We are often asked what the difference is between a Resume and a Curriculum Vitae (aka CV, C.V. or Vita).  We like the way About.com has summed it up here,

“The primary differences are the length, the content and the purpose. A resume is a one or two page summary of your skills, experience and education. A goal of resume writing is to be brief and concise since, at best, the resume reader will spend a minute or so reviewing your qualifications.

A Curriculum Vitae, commonly referred to as CV, is a longer (two or more pages), more detailed synopsis. It includes a summary of your educational and academic backgrounds as well as teaching and research experience, publications, presentations, awards, honors, affiliations and other details.”

Most recruiters in the U.S. want you to send them a resume and NOT a CV unless it is specifically requested. Recruiters have to look at hundreds if not thousands of resumes each week and don’t have time to really read through pages of information in considering each job seeker so stick to the “bullet points”, address your accomplishments and try to keep your resume to one or two pages at most.