HR Glossary

Curriculum vitae

What is a curriculum vitae?

The term curriculum vitae (CV) comes from a Latin phrase meaning "course of life." CVs outline an individual's qualifications, work experience, skills, achievements, and educational background, and they're typically used for job applications. 

What's the purpose of a CV?

The purpose of a CV is to provide a detailed and well-organized document that outlines an individual’s professional qualifications and career history. It's important for both the individual presenting the CV and the organization reviewing it. 

• Showcasing qualifications and experience

  A CV summarizes and structures an individual's qualifications and work experience. Employers and educational institutions rely on CVs to determine whether candidates possess the necessary skills, credentials, and experience for a position. CVs highlight academic achievements, professional experience, and even key career milestones.

• Supporting professional identity

  A well-crafted CV acts as a personal marketing tool, helping individuals establish their professional brand. It not only outlines career milestones but also provides insights into their journey and what motivated them along the way.

• Facilitating networking and professional opportunities

  A CV plays a crucial role in networking and career advancement. Individuals often share their CV at job fairs, networking events, and professional gatherings to interact with potential employers and business partners.

• Acting as a personal reflection tool

  A CV is an excellent self-reflection tool. As individuals acquire new skills, experiences, and achievements, their career trajectory evolves. It helps assess an individual's progress so they can meet their professional goals.

Curriculum vitae versus Resume

What are some essential components in a CV?

A strong CV should include the following key sections:

• Contact information: 

  Name, phone number, email, and links to professional profiles (LinkedIn, personal website, etc.)

• Personal statement: 

  A brief summary of an individual's career goals, skills, and why they’re a strong candidate

• Education: 

  List of degrees, institutions, dates, and any notable academic achievements

• Work experience: 

  A detailed record of any previous positions, highlighting key accomplishments and responsibilities

• Skills: 

  A list of relevant hard and soft skills

• Publications and research (if applicable): 

  Particularly important for academic or research-focused CVs such as peer-reviewed article or research papers, published works, and more

• Certifications and awards: 

  Any additional credentials or recognitions earned

• Languages or interests: 

  Optional, but helpful for showcasing versatility and global reach. For instance, Spanish - fluent, German - conversational, reading, volunteering, blogging.

Mistakes to avoid when formatting your CV

• Overloading with information: 

  Focus on what’s most relevant to the job or field. Steer clear of unnecessary personal details or unrelated experiences.

• Inconsistent formatting: 

  Using various fonts, sizes, or styles can make your CV appear disorganized. Maintain a uniform and simple layout.

• Spelling and grammar errors: 

  A CV filled with mistakes can create a negative impression. Always proofread thoroughly.

• Being too vague: 

  Being specific is crucial. Quantify your achievements whenever possible. For example, “increased sales by 20%” is better than “improved sales.”

How long should a CV be?

The ideal length of a CV can vary depending on your industry or your level of experience. However, it's recommended to keep your CV between two and three pages. Hiring managers and recruiters often review as many CVs as they can, so it's best to keep it as concise as possible while maintaining all key information and relevant details.