Your resume is your first impression on potential employers, so it's important to choose the right format. There are several types of resumes, each with its own strengths depending on your background, experience, and career goals.
Whether you're a recent graduate, a career switcher, or a seasoned professional, we’ll help you understand the different resume kinds, their pros and cons, and how to decide which one is right for you.
Choose the perfect resume for your industry and experience, then apply to one—or many—of these open jobs on The Muse »
4 different types of resumes—and who they're best suited for
There are four main types of resumes commonly used by job seekers: chronological, functional, graphic, and combination resumes. These types of resume formats present your skills and experience differently, so understanding their differences is key to making an informed decision.
1. Chronological resume
A chronological resume is the most traditional and widely used format. It lists your work experience in reverse chronological order, starting with your most recent position.
Pros:
- Easy to read: Employers are familiar with this format, so it's easy to scan.
- Highlights career growth: It's ideal for candidates with a strong work history and clear upward career progression.
- Shows longevity: It emphasizes a steady employment record, which can appeal to employers.
Cons:
- Gaps are obvious: Any career gaps or job hopping will be noticeable.
- Not ideal for career changers: This format may not be the best fit for those shifting industries or roles, as it focuses more on experience rather than skills.
Best for:
- Candidates with a consistent work history
- Job seekers applying for positions within the same industry
- Professionals aiming to showcase upward career growth
This might help: How to Write a Chronological Resume (Plus Example!)
2. Functional resume
If you want to know what the most functional type of resume is, this is the one you’re looking for. A functional resume focuses on skills and abilities rather than your chronological work history. It groups skills into relevant categories, putting less emphasis on specific job titles or dates of employment.
Pros:
- Emphasizes skills: It's great for candidates who have transferable skills but lack extensive experience in a particular role or industry.
- Hides gaps: It's ideal for those with employment gaps or who have had short-term positions.
- Flexible format: This allows you to tailor the resume based on what skills are most relevant to the job.
Cons:
- Less common: Some employers might be less familiar with this format, which could lead to confusion.
- Lack of context: Since work experience isn't the main focus, employers might find it harder to understand how your skills were applied in real work situations.
Best for:
- Career changers or those with non-traditional career paths
- Job seekers with gaps in their employment history
- Candidates looking to emphasize specific skill sets
This might help: What Is a Functional Resume? Example and Tips on How to Write Yours
3. Combination resume
A combination resume, as the name suggests, blends the features of both different kinds of resumes: the chronological and the functional resumes. It lists skills at the top of the resume, followed by a reverse-chronological listing of work experience.
Pros:
- Balanced approach: It offers a mix of both skills and experience, making it easier to highlight qualifications while also demonstrating work history.
- Versatile: This format works for various industries and career levels.
- Customizable: You can adjust the emphasis between skills and experience depending on the job you're applying for.
Cons:
- Can be lengthy: Because it includes both skills and work experience, this type of resume can get long, which may overwhelm hiring managers.
- Time-consuming to create: It can take more effort to organize your information effectively in this format.
Best for:
- Professionals with a wealth of skills and experience
- Job seekers who have varied or extensive experience in multiple fields
- Candidates who want to highlight both their skills and work history equally
4. Graphic resume
A graphic resume uses visual elements like color, icons, charts, and unique layouts to present your qualifications creatively. These resumes are often designed using graphic design software and focus on making the document visually appealing.
Pros:
- Visually engaging: It stands out from traditional resumes and catches the eye of hiring managers.
- Best for creative roles: It's ideal for industries like marketing, design, and advertising where creativity is valued.
- Shows design skills: It demonstrates your ability to create aesthetically pleasing documents, especially useful for design professionals.
Cons:
- May not be ATS-friendly: Many applicant tracking systems (ATSs) struggle to read graphic resumes, which can result in your application being rejected automatically.
- Not suitable for all industries: In more conservative or traditional industries (like finance or law), a graphic resume might be seen as unprofessional.
- Takes more time to create: It requires more effort to design and may need software knowledge.
Best for:
- Creative professionals, such as graphic designers, marketers, or artists
- Job seekers in industries where innovation and visual presentation are highly valued
- Candidates looking to showcase their design skills directly within their resume
Now that you know the four resume types and formats, which type of resume is best? Below are some considerations to have in mind when choosing yours.
The right type of resume for you
Choosing the right resume type depends on your situation, including your work history, skills, and the job you're applying for. Think about what you want to emphasize—your career progression or your skill set.
Here are some guidelines to help you make the best choice:
- Choose a chronological resume if you have a strong work history in the same industry, with no significant gaps in employment. This is the best choice for professionals with a clear career path and a history of promotions or increasing responsibility.
- Choose a functional resume if you're making a career change, have gaps in your work history, or want to emphasize your skills over experience. This format works well for people who have gained relevant skills through unconventional paths, such as freelancing, volunteering, or education.
- Choose a combination resume if you want to balance showcasing your skills and experience. This is a good option for candidates with extensive experience but who also want to highlight particular skills that are relevant to the job.
- Choose a graphic resume if you’re applying for a creative role in fields like design, marketing, or media. This format allows you to showcase your creativity and design skills while still providing essential resume information. Just make sure it’s easy to read and ATS-friendly to ensure it doesn't get overlooked.
Note: Even though there are different types of resumes, most recruiters still lean toward the traditional format. “Recruiters and hiring managers consistently say that they prefer a more traditional resume format, with jobs listed in reverse chronological order, employment dates, and bullet points,” says Angela Ashurst-McGee, certified professional resume writer (CPRW), president and founder of Upword Resume. Still, the ideal resume format can vary depending on the industry and the specific role.
Can you use more than one type of resume?
Yes! It’s possible to use various types of resume depending on the job you're applying for. For example, you might use a chronological resume for one application and a functional resume for another. Regardless of the type, it's always a good idea to tailor your resume to the position you're seeking, so that would just be one more step anyway.
Bonus tips to make your resume work for you
Regardless of which format you choose among the several resume types, here are some general tips to help your resume stand out:
- Tailor your resume to the job posting: Once again, customize your resume for each job you apply to by including relevant keywords and focusing on the skills and experiences most applicable to that role.
- Use action verbs: Start bullet points with strong action verbs like “managed,” “led,” or “created” to show initiative and impact. (Here are 185+ action verbs to make your resume stand out.)
- Quantify achievements: Whenever possible, include numbers that showcase your accomplishments, such as “increased sales by 30%” or “managed a team of 10.” (Here's how to quantify your resume bullets—even when you don't work with numbers.)
- Keep it concise: Your resume should be no longer than one or two pages. Keep it focused on relevant information, and avoid unnecessary details. “Remember, your resume is a workhorse document, it’s not a graphic design showcase,” Ashurst-McGee says. “Keep the format simple and focus on your workplace accomplishments.”
- Proofread: Typos and grammatical errors can quickly disqualify you from consideration. Always proofread your resume or have someone else review it before sending it out.
Bottom line
The various types of resume you choose can make a significant difference in how you're perceived by potential employers. By selecting the right format for your experience and skills, you can effectively showcase your strengths and increase your chances of landing that interview. Find the format that will work for you!
FAQs
What’s the best resume type for someone new to the workforce?
For those new to the workforce, such as recent graduates or individuals with limited professional experience, the functional resume is often a good choice. It allows you to highlight your skills and education over your work history. However, a chronological resume can also work if you have relevant internships, volunteer work, or part-time jobs.
Explore the different types of resume to see which one best showcases your abilities and qualifications for the role you're applying for.
What type of resume do employers prefer?
Many employers prefer the chronological resume because it's easy to follow and highlights your work experience in a clear timeline. This format shows your career progression, stability, and relevant job history, making it a favorite for hiring managers.
However, the preferred type of resume can depend on the industry and the specific job. For example, employers in creative or technical fields might appreciate a functional or combination resume if it better emphasizes skills and accomplishments. It’s always a good idea to review the job posting and company culture when deciding which of the different types of resumes to use.
Should I include all of my job experience on my resume?
Not necessarily. Include only the most relevant experience for the job you're applying to. Older or unrelated jobs can be left off if they don't add value to your application.
How often should I update my resume?
You should update your resume every six months or after completing any major projects, learning new skills, or receiving promotions. Keeping it up to date ensures you're ready to apply for new opportunities quickly.