Resume Format

Which resume format is right for you?

There is no wrong resume format. However, some may present you better depending on your situation and the type of job you are applying for.

To list a few, chronological, functional, combinational, and targeted are some of popular resume formats available today. According to your characteristics, job history, and the nature of the job, each resume format has its strengths and weaknesses.

The chronological resume format lists your work experience beginning with the most recent and showcases your experience. This is why if you are a recent college graduate with little to no work experience, this wouldn't be the right format for you.

The functional resume format, also known as the "skill format", puts more emphasis on what you have done, rather than when you did them. The functional format is more for a candidate who does not have a long job history, but is very skilled in many regions and has a lot of talent. However, because there is no timeline of work experience, this resume format is susceptible for criticism regarding credibility.

The combinational format, as you can guess, is a combination of the chronological and functional formats. This format tries to cover both weaknesses of the former two, but can also become a double edged sword. Although an added timeline to a Functional Resume can answer to the question of credibility, if there have been any gaps in your employment, it is easily visible.

Finally, the targeted resume format is geared towards a small niche of employers. It employs industry terms to appeal to the employer. This format is useful if you have certain skills which are highly desirable in a concentrated field. If your job function scope is too large, this is not for you.

We have merely touched the surface of resume formats. To find the resume format that is right for you, check out the resources below. We have come up with a list of sites we have found ourselves to provide you with this valuable information.

So be sure to check out our pages about Resume Tips, writing a Resume Cover Letter, Resume Objectives, and Free Resume Samples elsewhere on this site.