What type of resume do you use?

Question

I'm thinking about looking for a new job- something other than my current field, which is retail. I was very successful at my first job, at which I advanced through several positions over eight years, but in my current job, I feel as if I haven't accomplished much. I was given the suggestion that I should write a functional resume rather than the standard chronological one, so I can point out my strengths and emphasize skills that translate well into other fields. Any resume advice or suggestions? Which format do you prefer?

Answer 1

I review dozens of resumes and hire a lot of people. The resume format has never been a factor. Bad grammar and spelling are - of course - an issue, but the type of resume doesn't matter.

The number one factor in getting a job is having a contact. Most of the people I hire are people who have been recommended by other people I know (or know by reputation). If I have a reputable person vouching for a candidate, that trumps all the unknowns in the pile of resumes on my desk.

Other than that, the only advice I have is to keep the resume short (1 page), eliminate the fluff and be persistent (but not annoying). Check back regularly, drop the resume off in person, take extra copies in case they're requested, and call (if they don't mind) periodically to check on the status.

Good luck!

Answer 2

I've repeatedly heard that you should stick with chronological resumes. I worked with Human Resource Specialist often. They tend to say if you use a functional resume you look like your trying to hide something.

Even though you don't feel like you did much in your last jobs, the eight successful years you had with your first is very impressive so I wouldn't worry about it.

Good luck!

Answer 3

I recently landed a good job, and used a functional resume to get the interview. Very simply, it outlines your skills and accomplishments. That's what a potential employer wants to see.

Answer 4

I think a professional resume purely targeted at promoting your strengths and achievements is the best. You need to look at some professional template designs and source some wording on how to incorporate them into your resume.

Answer 5

I normally like to do things like resumes myself but I used a resume service once and was really impressed. I got lots of great comments on it and got a job I really wanted , in part , because of it. my 2 cents

Answer 6

i think chronological is better.
functional is often used to try to cover up things.
think harderabout what you did accomplish.

Answer 7

My own..
Never used any copy or any other example.