Resume: Types of resume format

Everybody wants to create the perfect resume. What is a resume? Resume is a self-promotional document that presents you in the best possible light, for the purpose of being invited to a job interview. Creating a strong resume is a very important part of applying for a job, either online or off line. Writing a resume can seem to be a frustrating task especially if you have never written a resume before.

A resume is not a just typed sheet. It is a strategic tool used to enhance your chances of getting a job. A well-written, keyword-rich, resume not only impresses employers, but it also reduces the overall time it takes to find a job. Good resumes get the interviews, and the more interviews you get, the higher your chances are to become employed.

There are three main types of resumes you may consider submitting during your job search. The three types of resumes are:

Functional Resume
The functional resume format is designed to emphasize your accomplishments and skills needed to do the job you’re applying for. It involves writing a detailed explanation about the experiences you have had that are related to the job you are applying for. The main importance of this resume is to outline how well suited you are for the job based on your experience and accomplishments.

Chronological Resume
The chronological resume format is the most popular format used by persons, especially those who write their own resume. The chronological resume is usually used to first show your previous employment, promotions, increases in responsibility and other accomplishments.

Combined Resume
Combined resume is used to incorporate features of both the functional resume and the chronological resume. It uses the best components of each type of resume. It can be described as a resume that places emphasis on your qualifications and skills but in chronological order. However, it will differ from the chronological resume by having more emphasis on your skills and accomplishments, and not discussing these components separately.

Choosing the right resume format for you is a critical step in making a winning resume. Remember the aim of a well written resume is to get you to the job interview. So take your time in selecting samples, you need to impress the prospective employer so the resume needs to be near perfect.

Joan McKnight