Uncover the advantages and disadvantages of a CV and an application form

You're eager to apply for a role that perfectly matches you, but what's next? Do you submit a CV or fill out an application form? Each method is different and has its own process and requirements. Read on to understand the differences between a CV and an application form, as well as how to navigate each effectively when applying for a job.

What is a CV?

A CV is a concise, two-page professional document detailing your career experience, skills, and qualifications. It typically includes personal details, work experience, education, and optional additional sections, like certifications, publications, and awards.

It's designed to clearly present your suitability for a role and is often used when employers need a detailed overview of your expertise. Additionally, a well-crafted CV is designed to navigate application tracking systems (ATS), ensuring that your application gets through automated screenings. 

Often, a tailored cover letter accompanies the CV to further highlight your suitability for the role.

What is an application form?

Unlike a CV crafted by the applicant, an application form is a structured document created by the company advertising the job. It focuses on critical job-related details, aiming to align candidate information with employer needs.

Typically, an application form will cover personal details, education, work experience, skills, and specific questions related to the role. 

Its purpose is to streamline the recruitment process by standardising responses, making it easier to compare candidates. This helps reduce the applicant pool to a manageable number for interviews, ensuring only those meeting the essential criteria move forward.

Advantages and disadvantages of a CV

Here are the pros and cons of a CV:

Advantages of a CV

  • Versatile: Once you have a well-crafted CV, you can use it for multiple job applications across different industries and roles.

  • Showcases individuality: A CV allows you to demonstrate your unique skill set and personality, which is particularly beneficial for creative roles where individuality is valued.

  • Comprehensive: With a detailed overview of your career, education, skills, and achievements, a CV gives employers a thorough understanding of your professional background.

Disadvantages of a CV

  • Time-consuming: Crafting a compelling CV requires careful consideration and editing to ensure it meets the specific requirements of each job application.

  • Needs to be tailored: Each application may require tailoring your CV to match the job description and company culture, adding to the overall time and effort needed for the application process.

  • Prone to bias: Without a standardised format, CVs may lead to unconscious bias, as recruiters might focus on formatting and presentation rather than content.

Advantages and disadvantages of an application form

Here are the pros and cons of an application form:

Advantages of an application form

  • No formatting needed: You don't need to spend hours crafting a CV. Application forms streamline the process so you can focus more on showcasing your skills and less on formatting.

  • Facilitates fair evaluation: Application forms create a level playing field. They ensure every applicant provides the same information, which helps fair comparisons between candidates.

  • Clear and relevant: Unlike CVs, application forms cut out unnecessary details. There's no need to worry about listing hobbies or exam results from decades ago.

Disadvantages of an application form

  • Time-consuming: Some forms can be lengthy and intricate, making them a hassle. It might discourage you, even if you're an excellent fit for the role.

  • Limits expression: You're confined to what the form asks for, unlike in a CV where you can highlight additional skills and experiences to stand out.

  • Has less personal touch: Application forms might not let you showcase your personality or personal brand as effectively as a well-crafted CV could.

Get your application content ready

Having your CV already drafted can help you save time when you come across an employer using an application form. Since this form typically requests information that's already on your CV, you can refer to your CV to quickly fill out most of the fields there. However, remember that a CV and an application form can showcase your personality and qualifications differently – use this insight to optimise your application for the role at hand and boost your chances of securing an interview.

Whether you have to apply for a role via an application form or a CV, you'll want to ensure you're ahead of the game by having your CV in tip-top condition. Check out our free CV review service for starters.

This article was originally written by Elizabeth Openshaw and has been updated by Laura Slingo.

Recommended reading:

Related Articles: