Choosing a Resume Format

There are two main formats to choose from: chronological and functional.

The chronological format is most frequently used and generally preferred by employers. It lists work experience in reverse chronological order with an emphasis on areas of responsibility and accomplishments and focuses on your most recent career.

The functional format is designed to stress the qualifications of the job seeker with less emphasis on specific employers and dates. The decision to use a functional resume should be carefully weighed against the reality that most employers prefer a chronological resume.

Chronological

         1. Name/ Address/Phone/Email
         2. Objective (Optional) 
         3. Summary
         4. Professional Experience: including selected accomplishments
         5. Volunteer (Optional)
         6. Military Service (Optional)
         7. Computer Skills (Optional)
         8. Education & Training
         9. Memberships / Associations

Functional

        1. Name/ Address/Phone/Email
        2. Objective (Optional)
        3. Summary
        4. Selected Accomplishments: under specific functional areas of expertise
        5. Professional Experience
        6. Volunteer (Optional)
        7. Military Service (Optional)
        8. Computer Skills (Optional)
        9. Education & Training
        10. Memberships / Associations
 

How to Decide Which Resume Format is Best for You

Chronological

• You are continuing in the same occupation and/or industry
• Your career shows steady growth and development with progressive responsibilities
• Your job objective is similar to recent experience
• Previous employers have been prominent/prestigious
• You are applying for a position in a highly traditional field or organization
• You have an unbroken employment record/no gaps
• A chronological format calls the reader’s attention to your recent job history and experience.

Functional

• You are making a significant career or job change
• You want to emphasize skills & abilities not used in recent work experience
• Your job objective is different from your experience
• Your experience is gained in different, relatively unconnected jobs
• You have been employed by the same company for a very long time
• You have a history of frequent job changes or gaps in employment
• You are entering in the job market after an absence
• A functional format directs the reader to your functional strengths and qualifications.