I’m often asked this question, and my answer is always chronological. It allows me to see how you’ve grown as a young professional throughout your internships, school and other activities. However, what do other hiring managers have to say?
According to a recent survey by Accountemps, 75 percent of employers prefer a “top-down” chronological résumé, whereas only 17 percent would rather receive a functional résumé organized by skills. Interestingly, this data has changed very little throughout the past 10 years.
“Chronological résumés allow job seekers to present their career progression to prospective employers in a straightforward, easy-to-follow way,” said Max Messmer, author of “Job Hunting For Dummies, 2nd Edition” and chairman of Accountemps. “Functional résumés, which emphasize skill sets rather than jobs held, are popular among professionals in career transition or who have had lengthy gaps in employment, but they are not a favorite of employers. It is often better to address a career challenge directly than try to write around it.”
Messmer added, “Whichever format a job hopeful chooses, information contained in the résumé needs to be clear and provide a compelling story about his or her work experience and abilities.”
Still not convinced a chronological résumé is the way to go? Messmer offers advice for avoiding the following common résumé hurdles:
- Employment gaps. Offer a brief explanation of employment gaps in your cover letter. In this economic environment, hiring managers understand people could be out of work through no fault of their own.
- Limited work history. Bolster your work experience through internships, part-time work or temporary assignments obtained through a reputable staffing firm. Don’t forget to include relevant volunteer activities in the work experience section of your résumé.
- Appearing overqualified. Provide a summary of pertinent skills and strengths at the top of your résumé, in addition to a chronological listing of your work experience. Emphasize and quantify how you’ve contributed to bottom-line success in previous positions and how that experience would apply to a prospective employer’s needs.
- Desire for a career change. Highlight your accomplishments and skills that would best transfer to the new industry. Make sure to enlist the help of your network of friends, former colleagues and mentors who can recommend you for job openings in the field.
This article was originally posted on Examiner.com.
