Let's Start With Format
There are several types of resumes:
- Chronological
- Functional
- Combination
- Non-traditional
- Infographic
Chronological
- The chronological format is the most commonly used format.
- It is ideal for most job seekers because it presents their qualifications and experience in a logical way.
- This type of resume lists the work history in reverse-chronological order, from most recent to oldest.
- However, if you have gaps in your work history or frequently change jobs, you should avoid using this type of resume.
Functional
- This type of resume is ideal for people who do not have extensive experience in the field they are applying for.
- Consider using this format if you want to avoid highlighting that you have not stayed at one job for very long.
- Typically, this format is organized by categories based on skills or qualifications. Under each category, specific examples of projects, tasks, and assignments are listed to demonstrate that you possess those skills.
- However, it is worth noting that this format is disliked by some recruiters.
Combination
- A combination resume offers the best of both worlds.
- This format is a good compromise for those who want to avoid a traditional chronological resume due to unrelated jobs or employment gaps.
- It is broken down into two parts: skills and qualifications are listed first, followed by employment timeline/history in reverse-chronological order.
Non-traditional
- A non-traditional resume allows you to showcase your creative abilities and expertise in greater detail.
- Consider the industry and job you areapplying for before creating this resume type.
- Use this format if you are applying for a creative or artistic role, a job that requires work samples, or want to display specific skills that cannot be listed in a traditional resume.
Infographic
- An infographic resume can be beneficial if you're applying for a creative role, showcasing specific achievements in a creative way, or differentiating yourself from other candidates.
- This format contains different colors, typefaces, and pictures and allows you to display your design skills.
Parts of a Resume
Title
Personal Info
Executive Summary (optional)
Education
Skills / Expertise
Professional Experience
Awards & Achievements
Skills Deconstructed
Functional / Transferable Skills
(From 8 Stories)
Knowledge
(What you know)
Self-Management Traits
(How you carry yourself)
Functional/Transferable Skills
- These components make up the most basic parts of your profile.
- The apex represents the most advanced and complex skills, with simpler skills at the bottom.
- It's assumed that for each higher skill, you must also be able to perform all the skills listed below it.
- However, on your resume, you should claim the highest skill possible, as having a higher level of functional/transferable skill means less competition.