How to Put Together a Chronological Resume

How to Put Together a Chronological ResumeHow to Put Together a Chronological ResumeA chronological resume is one of the most common resume formats and theres a good reason for it Employers tend to prefer it because its straightforward and easy to scan. If youve never created a resume before, and youre sitting down to build one from scratch, you probably have a chronological resume in mind. And while that might be the best choice for you, its worth learning what chronological resumes do well - and how to properly format one so that you can use this resume type to best advantage. Reverse Chronological, Technically A chronological resume lists your work history in order of date, with the most recent position at the top. It might include a resume objective or career summary before the list of work experiences. Note Its important to get the facts straight when youre listing your work experience so that the employer wont think that youre lying on your resume should they decide to do a background check. Make sure that the dates, job titles, salary history (if included), etc. are accurate before you submit your resume and application. Education, certifications, and special skills follow work experience in this style of resume. The Benefits of a Chronological Resume The chronological resume is one of the most commonly used styles, and its familiarity alone makes the information easier to absorb. Ideally, it shows the progression of a career clearly. It can be easier to compile, too, since its orientation toward dates helps you to nail down the details of your own job history. When to Use a Chronological Resume As it emphasizes work history, the chronological resume is most effective for candidates with solid experience in the field. By showcasing your work history front and center, you immediately show the employer that you have related experience and skills. When Not to Use a Chronological Resume Although many employers prefer a chronological resume, there are times when its not the right choice. A few examples When youre just beginning your career The chronological resume format will not work well if you are new to the workforce. You may have all the skills required and applicable experience outside the realm of paid work, such as volunteering and internships. But if you choose a chronological resume, the hiring manager will only binnensee your lack of paid work experience, not your abilities. In this case, a functional resume, which emphasizes skills over linear job experience, will help you make your case. When youre changing careers Many employers will put your resume in the no pile if they see that you do not have directly relevant work experience. Choose another style, such as a functional resume that focuses on your skills and experience or a combination resume, which lists both your skills and your work history.When you have gaps in your work history Maybe youve been unemployed for a long period of time, or have taken ti me out of the workforce to care for young children or ailing family members. Regardless of why youve been out of the workforce, choosing a format that displays what you can do, rather than your work history, will help you make the best impression. When youve frequently changed jobs Employee loyalty is a thing of the past, and for good reason very few employers keep workers for the whole of their careers anymore. However, too many job changes can look bad to hiring managers, who dont want to invest time and money training an employee whos going to jump ship. If you have a history of job hopping, a chronological resume probably isnt the best fit. Getting Started Consider using a template to help you create your resume. Templates give you a ready-made layout and guide you through the process of filling it out. Resume examples can help you see what kind of content you should include in your document, and how you should write and format it. Formatting Your Resume Chronological Re sume Sample (Text Version) Jane Applicant999 Chugalug WayWheaton, MA 60187Cell (123) 555-1234jane.applicantemail.comCAREER OBJECTIVEAdministrative coordinator seeks management position with a top corporation that will allow her to utilize her organizational and leadership skills while coordinating workflow and overseeing company logistics.CORE QUALIFICATIONSHighly organized individual able to handle and oversee multiple tasks simultaneously.Experience scheduling employee training classes, staff meetings, and office relocations.Have accurately managed a multimillion-dollar budget.PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCEAdministrative Coordinator, Mannix Services, Naperville, ILDecember 2016 - PresentResponsible for analysis of monthly, weekly, and daily sales reports.Achieved 100 percent accuracy for the past two years.Responsible for scheduling training classes, seminars, and conferences.Administrative Secretary, Minnesota Life Insurance, Barrington, ILJune 2014 - December 2016Oversaw research and d esign of sales and training presentations, requiring fluency in PowerPoint, SlideShare, and Prezi.Responsible for scheduling a three-person training staff.Facilities Assistant, SBC Warburg Dillon Reed, Chicago, ILMay 2012 - June 2014Responsible for balancing a $7 million facilities budget.Scheduled maintenance calls, staff meetings, office relocations, and construction projects.General Manager, KSMR Radio 92.5 AM/94.3 FM, Winona, MNMay 2000 - May 2012In charge of a 36-member staff, as well as a 7-member management team, with duties that included disciplinary actions, budgeting, special requests, program scheduling, and hiring.Chaired a committee that received a grant for increasing station amenities.EDUCATIONBachelor of Arts in Public Relations St. Marys University of Minnesota, Winona, MN Expand