How to Write a Chronological Resume

A chronological resume is the most common type of resume and can be used when applying for nearly any job. Most job seekers and employers are familiar with the style of a chronological resume, and these standard resumes are very simple to write.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. List your contact information at the top of the resume, including your full name, mailing address, telephone number and email address. This information is normally centered on the paper and written in a basic font style, such as Times New Roman or Arial. Be sure all the details are correct, as this is how employers will contact you.

2. Organize your resume into four sections: Objective, Job Experience, Education and Skills. Each of these headlines must be in a bold font, and you will add the specifics under each section.

3. Write an short objective statement under the heading of "Objective." This statement should summarize the goals of your job search and what you can offer a potential employer.

4. List your work experience in a chronological list from the most recent to the least recent under the Job Experience section. This section is the bulk of your resume. In the list, include your dates of employment, your job title, the name of your employer and a brief summary of the job description for each job held.

5. Include all degrees held from colleges, universities or trade schools under the Education section. You can also list any training programs or prominent workshops you have attended.

6. Make a list of all your skills which apply to the job you are looking for, and list them in the "Skills" section. This section might include word processing programs, typing speed, computer programming skills and any certifications you hold.

7. Conclude with a list of references, if you so choose. This section is optional. You can always give references later if you are asked by a prospective employer.

Tips & Warnings

• Proofread your resume for typographical, spelling and grammatical errors.
• Print your resume on quality paper but avoid bright colors or flashy fonts, unless you are applying for a creative position.

Resources

• Get tips for writing an effective resume from jobweb.com.
• Find sample resumes at provenresumes.com.
• Get career advice from questcareer.com.

[HKTOWER]

on 9/25/2008 I'm helping a friend with her resume. One question is bout the wording. In the work history, I usually use header as Employment History but does Job Experience is a better word to use?

Regards,
Holly T

[trose]

on 8/13/2008 Your visitors can also find resume examples within my website, http://www.resumebycprw.com/resume_portfolio.htm.

Currently, I have the following job titles available ... although I routinely add to the page.

* Sample Resume, Organizational Development
* Sample Resume, Advertising/Marketing/Public Relations
* Sample Resume, Chief Information Officer (CIO)
* Sample Resume, Human Resources
* Sample Resume, Human Resources Executive
* Sample Resume, Vice President of Sales
* Sample Resume, Entry-Level Finance
* Sample Cover Letter, Entry-Level Finance
* Sample Cover Letter, Project Manager

I find jobseekers like to view examples of those written by professionals when attempting to write their own. It helps get the "creative juices" flowing, do you agree?

Regards,
Teena Rose
Resume to Referral