Which Resume Type Is Best For Me?
Read on if you aren’t sure, want to double-check, or had no idea there was more than one type!
As we have discussed before, when it comes to applying for a job, your resume is the first chance you’ll have to make a lasting first impression. This simple document will help you get your foot in the door, get an interview, and inevitably help you land a job.
Having a great resume can get you to the top of the applicant pile. When it comes to writing a resume, there are several options and styles available. While some may say that a basic template is all you need, this isn’t always the case. It’s essential to choose a style that suits the type of position for which you’re applying.
There are four general types of resumes: chronological, functional, combination, and targeted. Understanding their purpose can help you choose the one that will work best in your situation.
- Functional
This type of resume focuses on your skills rather than your work experience. It’s excellent for first-time job hunters that don’t have a lot of job experience. It gives you the flexibility to emphasize your skills and present them in a way that will help distinguish you from other applicants. You may also want to consider using it if you are changing careers or have significant gaps in your employment history.
- Chronological
A chronological resume is the most common type of resume. It allows you to list your work history first. The list usually begins with your most recent job and works backward through the rest. It gives potential employers a good overview of your work experience at first glance, which is vital in almost every situation. Remember, you usually have 6 seconds on the first pass of your resume to get their attention. So make your words count.
- Combination
The combination resume is a way to combine the parts of a functional resume and a chronological resume to provide employers with a good overview of your capabilities. This type of resume lists your skills and experiences first. Then your work history in reverse chronological order. This resume allows you to highlight skills that will help you get the job you’re applying for while showing your work history as well.
- Targeted
We have discussed tailoring your resume to the job for which you’re applying. This is referred to as the targeted resume. It is the most time-consuming and challenging type to use because you have to update it for each position. It allows you to highlight the experience and skills you have that are relevant to the available position. I advise most of my clients to use the targeted approach WITH a chronological resume.
While those are the main four types of resumes, there may be times that call for a non-traditional or mini resume. A mini resume contains a summary of your career highlights and qualifications. It can be used instead of a full-length resume for networking or reference to provide potential employers with an overview of your accomplishments.
A non-traditional resume is usually a web-based version of your resume, like a portfolio or dedicated site.
Choosing the right type of resume is an essential part of the job-hunting process, so make sure you take the time to understand the pros and cons of each type.
