When applying for jobs in Kenya, you may encounter employers asking for a CV or a resume. While these terms are often used interchangeably, they are distinct documents with different formats, purposes, and details.
Understanding the difference between a CV and a resume is crucial to submitting the right document and increasing your chances of landing the job.
What Is a CV?
A CV (Curriculum Vitae) is a detailed document that outlines your complete academic and professional history. It provides a comprehensive overview of your skills, qualifications, and experience, often spanning multiple pages.
Key Features of a CV
Length: 2–4 pages (or longer for academic roles).
Content: Covers education, work history, skills, certifications, awards, publications, and professional achievements.
Purpose: Commonly used for academic, research, or specialized roles.
Format: Chronological, with a strong emphasis on professional milestones.
When to Use a CV in Kenya
Applying for roles in government or NGOs.
Seeking academic or research positions.
Pursuing highly technical jobs that require detailed professional backgrounds.
What Is a Resume?
A resume is a concise document that highlights your most relevant skills and experience for a specific job. Typically, a resume is tailored to each job application and is designed to grab the employer’s attention quickly.
Key Features of a Resume
Length: 1–2 pages maximum.
Content: Focuses on relevant work experience, key skills, and accomplishments.
Purpose: Used in most corporate, private-sector, or creative industries.
Format: Flexible—can be chronological, functional, or a combination.
When to Use a Resume in Kenya
Applying for private-sector roles or internships.
Seeking entry-level or mid-level positions.
Applying for jobs where the employer requests a shorter document.
CV vs. Resume: Key Differences
Aspect
CV
Resume
Length
2–4 pages (or more)
1–2 pages
Content
Comprehensive, including all details
Focused on relevant information
Purpose
Academic, research, or technical roles
Corporate, private-sector, or creative roles
Adaptability
Rarely tailored to specific jobs
Tailored to each job application
Structure
Chronological
Flexible (Chronological/Functional/Hybrid)
Which One Should Kenyan Job Seekers Use?
Use a CV When:
Applying to government agencies, NGOs, or academic institutions.
The job description explicitly requests a CV.
You’re applying for senior-level or technical roles that require a detailed career history.
Use a Resume When:
The employer specifies a resume or requests a short application.
Applying for corporate or entry-level jobs.
You need to tailor your application for a specific role.
Tips for Crafting a Winning CV or Resume
For a CV
Be Detailed: Include all relevant education, experience, and achievements.
Keep It Organized: Use clear headings like Education, Work Experience, Skills, and Certifications.
Highlight Achievements: Showcase your professional milestones and quantifiable results.
For a Resume
Focus on Relevance: Tailor your content to the specific job description.
Use Bullet Points: Keep information concise and easy to read.
Include a Professional Summary: Summarize your qualifications at the top of the page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is There a Standard Format for CVs and Resumes in Kenya?
While there’s no one-size-fits-all format, Kenyan employers typically prefer well-organized documents with clear headings.
Can I Submit a CV Instead of a Resume?
If unsure, it’s best to ask the employer. In most private-sector roles, resumes are preferred due to their brevity.
Can I Use the Same Document for All Applications?
Not recommended. Always tailor your CV or resume to match the job description and employer requirements.
How Often Should I Update My CV or Resume?
Update your CV or resume regularly, especially after gaining new skills, certifications, or work experience.
Conclusion
For Kenyan job seekers, understanding the differences between a CV and a resume is key to applying for jobs effectively. A CV provides a comprehensive career overview and is ideal for academic, technical, or government roles, while a resume is a concise, targeted document perfect for corporate and private-sector jobs.
By choosing the right format and tailoring your application to the job, you can improve your chances of standing out and securing your dream role.
