pros and cons of a chronological resume

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Pros and Cons of each resume format and when to use them

If you are looking for a new job or want to update your resume, you might be wondering which resume format is best for your situation. There are three main types of resume formats: chronological, functional and hybrid. Each one has its own advantages and disadvantages, depending on your work history, skills and career goals. In this blog post, we will explain the pros and cons of each resume format and when to use them.

• Chronological resume format

A chronological resume format lists your work experience in reverse chronological order, starting with your most recent job and going back to your earliest one. This format is the most common and preferred by most employers, as it shows your career progression and achievements clearly. It also makes it easy for recruiters to scan your resume and see if you have the relevant experience and qualifications for the job.

• Some of the pros of using a chronological resume format are:

- It highlights your work history and accomplishments

- It shows your career growth and stability

- It demonstrates your skills and abilities in context

- It is easy to read and follow

- It is suitable for most industries and professions

• Some of the cons of using a chronological resume format are:

- It may emphasize gaps in your employment or frequent job changes

- It may not showcase your transferable skills or potential

- It may not be the best option if you are changing careers or have limited work experience

• When to use a chronological resume format:

- You have a solid and consistent work history in the same or related field

- You want to highlight your career progression and achievements

- You are applying for a job that requires specific experience and qualifications

• Functional resume format

A functional resume format focuses on your skills and abilities rather than your work history. It groups your skills into categories that are relevant to the job you are applying for, such as communication, leadership or technical skills. It also provides a brief summary of your work history at the end of the resume, but does not include dates or details of each job.

• Some of the pros of using a functional resume format are:

- It showcases your transferable skills and potential

- It highlights your strengths and achievements

- It masks gaps in your employment or frequent job changes

- It is flexible and adaptable to different situations

- It is suitable for changing careers or entering a new field

• Some of the cons of using a functional resume format are:

- It may raise questions about your work history and credibility

- It may not show your career growth and stability

- It may not demonstrate your skills and abilities in context

- It may be harder to read and follow

- It may not be preferred by some employers or recruiters

• When to use a functional resume format:

- You have gaps in your employment or frequent job changes

- You have limited work experience or are a recent graduate

- You want to highlight your skills and abilities rather than your work history

- You are changing careers or entering a new field

• Hybrid resume format

A hybrid resume format combines elements of both chronological and functional formats. It starts with a summary of your skills and qualifications, followed by a detailed work history in reverse chronological order. This format allows you to showcase both your skills and achievements, as well as your work history and progression.

• Some of the pros of using a hybrid resume format are:

- It balances your skills and work history

- It highlights your strengths and accomplishments

- It is versatile and suitable for different situations

• Some of the cons of using a hybrid resume format are:

- It may be longer than other formats

- It may be redundant or repetitive

- It may not mask gaps in your employment or frequent job changes

- It may not be the best option if you have limited work experience or are changing careers

• When to use a hybrid resume format:

- You have a strong and consistent work history in the same or related field

- You want to showcase both your skills and achievements

- You are applying for a job that requires specific experience and qualifications In conclusion, choosing the right resume format depends on your work history, skills, and career goals. The chronological resume format is the most common and preferred by most employers, while the functional resume format focuses on skills and abilities rather than work history. The hybrid resume format combines elements of both and is versatile for different situations. It's important to consider the pros and cons of each format and choose the one that best represents your qualifications and makes a strong case for why you are the right candidate for the job. Ultimately, a well-crafted resume can help you stand out and land the job you want.  

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Chronological resume: How and why to write one

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4 types of resumes

What is a chronological resume, pros and cons of chronological resumes, elements of a chronological resume, how to write a chronological resume: 6 tips, chronological resume example, show your true value.

In a sea of competitive candidates, a compelling resume can be one of many tools that sets you apart. 

A great resume matches the needs of the position while explaining who you are, and that balance can be hard to find. A job requiring specialized skills needs a resume that highlights them, and one with extensive education or certification prerequisites should put those at the forefront. And while you meet those needs, you have to explain your recent experience and what makes you unique.

Most recruiters and hiring managers want to see your most recent and relevant experience at the top of your application. If you want to learn how to make a job resume that puts recent experience first, the chronological resume is your best bet. It outlines your accomplishments and work history in a clear, logical order, placing your most recent achievements front and center.

While there are hundreds of chronological resume templates out there, it’s important to create one that matches your unique experience and career path . Here’s how to write a well-structured resume that gives potential employers a snapshot of your growth and tells them why you’re right for the job.

An eye-tracking study showed that recruiters spend an average of just seven seconds looking at a resume . In such a short span, your resume has to not only stand out but quickly communicate your suitability for the job. And the type of resume you choose can make all the difference. 

Depending on your work experience, career path, and the job you're applying for, one of these different resume formats can best showcase your qualifications:

• Chronological resume: This type lists work history at the top, from most recent to earliest. It’s best for those with steady employment and who work in a consistent industry or field. It can also explain how you’ve grown over the years, showing title changes and promotions.
• Functional resume: This one centers your skills, making it ideal for career changers and those with career gaps . It’s also a good choice if you aren’t sure how far back your resume should go and would rather highlight your skills instead.
• Combination resume: A mix of chronological and functional formats, this resume type is great for professionals with transferable skills and experience. It might start with a summary, then skills, then a reverse chronological work history.
• Targeted resume: If you’re applying for a specific job, this tailored approach ensures you include all the keywords and action verbs you need to match yourself to the description. It customizes every section to align with the job's demands and get through applicant tracking systems.

A chronological resume presents your work experience and history in sequential order, usually from most to least recent. It's the go-to for many job seekers because it clearly displays career progression. Employers can quickly spot your job title, years of experience, and the path you’ve taken. 

The reverse chronological resume is the most common iteration, but you could also work in chronological order, with older experiences at the top and newer ones at the bottom. Although this is an option, it’s not a good idea, especially if you’ve been working for a long time. It could prevent hiring managers and recruiters from seeing your latest achievements — the ones that best reflect your current abilities — first. If you really don’t want to do a reverse chronological resume, sorting positions by relevance is the next best thing.

Understanding the dos and don’ts of the chronological resume will help you write one that accurately showcases what you have to offer. But like every resume type, it has its highs and lows . 

Here are the pros of this format that might help you decide whether it’s the right structure for you:

• Clear and concise: One of the most significant advantages of the chronological resume format is its organized structure. By listing your work history in a clear order, hiring managers get a straightforward view of your career path.
• Easy to navigate: Many recruiters prefer this style because it's easy to trace an applicant's job history, years of experience, and career progression. They’re likely reading many resumes at a time, so you want to make yours as easy to navigate as possible.
• Demonstrates career stability: If you’ve steadily climbed the ladder in a particular field, this resume can spotlight your dedication. It highlights your stable work history and the upward trajectory of your career, painting you as a reliable and committed professional.

While the chronological resume format has its strong points, it’s not a one-size-fits-all. Here are some of the reasons why another type might be best for you:

• Spotlight on the gaps: If you’ve taken extended breaks between jobs, this format might draw unwanted attention to those employment gaps. While there are ways to navigate this — like mentioning any relevant activities during the hiatus — it’s something to consider.
• Not for recent graduates: If you’re just out of school and have little to no work experience, this format might make your resume look a tad barren. Other formats, like the functional resume , might serve you better, focusing on skills instead.
• Doesn’t suit career changers: When pivoting to a new industry or role, your previous experiences might not be relevant to the jobs you’re applying for. Instead, consider the combination resume, which melds the best of chronological and functional formats to emphasize your transferable skills.

Presenting your qualifications in a coherent and easily digestible format captures recruiters’ attention and tells them what they need to know quickly. Here are the basic elements of this resume type:

Your resume's header isn’t just a placeholder — it's your introduction. Include your name, contact information, and if relevant, a summary of your key experience and skills. Ensure this section is up-to-date and error-free so potential employers don’t end up dialing the wrong number.

Work experience section

If you’re writing a chronological resume, it’s likely because your work experience is the most important part of your background, so pay extra attention to this section. Do some self-reflection and think about which of your roles are most relevant to the role. Then, think about the skills you used in each one that also connect to the role you’re applying for. This ensures every word you write has value for the reader.

When detailing your work history, action verbs can add dynamism to your descriptions, painting a vivid picture of your professional journey. It’s also a good idea to include any metrics or key projects that exemplify your performance. 

Skills section

Below your work experience, dive deeper into some of your skills. Choose ones that relate directly to the job you’re applying for as well as some general options that demonstrate your office skills . In the digital age, proficiency in tools like Excel, Google Workspace, or other in-demand competencies is a must — especially if you’re applying for a remote position . List them and provide some context if necessary. 

Remember that no job is exclusively about your technical prowess. Soft skills , like communication and teamwork , are equally vital. These showcase your ability to collaborate and adapt in a professional setting, so list a few of your best as well.

Education section

On a chronological resume, education should go at the bottom. If you recently completed a degree that relates to your prospective job, you can put it at the top, but your work experience is usually more important. 

Your education section should be short and to the point so you have more page space for your experience section above. If relevant, mention key coursework, and if you're a recent graduate, including your GPA can be a plus.

Certifications

If you've taken the initiative to earn additional certifications, include them in their own section. Whether it's a certification in project management or coding AI, these can provide an edge in your job search and show recruiters you’re committed to professional development .

Volunteer experience

Listing volunteer experience on your resume isn’t necessary, but if you have the space, it can showcase your commitment to causes and highlight transferable skills. Whether you've managed events or spearheaded fundraising drives, it’s another facet of who you are as a potential employee. Include it if you’re reentering the workforce or passionate about your extracurriculars.

A standout chronological resume is your ticket to catching a recruiter's attention. But it’s about more than just listing your work experience. You have to organize it in an eye-catching yet professional way, make sure it’s free of errors, and emphasize the skills and experiences that make you a qualified candidate — not just for the general role, but for the specific position and company culture .

Here are some tips to help you write the best chronological resume possible:

• Think about whether it’s right for you: A chronological resume is great if you have lots of experience in the same field that you want to highlight. But if you have career gaps or a varied list of past jobs, it might not be the best format for you. This is the time to reflect on your history and decide what recruiters and hiring managers will want to see.
• Decide which jobs to include: Unless you’re still in the early stages of your career, including every single previous position will clutter your resume. Choose only the ones that relate best to the job you’re applying for. 
• Tailor each entry to the job description: When applying to many jobs at once, it’s easy to use the same resume for each. But you might be missing out on opportunities to tailor your experience to the position. Read through job descriptions carefully and look for important keywords that come up often. Then, adjust your resume to fit them. If the posting says they’re looking for a team player , try including words like “ collaboration ,” “teamwork,” and “ active listening .”
• Pay attention to detail: Consistency in your resume’s presentation is a testament to your professionalism . Using a template is a good option if you don’t want to fuss with formatting your own sections. And proofread many times before you submit, getting a friend or close colleague to pay attention to detail for you to make sure it’s error-free.
• Quantify your results: Clear action verbs are useful when it comes to explaining exactly what your roles and responsibilities were for previous positions. And metrics can drive those points home. If you have data on how your performance at work impacted your team or even the company as a whole, include it here. “Boosted sales by 25%” is much more impactful than “Helped with sales.”
• Attach other documents: A survey from Glassdoor found that over half of professionals think a cover letter is redundant . But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t write one, especially for positions where you want to show off your written communication skills . Your job application is about much more than just your resume, and a cover letter is the perfect opportunity to further explain your fit for the role. And don’t forget to include a portfolio or letter of recommendation if the job posting asks for it.

If you’re unsure what this type of resume might look like in practice, looking at examples can help. You could also use a resume builder to streamline the process.

Remember to add other relevant information, like important career accomplishments, office skills you’d need for the job you’re applying for, or past projects. Here’s what a chronological resume format might look like for a project manager:

Project Manager

New York City

Work Experience 

Project Manager — XYZ Tech Solutions, New York City

March 2023–current

• Led multiple projects, confirming they were completed on time and within budget
• Managed a team of 20+, ensuring effective collaboration and meeting project goals
• Monitored project risks, ensuring timely mitigation and response

Assistant Project Manager — ABC Corp., New York City

September 2021–March 2023

• Assisted in the coordination of project tasks, ensuring timely delivery
• Collaborated with cross-functional teams for optimal results
• Handled budget allocations for specific project phases

Project Intern — ABC Corp., New York City

May 2021–September 2021

• Shadowed an experienced senior project manager 
• Organized files, took meeting notes, and tracked schedules across the team 
• Communicated with staff to ensure timely task completion

Bachelor of Science in Computer Science — 123 University

• September 2017–May 2021
• Graduated summa cum laude

Notable Skills

• Team leadership
• Budget management
• Risk mitigation
• Cross-functional collaboration
• Stakeholder communication

The chronological resume format, when done right, is a powerful tool to showcase your experience and make a lasting impression. Whether you're a recent graduate or a seasoned professional, invest the time to craft your story and make your resume stand out . 

Remember, every detail counts. Your resume guides potential employers to recognize your unique value, so let it be the beacon that shines brightest.

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Elizabeth Perry, ACC

Elizabeth Perry is a Coach Community Manager at BetterUp. She uses strategic engagement strategies to cultivate a learning community across a global network of Coaches through in-person and virtual experiences, technology-enabled platforms, and strategic coaching industry partnerships. With over 3 years of coaching experience and a certification in transformative leadership and life coaching from Sofia University, Elizabeth leverages transpersonal psychology expertise to help coaches and clients gain awareness of their behavioral and thought patterns, discover their purpose and passions, and elevate their potential. She is a lifelong student of psychology, personal growth, and human potential as well as an ICF-certified ACC transpersonal life and leadership Coach.

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Chronological vs Functional Resumes

Posted on 29 jun 2021.

There’s more than one way to write a resume. While you may be used to writing your resume chronologically (aka the reverse chronological resume), it may surprise you to know that there’s a different resume type, called the functional resume. Each type serves a different purpose, and one works better than the other depending on the applicant’s life circumstances. Let’s take a look at the difference between a chronologically and functionally written resume, and when it’s best to use one over the other.

Get to know the difference: chronological vs functional resume

As the name suggests, chronological or reverse chronology resumes follow a timeline. This type of resume prioritizes the applicant’s work experiences and arranges these from the latest to the earliest. It’s the most common type of resume, not to mention it’s also fairly easy to write, as long as you’ve kept track of your work history.

A functional resume on the other hand, highlights the applicant’s skills and achievements, taking the attention away from other elements that may reduce an applicant’s chances of getting hired, such as limited work experience, lengthy unemployment or inconsistent work history.

Ultimately, the difference between a chronological and functional resume all boils down to format. The sections of a chronologically formatted resume generally follows this sequence:

• Heading and personal info

• Summary statement

• Work experience

• Skills and training

• Education

• Awards, citations and certifications

As you can imagine, a functionally written resume is organized differently, with the Skills section preceding Work Experience, which is intentionally kept very brief. Often, the functional format resume only includes the last job held. Aside from this major change, the rest of the sections remain largely identical.

When to use a chronological resume

If you have a strong work history—meaning, you have been regularly employed in a particular industry—a chronologically written resume will work best for you. Here are other considerations when chronological writing will be the ideal type to use when applying for a job.

• You’ve always held the same job or similar.

• You are highly experienced in your field.

• You’re seeking a new job similar to the one you have or had.

• You have worked your way up in your career.

A chronological vs functional resume allows recruiters to track your career easier, so if your work history ticks these boxes, that’s a good indication that a chronological resume format is the one you should use.

Pros and cons of chronological resume

As with any type of resume, even the popular chronological resume has its advantages and disadvantages. Let’s enumerate the chronological resume’s pros and cons.

• Simple and straightforward format

• Easy-to-read layout

• May not be ideal for your career situation

• Can highlight negative career choices such as job hopping and/or lengthy unemployment

When to use a functional resume

Although most employers prefer a chronologically written resume, a functional format resume is still welcome, especially if you can relate to the following:

• You’ve had some spells of job-hopping.

• You’ve changed career paths multiple times.

• You’re looking to change your career track.

Frequently switching from one job to another can be glaringly obvious in a chronological resume, and it gives the impression of a lack of commitment, leaving a negative impression on hiring managers. On the other hand, if you plan on forging a new career track and leave your old one, a functionally written resume will be better for you as well.

Pros and cons of functional resume

The functionally formatted resume is especially helpful in hiding poor career choices, while ensuring that you appear as a highly qualified applicant based on your skills and expertise. That said, it also has its share of pros and cons, as you can see below.

• Allows for better matching of skills to match the job criteria

• De-emphasizes a spotty work history

• Can be difficult to follow

• Provides an incomplete picture of your employment

To ensure that your functionally written resume is as easy to read as a chronological one, you can have a trusted resume writing service like Resumeble write your resume for you. Not only that, a professionally written functional resume will attract the right attention and land you that elusive job interview, as services like Resumeble come with an interview guarantee.

Are there other resume formats I should know about?

A functional format resume is not the only alternative to a chronologically formatted resume. Other resume formats include a CV format and combination resume. Below are their definitions.

CV – short for curriculum vitae, is the application document submitted for jobs in academia, medicine, and scientific laboratories. Unlike traditional resumes that focus on experience and skills, CVs focus on credentials, providing potential employers with a comprehensive list of the applicant’s education, certification, academic experience, and affiliations.

Combination resume – combines a chronologically and functionally written resume, with the skills and qualifications listed first, followed by employment history. This format works best for job seekers who want to emphasize their skills, but have been required to include their work history in their resume by a potential employer. Likewise, this type of resume is also recommended for those who have employment gaps or worked unrelated jobs in the past. A combination resume is also known as a chrono-functional resume.

Choosing the right resume format

Choosing the perfect resume format for your application requires some serious evaluation and preparation on your part. And it all begins with identifying your application goals before you begin the resume writing process. With your goals in mind, use the tips and suggestions in this article to help you decide on the right resume format to use. Check out Resumeble’s sample resumes for ideas and inspiration.

Having trouble choosing the right resume format?

Should you write a chronological vs functional resume? It certainly helps to have a bona fide expert guiding you through the resume writing process. By choosing Resumeble , you will have a professional resume writer working with you one-on-one to build your resume and develop it into an application that showcases your qualifications in the best way possible. Get in touch with us today or send in your resume for a free, no-obligation evaluation.

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