Chronological, Functional and Combination Resume
A resume is your number one job search tool and the first
impression an employer gets. It is designed to advertise and market
your skills and experience. The purpose of a resume is not to obtain a
job, but to get an interview. Resumes must be comprehensive but
concise and highlight your individuality. They should be organized and
presented clearly to pass the 30-second scan they will inevitably
receive from recruiters.
Resumes can be organized and formatted in a variety of ways but
should always include the following sections: Identifying Information,
Education and Work/Internship Experience.
Resumes may also include sections such as: Job Objective, Summary
of Qualifications, Honors & Activities, Training, Computer Skills,
Professional Awards & Achievements, Employment History, Skills
Summary, and Professional Affiliations.
The Chronological Resume
This is the format that is preferred by employers. Experience
is listed in reverse chronological order, the most recent job followed
by the previous. This format highlights job succession, positions you
have held and companies for whom you have worked. It is easy to follow
and emphasizes continuity.
The Functional Resume
Organizes qualifications and experience into skill areas to
demonstrate transferability to an employer. It is ideal for people
with little experience, frequent job changers, career changers or
those re-entering the workforce.
The Combination Resume
Combines elements of the chronological and functional resume.
Experience may be presented chronologically and skills and abilities
may be highlighted in a separate section.
RESUME TIPS
- Keep it to one page if you have less than 10 years experience,
with margins ranging from .7” to 1” and the font between 10 pt. and
12 pt. The standard resume font is Times New Roman.
- Be positive and honest.
- Use action verbs and descriptive words and phrases to show
achievement and experience.
- Use standard 8.5” by 11” light-colored paper (white, ivory,
tan).
- Proofread - your resume should be error-free.
- Do not title your resume “resume.”
- Do not include reference information.
- When e-mailing a resume, save it as a “text only” file, edit and
reformat before sending.
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