Different Types of Resumes

A resume or curriculum vitae (CV), is defined as a statement of facts about the educational qualification, experience, skills, and accomplishments of a person. While writing it, there is no need to be creative or modest; rather, you can quantify on your success and achievements (wherever possible).

There are some essential elements that are applicable to all types of resumes, such as contact information, summary, objective, education, training, accomplishments, etc. The first impression of the person applying for a job is derived from his/her resume appearance.

Hence, a well-organized resume in terms of heading, font size, and style always makes a good impression at the interview. In case of print form, the paper color should be white, light gray, or ivory. You should check the content carefully to avoid any typos or incorrect spellings.

For the format, several factors are considered, such as the quality of content, or the technical approach of the resume. Depending upon the background and qualification of the job seeker, he/she should choose the proper resume type.

You can also prepare it in more than one format, so that you can utilize every type according to the circumstances. Following are the three major types of resumes, based on how the content is organized.

Also known as reverse chronological, this type is the traditional and most popular one, which includes summary, work experience, education/training, and skills.

The education and experience are listed in a specific time sequence; the most recent ones are written first, continued with the others in a chronological or sequential manner. It is best for the people who don't have educational or professional gaps in their career.

The job seeker's experience is listed according to certain skill areas; whereby, the employment dates can be eliminated. This type is best suited for persons who have worked in different positions, and are looking for a career change. For example, the person might have worked in certain domains like marketing and sales, or customer service.

In such a case, the experience is listed under specific skills. People who are returning to the workforce after a prolonged gap, should also prepare their resume in a functional form. It is also suited for people who are first time job seekers, and whose career is not good till date.

It is a combination (hybrid) of both the mentioned types. While preparing it, the work experience is arranged according to skill areas, along with the employment dates and employers.

This combined format is best suited for people who have gained successful growth in their careers, and have a well-established work history. This type is advantageous, as it provides clear information about the skills, as well as the work history.

Another tone is the targeted resume, which can be any one of the above three types, written for a specific post, or for a particular company.

Nowadays, there are many professional resume writing services, which can help you regarding this matter. Resume is like a marketing tool for searching jobs, which helps the job seeker to get selected by a potential employer; but it is not a way to directly get the job.

It is the responsibility of the person to convince the employer during the interview. Hence, along with a suitable resume, being a confident candidate is always necessary to get your dream occupation.