the most common career document that job seekers use. Put simply, the resume is a concise summary of your education , work history, credentials, achievements and skills . 

Successful resumes go straight to the point. After all, its purpose is to make you stand out from the competition . That's why you should focus only on those career details that can help you land a job. Feel free to drop any items that may seem irrelevant to the job you're applying to.

Most jobs call for a tailored resume that will reflect its requirements. Because of that, it's in your best interest to do so and include keywords , relevant work experience and skills.

Due to their brevity, resumes are usually one page long. However, i f you're a seasoned professional with years of relevant work experience, feel free to use as much space as you need. 

Visual aids that facilitate readability and retain the reader's attention are also frequent. Don't be afraid to use bulleted and numbered lists, bold fonts, different font sizes and multiple columns.

Resumes are highly customizable and allow for some creativity  when it comes to formatting. This allows you to shuffle the sections around to better match the employer's expectations. 

There are three options to choose from — chronological, functional or hybrid resume . Each of them comes with certain pros and cons. It's up to you to figure out which one works the best for you.

Intel IT Analyst

What to include in a resume:.

• Resume summary, personal statement or resume objective
• Soft skills
• Conferences, etc.

Naturally, resumes are not standalone career documents. If you feel the need to provide more information about why you're applying for the job, attach a cover letter .

Cover letters are an optional feature . They build upon the skills and experiences mentioned in your resume. In addition to that, they allow you to talk about the ways in which you can be beneficial to the company and help them grow.  

Still not sure what to include in each document? Learn about the differences between the cover letter vs resume and how they complement each other.

People in different countries use the terms "CV' and "resume" in different ways.

In the US and Canada , CVs are used only for academic or research-oriented positions. Resumes are used for the rest.

Throughout Europe and New Zealand, the term "CV" is used in all contexts to describe an equivalent of a US resume . In both cases, it's a brief and concise document you use to apply for any kind of job.

In a nutshell, the three primary differences between the two lie in their purpose, content and length . 

• Purpose : All-around career document for virtually any position.
• Content : Summarises your skills and work experience.
• Length: Short — usually 1–2 pages long.
• Customization: H ighly customizable. It should match the job advertisement — no strictly set formatting rules or section order.
• Purpose : Mostly used in academic settings.
• Content : A full account of your academic and professional career.
• Length: No limits — covers your entire career.
• Customization: Fairly li mited — a standardized chronological account of your career.

For more information, check out our free career ebook. Or you can also check our database of resume samples by people who got hired by the world’s top companies.

You can simply preview them or use our online resume builder (and a mobile app too) to create a resume or CV of your own in minutes.

Resume or CV?

Both will help you score a new job.

Remember, you can also effortlessly transform your LinkedIn profile into a polished, professional resume using our seamless tool — give it a whirl today!

Jakub Kapral is a former professional linguist and a career writer at Kickresume. He has written almost 100 diligently researched resume advice articles and his texts are visited by thousands of people every month. Jakub is a natural teacher who looks to help those who want to enhance their career prospects. He's also an avid drummer and a proud father of two.

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CV vs. Resume: Difference, Samples & When to Use Which

CV vs Resume? Which one is right for you? In this article, we explain the differences and similarities between CVs and resumes. Find CV and resume samples.

In your search for a job, you probably send out your resume dozens of times as you try to land the perfect position. 

If you have encountered the term curriculum vitae, a.k.a. CV, your question might be, “How is a CV different from a resume?”

More importantly, could using a CV instead of a resume increase your chances of getting hired?

Which is better, a resume or CV?

In this article, we’ll discuss the similarities and differences between a CV and a resume, provide advice on which one you should personally be using, and offer a few more tips to help you effectively use these essential tools in your job hunt.

What Is a CV?

Let’s start by defining the CV, a document less frequently used in the United States.

CV is short for curriculum vitae, a Latin phrase that means “course of life.” 

The very definition should clue you into the fact that a CV is a detailed document that offers a full description of education, work experience, and achievements.

In the United States, you would submit a curriculum vitae for jobs in academia such as postdoctoral positions, and for careers in postsecondary teaching and research fields.

You would also use a CV to apply for fellowships, grants, and certain positions in the medical field.

The CV provides extensive information about your educational and experiential background.

For the most part, if your career requires a CV, you would know about it.

What Is a Resume?

In the United States, we are much more familiar with the resume, but let’s give it a quick rundown.

The word resume comes from the French phrase “to sum up.” 

As such, your resume provides a brief summary of your education and experience.

A resume is the most frequently requested document in a job search.

It comes above references and school records, and before any official document such as your driver’s license or social security number.

The average recruiter spends less than six seconds skimming a resume, so it behooves you to create a concise and powerful document that describes your most relevant experience (more on that later).

Despite common belief, it’s okay for a resume to extend beyond one full page, but a resume should almost never be more than two pages.

CV and Resume Similarities

While we devote most of this article to the CV versus resume differences, let’s briefly consider the similarities:

• Both are professional documents aimed at getting you an interview.
• Neither a CV nor a resume should include personal interests.
• With both, your goal is to come across as a qualified and experienced professional.
• You would craft both documents to fit the position to which you are applying.

CV and Resume Differences

Understanding the basic CV versus resume differences is more important than grasping their similarities.

After all, you only get to submit your application to any particular position once, so you want to get it right!

Let’s look at the five main ways in which these two important documents differ:

A CV has no maximum length.

A resume should be no longer than one or two pages.

A CV is used in academic fields and for scientific/research purposes.

A resume is used to find a job in just about every other field.

In a CV, you provide an in-depth overview of your academic and professional career.

In a resume, you provide brief summaries. Bullet points are often used. It helps to tailor information to the job application.

4. Emphasis

A CV emphasizes academic accomplishments. Having been published is an important performance indicator. The adage “publish or perish” is valid in many academic circles.

A resume emphasizes skills and professional work experience.

A CV will often begin with education and then progress through each section chronologically (the first job down to the most recent job).

A resume usually begins with your most recent work experience and works in reverse chronological order.

CV or Resume? Which Should You Use?

In your search for a job, it is vital that you submit the proper documentation in your application.

The CV and resume differences outlined above should help you determine which one you should use and when. 

In short, in the United States and Canada, you would only use a CV for a few vocations, primarily positions in the field of academia, such as:

• Academic jobs
• Research fellowships
• Postsecondary institutions

Pretty much every other field and industry will require a resume.

In most cases, it should be clear whether you need to submit a CV vs resume. One way to know for sure is to ask some peers within your line of work what they use.

If you are submitting a resume or CV to an international company, pay close attention as to whether they want a CV versus resume.

Whenever you are in doubt, ask!

What to Include on a CV

These are the items you would place in a curriculum vitae, in addition to your contact information:

• Personal statement (a.k.a. professional profile)
• Education and licensure 
• Professional experience
• Professional awards and honors
• Grants and fellowships
• Teaching and leadership experience/committee appointments
• Publications, including books, chapters, and peer-reviewed articles
• Conferences and presentations
• Research experience and fieldwork
• Languages and skills
• Professional associations and memberships

With all the above items, you can rightly assume that your CV may end up being far longer than the average resume.

For entry-level positions, a CV might run three or four pages, while someone applying a mid or advanced-level vocation might have a CV that is ten pages long.

After all, you are outlining a “course of life” and may have plenty to show for it!

If the position to which you are applying is in an academic field, you will want to highlight publication information.

If you are applying to a field involving research or medicine, you will also want to highlight research and education. 

What to Include on a Resume

Here is what you would put in your resume:

• Contact information
• Professional summary
• Areas of expertise
• Career highlights (optional)
• Professional work experience
• Education and professional development
• Other optional sections may include awards, publications, certificates, and volunteer work.

The formatting of your resume will often depend on the job you are looking for.

The main two formats of a resume are chronological and functional while some job applicants use a hybrid of the two.

(For more on resume styles, read The 7 Different Types of Resumes .)

CV vs. Resume Internationally

You might have noticed that many international companies request a CV instead of a resume.

This is where it might seem tricky, but don’t let the difference in labels confuse you!

Throughout Europe, as well as in the U.K., Ireland, and New Zealand, it is not a matter of “CV versus resume.”

While they use the term CV, they are also looking for a brief vocational summary.

In other words, a resume goes by the name CV in most international locations. 

While there are small differences between a United States resume and a European curriculum vitae, they are not significant.

Now in Australia, South Africa, and India, they use CV and resume interchangeably. Both describe a brief, one-to-two-page document outlining relevant professional experience and education. 

However, in India and other regions of South Asia such as Bangladesh, hiring companies often also require a “biodata” that outlines more personal information such as date of birth, marital status, nationality, number of children, etc.

Tips for Both CVs and Resumes

Regardless of whether you are creating a resume or CV, here are a few things to keep in mind as you construct either one of these professional documents.

1. Format it carefully

While the content is the most important part of your CV or resume, that content won’t get a second glance if it is not laid out in a visually appealing way.

Pay close attention to the layout and formatting.

• Use bullet points where relevant.
• Avoid lengthy sections of text, especially in a resume.
• Make use of white space if possible.

2. Edit and proofread each section

Nothing is more embarrassing than catching a glaring typo after you’ve submitted your resume or CV.

Print out your resume/CV after you’ve completed it.

• Read over every word and make sure there are no grammatical errors.
• Give a close read to dates and numbers; it’s easy to miss mistakes here.
• Ask someone to give it a second read to catch anything you might have missed.

3. Update your resume and CV regularly

Set aside time on a regular basis to update these important documents.

Otherwise, you might catch yourself looking for a job and finding it impossible to remember the exact dates of your last few positions or your most recent publications.

My recommendation is to update your resume or CV on a quarterly basis.

• Open up the file on your computer and look through your most recent data.
• If nothing has changed, you’re good to go.
• If you have any new information, add it to the section(s) where it belongs.

Tips to Write a CV

Below are some tips for writing a top-notch CV.

• Create a comprehensive list of your professional and educational history.
• Place it into the categories listed in the above section, “What to Include on a CV.”
• Organize your CV in chronological order.
• Update your CV each time you receive an award or have an article or book published.

Other than these updates, most sources recommend that you do not need to change your CV for each position. 

However, you might need to choose a different format depending on the type of position you are seeking.

For example, the sections you would add for a fellowship application would be different than if you are applying for an academic job position.

Tips to Write a Resume

Below are some tips for writing a top-notch resume.

1. Tailor your resume to the position

Now, in order to keep your resume as “short and sweet” as a recruiter expects, you usually can’t list every single job you held or all the experience you have.

It simply wouldn’t fit!

This is why it is important that you tailor your resume to the job application.

As a general rule of thumb, work experience that dates back more than 10 or 15 years should be entirely removed from your resume.

2. Make your resume ATS-friendly

Many companies use an applicant tracking system (ATS) to scan resumes.

This is before a recruiter or hiring manager even takes a look.

If you want your resume to pass ATS scans, use enough relevant keywords and ensure that your resume formatting is ATS compatible.

Take a look at an example curriculum vitae for a clinical leader courtesy of Find My Profession. Download the CV to see all four pages.

Sample Resume

Take a look at an example Chief Executive Officer resume courtesy of Find My Profession. Download the resume to see both pages.

Closing Thoughts

So, how is a CV different from a resume?

In many ways!

Now you know it is not a case of “CV versus resume” but more a matter of which one you should use, and when.

• When applying for a job in the United States, submit a resume that is concise and tailored to the position.
• If looking for an academic position, submit a comprehensive curriculum vitae detailing your education, publications, and professional history.
• If applying for a position in Europe or New Zealand, submit a CV that follows the format of the resume you would use in the United States.
• When applying for a job in Australia or South America, submit a resume (which might be referred to interchangeably as “resume” or “cv”). 

If you’re still having difficulty in the question of curriculum vitae versus resume, or if you have any resume/CV questions please feel free to contact us.

Here at Find My Profession, we offer professional resume and CV writing services that are ATS compatible and come with a 60-day interview guarantee.

We would love to assist you in landing your dream job.

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CV vs. Resume: Key Differences You Need to Know (plus Examples & Templates)

It is a good bet that you’ve never thought much about the difference between a CV and a resume.

In fact, if you are like most job hunters, you may even think the words CV and resume are synonyms and essentially the same document.

Spoiler alert: They aren’t.

But don’t feel bad. You aren’t the only one who is confused. Even though it is incorrect to do so, the words are often used interchangeably.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

What is a resume, what is a curriculum vitae, 1) document length, similarities in cv and resume content, differences between cv and resume content, should you send a resume or a cv when applying for a job, should you send a cv for international jobs, example modern cv template, modern advantage cv template, example research cv template, envision research cv template, example academic cv template, mindful academic cv template, example professional cv template, impeccably professional cv template, what is a cv (curriculum vitae), what is a resume, what are the key differences between a cv and a resume, should i submit a cv or a resume when applying for a job, does it matter where in the world a recruiter is located when they ask for a cv, what is the easiest way to make a modern cv or resume, what should i include in my resume or cv.

• Recent reviews

As a job seeker, you may be asked for a CV when the recruiter is really asking for a resume. Or, you may be asked for a resume when a CV is more appropriate. And worse, mixing the two up can bring your job search to a screeching halt.

In this blog post, we aim to clear up the confusion once and for all. The questions we will answer:

What is a CV?

What are the key differences between a resume and a CV?

When applying for a job, should you submit a CV or a resume?

When a recruiter asks for a CV, does it matter where in the world they are located?

What is the easiest way to make a modern CV or modern resume?

Even better: as the saying goes, “a picture is worth a thousand words.” We will actually show you the differences between a CV and a resume using examples and templates you can download to create your own resume or CV.

Finally, courtesy of Dr. Cheryl Minnick, EdD, NCRW, MRW, CCMC, NCOPE, CHJMC , Director of Career Success, University of Montana, College of Humanities and Sciences, we are providing a handy CV checklist that you can download to use when writing your CV.

Key Definitions: Curriculum Vitae vs Resume

A resume is a strategic, targeted document that summarizes your work experience, education, skills, and accomplishments as they relate to a specific job.

Resumes are formal documents that serve to “promote” the job seeker as the ideal candidate for a job. You can structure your resume in a reverse-chronological format , functional format , or combination format.

When spelled and written correctly, the word resume has two accents. Like this: résumé.

The word résumé comes from the French word resumer, meaning to “sum up.”

In common usage on the internet and in email, for formatting reasons, it is usual to drop the accents and write résumé as resume.

On the other hand, for most business purposes , such as when the word is written on documents (for example, on the enclosure line of our cover letter templates ), it is best to write it correctly and include accents.

Curriculum vitae , often shortened to CV, is a Latin term meaning “course of life.”

If you see this spelled as curricula vitae (“a” instead of “um”), it is a reference to the plural. In other words, several CVs rather than a single CV.

Similar to a resume, a CV is also a summary document, but it is a more detailed professional overview highlighting a person’s academic credentials , scholarships, awards and honors, research experience , teaching experience, published works and presentations, and other professional experience.

Even though there are some similarities between a resume and a CV, there are also some key differences that you must know, and we’ll cover those next.

What Are The Key Differences Between a CV and a Resume?

One to two pages is the most common length for a resume. One page is usually ideal for a younger professional , while a two-page resume is more common for experienced professionals . While a resume may sometimes be longer, more than three pages are generally considered too long. Consider the use of a resume addendum if you believe your resume is too long.

A CV, on the other hand, is usually much longer and more detailed than a resume. Typically, CVs are at least two to three pages long and can sometimes be much longer. The length is flexible.

You might think that a resume and a CV are both just documents with lists of previous jobs and qualifications. But to be effective, they should actually be much more than that.

The purpose of both a CV and a resume is similar in that they are both opportunities to sell yourself to potential employers and show them that you have skills and experience relevant to the job.

But they differ in that a CV provides an in-depth look at your academic qualifications and experience as it relates to academic teaching and scientific research positions.

In contrast, a resume provides a briefer overview focused on relevant work experiences for the job, usually with less emphasis on educational credentials, and should be sent when submitting a job application for most other positions outside of academia.

Again, regarding what to include in your resume or CV, there are similarities, but there are also significant differences.

CONTACT INFORMATION: Your name and contact information should be in the header of both a CV and a resume . You should not include a street address. Instead, include just a city, state, and zip. Also include a phone number, email address, and links to your professional social media accounts , such as LinkedIn. If you have a professional blog, you should include a link on your CV , but it is optional to include it on your resume.

FOCUS HEADLINE: Including an “objective” on either document is considered an outdated practice. Modern CVs and resumes use a “headline” and sometimes a “subheadline” to establish the focus of the documents.

PROFESSIONAL SUMMARY: Most CVs and resumes include a summary section at the beginning of the document. The summary provides a brief overview of your most significant and relevant qualifications and accomplishments related to the job you are targeting . From a review of your summary, the reader should understand the key ways you are qualified for the job.

SKILLS SUMMARY: Though optional, it is common to include a summary of relevant skills, qualifications, and areas of expertise in both a resume and a CV.

EMPLOYMENT HISTORY: Both documents should include a chronological listing of your current and past jobs (it is okay to leave out irrelevant employment).

They differ in where you include this listing. In your resume, it is usually listed immediately following the professional summary. In your CV, it will usually be listed near the end of the document.

They also differ in detail. Your CV should provide a high-level overview of your primary responsibilities and accomplishments in each job. Your resume should tell a more in-depth story of your challenges in each position, how you met those challenges, and the results of your accomplishments.

EDUCATION: On a resume for an experienced professional , educational degrees are usually listed at the end of the resume. You may also include any relevant certifications, additional training, or licenses. On a CV, you will include all of this information immediately following the professional summary section, near the beginning of the document. Typically, a CV will include more detail, such as a thesis or dissertation title, academic awards, scholarships, fellowships, and relevant coursework.

TEACHING EXPERIENCE: Your CV should include a separate section for any teaching experience you have listed in reverse chronological order (most recent first). This is where you will list any academic postings you have held in postdoctoral, instructorship, adjunct, and tenured professor positions. You can also include teaching assistant (TA) jobs. Include the name of the school or institution where you taught, your title, and the dates of the experience. In addition, include relevant details about your students (undergraduate or graduate), the number and sizes of classes you were responsible for, and the courses you taught.

RESEARCH EXPERIENCE: Research experience should be showcased on your CV. As you did with your teaching experience, list it in reverse chronological order. Include all your research experience, paid or unpaid, and in any capacity, such as a research scientist, research assistant, research associate, graduate assistant, or postdoctoral fellow.

PUBLICATIONS: Include a listing of all your published works, including books, book chapters, and journal articles. You may also include relevant published works online, such as blog posts.

PRESENTATIONS: List any public presentations and conferences. Include links to any videos of your presentations posted online.

OTHER INFORMATION: Every CV will be unique, depending on the specifics of your experience and the positions you are targeting. Some common categories to include on CVs are grants, honors and awards, professional memberships, foreign language skills, technical skills, and volunteer experience.

REFERENCES: Do not include professional references on either your resume or CV. Instead, list them on a separate professional references sheet you provide during the interview. Most of the resume template collections and CV template collections on our site include, as an option, a template for your professional references .

While you have a lot of flexibility in arranging the sections of your CV, the general format and reverse chronological listing of the information are usually relatively uniform and structured.

There is generally more room for creativity in your resume format , and you can structure it to match the specifics of the job for which you are applying. For example, you may choose a reverse chronological resume format , a functional resume format , or a combination resume format .

If your goal is to land a new job, submitting a resume with a job application is usually the best choice for almost all professions and industries. This is because your resume is a concise summary focused on relevant experience and skills applicable to that specific job.

On the other hand, if you are applying for jobs in academia, such as teaching and research positions, you will usually benefit from submitting a CV. If you are a research scientist and you work in the corporate world rather than academia, in some cases, you may also be asked for a research CV instead of a resume. In rare cases, a CV is used by medical doctors, too.

As explained in the section on the differences between a resume and a CV, CVs are typically organized and structured to provide a greater depth of information than a resume, such as research accomplishments and grants received.

Even though recruiters may sometimes use the words interchangeably, if you are applying for a job in the United States, resumes and CVs are distinctly different documents.

But what if a recruiter contacts you about an international job and asks you for your CV? Which format are they asking you to send?

In many places worldwide, such as in much of Europe and New Zealand, recruiters don’t use the word resume. Instead, when they ask you for a CV, they are asking for a document similar to a U.S.-style resume.

If you have any doubts, ask. In most cases and for most job applications, a hiring manager won’t have time to read your full CV. They prefer that you submit a resume and do the work to distill the content to focus on the most relevant points for the position they are trying to fill. Even for international jobs , you usually use a CV only for academia-related positions.

Design Tips For Modern CVs And Resumes

In days past, it was typical for both a resume and a CV to be formatted as plain text on a page.

Unfortunately, plain text resumes or CVs can be boring to look at, and it is hard to keep your reader’s attention. You might have the best credentials of all the candidates, but it won’t make a bit of difference if nobody takes the time to read your resume or CV.

The solution is simple. Modern resumes and modern CVs make use of color and design to catch the eye and help make your resume or CV easier to read .

Of course, most people don’t have graphic design skills and don’t know how to create an eye-appealing design for their career documents . This is why starting with a professionally designed CV template or resume template is often the best choice.

As shown by the following example CV templates, transforming your outdated, plain-text CV is fast and easy. The same is true with using a resume template , as shown by these example resume design templates .

This attractive, modern CV template shows the incredible difference a little color and design can make to transform your plain-text CV into an eye-catching and easily readable marketing document.

This sophisticated research CV template for Microsoft Word is perfect for academic research positions or other scientific research positions. Or, easily move the sections around and use it for teaching positions.

Your academic CV will shine and provide you with an unbeatable competitive edge for the most desirable teaching jobs when you use this academic CV template to transform it.

This modern, professional CV template draws from modern resume design principles to create a stunning professional CV. Consider changing the colors to match the colors of the university you are applying to.

Frequently Asked Questions

A CV, or Curriculum Vitae, is a Latin term meaning “course of life.” It is a detailed professional document highlighting a person’s academic credentials, scholarships, awards, research experience, teaching experience, published works, presentations, and other professional experiences. CVs are typically longer than resumes and provide an in-depth look at your qualifications, especially as they relate to academic and scientific roles.

A resume is a strategic, targeted document that summarizes your work experience, education, skills, and accomplishments as they relate to a specific job. It’s typically shorter than a CV, with the aim of providing a concise overview of your qualifications for a non-academic job. Resumes can be structured in various formats such as reverse-chronological, functional, or combination format, depending on the job you’re applying for.

The main differences between a CV and a resume lie in length, purpose, and content. A CV is usually longer and provides a comprehensive overview of a person’s academic and professional accomplishments. A resume, on the other hand, is typically shorter and focuses on relevant work experiences and skills. The content in a CV is more detailed and includes sections like teaching experience, research experience, publications, and presentations, which aren’t usually found in resumes.

The type of document to submit depends on the job and the industry. For most professions outside of academia, a resume is preferred because it provides a concise summary of your relevant experience and skills. However, if you’re applying for academic, teaching, or research positions, a CV is usually the best choice because it provides a thorough record of your academic credentials and experiences.

Yes, in certain parts of the world like Europe and New Zealand, when a recruiter asks for a CV, they are actually asking for a document similar to a U.S.-style resume. It’s always a good idea to clarify what the recruiter is expecting if you’re unsure.

The easiest way to make a modern CV or resume is to use a professionally designed template. These templates already include eye-catching designs and layouts, so all you need to do is fill in your information. They help ensure your CV or resume is visually appealing and easy to read, increasing the chances that a recruiter will notice and remember your application.

Both documents should include your contact information, a headline, a professional summary, a skills summary, and your employment history. However, a CV should also include sections for teaching experience, research experience, publications, presentations, and other information like grants and honors. Remember not to include professional references on either your resume or CV. These should be provided on a separate sheet during the interview process.

What format should my CV or resume follow?

While you have flexibility in arranging your CV sections, the format and reverse chronological listing of information is usually uniform and structured. For your resume, you have more room for creativity and can structure it to match the specifics of the job you’re applying for. This could be in a reverse chronological, functional, or combination format.

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Canadian Resume -Format, Tips & Examples for 2025

 · Resume Builder

Why a Canadian Resume is Different

1. contact information, 2. resume objective or summary, 3. work experience, 4. education, 5. skills section, 6. certifications (optional), 7. volunteer work or extracurricular activities (optional), tips for writing a winning canadian resume, canadian resume vs. u.s. resume, example of a canadian resume (2025), understanding the canada resume format: showcasing skills and achievements, multilingual and bilingual skills: a valuable asset, tailoring your resume for the canadian job market, highlighting volunteer work, community involvement, and part-time jobs, be sure to:, canadian style vs. traditional resume.

Crafting a Canadian resume in 2025 requires a specific approach to stand out in the competitive job market of Canada. Whether you are applying locally or abroad, understanding the Canadian resume format, essential tips, and best practices will help you create a compelling document that aligns with recruiters' expectations.

In this blog, we’ll cover everything you need to know about creating a Canadian resume, so you can land interviews and succeed in the hiring process.

A Canadian resume differs from other countries, such as the USA, due to its emphasis on skills and achievements rather than personal details. Unlike CVs, which may be used in other regions, a Canadian resume is succinct, targeted, and focuses on your qualifications relevant to the role.

Here’s how the Canadian resume format stands out:

• No photos : Canadian employers value privacy, so they avoid resumes with pictures.
• Personal information limited to essentials : Only include your name, contact information, and address (if necessary).
• Focus on skills and experience : Resumes should clearly highlight your professional expertise.

Canadian Resume Format for 2025 - What all you Should Include

Start with your full name, phone number, email address, and LinkedIn profile. You can include your city and province but avoid excessive details like marital status or nationality.

• Name: John Doe
• Phone: +1 (123) 456-7890
• Email: [email protected]
• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/johndoe

A well-crafted resume summary grabs attention within seconds. Keep it focused on your core skills, work experience, and how you can add value to the company. For students or those with little experience, use an objective statement outlining your career goals.

Example: "Detail-oriented financial analyst with over 5 years of experience in budget analysis, cost forecasting, and data management. Seeking to leverage my skills in strategic financial planning to drive business growth for ABC Corporation."

Your work experience section should highlight your relevant roles, achievements, and the impact you’ve had in previous jobs. Follow the reverse-chronological order, starting with your most recent job.

Each entry should include the following:

• Company Name
• Dates Employed
• Key Responsibilities
• Notable Achievements (use quantifiable results where possible)

Financial Analyst XYZ Corp, Toronto, ON | June 2019 - Present

• Analyzed company budgets, identifying 15% cost reduction opportunities
• Led data-driven financial models to optimize operations, saving $100K annually
• Collaborated with senior executives to present quarterly financial reports

For education, list your degree(s), institution(s), and graduation dates. If you’re a recent graduate, highlight any relevant projects, internships, or courses that align with the job you’re applying for.

Bachelor of Business Administration University of Toronto, Toronto, ON | Graduated: May 2018

• Specialized in financial management and data analysis

Tailor your skills section to the job description. Include both hard and soft skills that are relevant. Use bullet points to make it easy for recruiters to scan.

• Financial Modeling
• Data Analysis & Reporting
• Budgeting & Forecasting
• Cross-functional Team Collaboration
• Critical Thinking & Problem Solving

Suggested Read:   Top Skills to include in the Resume ​

If you have additional qualifications or certifications that are relevant to the job, include them here.

• Certified Financial Analyst (CFA) – Level 2

If you’re a student or new to the workforce, highlight any volunteer work, school clubs, or projects that showcase leadership, teamwork, or dedication.

Volunteer Treasurer Local Food Bank, Toronto, ON | Jan 2022 - Present

• Managed financial records, oversaw budgeting and ensured compliance with regulations

Customize for Each Job Tailor your resume to match the job description. Use keywords from the job posting to ensure your resume passes through Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS).

Quantify Achievements Whenever possible, use numbers to show the impact you’ve made. For example, "Increased sales by 20%" is more compelling than "Responsible for sales growth."

Keep it Concise Limit your resume to one or two pages. A succinct, well-organized resume is more effective in grabbing a recruiter’s attention than a lengthy document.

Use Action Verbs Start bullet points with strong action verbs like "led," "managed," "developed," or "analyzed" to highlight your active role in tasks and projects.

Proofread Thoroughly Errors in spelling, grammar, or formatting can undermine your professionalism. Proofread your resume multiple times, and consider having someone else review it as well.

Include a Cover Letter A tailored cover letter strengthens your application. Address it to a specific person and explain how your experience and skills make you the right fit for the job.

While Canadian resumes are quite similar to U.S. resumes, there are a few subtle differences:

• Spelling Variations : Use Canadian spelling (e.g., "labour" instead of "labor").
• No GPA : Unlike some U.S. resumes, including your GPA is not necessary unless specified by the employer.
• Cultural Fit : Emphasize teamwork, collaboration , and adaptability as these are highly valued by Canadian employers.

Below is an example that illustrates the ideal Canadian resume structure:

John Doe Toronto, ON +1 (123) 456-7890 | [email protected] | linkedin.com/in/johndoe

Resume Summary Skilled financial analyst with over 5 years of experience in budget management, financial modeling, and cross-departmental collaboration. Seeking to contribute to the financial strategy of ABC Corporation.

• Developed and maintained financial models, improving accuracy by 30%
• Conducted quarterly budget reviews, identifying areas of overspending
• Collaborated with teams to streamline reporting processes, cutting review time by 15%

Education Bachelor of Business Administration University of Toronto | May 2018

• Financial Analysis
• Team Leadership
• Advanced Excel
• Report Writing

Certifications

Tailoring Your Internship Resume for the Canadian Market

For those setting their sights on internships in Canada, understanding the nuances of the Canada resume format is paramount. The Canadian market places a strong emphasis on certain features that set its resume expectations apart from traditional formats.

Canadian-style resumes prioritize skills and achievements. Focus on creating a dedicated skills section that encompasses both technical proficiencies and valuable soft skills. Skills such as teamwork, communication, and adaptability are highly regarded in the Canadian market. Use bullet points to succinctly illustrate your capabilities.

Canada's multicultural landscape values language diversity. If you possess bilingual or multilingual skills, showcase them proudly. Proficiency in multiple languages is a valuable asset that demonstrates adaptability and an ability to engage with a diverse audience.

By understanding and adhering to the Canadian resume format, you position yourself as a candidate who understands and appreciates the country's unique professional culture, enhancing your appeal to potential employers.

The Canadian job market has its unique nuances, and understanding the distinctions between a Canadian-style resume and CV can significantly enhance your job search success. While both documents showcase your qualifications, the key difference lies in their purpose and level of detail.

Resume : Canadian-style resumes are typically shorter (1-2 pages) and emphasize key skills, accomplishments, and experiences. They focus on demonstrating your immediate fit for a specific job or internship by showcasing relevant qualifications.

CV (Curriculum Vitae): A CV is more comprehensive, detailing your academic and professional history in depth. It's commonly used in academia and research-oriented fields to provide a comprehensive overview of your accomplishments.

Read : Difference between Resume and CV ​

To make your resume resonate with Canadian employers, tailor it to align with their expectations:

Highlight Relevant Skills: Emphasize both technical skills (e.g., software proficiency) and soft skills (e.g., teamwork, communication) that align with the job requirements. Use specific examples to demonstrate how you've applied these skills.

Focus on Achievements: Rather than simply listing job duties, emphasize your accomplishments and quantifiable results. Highlight how your contributions positively impacted past roles.

Adapt to the Canadian Format: Consider using a functional or combination resume format, which places a strong focus on skills and achievements. This format enables you to highlight transferable skills even if you lack extensive work experience.

Incorporating your volunteer work, community involvement, and part-time jobs is an integral part of the Canadian approach. Canadian employers value candidates who contribute to their communities and display a well-rounded background. These experiences demonstrate your character, work ethic, and dedication beyond your academic achievements.

Specify Responsibilities: Describe your roles in volunteer work or part-time jobs, highlighting responsibilities that align with the internship you're pursuing.

Quantify Impact: If possible, quantify the impact of your contributions. For instance, mention how you increased event attendance through your marketing efforts during a community event.

Emphasize Transferable Skills: Identify and emphasize the transferable skills you've gained, such as communication, problem-solving, time management, and teamwork.

A well-structured and targeted Canadian resume can significantly boost your chances of landing a job in 2025. By following these formatting tips, tailoring your resume for each application, and highlighting measurable achievements, you’ll stand out from the competition. Keep it concise, professional, and aligned with Canadian employer expectations for the best results.

Good luck with your job search!

When it comes to resume formats, there are various options to consider. For those applying for internships in Canada or seeking to adhere to the Canadian job market standards, the Canadian resume style offers a unique approach. It prioritizes your skills, achievements, and qualifications, placing them at the forefront to grab the reader's attention.

In contrast, traditional formats may include a chronological resume, which lists your experiences in reverse chronological order, or a functional resume, which focuses on your skills and accomplishments rather than a strict timeline. Choosing the right format depends on your background and the specific internship you're pursuing.

For Canadian-style resumes, emphasize your soft skills such as teamwork, adaptability, and communication, in addition to technical skills. Use bullet points and concise language to convey your achievements effectively.

Canadian Resume

Resume for canada

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Resume Examples for 2024 & Guides for Any Job [90+ Examples]

In today’s competitive job market, having an impactful resume is more essential than ever. 

However, many job seekers struggle to craft a resume that effectively highlights their skills and experience and, in turn, misses out on potential job opportunities. 

This is where our extensive library of resume examples comes in. 

By looking at examples of resumes for different industries and professions, you can gain great insight into what works and what doesn’t, get inspired to present your own qualifications, and stand out from the competition.

Let’s dive in!

15+ Resume Examples

#1. architect resume example.

Here’s what this architect resume example does right:

• Lists related experience. This resume highlights the relevant professional experience the candidate gained in the field during their internship.
• Mentions achievements and responsibilities. The candidate backs up their claims by going into detail about their achievements and responsibilities. 
• Focus on personal projects. By dedicating a section to their personal projects, this candidate makes up for their lack of work experience and shows off their dedication to the industry. 

#2. Business Resume Example

Here’s what this business-related resume example does right:

• Prioritizes work experience. The work experience section is arguably the most important section in every resume, which is why this candidate has given it a priority by giving it enough resume space and going into detail about their previous positions. 
• Highlights accomplishments. To make their professional experience even more impactful, this candidate has supported all their claims with quantifiable achievements. 
• Lists the right optional sections . The candidate adds more value to their resume by including the organizations, honors, and conferences as optional sections.

#3. Computer Science Resume Example

Here’s what this computer science resume does right: 

• Prioritizes technical skills. Technical skills are essential when it comes to IT-related roles, which is why this candidate has prioritized them over soft skills.
• Keeps the education section concise. With such extensive professional experience in the field, the candidate has opted to keep their education section short.
• Lists relevant social media profiles. Listing websites like GitHub and LinkedIn is a great way to provide recruiters with additional information about your skills.

#4. Data Analyst Resume Example

Here’s what this data analyst resume does right: 

• Includes a strong resume summary . This candidate showcases their key skills and qualifications from the get-go, which is much more likely to get recruiters to read their resumes from start to finish.
• Highlights technical skills. Data analysts work with “big data,” so this candidate prioritizes their quantitative and technical skills over other resume sections.
• Lists relevant professional certifications . The resume lists the candidate’s most noteworthy professional certificates.

#5. College Resume Example

Here’s what this college resume example does right: 

• Lists relevant social media profiles. By including their Medium and LinkedIn accounts, this candidate gives the hiring manager a chance to know them more professionally. 
• Highlights achievements . Although they lack work experience, the candidate has listed everything they’ve achieved during their academic career, thus showing they’re a promising candidate. 
• Mentions the right optional sections. Adding hobbies and interests and foreign languages to a resume is a huge plus for a candidate with no work experience.

#6. Customer Service Resume Example

Here’s what this customer service resume does right: 

• Includes both soft and hard skills . Customer service roles require a mix of soft and hard skills, so this candidate has listed both. 
• Mentions quantifiable achievements. To make their achievements more impressive, the candidate has backed up their work achievements with data and numbers. 
• Lists foreign language skills. Foreign languages are a huge plus when you’re working in customer service and this resume does a good job highlighting the candidate’s foreign language skills. 

#7. Digital Marketing Resume Example

Here’s what this digital marketing resume does right: 

• Follows the reverse chronological format . This format is the most popular one worldwide and is easily the safest choice.
• Grabs attention with a resume summary. In a single glance, the recruiter can tell that the candidate is a digital marketing professional with the right amount of experience.
• Lists relevant skills. The digital marketing specialist resume above lists in-demand marketing skills like Google Ads, SEO, and others.

#8. Graduate Resume Example

Here’s what this graduate resume example does right:

• Starts off with a well-written resume objective . The resume objective does a great job of showing off the candidate’s promise and industry-related experience. 
• Includes work experience. The candidate has gained professional experience while they were a student and they’ve made sure to include that in their resume. 
• Takes advantage of optional sections. Sections like volunteer experience, and personal projects and achievements can help make up for the lack of extensive experience in the industry. 

#9. HR Resume Example

Here’s what this human resources resume example does right: 

• Follows the right format. The reverse chronological format lists the candidate’s latest experience and achievements first, which is exactly what recruiters want to see. 
• Highlights professional experience. With so many years in the industry, this candidate has dedicated the biggest part of their resume to their work history. 
• Includes courses and certificates. To make their achievements even more impressive, the candidate has included all their courses and certifications. 

#10. Medical Assistant Resume Example

Here’s what this medical assistant resume example does right: 

• Starts off with a memorable resume summary. The candidate lists their years of experience, skills, and passion for the industry, making it more likely for the hiring manager to read the rest of their resume. 
• Lists the candidate’s certificates. There are many certifications one can obtain in the medical field, and this candidate proves how professional they are by listing theirs. 
• Highlights the candidate’s extensive work experience. Experience speaks louder than a thousand words, which is why this resume example provides the work experience section its due space. 

#11. Project Manager Resume Example

Here’s what this project manager resume example does right: 

• Uses bullet points. The candidate uses bullet points to organize and present the information which makes this project manager resume example look neat and structured.
• Keeps their education section relevant. The candidate only includes their key education details, such as their Bachelor’s degree and a field-related minor.
• Takes advantage of additional sections. The candidate takes advantage of the extra space on their project manager resume by including relevant additional sections, such as their industry-related certifications and academic achievements

#12. Bar Manager Resume Example

Here’s what this bar manager resume example does right:

• Includes relevant social media profiles. Details such as your LinkedIn profile or Instagram handle make you look more professional (as long as they’re work-related). 
• Mentions industry-related skills. Instead of listing a bunch of unrelated skills, the bar manager resume example above only lists industry-relevant skills.
• Quantifiable achievements. This applicant quantifies their achievements as much as possible, showing the bar owner how they stand out amongst other candidates.

#13. Supervisor Resume Example

Here’s what this supervisor resume example does right: 

• Lists relevant contact details . The supervisor resume example above leaves out redundancies like marital status or age and includes relevant information, like a LinkedIn URL. 
• Features as many accomplishments as possible. To really highlight their candidate’s professional experience, the supervisor example lists achievements over responsibilities. 
• Lists the right kind of skills. This supervisor's resume example doesn’t list every skill under the sun. Instead, they keep the section relevant by only listing skills required from a supervisor. 

#14. Teacher Resume Example

Here’s what this teacher resume example does right:

• Mentions industry-relevant skills. The candidate lists all the soft and hard skills a teacher should have. 
• Includes hobbies and interests . By including hobbies and interests, the hiring manager will see the candidate as more than just a resume. 
• Lists volunteer experience. The candidate reinforces their teaching experience by including their teaching volunteer gigs and experience. 

#15. Writer Resume Example

Here’s just what this writer resume example does right: 

• Impressive resume summary. The resume includes a brief but effective resume summary that highlights the candidate’s skills and top achievements.
• Relevant contact details. This writer resume example contains relevant contact information, including the candidate’s name and surname, email address, phone number, location, professional website URL, and LinkedIn URL. 
• Short education section. A writer’s skills and experience matter more than their education. For this reason, this candidate kept their writer resume’s education section short and sweet. 

#16. Web Developer Resume Example

Here’s what this web developer resume example does right: 

• Focuses on technical skills. Technical skills are essential for web development, which is why this candidate has prioritized theirs.
• Grabs attention with their work experience. Their rich work experience, listed in reverse chronological order, shows the candidate is a promising professional.
• Keeps their education section minimal. With such extensive work experience and training, the candidate has kept their education section concise.

65+ More Resume Examples and Guides 

Couldn’t find a resume example for your field? Worry not!

Below you can find a number of other resume examples for different fields and industries:

• Accountant Resume
• Administrative Assistant Resume
• AI Engineer Resume
• Animator Resume
• Babysitter Resume
• Banking Resume
• Bank Teller Resume
• Barbie's Resume
• Barista Resume
• Bartender Resume
• Bookkeeper Resume
• Business Analyst Resume
• Career Change Resume
• Caregiver Resume
• Cashier Resume
• College Application Resume
• College Freshman Resume
• Consultant Resume
• Construction Project Manager
• Creative Resume Examples
• Data Entry Specialist Resume
• Data Scientist Resume
• Dentist Resume
• DevOps Engineer Resume
• Digital Marketing Manager Resume
• Editor Resume
• Electrical Engineer Resume
• Elon Musk's One-Page Resume
• Engineering Resume
• Esthetician Resume
• Europass CV
• Event Planner Resume
• Executive Assistant Resume
• Federal Resume
• Financial Analyst Resume
• Flight Attendant Resume
• Fresher Resume
• Game Designer Resume 
• Graphic Designer Resume
• High School Resume
• Illustrator Resume 
• Interior Designer Resume
• Internship Resume
• Java Developer Resume
• Military to Civilian Resume
• Marketing Executive Resume
• Minimalistic Resume Examples
• Nanny Resume Example
• Nurse Resume
• Office Assistant Resume
• Office Manager Resume
• Operations Manager Resume
• Paralegal Resume
• Pharmacist Resume
• Photographer Resume
• Program Manager Resume
• Real Estate Agent Resume
• Receptionist Resume
• Recruiter Resume
• Research Assistant Resume
• Restaurant Manager Resume
• Retail Manager Resume
• Richard Branson's One-Page Resume
• Sales Resume
• Sales Associate Resume
• Satya Nadella's One-Page Resume
• Server Resume
• Social Worker Resume
• Software Engineer Resume
• Stay-at-home Mom Resume
• Student Resume
• Student Resume Templates
• Taylor Swift Resume
• Video Editor Resume
• Volunteer Resume
• Waiter/Waitress Resume
• Warehouse Worker Resume
• Web Developer Resume
• Welder Resume

5+ Examples of Resume Templates

Your resume template can play an important role in helping you make a great first impression on the hiring manager. 

Specifically, your industry, work experience, or skills all impact how your resume should look, so make sure to choose the right template when making your resume: 

#1. Traditional Resume

A straightforward format that gives equal importance to all resume sections , emphasizing skills and work experience.

#2. Creative Resume

Land your dream job in the creative industry by using this creative resume template. 

#3. Minimalist Resume

A simple and easy-to-follow resume template. Perfect for more conservative industries which prefer less flashy templates.

#4. Basic Resume

This easy-to-personalize basic resume layout can be ready in under ten minutes through our resume builder .

#5. IT Resume

One of the best resume layouts to choose when you wish to showcase your IT expertise.

#6. Modern Resume 

It can be hard to stand out from the crowd, but this modern resume sample will take care of this.

#7. General Resume

5+ Resume Examples by Career Level

#1. no experience resume .

Are you a student with no experience ? Learn how to write a compelling resume with our guide! 

#2. College Freshman Resume

Learn how to ace your college freshman resume with our comprehensive guide! 

#3. Graduate Resume

Fresh out of college? Write an impactful graduate resume to land your first gig after college. 

#4. Career Change Resume

Going through a career change? Perfect your career change resume to make the transition as smooth as possible. 

#5. Manager Resume

#6. Executive Resume

The Perfect Resume Structure 

Not sure how to structure your resume?

Here’s our tried-and-tested resume layout :

• Choose the right resume format or pick a template. If you’re formatting your resume yourself, follow the reverse-chronological format and make sure to follow the right layout rules. Alternatively, you can use one of our premade resume templates and not have to worry about formatting your resume one bit. 
• Add relevant contact details and make sure they’re mistake-free. You shouldn’t be missing information such as your full name and job title, e-mail address, and where you’re based. Optionally, you can also include some relevant social media profiles, such as your LinkedIn.
• Include a resume summary or a resume objective. Done right, a resume summary will show the hiring manager you’re a relevant candidate from the get-go and have them read the rest of your resume.
• List your work experience, placing special focus on your achievements. Your work experience becomes more meaningful if you include your achievements in your past roles and manage to make them quantifiable.
• Mention your top soft and hard skills. List any skills you have that are relevant to the job you’re applying for in a seperate section. 
• Keep your education section short and concise. Unless you’re an entry-level candidate with little-to-no work experience, keep your education section short and to the point. 
• Leverage optional sections like “Languages,” “Certifications,” or “Hobbies and Interests.” Fill up the rest of your resume space with optional sections that can highlight your strengths and qualifications as a candidate (e.g. foreign languages you speak, certifications you’ve obtained over the years, or your hobbies and interests).

3 Examples of Resume Formats 

#1. reverse chronological resume format.

This resume format highlights your experience and key professional achievements by listing your latest position and acquired skills first. It’s the most popular resume format among recruiters and the one we advise job seekers to use in 99% of cases. 

#2. Functional Resume Format

A functional resume , also known as the skill-based resume, is a resume format that focuses on your professional skill test as opposed to work experience. You’re better off using a functional resume if you’re a recent graduate with no work experience, if you’re switching careers, or if you have a long employment gap . 

#3. Hybrid Resume Format

A combination resume combines the two traditional resume formats: the reverse-chronological resume and the functional resume.

As such, this format places emphasis on a candidate’s skills and work experience. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Resume Examples

1. Are resume examples helpful?

Resume examples are helpful for several reasons. For starters, they can inspire you to write an A+ resume that meets the industry’s requirements. 

Also, resume examples can show you the best practices for listing your work experience and achievements, can guide you through your resume formatting and can help you understand exactly what the end result should look like.

2. How were these resume examples created?

All our resume examples and resume templates were created in full collaboration with industry-leading HR professionals.

This means that they meet all job market requirements, are modern and impactful, and meet recruiters’ standards worldwide.

3. What if I can’t find a resume example for my job?

While we’ve tried to list as many resume examples as possible for different jobs across several industries, it might happen that you can’t find the resume example that perfectly matches your needs. 

If that’s the case, you can check out our guide on how to write a resume , and learn to create an effective resume regardless of industry.

4. What is the best resume format in 2024?

The reverse-chronological format is still the best resume format in 2024. It remains the most widely used and preferred format by employers and recruiters alike. In this format, you list your work experience in reverse chronological format, starting with your most recent position and working backward.

This format showcases our most recent and relevant experience, making it easier for employers to see our career progression and accomplishments. 

5. Are these resume examples free? 

Yes, most of these resume examples can be used for free in the Basic account, while there is also a selection of templates included in the Premium account. All of them though can be tested for free in our editor. 

6. Do you also have cover letter examples?

Yes, we have an entire article dedicated to cover letter examples for different fields and jobs. Not just that, but you can also find tips on how to write a great cover letter and an FAQ section to answer any question you may have. 

7. Should my resume and cover letter match?

Yes, having a cover letter that’s consistent with your resume in terms of style, tone, and content can be a plus for your overall job application. In a nutshell, a matching resume and cover letter can increase your chances of getting an interview by demonstrating your professionalism, attention to detail, and suitability for the role. 

Conclusion 

And that’s a wrap!

We hope the examples and guides provided in this article can help you create a powerful and effective resume that highlights your unique qualifications and experiences. 

Whether you're a recent graduate, a mid-career employee, or a seasoned professional, there are tips and templates here to help you create a compelling resume for any job.

For more career advice, make sure to check out our career blog . 

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How to Create an Effective Resume

What is a resume.

Though there are different resume definitions out there, the most straightforward describes a resume as a brief account of your professional pathway and the competencies you have gained along the way. In its simplest form, a perfect resume is a document that summarizes your professional qualifications as they relate to obtaining a job. 

Resumes are formal instruments that quickly highlight your skills, education, notable accomplishments and relevant work experience. Resume writing doesn’t have to be hard if you have the right tools and the best resume formats at your fingertips.

While your ultimate goal with a resume is to get a job, the first purpose it serves is to attract enough attention to get you an interview. Recruiters may go through hundreds of resumes and only pick a few to interview. A well-written and well-formatted resume gets your foot in the door so you can wow them with your communication and personal interview skills.

No matter what type of resume layout you choose, it should be a snapshot of your relevant life and work experience, skills and communication ability. Think of your resume as a one-page advertisement, and you are the product. Combined with a well-written cover letter , your resume gets you through the door for the job.

What is the purpose of a resume?

At its core, a resume is a marketing tool. You are the “product,” and your resume is an advertisement that tells a company how you can enhance their work better than anyone else out there on the job market. 

In this way, your resume’s main purpose is to make you stand out. In a sea of candidates, your resume can help you grab the hiring manager’s attention so they can focus on your skills and abilities.

In providing a succinct summary of your qualifications for the role in question, your resume also serves the purpose of marketing your candidacy well enough for you to land a job interview. 

While some job seekers may get hired on the spot based on the strength of their resume alone, that usually isn’t the case for most people. You simply need your resume to get you to the next stage of the process. You’ll then rely on your personality and in-depth knowledge of your profession to take you to the finish line.

Why is a good resume important?

When it comes to searching for a job, your resume is the first place you should start to build a solid base. A good resume is important for many reasons, including:

• It sells your strongest accomplishments and skills
• It catches the attention of recruiters and employers
• It shows why you match the project or position
• It helps you get a job interview, where you can sell your skills in person

Depending on the job, a hiring recruiter or manager receives hundreds to thousands of applications for every open spot within their companies. Resumes are the tool they use to narrow down candidates and determine which ones deserve a face-to-face interview. They are often short on time and look for ways to quickly find solid candidates for each job.

A resume can help you land your dream job if it’s written correctly. If you outline your relevant experience and skills, display what unique benefits you offer to the company and match yourself to the position, you grab the employer’s attention. Focus on what makes you different than other candidates and what you offer that no one else can.

Even if your resume doesn’t lead to the job you are applying for now, a memorable resume can be pulled up later when another position opens.

What does a good resume include?

Personal details.

At the very least, the personal details section should include your email address, name and phone number. You may also choose to include a link to a website or portfolio, depending on the job. If you have a LinkedIn account, include that along with any relevant social media accounts.

LinkedIn is the biggest global network for professionals and most recruiters expect that applicants have a profile. Before you add your profile to your resume, take some time to look it over and update information, include a professional photo and remove any inappropriate material.

The same rules apply to any social media profiles your potential employer wants to see. Most often, recruiters use social media searches only to see how you’ll fit into the company culture. In some roles, your online “brand” is crucial to your job. We suggest that you only use social media profiles that apply to your desired job. 

There’s no need to include personal information such as your date of birth or any personal identification number. If you make it further in the hiring process, the recruiter can ask you for additional identifying information. In Canada and the United States, adding a photo on your resume may hurt your chances of getting an interview because of strict discrimination laws and employment policies.

Resume summary or objective statement

After your personal information, the next part is your resume summary . This only needs to be a short paragraph, no more than 3-4 sentences. In your own words, this paragraph highlights your greatest career achievements and top skills. 

Resume objectives can be used in place of resume summaries and are the better option for those who are just starting in a career and don’t have a lot of experience, or any at all. An objective focuses on your plans for your career and what your goals are for the new role.

Work experience

The next part of writing your own resume is extremely important. After a well-written, pointed summary, it’s time to include your work experience and previous jobs. In this section, keep it simple. Rather than a long list of generic bullet points that apply to your position, include specifics. 

Work experience should be listed in reverse-chronological order, meaning you start with your most recent job and go backward from there. In each section of your work history, including the following:

• Your job titles or positions written with clarity in bold so they’re easy to find
• Dates employed
• The company name
• A short bullet list of your main achievements and duties

As you write your work experience, make it as concise as possible. Always start your bullets with a verb and keep it to only three or four. 

If you have too many jobs to list, choose the ones that are relevant to the new job you’re applying for and stay within 15 years. If you have a resume without work experience , feel free to include volunteer work, extracurricular activities and internships.

A gap in your resume doesn’t have to be a big deal. If you’re unemployed for a time, get involved with an organization in your industry. Take classes to continue your education. Include unpaid work on your resume. List only the years of your work experience rather than the months.

After your work history, enter your education information. Again, the resume education section goes in reverse-chronological order. If you have extensive experience in your field, include your degree, the university or school name, and the year you graduated.

If you don’t have a lot of experience, include academic achievements, relevant coursework, your GPA and a thesis or dissertation title if you are in graduate school.

If you have a college degree of any type, don’t include your high school diploma to keep your resume relevant to the situation. Include any advanced degrees you have, just make sure they are in the right order (reverse chronological).

Hard and soft skills

Next, it’s time to list the relevant skills that make you a great candidate for the job. To make an amazing resume, always include a mix of both soft and hard skills.

Soft skills are transferable skills that are beneficial in all jobs, and include proficiency in for example:

• Communication
• Time management
• Interpersonal
• Problem-solving
• Adaptability

Hard skills are more like technical skills and specific to the job you want, and include expertise in for example:

• Writing 
• Presentation
• Computer skills
• Project management
• Analytical skills

List skills in a single-item bullet point list with a short description of your proficiency. Provide a few words for context and change the skills to be relevant for each job you apply for.

Including language skills on your resume is advisable, even if they aren’t directly relevant to the job. It shows cultural competence and global awareness, which are highly valued by employers in today's interconnected world. 

When listing your language skills, make sure to include your level of proficiency for every language you mention. You can describe your comprehension with the levels of “beginner”, “intermediate”, “conversational”, “fluent” and “native”, or use an official scaling system like the ACTFL scale, the CEFR scale or ILR scale. If you have taken language courses or obtained language certifications, then make sure to include these as well.

When discussing languages on your resume , always be honest. You could be tested during a job interview, so be realistic about your ability.

Achievements and awards

There is a difference between awards and achievements and it’s important to understand that when you go to list them on your resume. They can both highlight your value, distract from a lack of work experience and help catch a hiring manager’s attention. They can be listed throughout your resume if they aren’t widely recognized, or you can create a separate section for them to show how you stand out.

An achievement is something that illustrates that you excelled, exceeded expectations or provided value on top of what you were expected to do. Awards are given to groups or individuals by businesses, external bodies, academic institutions or third-party groups and usually involve an official certificate or ceremony.

Any time you add an achievement or award to your resume, use ones that are recent and relevant to the job you are applying for.

Extracurricular activities

Extracurricular activities can be used to demonstrate transferable skills, and should be included on your resume in two situations:

• You are in school or have recently graduated and don’t have a lot of paid work or internship experience.
• You are in school or have recently graduated and your extracurricular role highlights a skill or position that is especially relevant to the job you want.

Some examples of extracurricular activities that would go on a resume are volunteer services, student government, tutoring, arts organizations, academic societies of clubs, media or publications, and community and civic activities.

Hobbies and interests

Keep your resume free of hobbies and interests that are generic, and focus on those that are unique or exciting. This section usually gives the hiring team an idea of how you will fit into the company atmosphere and culture. Always be honest about your hobbies and interests, because they can come back to bite you if you aren’t honest about what you enjoy.

Hobbies and interests aren’t always necessary in a resume. While they can be a good placeholder if you lack experience, this section should be eliminated for solid experience, education or skills.

Unless your potential employers have asked for them, don’t include references on your resume. If your resume does need references, include at least three of them, and always get the okay from the person before you list them.

How to make a resume?

A resume should include personal information, an objective or summary statement, work experience, education, and hard and soft skills. If you have room left over, include languages, achievements and awards, extracurricular activities, and hobbies and interests. Only include references if the company asks for them.

Many software programs come with built-in resumes, so there are many ways to make a resume online. Two of the most popular tools used for creating resumes are Microsoft Word and Google Docs . However, while these tools are useful, they do have their disadvantages.

One of the main drawbacks of using Microsoft Word or Google Docs to create your resume is that it can be time-consuming to get the formatting just right. Another downside is that many of the formats lack originality and won’t help you stand out. The chances of other applicants using the same format as yours are high when you use programs such as Google or Microsoft.

A resume builder is a better option if you want to be assured your resume is polished and up to date with the latest trends. A resume builder like Jobseeker offers a wide variety of interactive, easy to use resume templates that help you meet your ultimate goal: to stand out in the application process.

How to format and structure a resume?

The format and structure of a professional resume is important. The content is what gets you the job, but an aesthetically pleasing resume shows that you took the time to get it right, and that you have the basic computer skills to make it look good. Whether you plan on using a resume builder or creating yours using a different method, here are some formatting tips when it comes to writing a resume:

• Content should be left-aligned
• Margins should be at one inch
• Use an easy-to-read, professional font
• Clearly divide each section
• Use clear headers for every section
• Use bullet points whenever possible for conciseness
• Try to keep your resume to one page

There are many professional fonts you can use, including Cambria, Times New Roman, Calibri, Georgia, Arial, Lato and Didot. Your name and header sections should be larger, but keep the basic font size between 10 and 12 points for normal text. Headers and section titles should be between 14-16 points. 

Between text, use 1.0 or 1.15 line spacing, and adjust that to double lines after any subheadings. You can increase or decrease if your resume is too full or too empty.

How to tailor your resume for specific jobs?

Every time you write a resume for a new job, you should tailor it to that job to stay ahead of other job applicants. Tailoring your resume proves your interest in the job, demonstrates how your skills align with it, emphasizes that you know what the employer needs and can help you get through applicant tracking systems.

Use the following steps to tailor your resume:

• Read through the job description for keywords and qualifications. Check for words and phrases that come up more than once throughout the posting and that seem unique to each job.
• Choose the type of resume format (chronological, combination or functional) to highlight your most relevant experience to each job you apply for.
• Always update your summary and objectives when you apply for a new job.
• Put keywords from the job description in your work history bullet points.
• Use quantifiable examples as you highlight your skills.
• Use a resume builder to easily update your skills section each time you apply for a new job, as the hard and soft skills relevant to each job are different.

What types of resumes are there?

There are many types of resumes, and choosing the right resume format depends a lot on the job you apply for.

Chronological resume

A chronological resume is most commonly used in today’s professional world. It starts with a summary or objective, followed by your professional experience, education, and finally your skills and abilities. Make sure to list your experience and education in reverse chronological order, starting with your most recent job, moving backwards. This type of resume prioritizes relevant professional experience and achievements, and is most suitable for candidates with a linear career history.

Skills based resume

A skills-based resume (also known as a functional resume ) highlights your skills and experience rather than your chronological work history. It is ideal if you have a gap in your employment history or are changing careers, as it takes attention away from the timeline of your resume and instead emphasizes your transferable skills.

Combination resume

A combination resume format (also known as a hybrid resume ) merges a chronological resume and a functional resume format. The focus is balanced between skills and work history and is ideal for job candidates with an extremely specific set of skills or extensive experience.

Other resume types

For job seekers looking to work in creative fields who want a twist on a traditional resume, a creative resume is a valuable option. A creative resume may include an infographic, online portfolio or a video. While you include the same information you would on a traditional resume, a creative resume gives you the chance to present that information in an interesting and fun way. 

Although using a resume builder to create a standard resume is still a good idea, a creative resume done right catches the attention of a hiring manager and removes the attention from a lack of professional work experience. It allows the focus to be on your qualifications and skills rather than former jobs.

A video resume is a short video, usually included with a job application that provides an actual demonstration of your personality, skills and qualifications. Video resumes are often used in design, marketing, tech, fashion, and media industries. While a video resume can be a valuable supplemental tool, your formal written resume should always be your primary application. A video resume is not a quick snapshot, but rather a structured, scripted, sincere visual representation of what you have to offer.

Creating a resume with Jobseeker

The path to landing your dream job starts with creating a standout resume. Jobseeker offers all the tools and resources to make this process easier.

Jobseeker’s online resume maker offers a wide range of professionally designed outlines, suitable for every profession and industry. Helpful tips and resume examples will provide you with the right inspiration to highlight your unique advantages. Create matching cover letters to ensure a professional look for all your application documents. Check out our cover letter templates and get started right away!

If you have questions about the tools Jobseeker offers or the pricing , search the frequently asked questions page. Contact us if you need any additional help or have other concerns or questions.

Do you have unanswered questions? Take a look at our FAQ

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