Too many people make the mistake of thinking that a resume’s purpose is to get them a job. Actually, resumes open and close doors. Their main purpose is to make an employer interested enough to invite you in for an interview.

But how do you create that interest when you don’t exactly fit the mold? Just as people come in different sizes and shapes, so do resumes.

Chronological Resume (the most popular format used)
This type of resume usually contains an objective and/or career summary statement and a chronological listing (from most recent to past) of all your employers along with related accomplishments.

Functional Resume (more suited for switching careers or are just entering the workforce)
Take the time to develop a strong functional resume. Functional resumes highlight your abilities, such as hiring, managing or coaching, rather than your chronological work history. You’ll still need to summarize your work history, but this is usually done at the bottom of your resume.

Resume Tip’s!

Keep the resume brief, clear and concise. Employers may only take 30 seconds to determine from your resume whether or not they will give you an interview. You want them to see right away that you are qualified for the position. Your goal is to make the reader interested enough to want to talk to you in person.

Be sure there are absolutely no spelling or grammar mistakes. Proofread your resume numerous times. Use the spell-checker on your computer, but don’t rely on that alone: get someone else to read it over too. One mistake could give a potential employer the wrong impression.

Tailor the resume to suit the position you are applying for. If you are applying for a position in accounting, you need not mention in detail your background as a classical pianist.

Prioritize Achievements. Give your most impressive accomplishments prominence by placing them before other, less impressive achievements. Review your list of accomplishments and rank them in order of importance and relevance to your career goal. Employers skimming your resume will see your strongest accomplishments first.