Which format is right for you?
There are various formats that may be used in preparing a resume. Content and format should reflect your own personality and style. However, most employers prefer conventional resumes with clearly written and organized information. The following basic principles may be useful in creating your resume:
- Don't expect to write a good resume with one try!
- Check and double check for spelling, grammatical, and typing errors.
- Use a good quality 8.5" x 11" resume paper - white, ivory or light gray.
- Make it easy to read - highlight by using bold, capital letters or underlining, but don't overdo!
- Use a consistent style!
- Limit your resume to one (preferred) or two pages.
- Use a computer with a good laser printer.
- It should look well-balanced, with 11" margins at top, bottom and sides.
- Don't include personal data (e.g. age, height, marital status, health).
- Don't state reasons for leaving past jobs.
- Salary requirements should not be listed.
- Don't use personal pronouns in job descriptions ('I' or "my").
Resume Formats
In general, your resume should be well organized, professional looking, easy to read and informative. Remember, its main purpose is to impress an employer enough to grant you an interview where you can sell yourself in person.
Three common resume formats are the chronological, functional and combination.
Chronological Resume
Data is organized in reverse time order starting with your present or most recent experience or education, includes dates and emphasizes whatever abilities and skills support your career objective. It is the most common style used and is most familiar to employers. Most students will probably use this format. See example.
Functional Resume
Skills are highlighted rather than work history. Often a job history is not even included. Skills can be demonstrated from work experience, volunteer activities or class work. The skills described should support your career objective.
Combination Resume
Combines chronological and functional formats, data is organized according to skills (as in functional approach) but includes brief employment history, and points out your qualifications in terms of your job functions. This type highlights major areas of accomplishments and strengths and eliminates repetition of job assignments. It can also be more effective if you are changing careers and want to highlight transferable skills.