When writing a resume, you need to take into account the specific position you are applying for. This determines how you will write your resume. People who are trying to have a career change write their resumes differently than those pursuing a job in the same career path.
There are three main types of resume formats – chronological, functional and combination. Each has its own specific advantages and emphasises.
1. Chronological Resume Format
Also known as the standard resume writing style, the chronological resume format lists your achievements according to chronology starting with the most recent. It also provides great details about each job in the form of your job title, dates of employment and accompanying duties and responsibilities. This is the most common and widely used type of resume format.
The chronological style of writing is for you if your job history is on the same career path or very much related to the position you are applying for. The potential downside is that entries located at the top of the page usually receive more attention than those listed further down. This is an issue if you want employers to focus on positions that you have held earlier on in your career.
Emphasis: Your career growth and history
Who should use it:
-Individuals with working histories directly related to the job they are applying to
-Job seekers who have a progressive career, with no chronological issues
2. Functional Resume Format
The second type of layout you can use is the functional format. Here, you list your accomplishments in skill clusters. Unlike the chronological format, it does not give specific details on your previous jobs, including any dates, job titles or job descriptions. The purely functional resume is not common and most employers are not familiar with them.
The focus of the function resume is on skills and responsibilities instead of chronology or timeframe. This highlights the relevant expertise you have and links them to the job you are applying to even if you have not previously held a similar job title. The downside is that they are not typically understood or preferred by employers.
Emphasis: Skills relevant to the job you are applying for
Who should use it:
-Recent graduates who have little or no job experience
-People who stopped working and are trying to get back to the work force
-Individuals who want a career change
-People with long career histories who want to avoid a lengthy resume
-Individuals with no definite career path or have had a very varied career
3. Combination Resume Format
The combination format incorporates elements of both the functional and chronological formats. The first page of the combination format details your skills and achievements. The second page gives a chronological listing of your job history. As such, your skills and achievements will be read first, followed by your career timeline.
This format combines the best of the two formats by focusing on relevant skills but also providing a chronological summary, which makes it more acceptable to employers than the purely functional resume. However, this format will not conceal things such as career gaps, your age, frequent job changes and the like.
Emphasis: Skills and achievements relevant to the job you are applying for
Who should use it:
-People who have a career history or have held jobs somewhat related to the position they are applying for
-Individuals who don’t have major chronological issues
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