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What is the difference between academic CV and industry CV?

Careers | September 25, 2024

An academic resume differs significantly from an industry resume in that it emphasizes specific academic achievements and publications, while the industry resume focuses on practical experience and application-oriented skills. Understanding both types of CV is essential for targeted applications in different fields. In this article, you'll learn the key differences and how to make the most of them to maximize your career opportunities.

What is an academic CV?

An academic CV, also known as a curriculum vitae, is a detailed account of your professional and academic career. Unlike a traditional CV, which should be short and concise, the academic CV provides detailed information about publications, research projects and academic experience.

Main features of an academic CV:

Personal details : Name, contact details, date of birth Academic education : degree programs, degrees, institutions Research experience : projects, publications, conferences Teaching experience : Courses, lectures, workshops Additional qualifications : Further training, certificates An academic CV is mainly used in an academic environment, for example when applying for research positions, scholarships or professorships.

What is an industry CV?

An industry CV is specifically designed for positions in the private sector and differs from an academic CV in several ways. The main features are:
Focus on practical experience : An industry resume emphasizes work experience to demonstrate practical skills and accomplishments Less emphasis on academic achievements : As opposed to an academic resume, where degrees and research experience are emphasized Results-oriented presentation : Concrete successes and contributions in previous positions are emphasized to illustrate one's skills Industry custom ization: the resume is tailored specifically to the requirements and expectations of the industry in question Typically, an industry resume is used to gain a foothold in technical, commercial and other industrial careers in the private sector.

Main differences between academic and industry CVs

An academic CV differs from an industrial CV in several aspects. Structure and content are crucial. The academic CV is usually more detailed and longer, often several pages. It includes detailed information about the academic career, publications and research projects. In contrast, the industry CV is shorter, usually one or two pages, and focuses on work-related experience and skills.
The purpose and target group also differ. An academic CV is primarily aimed at educational or research institutions, while the industrial CV is more important for companies in the business world. Thus, the academic CV often contains specific sections for research interests and presentations, while the industry CV places more emphasis on practical experience and soft skills.

Summary and recommendation

A chronological CV is ideal for people with continuous work experience. A functional resume, on the other hand, highlights specific skills, especially recommended for career transitions. Use our bootcamp resources to customize your resume. Discover more about the right resume and prepare for your career: Visit our website for more information.
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