There are four basic types of resumes: chronological, functional, combination, and curricula vitae (CVs). Choose a format that best fits your experiences and industry or one that you are comfortable with.
Chronological Resumes
Chronological resumes present information in a timeline approach. Typically, the most recent work or educational experience is listed first, followed by the next most recent.
Advantages:
- Many employers and recruiters expect and prefer this format
- Employers can easily scan chronological resumes
- Provides a straightforward history of your work experiences
Disadvantages:
- Can demonstrate a lack of work experience
- Will show any gaps in employment history
- Employers can guess your age if you include older experiences
Functional Resumes
Functional resumes group work experience and skills by skill area or job function. Use functional resumes to point out your skills over your specific employment history.
Advantages:
- Provides a flexible approach
- De-emphasizes lack of experience in a field
- Minimizes possible age discrimination
Disadvantages:
- Employers may expect the chronological format
Combination Resumes
Combination resumes merge the chronological and functional styles. They present the knowledge, skills and abilities gained from work in a reverse-chronological order.
Advantages:
- Provides employers with the expected chronological format
- Highlights your skills
Disadvantages:
- Can be repetitious if similar functions or skills are utilized in different positions
- May be longer than the chronological and functional formats
Curricula Vitae
Curricula vitae (CVs) are very different from resumes and are only used in certain positions and industries. Curricula vitae provide a detailed statement of your qualifications.
How are resumes and curricula vitae different? A resume provides a short summary of your relevant qualifications. A curricula vitae is more biographical in nature. Resumes are usually limited in length; curricula vitae can be much longer. Resumes are usually written for a specific type of position; curricula vitae are generally not targeted.
Curricula vitae are most often used in higher education, science, and medicine. Curricula vitae are also used extensively in other countries. You may wish to develop one if you seek international employment.
