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Important Information on Resume Formats
There are many resume formats from which to choose, and many people applying for an opening are uncertain of which is most effective for their particular situation. Chronological, functional and hybrid are three of the most commonly used formats for a resume, so how do you know which is right for you? This article offers information about each type, and how to decide which is best for your needs.
Some individuals choose to use targeted resume formats, particularly if their entire career history is based around one industry, the same industry in which they are applying for work.
Chronological
The chronological format is highly popular for those who have a great deal of work history, as they can highlight their accomplishments and skills over past years in order to demonstrate that they have what it takes to do the job. This type of resume is geared toward time, working backward from your most recent employment. Employers like this type of resume, because they can easily see what positions you have held over the course of your career.
Of all the resume formats, the chronological is the most widely used and preferred by most employers. List name and contact information first, followed by your career objective and employment history going back 10 to 15 years. This should include company name, position held, job duties, skills and time period worked. Some people also include a brief educational background at the bottom of their resume.
Functional
A functional resume is a good choice for those who have little work history, or are just out of school or college. This type of resume helps you focus more on educational achievements, skills and knowledge that enhance your ability to perform the job in question. This format allows you to demonstrate your overall experiences and talents instead of job history. This is also a good choice for those who have wide gaps in their employment history, or are changing the course of their career and focusing in a new direction.
In this type of resume, you begin by listing name and contact information. A clear, concise career objective comes next, followed by a list of fields in which you have worked rather than specific positions you may have held. It is important that you highlight skills, responsibilities and accomplishments in each field. If you have never worked, focus on your knowledge and education, along with any degrees, honors or special achievements.
Hybrid or combination resume
This type of resume combines the best of both the chronological and functional resume. Start with your name and contact information, followed by a list of fields in which you have worked as in the functional resume. Below this, you may want to include specific positions you have held, company name, duties, years worked, etc. The hybrid resume follows the form of the functional resume, but includes a bare-bones work history that should be presented in reverse chronological order.
These resume formats are the most widely used today. Determine whether it is in your best interest to demonstrate your work history and accomplishments, or whether you should place the focus on your education, talents and characteristics that make you a good candidate for the job.
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