The classic CV template: how does it differ from the modern one and which is better?

Sample of a classic CV

Classic CV advantages and disadvantages

The classic CV has several advantages and disadvantages that you should know about before you decide to use it.

Classic CV advantages

• Clarity and simplicity – a classic CV is clear, making it very easy for a potential employer to find key information such as skills, work experience and so on.
• Versatility – you can use this type of CV in almost any industry. Plus, if you’re sending it to multiple companies, it’s easy to edit because the information is listed in bullet points, not long paragraphs.
• Easy to create – unlike a modern CV, you’ll have a classic one ready very quickly. However, take your time when writing it out and make sure all the information is correct.
• Formality and professionalism – a classic CV looks professional, so it will represent you well.

Classic CV disadvantages

• Lack of creativity – if you’re a creative person, the classic CV can limit you because it’s so simple and concise.
• Less space for details – a traditional CV usually only includes the most important information. If you want to provide more detail, you’ll also need to attach a cover letter or send your portfolio.

When to choose a classic CV?

The classic type of CV should be chosen especially when:

• you pride yourself on professionalism and formality,
• you’re applying for a job in a traditional and conservative sector such as law, banking, government or academia,
• you are also sending a cover letter or portfolio where the potential employer can find additional information,
• you need to create a CV quickly and easily.

What is a modern CV?

A modern CV is a creative type of document that often uses a variety of graphic elements that can easily set you apart from other applicants. Another advantage of a modern CV is that, unlike a traditional CV, it contains detailed information about you, your experience, skills and hobbies, so there’s often no need to attach a cover letter or other supporting documents. This type of CV is most often used in dynamic and creative fields where you need to stand out on first contact. It’s more difficult to prepare, but if you put the effort in, it can help you land your dream job.

Sample of a modern CV

A modern CV should have the same sections as a classic CV, namely:

• personal data,
• work experience,
• education,
• skills and hobbies,
• interests,
• other optional sections.

Don ‘t be afraid to go in-depth when filling in your details. Write long sentences and paragraphs, introduce projects you’ve worked on, courses you’ve taken, etc. Avoid brevity and short bullet points of information.

Sample of a modern CV

Modern CV advantages and disadvantages

Even a modern CV has its advantages and disadvantages:

Modern CV advantages

• Creative and visually appealing design – a modern CV uses colours, graphs and other visual elements that can catch the employer’s eye and increase your chances of success.
• Detailed information – you can include much more information in a modern CV than in a traditional one, which increases your chances of landing your dream job. There’s also the advantage that you often don’t need to attach a cover letter to a detailed CV.
• Differentiation – you can customize your modern CV with different fonts and visuals to help you stand out from the crowd.
• Flexibility of format – you can customize and organize the individual sections of your CV exactly as you like. They are not fixed as in a traditional CV.

Modern CV disadvantages

• Less clarity – by being full of information, a CV can be less clear than a traditional CV. Therefore, make sure that the different sections are properly separated, for example by a heading in a larger or bold font.
• Requires more time to prepare – it takes a lot of time to create a modern CV. Set aside two to three hours, think about how it should look and write down all the necessary details.

When is a modern CV suitable?

A modern CV is suitable when:

• you’re applying for a job in a creative industry such as marketing, design or the arts,
• you want to impress and stand out,
• you want to include details of your skills and experience on your CV.

Tips when choosing a CV

Once you have an idea of what a classic and modern CV looks like, you can move on to choosing one and then creating it. If you still don’t know which is best for you, answer the following questions:

• What industry do you work in? If it’s marketing, art, fashion or advertising, a modern resume is the best choice. On the other hand, if you work in finance, banking or government, opt for a formal classic CV.
• What type of CV does the employer require? In some job adverts, you may find information about what kind of CV the employer requires. This will tell you whether a classic or modern CV is more appropriate.
• How do you want to present yourself? If you want to give the employer as much information as possible right from the start, choose the modern type. On the other hand, if you want to reveal more about yourself in a cover letter or interview, choose a brief, formal CV.
• Are you sending just a CV or also a cover letter or portfolio? If you’re just sending a CV, the modern type is usually better because it contains more information. If you are also attaching a cover letter or portfolio, keep the CV short so that the information is not unnecessarily repetitive.

More practical advice on how to write a CV

Follow these tips when creating your CV:

• The information on your CV must be accurate and truthful. Do not make anything up. Any lies will be exposed later and may cause you problems.
• Be brief and to the point. Even a modern CV, which is more detailed than a traditional one, should not be 4 or more pages long.
• Use the same style and formatting. Don’t change the font type or size to avoid chaos in the document.
• You can add links to your portfolio or social networks such as LinkedIn to your online CV.
• When writing, focus on the skills that are relevant to the job position.
• Avoid giving personal information that is not relevant. Focus primarily on skills and experience.

A classic and modern CV template to make your job search easier

Writing and sending out CVs is time-consuming. If you don’t want to start from scratch, try pre-made templates on the internet. The classic CV template is simple and can be completed in a few minutes. A modern CV template, on the other hand, gives you some idea of what it might look like, but doesn’t limit you in any way. It’s up to you how you customize it. Use our practical tips to impress your potential employer on first contact.