Not all resumes are created alike! Resumes can use different formats to showcase various skills, experiences and other credentials. Choosing the appropriate format for your combinations of experiences can help you to create a polished resume that gains the attention of employers.

 

 

Traditional resumes are written in chronological format. They generally list work experiences in descending order starting with the most recent. Under each experience and work title lists a description of duties performed throughout the duration of the position.

 

This is a great format for students to use because it allows the student to highlight internship and other employment-related experiences. It also allows the student to showcase academic achievements, and show growth through work experiences.

 

 

For an example of a chronological resume, click here.

 

A functional resume allows you to organize your information according to specific skills and experiences. For example, perhaps you wish to communicate to an employer the fact that you have strong management, presenting and event-planning skills. In this case, a functional resume will use the skills as headings, and will present bulleted points that provide proof of the skill under the heading. For example:

 

• Supervised and directed the daily activities of a staff of four sales associates, including training 

• Conducted monthly staff meetings and acted as an effective liaison between management and shift teams

 

Functional resumes allow you to include skills and experiences that directly relate to the position you are applying for. The functional resume format is most beneficial when tailored to fit the position’s job description, and can help you to clearly define your desired career path. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

For an example of a functional resume, click here.

 

The name implies it all! A combination resume is a format used by a student who has a great deal of experiences relating to his or her career field. The combination resume allows you to showcase the skill desired most by the employer, while backing them up with steady work experiences and accomplishments. Students with more than one internship experience within his or her career field may benefit from using a combination resume format.

 

For example, a combination resume format would be a good choice for the following students:

 

Mary- Seeking a position in graphic design, has completed 2-3 internships related to design, has completed a wide variety of professional design projects.

 

Jimmy- English major, pursuing employment as a magazine writer. Has held 2-3 summer jobs where he gained writing experience, has written for the school magazine and other publications.

 

Sara- Seeking a position in fashion merchandising, has worked for various retail stores before and throughout college.

 

 

Before choosing the right resume format to organize your work experiences and skills, take a moment to consider the information you would like to include on your resume:

 

Where have I worked?

What skills do I possess?

What skills set is the employer looking for?

What honors and accomplishments do I want employers to know about?

What college activities have I participated in?

What is my resume's audience?

 

Once you have compiled a list of your resume contents, it’s time to take inventory. How many experiences relate to your career field? Do you have a consistent employment history? What information would be most important to the person reading the resume, and what is the best way to make that information stand out? Your answer to these questions will help you to determine which resume format is right for you.