Choosing a right format for your resume

How to decide which format best suites for your job needs?

Most people use same format of resumes for applying different types of jobs. But choosing right format for a specific job may boost your chances of getting resume shortlisted for interviews. There are various types available of resume formats given below with their details:

• Chronological
• Functional
• Combination
• Accomplishment
• Targeted
• Linear
• Professional
• Academic Curriculum vitae
(The highlighted are most basic and often used formats)

Chronological:

The chronological resume is most traditional format of resume. In this format your past experience details are posted in reverse chronological order at the very beginning of the resume. If you are applying for a job profile in which you have good experience and past records this is the best suited resume format for you. Recruiters mainly like this format because its easy to read. It gives them clear listing of your past experience and achievements. If you have very little or no experience in particular field you applying for or you are fully changing you career we strictly recommand Do not use this format as it may cause your resume to go in trash.

Functional:

In functional resume format your skills and accomplishment are better considered than your past experience or employment status. Relevant skills and accomplishments are grouped in special categories and placed before your past employment or experience status. This format is best suited for freshers, those who are wishing to completely change their career path. Recruiters do not prefer this format because it has some drawbacks. Recruiters do not get full idea of what they are looking for in this category. Because dates and other basic information is not specified which employer is look for. This is why you may like to use Combination format.

Combination:

Combination format is combination of both Chronological and Functional resume format. It includes best features of both while accenting your skills and achievements including your past experience. The only drawback is it can get too long. Employers normally do not have that much time to read your full resume. Though it gives your a opportunity to present yourself as a perfect candidate for the post with self awareness.

Accomplishment:

Accomplishment resume format is used while applying in particular industries such as advertising, communications and publishing. It is mainly used on a executive levels in certain industries. It is also good format for freshers as well as those who are self-employed in a particular field for years.

Targeted Format:

While applying for a job a resume created targeting job needs is called targeted format. In this format you can highlight your specific skills which meets your job needs. When you think that you are best to fill opening in company then this is ideal format for you. The drawback is you wont be considered for other positions in company if available.

Linear Format:

As name accomplish Linear format is written in lines by line stated what you can offer to an employer. It is easier to read. Though this format does not include all information most job seekers who are applying for a job in tighter market prefer this format

Professional Format:

Professional resume format is much longer than any other typical resume format. Professional resume format mainly used by those who are applying for a better level jobs or those who are applying in certain fields which requires additional skills or education.

Academic Curriculum vitae:

This format is much same like Professional resume format. In this format brief summery of experience, skills and qualification is given. This format is best suited for professionals like doctors, advocates, etc.