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Author: Carl DiNello
There are various ways to write a resume. A variety of resume formats have
been created with characteristics that make each suitable for different types of
applicants. The differences in each form are based on a number of work-related
factors. It is important to maximize your resume writing by using the most
suitable resume form for your specific situation.
There are five (5) general resume forms:
1. Chronological resume
2. Performance resume
3. Functional resume
4. Targeted resume
5. Alternative resume
The chronological resume form simply entails writing the resume in a
chronological (according to order of events) manner. This is probably the most
common type of resume. It requires the professional experiences, educational
attainment, specialized training, etc., to be written in order from the dated to
the most recent. Next, is the performance resume. This is a slightly improved
version of the chronological resume. This resume form is written by describing
the most recent professional experiences of the applicant. This highlights
important accomplishments early on in the resume, as well as giving special
emphasis to job positions and company names.
Unlike the performance resume form, the functional resume does not put
importance on job titles and company names. In fact, in this resume format,
these details may often be left out. In the functional resume form, the specific
functions or attributes performed by the applicant are accented.
The targeted resume involves custom-fitting the resume to the position for
which you are applying. This allows you to highlight important facts in your
employment and educational history that are directly related to the position
being applied for, while deleting the less important details.
Lastly, the alternative resume is the type of resume more suited for those in
non-traditional and more creative careers such as the fashion and advertising
industry. This resume form allows designers and writers to inject more
creativity in the resume making it more suitable to their line of work.
When to use each of the above mentioned resume forms?
1. Chronological - If you are a recent graduate with little or no job
experience.
2. Performance - If you have some job experience, or if you want to highlight
a company where your have previously worked. This should be done especially, if
the company has established a favorable reputation in the field that you are
applying.
3. Functional - If you have a number of various job experiences. If you are
about to pursue a different career path. If there is a need, or advantage to
include volunteer work.
4. Targeted - Like the functional resume, you can use this resume form if you
have varied work experiences, but wish to focus on those most suited to the
current position for which you are applying. This format is also very useful to
those changing career paths; because by highlighting specific information, the
hiring company will be able to see that despite the career shift, you are still
competent for the job.
5. Alternative - Use this type of resume to convey your creative nature. This
is most applicable in the advertising industry where a different approach to
resume writing is considered acceptable. The resume ceases to be written in a
traditional manner and is now used as a means to convince the employer that the
applicant can come up with creative advertising strategies in the same way that
he is able to advertise himself (through the alternative resume).
Aside from the importance of knowing which resume form to use, it is also
important to be absolutely truthful about yourself. Moreover, grammar and syntax
are very important; so make certain that your resume is free from these errors.
Good luck with your resume writing!
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