Dear Cindy – Types of Résumés

Are there different kinds of résumés? If so, which kind is best?

Sincerely,

About to Look for a Job

There are three types of résumé: chronological, functional, and combination. The most often used is the chronological, which puts information in order from most recent to most distant. This format shows your educational and career growth and illustrates job continuity, professional growth, and achievements.

The next type is the functional, which focuses on credentials, skills, and accomplishments. Its use is to emphasize what you did, not when and where you did it. The problem with the functional type is that it can be misleading about the currency of your skills in a particular area. Suppose someone indicates that she/he is a nurse with experience in critical care – sounds great! – but maybe the truth is that the experience was 20 years ago.

The third type is combination. The combination type employs features of both the chronological and the functional – it includes a listing of skills, as well as of education and employment in reverse order (from most recent to oldest).

I have never heard of an employer requiring a specific type of résumé, so use the type that best illustrates your experience and abilities but that doesn't mislead an employer.

Also see Write the Right Résumé and Job-Search Checklist.