What Type of Resume Do I Need and Why?

Resume Types If you are like most people today, you have come to the realization that you need a quality resume to stand out against the competition and that chances are, it will provide that crucial first impression.

To accomplish this, you begin to do research and discover there are several types of resumes available. Which one is most appropriate for you? Let’s see. There is the chronological, the functional, and the combination (chrono-functional, hybrid). Do you need a text (e-resume) version, one that is scanable, downloadable, uploadable, web-based, or just a plain printed version, or maybe a Portable Document Format (PDF) version?

As previously mentioned the three most common resume formats are Chronological, Functional, and Hybrid/Combination.

Chronologica resumes list your professional experience in chronological order, starting with the most recent job first. This format is normally used if you have consistent employment with no significant gaps between jobs. It is also good for demonstrating career growth providing you have made steady advancement throughout your employment.

Functional resumes focus more on your skills and not necessarily the time-frame or the job in which you acquired those skills. This format is normally used for those who are seeking to change careers, or if you have gaps or inconsistencies in your work history.

Combination, Chrono-functional or Hybrid resumes combine chronological and functional formats: This is the most commonly used of all the formats. Most resumes open up with a list of skills or accomplishments that you may offer a future employer followed by a chronological work history.

Resume Layout

Okay, you have written your resume. The final step is to determine whether you need multiple versions of the document based on how you will distribute your resume to target employers. Many companies are using a keyword search engine, which helps to streamline their recruiting process. This means that it is necessary for you to have a format that can be sent via email or uploaded into a database. A resume written in Microsoft Word or a comparable version can generally be printed, faxed, and emailed without losing any decorative style you may have within the document.

In addition to the Word version, I also recommend a text-based or e-resume format. Although this layout removes most formatting, it is easily downloaded, or pasted into a web-based application.

The best approach is to send your resume in both formats when appropriate i.e. (e-resume and Word version). This allows an employer to upload your e-resume into their search engine as well as download and print your Microsoft Word version for professional review.

Fine-tuning your resume according to the type of employment you are seeking will play a key role in the success of your job search. I recommend keeping a “Brag Book” to track quantifiable accomplishments/achievements throughout the life of your career.

Furthermore, the format should be chosen wisely, as it may be imperative to highlight some previously acquired skills for one employer while with another it may be crucial to demonstrate job consistency or industry specific experience. One employer may require a mailed resume, while another may want you to upload a copy into an online database. If you are going to compete in this ever evolving marketplace, the content and layout of your resume must be relevant to your target audience.

Guest Expert:

Joyce Harold is founder and president of Resumes by Joyce a company that provides career services for clients nationwide. Fluent in English and Spanish, Joyce graduated Magna Cum Laude with a dual Bachelor of Arts Degree in Business Administration and Human Resources Management. She is a member of the National Association of Resume Writers, Career Directors International and the Society of Human Resources Management. Joyce is the Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors for the Baby and I Foundation, a non-profit organization focused on community enrichment.

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