The Chronological Format
Just as its name implies, the chronological format offers a chronology-a historical timeline-of your work experience. The distinguishing characteristic is that descriptions of what you did and how well you did it are grouped together with the employer information.
The bulk of the résumé is devoted to this Experience section, also known as your Employment History. In most cases, your most recent employer is listed first, and your least recent employer is listed last. Other sections, such as Education and Affiliations, generally follow the Experience section.
The chronological format wins “The People’s Choice Award.” Why? Plain and simple. Employers prefer it! In economic parlance, the buyer (your prospective employer)-who usually holds the upper hand in the supply-demand model-can better evaluate what the seller (you, the candidate) has to offer. Most hiring managers have an innate curiosity about what you’ve done and where you’ve done it. A logical, straightforward chronological format answers their questions.
Points
Many! The chronological format is easily digested and won’t raise suspicions that you are attempting to hide vocational skeletons, such as a former conviction as a serial job hopper. A chronological format’s most obvious advantages are these:
- Showcases a progression of increasingly responsible positions, especially preferred by executive recruiters and decision-making boards for management and top-tier executive slots.
- Demonstrates that you are qualified to take the next step in your career.
- Highlights impressive employers who will add weight to your credentials because of their name recognition, comprehensive training programs, or strong market position.
- Answers the employer’s question of whether your work history has been stable.
Pitfall
The chronological format really puts you under the microscope and can make you feel a bit naked. I liken it to wearing skimpy spandex to the gym: If you’re not in great shape, it will show every roll and dimple.
Marketing Manager Resume Before
Marketing Manager Resume After:
