Three Resume Formats

There are three common resumé formats - Chronological, Functional and Combination. Depending on your work history and employment goals, you should select which type of resumé is best for you. Most job seekers and employers are familiar with chronological resumés, but the other two types of resumes can also be beneficial.

Chronological Resumé

Chronological is the traditional format for a resumé. On this type of resumé, you list your work experience from most recent to least recent in chronological order. On a chronological resumé, the emphasis is on your employment experience and job duties. Employers like chronological resumés which demonstrate upward mobility and jobs of increasing responsibility. This type of resumé is the most commonly used, but there are several circumstances where it is not the best choice of format. If you have big gaps in your employment history, you have no obvious relevant experience to the position you are applying for or you are returning to the workforce after a significant absence, you should choose a functional resumé instead.

Functional Resumé

The functional resumé format stresses the importance of achievements and skills, as opposed to work history. If you are changing careers, returning to the workforce or have little employment experience, a functional resumé will better demonstrate your worth to an employer.

Combination Resumé

As indicated by the name, a combination resumé combines elements from both a chronological and functional resumé. A combination format includes a short employment history section, oftentimes without dates, followed by an emphasis on achievements, skills and awards. This resumé gives you the best of both worlds and is growing in popularity in recent years.

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