The format of your resume is just as important as the information you put in it. Resume formats can determine the way a recruiter or hiring manager perceives you. Your resume format is the first quick impression of you both personally and professionally. The best resume format is the one that works best for you. You should pick a resume format that suits your experience,qualifications and the job you are applying for. Resume formats are proven resume formulas that can land you that dream interview. Choosing the right format of a resume is a key to presenting your strongest suit to the hiring manager.The wrong resume layout can make the recruiters reject your application at the first glance.
There are many types of Resume formats which are generally used by resume writers. They are –
- Chronological
- Functional
- Hybrid (also called Combination)
- Two-page
- Creative
- Modern etc.
But most commonly used and best formats are the first 3 mentioned above.
You might have also heard about Targeted Resume Format but its not really a separate format. A targeted resume is a resume written for a specific job. It is also known as Tailored Resume Format.
Let us now discuss the 3 main formats one by one.
- Chronological Resume Format
This is the one of the most used formats by resume writers. The format of chronological resume contains the following –
- Contact
- Summary or Objective
- Experience
- Education
- Skills
- Additional information
Chronological resume format is ideal for the following types of applicants
➧ Candidates seeking job similar to their previous ones.
➧ Students
➧ Entry level candidates or freshers
➧ Academic Resumes
➧ Recent graduates with experience in field through paid up jobs and internships
➧ Mid career professional with an extentsive employment history
➧ Individuals with nationally / internationally recognised companies
- Functional Resume Format
The format of functional resume contains the following –
- Contact
- Resume Objectives
- Skills
- Experience
- Education
Functional resume format is ideal for the following types of applicants
➧ Creative jobs where a portfolio matters the most
➧ Military transitioners
➧ Candidates who don’t want to seem overqualified
➧ Individuals with significant gaps in work history
➧ Persons who are re-entering workforce
➧ People who frequently change jobs
- Combination Resume Format
The format of combination or hybrid resume contains the following –
- Contact
- Skills Summary
- Additional Skills
- Experience
- Education
Combination resume format is ideal for the following types of applicants
➧ Seasoned professionals targeting a specific position
➧ Career changers
➧ People with employment gaps
➧ Employees with top notch skills
➧ People applying for scientific, technical or I.T positions
➧ Individuals looking to change industries
Hence to conclude, the best Resume format can be limited to the chronological, functional and hybrid or combination formats as these formats cover most of the criterias of applicants according to their situations. Not only this, these 3 types of format are the most commonly used formats.
