Resume Formats - The Hidden Pitfalls

Deciding on a resume format is the first major decision to be made when creating your resume. The overall look of your resume depends on the resume format, font and outline you choose. The two main types of format in use are the chronological and functional formats. When to Use the Chronological Resume Format A Chronological resume is the easiest to create and it is also the most widely used format. Chronological resume format allows you to list your job experiences starting with the most recent and moving back in time. This allows employers to see your progression in the career field If you are staying in your career field, this format will allow employers to see if you are qualified for the job you are applying for. It may not be beneficial for people changing career fields. When to Use the Functional Resume Format Functional resume formats are more difficult to create and are not widely used. However, they are suitable in situations where people are changing career fields. The functional resume format is based more on skill development. The format is non-linear and the emphasis is on development and achievements. Employers will be able to see your progressive skill developments that qualify you for the job How Long Should a Resume Be? Another important decision you have to make about your resume format is the length of your resume. There are no specific rules on how long your resume should be. Resume length can vary depending on your situation