How to choose between Chronological and Functional Resume format
One has to organize their resume according to their skills as your resume will effectively sell your experience, educational qualifications, and skills. Resume is a valuable marketing tool. There are several basic types of resumes used to apply for job openings. Choosing the wrong resume type or format could cost you your dream job. Each type of resume offers different advantages to the job seeker.
In fact the resume format you choose should highlight your strengths and minimize your weaknesses. Your career background and personal circumstances should assist you in deciding which format is right for you as there are two different resume formats you need to consider when writing your resume.
There is the chronological resume and the functional resume.
Chronological Resume:
The chronological resume is the most traditional format that highlights your dates, places of employment, and job titles, presenting them as headings under which your accomplishments are written. In the chronological resume format your responsibilities and accomplishments should be described in detail for each individual position. So the chronological format is most effective if you wish to remain in the same field or industry.
Since this type of resume emphasizes the details of each position, using a chronological resume will draw attention to impressive titles and prestigious employers.
The chronological resume style format uncovers gaps in your work history. It will also show frequent job changes. Another thing it shows is how inexperienced you are in the workforce or if you work a particular field.
Functional Resume:
The functional format is most effective You are making an extreme career change or re-enter the job market after a current span of unemployment. A functional resume organizes your work experience by the functions you performed regardless of date. The functional resume highlights your skills and potential instead of your work history.
A functional or skills resume emphasizes the skills you have and the experience you have gained. A functional resume can also be used to put a large emphasis on your achievements. But putting additional information into this form of resume not only takes the emphasis off your accomplishments which is a huge mistake.
A functional resume does not allow for the presence of a clear career progression to show. Impressive job titles and employers are de-emphasized. This is a big disadvantage if they were to be strong selling points. Some hiring managers do not like the lack of logical flow that comes with a functional resume.