Chronological or Functional Resumes: What Employers Prefer

When it comes to resumes, employers have two main options to choose from: chronological and functional. Chronological resumes focus on past experience, while functional resumes prioritize future potential. A

chronological resume

is the most popular choice among employers. It gives the reader a structured overview of where your career path has taken you until now, showing growth and maturity by telling the story of where it began, how it progressed, and what it is working towards.

This type of resume helps you highlight what makes you best for the job while also giving the employer all the information they want. If you are a successful professional seeking a higher position in your current industry, a chronological resume can show how and where you gained your experience and familiarity with the field. On the other hand, a functional resume focuses on what you can do, what your achievements are, and your core competence. If you've held a variety of jobs and are looking for an entry-level position in a new industry, a functional resume can help highlight your skills and divert the potential employer's attention away from your inconsistent work history.

This format works best for job seekers who want to emphasize their skills, but a potential employer has asked them to include their work history in their resume. When deciding which type of resume to use, consider your current working circumstances. If you're changing careers and possibly have transferable skills, combining chronological and functional resumes is an option. If you have a short career or big gaps in your experience, go for the functional one.

If you're applying across state lines, check out 3 tips for sending your resume to another state.As with any type of resume, even the popular chronological resume has its advantages and disadvantages. Frequent switching from one job to another may be evident in a chronological resume, and it gives the impression of a lack of commitment, leaving a negative impression on hiring managers. Chronological resumes are most beneficial for job seekers with a structured work history and a clear career path.