Format of Resume
Since the contents and layout of resume vary widely, there is no best way to write it. However, depending on the background and career goal, there can be three formats of resume. These are:
- The chronological format resume
- The Functional format resume
- The Combination format resume
Chronological format resume: The chronological format is the most common way to organize a resume, as most employers prefer it. In this format, work experience dominates the arrangement of information. Work experience in usually placed after the opening section. This format is suitable for experienced job seekers. In this format, employment information like duration of employment, company name and job title etc. are listed by dates. Chorological format may be of two types: a) Straight chronological order and b) Reverse chronological order.
- Straight chronological order: In straight chronological order, experience is listed with the sequence of date. That is, the most recent employment is placed in the last.
- Reverse chronological order: In this approach, list of experience is given in the reverse way where the most recent employment appears in the first.
Functional order: A functional resume focuses on the academic qualifications, skills and accomplishments of the applicant. Therefore, academic achievements, skills and accomplishments section appears at the beginning of the resume. It is useful for the candidates who have outstanding academic records and possess special skills for performing a job Fresh graduates who have little or no experience usually follow this format.
Combination approach: It is a combination of the previous two approaches. It combines the best features of chronological and functional approaches. Combination approach emphasizes on job skills and special capability that differentiate the applicant from others. Therefore, this approach is suitable for persons whose job related skills and combines at superior to academe attainments. It also lists company names and date of previous employment.
