Applying for a job is already a very stressful experience; you also have to impress your employer with a good resume. This is why having a good resume is important since it leaves an impression about your work experience and skills. Having a good resume format is key to having a good and well-rounded resume.
If you’re using a resume format, you must be familiar with it, which can help you develop a good resume. The format of your resume can impact how effective it is in the eyes of your employers. You must learn different kinds of resume formats that will help you land the job that you want.
In this guide, you will learn more about the best resume format to use for jobs in 2024.
What is a Resume Format?
A resume is a document that many applicants use to list down their qualifications for a job position.
It is often accompanied by a cover letter to express an interest in the specific job. A resume format is often used to ensure that the applicant follows the standard procedure in writing a formal resume so that it is acceptable to read and understand.
There are several resume formats to use in different kinds of professional and informal settings. It all depends on how you want to be perceived by your potential employer.
Why Is It Important to Use a Resume Format?
A descriptive resume allows hiring managers to find all the information they need from a qualified candidate. Having such a resume can only be produced if you only have a resume format.
It is important that you use a resume format to communicate your qualifications properly and help establish your brand to your employers.
Having a good resume format allows you to create a well-balanced resume filled with important yet concise details about you so that the hiring managers can simply skim through it and immediately know you are the best candidate for the job.
Best Resume Formats to Use for Jobs in 2024
Formatting a resume depends on the type of job and the level of professionalism involved with the job that you’re applying for.
There are basic resume templates that you can use that utilize the standard format for a resume.
However, these standard formats are often too generalized and most of the time, they do not fit what is being asked for, especially in a specific setting.
Here are some of the best resume formats to use for jobs that will help you land the job.
Chronological Resume Format
The chronological resume format is the traditional format that we know and use to this very day. The format is all about listing down your entries in reverse chronological order.
Starting with your most recent job, you provide all of the details down to your first job and its corresponding details. One of the advantages of writing with a chronological resume format is that it is very familiar with so many hiring managers due to its widely used nature.
It also highlights your career progression making it easier to track your achievements, work experience, and skills.
Functional Resume Format
The functional resume format is all about skills and qualifications instead of the focus on work history and experience. You get to detail all of your skills and accomplishments so that you can emphasize them.
This type of format is well suited for those who have large gaps in their employment history and those who are constantly changing their careers.
While this format might not be as well-known by hiring managers, it is still a very effective way of writing a resume. Use it if you have a wide and diverse set of skills and if you want to hide the gaps in your work history.
Hybrid Resume Format
If you want to highlight your skills and qualifications as well as your work history, a hybrid resume format is your best bet. It incorporates the elements of both the chronological resume format and the functional resume format.
It is often used to highlight your skills and experience at the top then a detailed work history using a reserve chronological order. What is great about the hybrid resume format combines the strengths of both types of resume format while allowing you to showcase your skills and work experience at the same time.
However, this can also mean that your resume will become longer, so you must cut out some details to prevent it from going to a second page.
Targeted Resume Format
The targeted resume format is customizable. It is also commonly used when companies require applicants for a specific job position. Many companies require their applicants to follow a targeted resume format that tailors every aspect of their resume to match the company’s needs.
It is highly relevant to both parties as it shows that you are putting effort into drafting your resume. If candidates can pick up on such instructions, this is quite impressive for hiring managers and employers.
Having a targeted resume format or a customizable resume format increases your chances of getting noticed, as every resume is unique.
Infographic Resume Format
The infographic resume format presents information using visual elements like graphs and charts. Few companies require applicants to submit a resume in this format, but it can be used to stand out creatively.
You can immediately captivate your employer with great details of your achievements. This format is often used in creative roles where you need to think outside of the box, and your design skills are highly valued.
While this is a very specific format, it is highly recommended that you stick to the more traditional format if you lack the design skills.
Conclusion
Picking the right resume format for the job is very important to make a strong first impression on your potential employer. Every format has its own set of advantages and disadvantages, so it is best that you weigh your options first before you use a certain resume format to get a job. Whether you choose one over the other, the content of your resume will still be the most important part, so be sure to tailor it accurately.
