Versions Compared

Key

  • This line was added.
  • This line was removed.
  • Formatting was changed.

...

Description

Pros

Cons

  • Lists your experience starting with your oldest first (chronological) or most recent first (reverse chronological) working backward indicating dates, location, and employers associated with each

  • Most common format

 

  • Easy to read by giving a clear summary of each individual experience

  • Many employers prefer this format as your experiences are clearly listed chronologically, with job titles and dates 

  • Easiest format for ATS to scan

  • Requires you to present information chronologically rather than highlighting your most relevant experience first

  • Calls attention to employment gaps or lack of relevant work experience

...

Description

Pros

Cons

  • Emphasizes your skills, abilities and accomplishments rather than chronological work history

  • Skills and experience relevant to the target role are organized into skill areas (e.g. Communication Skills, Research Skills)

  • Experience bullet points included underneath each skill refer to the work context but are not connected to a specific employer or dates of employment

  • Emphasizes your relevant skills rather than job titles, helping to connect the dots between your experience and what the employer is looking for 

  • Can be time-consuming to customize if targeting to a variety of different roles

  • Not ATS-friendly

  • Not typically preferred by employers as layout can be confusing (e.g., may be difficult to connect which skills you developed in which jobs or experiences)

...