CV vs Resume: What’s the Difference and Which One You Need

The terms CV and resume are often used interchangeably, but they aren’t the same thing. Understanding the difference — and knowing when to use each — can make your job applications far more effective.

What’s a CV?

CV stands for “Curriculum Vitae,” which is Latin for “course of life.” It is a detailed document outlining your academic and professional history in full.

• Often multiple pages
• Includes work history, education, publications, research, presentations
• Used for academic, research, education, or medical careers
• Not tailored for each application — more static

What’s a Resume?

A resume is a short, targeted summary of your skills and work experience. It is the most common document used in job applications in the private sector.

• Typically one or two pages
• Focuses on skills, results, and relevance to the job
• Heavily tailored to each role
• Used for most roles outside academia

Key Differences: CV vs Resume

Feature	CV	Resume
Length	2–5+ pages	1–2 pages
Content	Full history: academic, work, publications	Relevant skills, experience, achievements
Tailoring	Usually static	Customised for each application
Purpose	Academia, research, medicine	Business, tech, creative, general jobs
Region	Common in UK, EU, Africa, Asia	Standard in USA, Canada, Australia

Which One Should You Use?

It depends on the job and the country. In the UK and much of Europe, “CV” is the standard term, but it’s often used like a resume — short and tailored. In the US and Canada, resumes are expected unless you’re applying to an academic post.

"When in doubt, follow the job posting. If they ask for a resume, send one. If they want a full CV, they’ll say so."

Tips for a Strong Resume or CV

• Use clear formatting — no fancy fonts or designs
• Put the most relevant information at the top
• Quantify results (e.g., “Increased sales by 20%”)
• Tailor your application — one size doesn’t fit all
• Keep your documents updated regularly

Conclusion

Understanding the difference between a CV and a resume helps you apply for jobs with confidence. The right document, presented well, opens more doors and shows employers you understand what they’re looking for.

What to Do When You Hate Your Job But Can’t Quit (Yet)

Waking up every day with dread isn’t a good way to live — but many people stay in jobs they dislike because they have bills, obligations, or simply no clear way out. If you’re in that situation, you’re not alone.

This post will help you manage your current situation while preparing your exit smartly and strategically.

1. Pinpoint What You Really Hate

Is it the work? The manager? The company culture? Or the commute?

Identifying the exact reasons helps you decide what kind of job would actually be better — and prevents you from jumping into another bad one.

Tip: Write down what drains your energy each day. Patterns will appear.

2. Protect Your Mental Energy

Even if you can’t change your job overnight, you can build habits that reduce stress:

• Set firm boundaries — leave work on time if you can
• Listen to podcasts or audiobooks during your commute
• Take real breaks — get fresh air, move your body

3. Avoid Burning Bridges

As tempting as it may be to lash out or stop caring, maintain a level of professionalism. A reference from your current job might matter later — even if you think it won’t.

4. Use the Job to Fund Your Exit

If the job pays the bills, treat it like a temporary investor. Save what you can. Cut back on spending. Use the time to set up your next move without financial panic.

5. Work on Your Exit Strategy (Quietly)

Spend time each week updating your CV, applying for roles, learning new skills online, or speaking to people in industries that interest you.

This step turns hopelessness into movement. Even slow progress is better than none.

6. Take Control Where You Can

Even in a job you dislike, you can sometimes redesign how you work:

• Ask to switch projects or responsibilities
• Negotiate for more flexible hours
• Request feedback and mentorship (if possible)

7. Separate Your Identity from the Job

Your job title isn’t who you are. If work is miserable, find joy in hobbies, learning, side projects, or even volunteering. These things keep your confidence and purpose alive.

"You are allowed to outgrow the role you're in — even if you once wanted it."

8. Set a Realistic Exit Timeline

Pick a date — even six months out — when you want to be in a better position. Then work backwards. This gives your day-to-day stress a purpose and puts you in control again.

9. Don’t Quit Just to Escape — Quit for Something Better

Leaving a bad job without a plan can lead to worse situations. Don’t just run away — run towards something that fits you better.

10. Remind Yourself It’s Temporary

This isn’t forever. You’re not stuck. You’re in transition. Keep doing the work — quietly, steadily — and eventually, you’ll move forward.

When you can't change the situation yet, change your position within it. That shift gives you power.

Conclusion

It’s hard to stay in a job you dislike. But you can protect your wellbeing, learn from the experience, and start building a better future — while still collecting your paycheck.

Your next role is out there. You just need a clear head and a strong plan to reach it.

If You Don’t Ask, You Don’t Get: How to Ask for a Pay Rise Without Sounding Desperate

Every week someone messages me:

"I’ve been at my job for over 2 years. I’m underpaid. I’ve taken on more work. How do I ask for a raise without ruining everything?”

Here’s the hard truth: no one is going to voluntarily give you more money just because you’re doing a good job.

Companies are watching the bottom line. If you don’t ask — clearly, calmly, confidently — they will assume you’re content with what you’re earning.

1. Know the Market Before You Say a Word

If you ask for a raise without evidence, it feels like guessing. People don’t pay guesses — they pay value.

Tip: Use salary comparison tools. Check what similar roles are paying in your industry, in your location (or remote). Screenshot listings. Get your numbers ready.

2. Timing Isn’t Everything, But It Matters

Don’t ask during chaos. Don’t ask right after a loss. Don’t ask on Monday morning when your manager is drowning in emails.

Tip: Request a meeting on a neutral day. Say it’s about “your role, responsibilities, and next steps.” Don’t spring it on them mid-project.

3. Don't Start With Emotions

It’s tempting to open with, “I feel like I deserve more…” but feelings won’t close the deal. Focus on facts.

Bring proof. Show what you've contributed, how you've gone beyond your role, and what others in your position are earning elsewhere.

Tip: Frame it like a business case. Use data. Say, “Since taking on [X], I’ve delivered [Y]. Based on current industry standards, I’d like to discuss adjusting my salary to reflect that.”

4. Practice the Silence

Once you ask, stop talking. Don’t explain it 10 different ways. Don’t backtrack. Let it land.

"I’d like to discuss a raise. Based on my performance and the market rate for this role, I believe £X is a fair adjustment."

Then zip it.

5. What If They Say No?

If they say no, the conversation isn't over. Ask what would need to happen for a raise to be possible. Get it in writing. Set a timeline.

• “What targets would I need to meet for a raise to be reconsidered?”
• “Can we review this again in 3 months?”
• “Would a promotion path be more realistic here?”

If there’s no path forward, you’ve got your answer: they don’t value your growth. That’s a green light to look elsewhere — not a failure.

6. Bonus: How NOT to Ask

Here are common ways people sabotage their own pay rise requests:

• Comparing yourself to coworkers ("Jane gets more than me")
• Threatening to quit with no plan
• Saying “I need more because my rent went up” (your bills are not their responsibility)
• Dumping it all in an email and hiding behind your screen

Final Word

You don’t need to be aggressive. You don’t need to apologise. You just need to ask with clarity and evidence.

People don’t get what they deserve. They get what they negotiate.

If this helped you, forward it to someone still hesitating. You might be the reason they ask — and finally get paid what they’re worth.

Stop Sending CVs Into the Void

Stop Sending CVs Into the Void: 7 Brutal Truths About Why You're Not Getting Interviews

If you’re sending out job applications and getting nothing but silence, you’re not alone — but that doesn’t mean you’re doing it right.

This post isn’t fluff. It’s not another “stay positive” talk. These are the reasons no one is calling you — and what you can do about it.

1. Your CV Looks Like It Was Written in 2007

If you're still using the same Word template from uni, stop. Recruiters don’t have time to decode poor formatting, dense paragraphs, or irrelevant hobbies.

Tip: Use a clean, modern layout. Keep it to 1-2 pages. Highlight impact, not just tasks.

2. You’re Writing Job Descriptions, Not Achievements

“Responsible for managing inventory.” That’s a task, not a result. What did you improve? How did you save time or money?

Tip: Use numbers. Always. “Reduced errors by 35%.” “Handled 250+ support tickets monthly.”

3. You Apply to Everything — and It Shows

Spraying your CV across 100 job boards with no targeting is the fastest way to get ignored.

“If you’re applying to everything, you’re qualified for nothing.”

Tip: Choose your top 10 companies. Learn about them. Tailor your application. Quality over quantity.

4. No One Understands What You Actually Do

If your summary says things like “highly motivated team player with a passion for innovation,” congratulations — you've said nothing.

Tip: Be specific. What tools do you use? What industries have you worked in? What problems have you solved?

5. You're Ignoring Keywords (So You're Invisible)

Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) are real. If your CV doesn’t match the job post, you’re filtered before a human sees it.

Tip: Mirror the job description language. Don’t overdo it, but do match the role’s terminology.

6. Your LinkedIn Is Empty, Outdated, or Embarrassing

Even if your CV is solid, most recruiters will still look you up online. If they find nothing — or worse, a half-baked profile — you’re losing credibility.

Tip: Have a professional photo. Add achievements. List your skills. Ask for recommendations.

7. You’re Waiting. Not Networking.

People who get jobs often don’t apply at all. They get referred. They get messaged. They’ve built visibility long before they need it.

• Start commenting on industry posts
• Send thank-you DMs after interviews — even informal ones
• Join Slack/Discord communities in your sector

Final Word

Stop throwing your CV into a black hole. Every rejection or silence is information. Use it. Improve one thing every week and measure your progress.

You don’t need 100 companies to say “yes.” Just one. But it has to be the right one — and for that, you need to stop guessing and start applying with intention.

Share this with someone stuck in the loop. It might be the nudge they need.

Job Hunting Feels Like Being Stuck in Traffic — Here's How to Get in the Fast Lane

You know that moment when you're stuck in traffic and every other lane seems to be moving faster? You switch lanes. Then, like clockwork, your new lane slows to a crawl and the one you just left speeds up.

That’s job hunting.

You keep tweaking your CV. Applying for everything. Changing strategy. Networking. Cold emailing. Watching others “move ahead” while you wonder what’s wrong with your lane.

Let’s break this down, using traffic logic.

1. Everyone’s Going Somewhere, But Not at the Same Speed

When you’re stuck in gridlock, it's tempting to assume everyone else is making progress. The truth? Most people are stuck too — they’re just quieter about it.

The same thing happens with job seekers. You only see their “I got the job!” posts — not the 47 rejections or the three months of silence. You're comparing your behind-the-scenes with someone else’s highlight reel.

Some people have industry contacts. Others are working with referrals. A few may just be lucky. But most are just like you: trying to move forward, one application at a time.

Tip: Set your own pace. Build your own goals — five applications per week, one networking call per week, or updating your CV by Friday. It doesn't have to match someone else's route.

2. The Fast Lane Isn’t Always What It Looks Like

In traffic, you’ll often notice one driver weaving across all the lanes, overtaking everyone... until you meet them again at the next light.

That’s the person on LinkedIn applying to every job that has a salary attached, firing off the same CV with no tweaks. It feels productive — but doesn’t always move the needle.

Volume might work in a high-churn market. But if you're after a decent fit, or applying in competitive sectors, spamming gets you filtered out fast.

Tip: Pick your targets. Review the job spec. Match your experience line by line. If the role asks for “process improvement experience” and you’ve done that, spell it out. Don’t make them guess.

You’re not trying to impress everyone. Just the right hiring manager.

3. Signals Matter — Ignore Them and You Stall

Drivers who miss their exit because they're distracted? That’s what it's like to send off 15 CVs and never notice they're going straight into spam folders.

You need to read the road.

Are you getting interviews? Are recruiters replying? If not, something’s off. It could be formatting, poor keywords, irrelevant experience, or even a vague CV summary.

Tip: If you've sent 30+ applications and heard nothing back, stop. Don’t send more. Fix your approach.

Ask someone to read your CV and give blunt feedback. Consider an online CV scan tool. Speak to someone working in your target industry — even a 10-minute LinkedIn chat can offer clarity.

4. GPS Only Works If You Input the Right Destination

If your goal is “any job that pays”, you’ll struggle to aim properly.

It’s like asking Google Maps to take you “somewhere good” — it doesn’t know where to start. You need coordinates.

The job market is full of distractions. You might start by applying for admin roles, then suddenly find yourself applying to marketing roles, then logistics, then entry-level remote jobs that have nothing to do with your skillset.

Tip: Write a 2–3 sentence statement for yourself that describes what kind of job you’re aiming for. For example:

“I’m looking for a remote operations assistant role in a tech or service-based company. I’ve got experience with scheduling, data entry, and process coordination.”

This doesn’t mean you can’t shift later. But without focus, you’ll waste effort and energy chasing everything and landing nothing.

5. Sometimes You Need to Pull Over and Rethink

Ever missed a turn but kept driving to avoid stopping — only to get more lost?

That’s the job seeker who’s been using the same CV for months and refuses to take a break. You might feel like stopping means giving up, but it can be the most productive thing you do.

Pausing gives you a better view of what isn’t working. Are you targeting the wrong jobs? Is your experience misaligned with what you’re chasing? Are your interview skills rusty?

Tip: Schedule a review day every 2–3 weeks. Look at your applications, track which ones got replies, and ask why. Did you tailor them more? Did someone refer you?

And don't underestimate the value of rest. Job hunting is emotionally draining. No one can function at full intensity every day without burnout creeping in.

6. Red Lights Are Temporary — But They Still Matter

It’s frustrating to hit a red light — especially when you're late. But those pauses regulate the flow, prevent crashes, and force you to stop and recalibrate.

A job rejection might feel like a block, but often it's a redirect.

It might push you to revisit a skill gap. It might reveal you weren’t actually keen on that role. Or it might be the nudge that sends you down a better road.

Tip: Rejection emails are an opportunity. Reply, thank them for their time, and politely ask for feedback. You won’t always get it, but when you do, it can highlight blind spots you never considered.

Traffic Clears Eventually

No traffic jam lasts forever. It just feels like it when you’re in it.

Same with job hunting. If you stay consistent, observant, and open to adjusting course, your exit ramp will come. And when it does, it won’t matter how long you were stuck — you’ll be moving forward again.

So next time your job search feels like standstill traffic, remember:

• Everyone’s frustrated.
• Most people are guessing.
• Your path is yours.

Put your signals on, check your mirrors, and keep going.

The lane will open.