There are Three Basic Resume Formats
The three basic formats of resumes are: Chronological, Functional, and Chronological/Functional combined.
The Chronological resume is the more structurally formatted of the three.
Experience section is the key.
Jobs are listed in detail.
No focus of skills or achievements at beginning of resume.
Used generally when remaining in same job or career – a lateral move.
Caters to conservative type positions.
Always has an Objective section and Summary section.
Used especially with legal and academic professions.
This resume type best used when:
Applying for positions within a more conservative profession.
Of particular interest to older, more traditional types.
Wanting to show good job detail and highlight employer names.
This resume type is not recommended for when:
You want to showcase your best qualities and experience.
Wanting to make a change in career.
The Next Basic Resume Format is the Functional Resume
Showcases achievements and major skills from the top.
Clearly states your strong suits.
Employer does not need to read through boring job details.
States (through summary) all you will bring to the table.
Only brief mention of company names and positions held.
This resume type best used when:
Wishing to change careers, for those who job-jump, for homemakers returning to workplace, for students and the military.
Wishing to make only a minor change in job direction.
Highly recommended by resume writing professionals.
Used as an effective aid in achieving a new direction or goal.
This resume type is not recommended for when:
Read by a more conservative employer looking for more information on each of your jobs.
The Final Basic Resume Format is the Chronological/Functional Combined
Can include headings of various jobs held with description of accomplishments.
OR
Only a brief job description chronology.
Only a brief Achievements and Skills section.
OR
More detailed Summary that includes skills and qualifications.
This resume type best used when:
Wishing to take advantage of both resume types.
Highlights positives and down plays any possible negatives of
either type of resume.
This resume type is not recommended for when:
Wishing to present a shorter resume.
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