CV vs resume: which should you send?

The words “CV” and “resume” do not mean exactly the same thing everywhere. Use the employer's instructions and the conventions of the country and field where you are applying.

For many industry roles

Employers usually want a concise document focused on relevant experience, skills, and results. In the United States this is commonly called a resume; in the United Kingdom and many other places, “CV” is commonly used for a similar job-application document.

For academic or research roles

A full academic CV may include more detail, such as research interests, publications, teaching, presentations, grants, and service. Include the sections that match the application and your actual experience.

How to choose

1. Follow the job posting's requested document type and file format.
2. Check the employer's country and the norms of the role.
3. For academic roles, look for instructions about publications, research, or teaching history.
4. When instructions are unclear, ask the recruiter or contact person.

One document can have multiple versions

Keep a complete record of your experience, then create a focused version for each application. Reorder relevant skills and projects instead of sending the same generic document everywhere.

Further reading: Harvard's guide to academic CVs explains the broader detail often used for academic applications.