What Resume Format Are You Using?

A better question, is the format you are using the correct one? Will it market your relevant skills and career background in the best possible way? Below is a brief description of four different types of formats commonly used by educators.

Chronological Resume

The information is organized by dates - the most recent position first, working backwards 10-15 years. This stresses positions you held and schools or companies where you worked. Recruiters and hiring managers tend to like this resume format because it's easy to read and demonstrates job seekers' continuous career growth. This format is used when the individual has steady career history and shows advancement, no employment gaps and is applying for the same line of work.

Functional Resume

This is organized by relevant skills or functions. These accomplishments are near the beginning of the resume, rather than with past jobs. The record of employment is listed but without responsibilities. Hiring managers and recruiters usually dislike this resume format, as it's easier to disguise a poor work record. This works well for problem careers, job hoppers, older workers, career transitioners, or academic deficiencies.

Combination Resume

A combination resume mixes the above formats. Information is organized in relevant skills and functions, followed by job titles, schools/companies and a brief description of responsibilities. The combination resume format is very well received by hiring authorities. This powerful presentation shows relevant skills and accomplishments at the beginning, but is later supported by the strong employment section.

Academic Curriculum Vitae or CV

This is a condensed biographical statement, which can run anywhere from 3 to 20 pages, emphasizing professional qualifications, achievements, and activities. A curriculum vitae presents lists of achievements, rather than a narrative presentation of material. CV's usually begins with "Education" and details of your doctoral dissertation, followed by academic accomplishments such as awards, presentations, teaching, lectures, publications, committees, research, and other relevant professional pursuits. CV's are academic and credentials-based, instead of being accomplishment-oriented like a traditional resume. This format is used for scientists, academics, and physicians.

Don't let choosing the wrong resume format cost you job interviews. If you don't have time to research what school districts are looking for or if you are not sure where to start, we would enjoy working with you on this important project.

Success Stories

"Hi Candace,

I just wanted you to know that I think that you did a wonderful job with the cover letter, resume, and questions. I feel that these items display my skills and talents and I feel very proud to send them to prospective employers. Thank you so much for your hard work and talent.

Since school is out, I will be working on my philosophy of education and will send those answers to you as soon as possible.

Thanks again and have a great day!"

D W

"Good morning Candace,

We are still in the process of getting our system connected at home, but I thought I would drop you a note and let you know that XXXXX has landed a 1st grade position with one of the newer elementary schools here in xxxxxx! Your resume package proved invaluable as she was one of the better represented candidates that applied for the job. I might mention that she secured this position in less than a week!

Thanks again and best wishes,"

J. D.

More Success Stories

You can review samples of our work by clicking here.

For further help with your resume, contact A+ Resumes for Teachers.

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