Resume Writing Advice

Personal circumstances and the kind of job you wish to apply for will determine the type of resume format you should use. A resume is the first line of defense to get your foot in the door to even get called in for an interview. It needs to pop and capture the hiring manager’s attention. There are four basic types of resume formats that can be tailored depending on your situation.

1.  Chronological Resume Format – A chronological format in a resume lists your job history in order with the most recent recently held position first. Your second most recent job should be listed next followed by the third and so on. A chronological resume is a favorite among employers hiring because it is quite easy to see your work history, the time frame for each job and duties. If you have a solid work history, this type of resume is a great choice.

2.  Functional Resume Format – If you have gaps in your work history due to disability, maternity leave or some other reason, a functional resume is best. It is also suitable if you are jumping from one career field to another. This type of resume focuses on your experiences and skills instead of a chronological detail of your jobs.

3.  Combination Resume Format – Exactly as it sounds, this resume format combines two different ones together ñ chronological and functional ñ into one cohesive representative of your work history. In this combination format, your experience and skills are listed first and then your job history is listed second. The skills section can emphasize particular skills and can be tailored to specific jobs you are applying for. This resume format is great if you wish to highlight pertinent skills obtained as an intern or even a volunteer or if you have had a varied job history.

4.  Targeted Resume Format – This resume format can be customized to target specific job skills and experience that are relevant to the position you are applying for. While you should include all your skills and jobs, a targeted resume format is more difficult to do because it takes extra finesse to fit in everything you think you need while matching the exact job skills and industry experience the position is asking for.

The best scenario for your job search is to prepare a version of the chronological, functional and combination resumes which you can easily tailor depending on the job you are applying for. Save the targeted resume for those streamlined positions that call for specialized skills. The internet and library books can provide you with resume examples to help you get an idea of formatting.

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