You have a resume, but do you need a CV too? This is often confusing for physicians and is a common requirement when applying to a locum tenens position. Although the difference between them might be confusing, both CVs and resumes serve the same purpose. Both documents are representations of you as a physician and are meant to help you secure a job! However, sometimes the type of job you’re applying to depends on which would be better for your application… a CVs or a resume. You need to understand the key differences between the two before you apply for a job. That way, you can immediately know which you will need for that application. We have explained the differences of a physician CV vs resume below!
Key Differences of Physician CV vs Resume
Length
A CV length can vary and can be longer than a few pages if necessary. A resume should be much more concise, around 1-2 pages. The CV is longer because it represents your entire educational and professional history. The length will vary depending on the person and his/her experience. A resume is shorter because it is a snapshot of who you are as a professional. Employers usually only spend a few minutes reading a resume before they decide if you have potential. Because this time is so short, you want your resume to be condensed into one or two meaningful pages. CVs are given more attention and time.
Information
Probably the biggest difference between a physician CV vs resume is the information. A CV has much more detailed information. It is a complete history of you. A physician CV should have a focus on different skill sets, honors, education opportunities, and practical experiences. A CV will also have a lot of statistics and numbers relating to years of experience and research. You can constantly add to your CV. If you receive a new award or conduct new research, you should immediately add it to your CV. A CV presents information starting from the earliest date and ending with the most recent date.
Resumes are a little different. Resumes can and should be altered to fit what you are applying for. If you are applying for a research grant, emphasize your past research on your resume. If you are applying for a position at a hospital, emphasize your past work at hospitals and what you accomplished. Read the job description and highlight how your past experiences have made you perfectly qualified. You should always alter your resume for each application. A resume presents information starting with the most recent date and ending in the earliest date. However, usually, education is presented at the top
When to Use Physician CV vs Resume
The easiest answer to this question is that the application will usually let you know. Job descriptions or grant applications will tell you if you need a CV or a resume, or both. You may still be confused about which to use, even after reading the application. In that case, you should ask the reviewer of the application beforehand. It is better to double-check and provide the right document than assume and submit a CV when you needed a resume. Even if you have never needed to provide a CV before, it’s helpful to have one. You can even take the information from your resume and start adding more detail and information. That will help you to start your CV and you can constantly update it as you progress professionally or academically.
Now that you know the differences between a physician CV and resume, you can start working on yours! As you browse locum tenens positions and begin applying, you will be able to tailor your resume to fit the position. And if they ask for a CV, you know exactly how to write one!
