Traditionally there are two general layouts for resumes: chronological and functional. The chronological format lists your employment history based on the sequence of time. Usually this starts with the most current experience and successively works backwards to the earlier experiences, perhaps even graduation from college. The functional format is based on core functional skills explained by results-based statements that highlight professional accomplishments. To be clear, there is no one-best layout for everyone and every situation; however, there are some guidelines to consider where each layout might work best. Here are some things to think about when deciding which format to use:
Are you a recent grad or a seasoned professional? If you are a recent grad, with limited experience, then the typical resume format is chronological since there is limited work history. On the other hand, seasoned professionals usually have more experience than can be summarized in a two-page resume. Thus, using the functional format, the key skills can be more easily shown along with results-based statements that provide evidence of expertise in the functional specialties.
Are the job requirements more technically demanding or general? Where the job requirements are more technically demanding, then a functional layout usually works best. Listing job specific functional skills will more easily match the qualifications of the candidate to the job requirements.
Have you had progressive job experiences with increasing responsibilities in an industry or profession? If you have been promoted into jobs of increasing responsibilities within your industry or profession, then the chronological layout will often be the format of choice since it easily demonstrates progression over time. The most typical layout starts with the most current experience and works backwards over time to the entry-level jobs. Obviously, the focus will be on the more current experiences to highlight accomplishments and results that demonstrate proficiency at the more senior-level skills.
Do you have gaps in your employment history? If you have frequent or large gaps in your employment history, then the functional format is the best. This layout takes the focus off the gaps and puts it squarely on the skills that you have to offer a new employer. This is not to deny or lie about your employment history. If you are asked in an interview about gaps, acknowledge them and explain them as best you can; however redirect the focus on your skills which are the most important to a prospective employer. Thus the functional layout is simply the best way to put the focus on skills rather than the gaps.
Are you changing careers or have you skipped around among several diverse career paths? Even when you have been continuously employed, but have had frequent career moves or changes, then a functional approach is still the best format. While it may be more difficult to organize common skills from among disparate job experiences, it will once again put the focus on the skills you have to offer the employer rather than focus on your frequent changes.
If you are still confused as to which layout will work best for you, then perhaps you might consider combining both formats. The best way to do this is to use the first page and a half to highlight the functional skills and accomplishments and then to simply list the chronological positions and the dates on the second half of page two. Generally, resumes should be limited to two pages regardless of which layout is used. When recruiters or managers sift through a pile of resumes on their desks, they need easily glean the career highlights in the first two pages since they don't have time to carefully scrutinize multiple pages from each potential candidate. Typically, they will make their decision to move to the next stage of the hiring process, usually an interview by phone or in-person, based on what they see on the first two pages. Candidates are much more likely to get the interview when they have crafted a well-written two page document rather than a longer one. Thus, choose whichever layout best tells your story and prioritize the information to put your best foot forward.
Leonard Kloeber is an author and leadership consultant. He has extensive leadership experience as business executive and as a military officer. He has been a hands-on leader in a variety of organizations large and small. Most recently he was a human resources executive for a Fortune 100 company. His book - Victory Principles, Leadership Lessons from D-Day - illustrates seven bedrock leadership principles that all successful leaders use. Download a free summary of the Victory Principles at: http://www.victoryprinciples.com/ and find other bonus materials for leaders. Contact him at staffride@gmail.com or find his book Victory Principles at http://www.leadershipthebook.com/
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