Which Resume Is Best for You?

When it's time to write a resume, people generally think of a chronological resume first. This resume lists current and past employment in chronological order, beginning with the most recent job. Those with a consistent work history, i.e., no employment gaps, are well served by this format.

A functional resume emphasizes skills developed over the course of one's career. It can be used to highlight relevant strengths that match an employer's needs, even for someone lacking experience in a particular field or industry.

The combination resume synthesizes chronological and functional resumes by placing equal emphasis on work history and skills.

Nontraditional resumes are typically used when applying for positions in music, writing, or other artistic endeavors. Examples include an online portfolio consisting of a few work samples, a video that highlights film and editing skills, or a webpage that showcases design ability.

Think about your specific situation when applying for a job, and choose the resume that best demonstrates your strengths and accomplishments.

• Chronological

• Functional

• Combination

• Nontraditional