The 2 Types of Resumes You Need to Know About
When it comes to crafting your resume, there are 2 main formats to consider: a chronological resume and a functional resume. The classic chronological resume is the one we see all the time, but the lesser known functional resume is my personal favorite ✨ Each has its own purpose and can be used in specific situations. So let's break it down and figure out when to use each one 👇🏼👇🏼
Chronological Resume
A chronological resume is the most commonly used format and presents your work history in reverse chronological order. It highlights your career progression, job titles, employers, and dates of employment with your most recent work experience listed at the top 🔝💼 This format is ideal for individuals with a stable work history and a career where “where you’ve worked” matters. Think people in tech, consulting, design or business 💻
You’ll want to use a chronological resume when:
You have a traditional career path: If you have a consistent work history with progressive roles and want to highlight your career growth, a chronological resume is the way to go 👍🏻✅ It demonstrates your stability, reliability, and commitment to your field.
There are industry-specific requirements: Some industries, such as academia, research, or government, may require a chronological resume to provide a comprehensive overview of your professional experience. It allows recruiters to see the depth and breadth of your work history.
You are demonstrating long-term commitment ⏰: If you have spent a significant amount of time with one employer or in a particular role, a chronological resume effectively showcases that loyalty and dedication by highlighting your contributions within those positions 🙌🏼📈
Functional Resume:
Now let’s talk about my favorite style of resume -a functional resume🌈 A functional resume focuses on your skills and abilities rather than the chronological order of your work history. This format is perfect for individuals with employment gaps, career changers, or those with limited work experience since it allows you to highlight your relevant skills and achievements first 🏆
A functional resume is most appropriate for individuals:
Going through a career change: If you're transitioning to a new field or industry, a functional resume allows you to emphasize transferable skills that are applicable to your desired role 🌟🫱🏻🫲🏼 This makes it easier for recruiters to see how your existing skills can contribute to the new field.
Who have employment gaps: If you have gaps in your work history, such as taking time off for personal reasons, raising a family, or pursuing further education, a functional resume allows you to highlight your skills and accomplishments while downplaying the gaps in employment.
Who have limited work experience: For recent graduates 🎓📜 or individuals with minimal work experience, a functional resume can help you showcase your skills, internships, volunteer work, and academic achievements. It allows you to emphasize what you have learned and accomplished rather than focusing solely on work history.
In truth, there's never really a one-size-fits-all approach to resume formats. The decision between a functional or chronological resume depends on your unique circumstances and the specific job you're applying for. Consider your career goals, experience level, and the requirements of the position to make your choice.
If you're still unsure which format to use, don't hesitate to seek guidance from a career advisor or professional resume writer. They can provide personalized advice based on your individual situation ✍🏼🌞
I hope this breakdown helps you navigate the world of resumes with confidence. And if you do nothing else, remember to tailor your resume to showcase your skills and experiences in the most compelling way for the job you're pursuing. Best of luck in your job search! 🍀
Psst…If you need further assistance, check out my Career Workshop, -a 4-part program designed to help you find a career you love 🩵