• 1.2: Types of Résumés

    In this section, we examine two different résumé styles: chronological and functional. If you have not been in the job market for several years, you may notice some significant changes in writing effective résumés using traditional formats.

    For example, the power of the summary section in the chronological format is to use your accomplishments to explain how you can benefit the potential employer. However, you may need to use another type of format to present your qualifications to convince your reader to bring you in for an interview.

    If you have a sporadic work history, are just entering the workforce, are overqualified for the position, or are older in years and concerned about age discrimination, your challenge is to write about your accomplishments and how your skills are transferable to the position for which you are applying. A functional résumé format may suit this situation well.