Before you begin constructing your resume, remember that organization, style, format, content should reflect you in the most positive manner. Above all else, you should be happy and comfortable with your resume, so make sure you are proud of what you send out to employers.
Chronological Résumés
The chronological resume is the most traditional type of resume. The employment section is arranged so that the most recently held position is listed first. The jobs then are listed in reverse chronological order, ending with the oldest position. Each position should include the name of the organization, city and state, job title, dates of employment. Following this information, job duties performed, skills used, and accomplishments made.
Advantages to Chronological Résumés
This résumé format is easily recognizable by employers and highlights individual work experiences.
Sample Chronological Résumé (PDF)
Skills-Based Résumés
The skills-based or “functional” résumé highlights the skills and abilities that you have gained not only from your work experience, but also any other activities and involvement. This format does not focus on detailed descriptions of positions, but on accomplishments and skills you have acquired. Experiences and places of employment with dates are listed in a separate section of the résumé. If you have gained skills that would be easily transferred to the position for which you are applying, the functional résumé might be the right format.
Advantages to Skills-Based Résumés
This résumé format highlights your skills in a targeted fashion toward a desired position, is easy to read, and doesn’t draw attention to a lack of or gaps in employment history.
Sample Skills-Based Résumé (PDF)
Combination Résumés
The combination résumé includes both a detailed chronological listing of individual work experience and a section briefly describing skills or competencies.
Advantages to Combination Résumés
The format is easily recognizable to employers, details the duties for each position held, and includes a summary of your transferable skills. This is an attractive option for students who like the structure and organization of the traditional résumé while highlighting their qualifications.