Resume Formats: Which One is Right for You?
When it comes to writing a resume, there are three main formats that you can use – Chronological, Functional, and a Chrono-Functional (a hybrid of both). Each of these formats serves a unique purpose and you will need to choose your format based on your situation. Below, we will discuss each of these three types of resume formats and tell you who should use each format.
Chronological Resume Format
A chronological resume format is likely the one that pops into your head first when you think of the word ‘resume’. This is the most popular kind that is used by professional when looking for a new career opportunity. This is best for anyone who has the past work history and/or educational credentials to perform the job they are applying for. The people who should not use a chronological resume format are entry-level job seekers who don’t have a large educational background to showcase. Nursing resume template (Available for free download) is based on chronological format. This format may not be suitable for you if your career has too many stops and starts or shorter work periods.
Functional Resume Format
A functional resume format is one that allows you to showcase your skills and abilities, rather than your work history and educational background. This type of resume is best for those who are seeking an entry-level position and do not have a large educational background to showcase. This will allow you to tell the employer what you can offer the company, while downplaying your lack of experience and education qualifications. However, you should be warned that some employers are not impressed by functional resumes, since they know that you are trying to downplay those weak areas.
Chrono-Functional Resume Format
A chrono-functional resume is a combination of the previous two resume formats. This is good for those who would like to use a functional resume, but feel that they may have a better chance by offering a few pieces of their background to the employer, or those who have a little bit of work history or educational background to showcase, but not enough for a chronological resume. Although you will briefly mention specifics of your work history with this type of resume format, there will still be a larger focus on your skills and abilities, as opposed to a chronological resume format. Sample resume for sales manager contains similarities to this format.
Remember, the goal of your resume is to land an interview. In order to do that successfully, you need to choose the resume format that is going to make you look the best. While you can use a chronological resume format with little to no work history and educational background, it will look thin and unappealing. Using a functional or chrono-functional resume format will help beef it up. On the other hand, if you have a great background to showcase, then using a functional or chrono-functional resume format would only help to draw attention away from those accomplishments. Choose wisely!
