How to Chronologically Organize Your Resume

Chronologically organize your resume to make it is easy for potential employers to read and understand.

You can format your resume several different ways, but the most traditional method is a chronological resume. If your experience is mostly concentrated into one specific career field, then choosing to chronologically organize your resume is the most effective option for you. Employers often prefer this format because it is easy to read. The chronological format is typically the best option to use when applying for international jobs and conservative career fields such as finance and law.

Instructions

1. Create a heading for your resume with your current contact information, including your name, mailing address, telephone numbers and email address. Use a professional font. Put your name in bold letters to make it stand out.

2. State your objective clearly. Be specific. If you are looking to expand your professional horizons, explain how you intend to use your current level of experience and expertise to succeed in the new position.

3. Highlight your experience and skills with a statement of qualifications. Include a brief bulleted list of your most relevant skills and professional accomplishments that pertain to the job you are seeking. This gives a potential employer an overview of your resume which will grab her attention and encourage her to read more.

4. List your professional experience in chronological order. Begin with your current or most recent position and work backwards to cover your career history over the last 10 to 15 years. Include the names of your previous employers as well as the dates of employment. Focus on the accomplishments you achieved on the job as opposed to just listing all of your job duties. You can also list the telephone number and name of your immediate supervisor in each position, as many potential employers require this information during the application process.

5. Include your educational history. List any institutions you have attended or are currently attending, degrees obtained and any professional certifications you may hold. Be specific and include dates. If you are applying for your first job out of school, then put your educational history before professional experience. Following your educational experience, list any relevant internships you may have completed.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep the resume short and to the point. Potential employers are busy and have limited time to review resumes. Try to emphasize all of your experience and accomplishments in only one to two pages.

• Remember, your resume is only intended to be a marketing tool used to get you an interview. A resume alone will not get you a job. You should also brush up on your interviewing skills before submitting your resume.

References

• Kansas State University: Resume Guide: Organize Your Resume Effectively
• Quintcareers: What Resume Format is Best for You?