Resume Formats

There are three common resume formats: chronological, functional, and combination.

Use the Resume Format Comparison Chart and the samples below to decide which format is best for you. Learn more about resume basics at the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development website.

Chronological Resumes

Chronological resumes list your work history in reverse order. Start with your current or most recent job and work backwards.

Samples:

Work-to-Work Job Seeker (441KB, .pdf) - if you are switching jobs
School-to-Work Job Seeker (413KB, .pdf) - for the soon-to-be or recent graduate
Worksheet (316KB, .pdf) - a form to develop the first draft of your resume

Functional Resumes

Functional resumes highlight skills, experiences, and accomplishments, but omit specific dates, names, and places. Many employers don't like this format. It makes them suspect that the person may be trying to hide something. People have been known to use this type of resume to disguise age, a lack of career progression, underemployment, employment gaps, or too little relevant experience.

Samples:

Work-to-Work Job Seeker (431KB, .pdf) - if you are switching jobs
No Paid Work Experience (422KB, .pdf) - highlight unpaid work and accomplishments
Worksheet (335KB, .pdf) - a form to develop the first draft of your resume

Combination Resumes

A combination resume blends the best parts of the chronological and the functional resumes. Use it to show off your skills instead of the specific positions you have held.

Samples:

No Paid Work Experience (472KB, .pdf) - highlight unpaid work and accomplishments
Work-to-Work Job Seeker (405KB, .pdf) - if you are switching jobs
Worksheet (376KB, .pdf) - a form to develop the first draft of your resume

Source: Creative Job Search, Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development.