Will chronological resume work for you?
Whether you are a fresher in the job market or an experienced professional, when applying for jobs you have to decide which resume format to select. You should not blindly follow what others do. First make a clear idea about different types of resume formats, like chronological resume, functional resume and combination resume and then take a decision.
Let us first give you a quick idea about each type of resume and then you can decide for yourself which resume format to use and resume writing will become easier for you.
Definition of different resume formats
A chronological resume is mainly designed to put stress on progressive career growth and development. It is the most widely used resume format and enumerates the work history in reverse chronological order.
Advantages
• This format is liked by most employers and hence it is the most followed resume format. View sample resume for more examples.
• A hiring manager is mostly interested to know where an employer worked and in what capacity. In this format this information is highlighted so it becomes easy for him to locate information that is of utmost importance to him.
• The progression of the career can easily be showcased and the employer can follow it easily.
• If the last job you held was the most vital to your career then this type of resume format is the most convenient to use.
Disadvantages
• If you have gaps in your employment or have changed career tracks then it becomes apparent in this resume format. It is very difficult to hide such hitches.
A functional resume focuses on your key skills and accomplishments irrespective of where they have occurred and de-emphasizes the companies where you worked.
Advantages
• It is best to use functional resume when you want to highlight your skills and expertise above your work experiences.
• Moreover, if you have significant gaps in your career or have changed careers then also this format is the best one for you. If you have changed jobs too often then choose functional resume over chronological resume. Visit executive resume writing to get more information.
Disadvantages
• A functional resume format is not liked by all hiring managers as they simply feel that you are trying to hide something from them.
A combination resume combines benefits of both type of resume formats. It begins with a summary of your skills and qualifications and then puts the work history in reverse chronological order.
After recognizing the different types of resume formats the question that arises is
Which resume format to select?
If you are confused about which resume format to select, use the following two criteria to analyze your situation.
a) The depth, amount and consistency in your work experience
b) How is your past work experience aligned to the job you are going to apply.
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If you score high on these two factors then you must select chronological format.
But you must remember one point. The content of your resume matters most than the resume format. It is how well you present information that matters ultimately. Although chronological resume is most widely used and accepted yet using it will not ensure that you will be called for an interview. Pay attention to every detail you put in your resume.
