Why Don't They Want My Resume?

If you're looking for a job outside of the United States, don't be surprised to discover that employers don't want your resume. Instead, they'll ask for something called a Curriculum Vitae (CV)

What is a Curriculum Vitae (CV)

Like a resume, you'll use your CV to intice your potential employer into contacting you for an interview. It'll contain your name, contact information, and employment history as well as your education and qualifications.

However, Federal Laws in the United States prohibiting companies from asking detailed personal information do not exist in other countries. So, be prepared to give personal information that you would never dream of providing in the States.  This information includes:

- Your date of birth

- Your place of birth and nationality

- Your family status (married, single, # of children)

- Current Passport Details

- Subjects studied and performance

- Publications, grants, fellowhships, professional associations and licenses, awards and any other information that is relevent to the position you are applying for

- Written and spoken proficiency in languages

- Your availability

- Sports and other recreational activities in which you participate

Writing Your CV

A CV should follow the basic format detailed by CV Services International (http://www.cvservices.co.uk/html/cv-stru... Make sure that it is:

- Clear

- Concise

- Up-to-date

- Complete

- Consistent in style and the use of fonts

- Written so that the most important information can be seen at a glance

Even though a CV will contain much more information than your resume, try to keep the length to 2-3 pages.

Some employers may request that your CV be translated into their native language. Others will accept it in English. If in doubt, send both versions.

Where Can I Find Help?

If all of this sounds a bit foreign to you, don't worry. Companies such as CV Services International (http://www.cvservices.co.uk/) and 1st Resume Store International (http://www.resumestore.com) specialize in writing Curriculum Vitaes. Even if your don't use their services, their web sites can be useful guides in the preparation of your CV.

Remember, whether you're sending a resume or a CV the goal is the same - to sell yourself to your potential employer and get that interview. Good luck!