A résumé, also called a Curriculum Vitae, or CV, is a document displaying a brief history of your education, work experience, activities, skills, and accomplishments. Often, the CV is the first impression you make on your potential employer; accordingly, writing an attention-grabbing CV is key to securing the position you are seeking.
There are two basic types of résumé: the chronological and the functional.
Why are there two types of résumé? Which one do I choose?
The chronological résumé:
- is ideal for individuals that already possess a minimum of one to two years of work experience.
- emphasizes your work history and education.
The functional résumé:
- is ideal for individuals that possess less than one year of work experience.
- highlights your skill set and recognitions over your work history and education.
What are the characteristics of a chronological résumé?
The chronological CV:
- starts with your contact information and a compelling objective line.
- lists your experience and education history in reverse chronological order, i.e., starting with the most recent.
- presents the summary statement of your work history either in paragraphs or bullet points, highlighting the responsibilities you were tasked with at the listed position.
- ends with your degree information.
What are the characteristics of a functional résumé?
The functional résumé:
- emphasizes your skill, talent, and activities, and is therefore a clear display of your strengths.
- starts with your contact information and the objective line.
- includes a paragraph describing your skill set, talent, and expertise. This section should be the highlight of your CV.
- ends with a brief listing of your work history.
Note that the education section is optional when constructing a functional CV.
Tips that apply to both CVs:
- There is no unified format for a CV. Accordingly, you are able to customize it to fit the expectations of the job you are applying for.
- A CV should ideally consist of one or two pages.
- Include keywords when describing your skill set. Some firms use a software called the Applicant Tracking System to scan CVs. In order to make your CV valid and reliable, use keywords that fit the criteria described in the job application.
- Carefully review your CV to make sure there are no grammatical errors and/or typos.
- In your work history section, be specific in describing your duties in descending order of contribution. Make sure to include any noteworthy accomplishments, such as certificates, honors, and recognitions.
Resources (OER)
Defining a chronological résumé
Defining a functional résumé
Résumé writing tutorial
Résumé templates