Free Resume Formats -
the Structure for a solid resume!

The resume outline showed what information is typically found in a resume. The format of a resume takes that information and presents it in an orderly fashion.

The 3 main resume formats used are Chronological , Functional , and Combination . The format you use to write your resume is the one that is the most effective in presenting your skills & qualifications.

Let's review these free resume formats to give you a basic understanding of them.

Chronological Resume Format

The chronological resume format is the most common format used when writing a resume. It is also the one that is most preferred by Human Resource (HR) departments or employers. Some of the features of a Chronological resume format are:

• provides a historical timeline of your employment history (listed in reverse chronological order: most recent to latest)
• easy to read allowing an employer to review your career path
• communicates clearly where you've worked and what you've done
• job titles & accomplishments are grouped together with the employer's information

Functional Resume Format

The Functional resume format focuses on your skills & qualifications rather than employment history. HR departments and employers are less interested in this type of resume. Since the functional resume is focused on skills & qualifications it is easier to hide gaps in employment history, which can raise suspicions.

Don't get me wrong! The functional resume is a valid format to use and can work very effectively when used properly. Some of the features of a functiional resume are:

• organizes your skills & qualifications under headings (sales, marketing, customer service, supervision, etc.)
• good resume for students, career changers, people returning to the workforce after an absence, and people over 55
• highlights transferable job skills

Combination Resume Format

The Combination resume format combines the best of both worlds: Chronological & Functional! This format is gaining popularity with HR departments and employers. It is very well received.

Most combination resume formats include a career summary focusing on your qualifications showing an employer what value you bring to the organization! Free resume formats should only be used as a guideline! The resume format you use will be dependent upon your Unique career situation and the career path your are wanting to take!