Hi, Lisa. I'm about to graduate and preparing my job application, but I'm a bit confused about the difference between a CV, resume, and portfolio. Could you explain it to me? Of course, Anna. A CV is a detailed document, usually two to three pages long, covering your education, work experience, skills, and achievements. A resume, on the other hand, is shorter, typically one page, and highlights only the most relevant information for the job you're applying for. A portfolio is different. It's a collection of your projects, work samples, or creative output, often used in fields like design, writing, technology, and content creation. How do I know when to use a CV or a resume? It depends on your industry and location. In Europe, a CV is more common, whereas in the U.S., most employers prefer a resume unless you're applying for an academic or medical position, which requires a CV. If you're applying for creative jobs, an impressive portfolio can be even more important than a CV or resume. I see. So how do recruiters evaluate applications? Many companies use an Applicant Tracking System, or ATS, to scan resumes for keywords and evaluate content before a recruiter even looks at them. If your application doesn't contain the right keywords, it might be rejected automatically, even if you're qualified. After that, recruiters manually review applications to assess real experience and skills. How can I optimize my CV to pass ATS screening? First, use keywords that match the job description, and avoid images, graphics, or complex formatting since ATS may not read them correctly. Also, make sure your sections are clearly labeled and easy to scan. If my CV gets past ATS, how do I impress recruiters during manual review? Recruiters spend only 6-10 seconds scanning a CV before deciding whether to continue reading. That's why you need a strong opening and put the most impressive details at the top. Use numbers and measurable results instead of vague descriptions. For example, instead of saying managed social media, you could say increased Instagram followers by 40% in 3 months. That's really helpful. What about a portfolio? How can I create a strong one? A strong portfolio doesn't just showcase your work. It also reflects your style and thought process. Select 5-10 of your best projects rather than including everything. Each project should have a short description explaining the goal, process, and results. Most importantly, make sure your portfolio is easily accessible, like a website or a professional PDF. Do you have any final tips? Remember, a strong CV, resume, and portfolio don't just highlight your skills, they also reflect your personal brand. Always update and tailor them for each job application to maximize your chances of success. Thank you so much, Lisa. I'll start applying these tips right away.