Resume Format Guide
Choosing a resume format can be a bit tricky especially if you’ve never written a resume before. A well-crafted resume will help you stand out and show off your value to employers. Logistically, your resume also needs to be easy to follow and able to pass applicant tracking systems.
In this article we’ll walk you through the 3 most common resume formats and the pros and cons that come with each of them.
What is a Chronological Resume?
The chronological resume is a traditional and commonly used format. This type of resume organizes your work experience in reverse chronological order. Focusing on your most recent positions and experiences and then working its way backwards.
Chronological resumes often arrange information in this order:
- Contact details
- Objective statement
- Work experience
- Relevant skills
- Education
- Additional information
Pros: Chronological resumes are the most commonly recognized resume formats. Employers prefer this style because they can quickly scan work history and professional development to determine a candidate’s suitability.
Cons: The chronological format emphasizes employment gaps or lack of professional experience. Skills and credentials can be challenging to find, making it a poor choice for those in the middle of a career change.
What is a Functional Resume?
The functional resume is the least commonly used out of the three formats. Resumes in this fashion mainly focus on skills and abilities rather than order of work history. Rather than emphasizing work experience, the functional resume prioritizes credentials and professional skills.
Functional resumes often arrange information in this order:
- Contact details
- Summary or objective statement
- Relevant skills
- Work experience
- Education
- Additional information
Pros: The functional resume doesn’t draw attention to employment gaps, making it a preferable choice for those returning from a lengthy sabbatical. It is a great option for new graduates, freelancers, or anyone who wants to emphasize their transferable skills.
Cons: Some employers might be wary of a functional resume as this format can easily hide a candidate’s spotty work experience, making employers hesitant.
What is a Hybrid Resume?
When combining the above styles, you get a happy blend known as the hybrid or combination resume. A hybrid resume showcases the candidate’s skills and experiences through the context of the job they are applying for, even when coming from a differing field or industry.
Hybrid resumes often arrange information in this order:
- Contact details
- Objective summary
- Work history
- Relevant skills summary
- Education
Pros: The hybrid resume is a practical choice for job seekers who are highly skilled and trained in their field. This type of resume bodes well with most employers as it clearly and equally demonstrates both skills and professional experience.
Cons: Like the chronological resume style, hybrid resumes can make employment gaps or job-hopping work histories at the forefront. This style is also newer, and employers might not be as familiar with it as with chronological resumes.
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