You have options when it comes to résumé formats. Each format has unique features as well as advantages and disadvantages. Understanding the differences between resume formats can help you choose the one that positions you best — keeping in mind industry-preferred formats.
Below is a list of the three main résumé types with links to templates for each type, each with pros and cons.
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Consider using this format when:
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Description | Pros | Cons |
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| 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
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Consider using this format when:
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Description | Pros | Cons |
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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
| | 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)
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Consider using this format when:
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Description | Pros | Cons |
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A combination of the chronological and functional résumé format Emphasizes both your career path and the skills you’ve developed Experiences of a similar type can be grouped under customized headings of your choosing Under each heading, experiences are listed in reverse chronological format
| | Can be lengthy (e.g., more headings) Can be repetitive particularly if you’ve had multiple experiences that are similar in nature, unless care is taken to differentiate between roles and experiences
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Chiu, G (2013, January 14) Resume 101/Part Two/Resume Formats. Simon Fraser University. https://olc.sfu.ca/blog/resume-101-part-two-resume-formats
University of Victora (n.d.) Build your résumé. University of Victoriahttps://www.uvic.ca/career-services/find-work/apply-for-jobs/resume-examples/index.php