What Order Should My Resume Be In? A Guide To Resume Structure

When deciding whether to create a chronological or functional resume, it’s crucial to consider your career progression and work history. If you’ve started your career in an entry-level position related to your degree and steadily advanced within a company, a chronological resume is typically the best choice. On the other hand, if your work history is non-traditional or marked by gaps, opting for a functional resume is advisable. This decision can significantly impact how effectively you present your qualifications and experiences to potential employers. (Published: March 10, 2023)

When deciding on the ideal layout for your resume, the chronological resume format emerges as the prevailing choice among job seekers. This format is favored by employers due to its ability to provide a concise and well-organized snapshot of your qualifications. In a chronological resume, your educational and professional experiences are presented in reverse chronological order, placing the most recent and pertinent information at the forefront. This approach not only helps employers easily access your latest accomplishments but also highlights your career progression over time, making it a valuable tool in showcasing your qualifications and suitability for the position you’re applying for.

When it comes to presenting your skills on a resume, there are several approaches you can take. One option is to arrange your skills in alphabetical order, which can help make your resume easy to navigate for the reader. Alternatively, you can prioritize the skills based on their relevance or your level of expertise in them, placing the most important ones at the top. To further enhance the clarity of your resume, consider categorizing your skills into distinct sections that align with the job requirements or your professional goals.

Furthermore, it’s beneficial to provide a brief explanation for each skill, preferably in the form of a concise sentence that highlights your proficiency or any relevant certifications you have earned. This additional context can give potential employers a clearer understanding of your capabilities and qualifications. Ultimately, the choice of how to organize and present your skills should align with your specific career goals and the job you’re applying for, as this will help you create a resume that effectively communicates your qualifications to potential employers.

• Contact information.
• Resume objective or summary.
• Professional experience.
• Certifications (if applicable)
• Education.
• Skills.
• Other sections such as volunteer work or awards.