Free Resume Examples: Compare Chronological and Functional Resume Formats

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First, let's refresh our memories about the difference between a chronological and a functional resume format. (For a more detailed explanation of when to use each, see Choosing a Resume Format. ) Here's the way ResumeEdge.com distinguishes between them:

"Generally speaking, hiring managers prefer that employment data is provided with the most recent job listed first, followed by the next most recent, and so on. In that way, it’s easy to see career progression from an entry-level position to a more senior status. It's also easy to detect gaps in dates of employment. These gaps lead some candidates to use a functional format instead.

Functional formats stress what skills you have, rather than where and when you used them. These formats are best for students who have just graduated from college and have little "real-world" experience, those who have been out of the workforce for long periods because they were raising children, and job seekers who are transitioning from one career or industry to another. However, sometimes combining a functional format with a reverse chronological format makes the most sense. These are called combination resumes."

Chronological Resume Samples

Example #1

Example #2 (2 pages)

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Functional Free Resume Examples

Example #1

Example #2

If you take the time to really read each of the free resume examples, and then try to evaluate what works and why, you'll greatly advance your learning process. Be sure to take a look at our free resume examples in the combination format too.

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